Buhler Public Schools (USD 313) is off to a busy start this fall, with new programs, partnerships, and projects already shaping the school year. Superintendent Cindy Couchman highlighted several initiatives during a recent update.
STEAM Academy Partnership with Cosmosphere
A new partnership between Buhler’s Ad Astra Virtual Academy and the Cosmosphere has created a STEAM Academy for high school students.
Participants attend virtual classes but spend one day a week at the Cosmosphere working on hands-on projects and certifications, from drones to scuba diving. “It’s a great opportunity to showcase what’s available right here in our community,” Couchman said.
Stable Mill Levy for 2026 Budget
The USD 313 board will hold its revenue neutral rate and budget hearings Monday evening. Couchman said the district plans to keep its mill levy steady, with a slight decrease of about half a mill. “Our goal is to stay consistent without the big fluctuations,” she noted.
Kids Collective Child Care Network
As of September 2, Buhler’s childcare centers, including district facilities and Abundant Life Community Childcare, officially became part of Kids Collective—a new countywide nonprofit designed to address childcare shortages. The organization manages HR, licensing, and staffing across centers, helping providers share resources and reduce duplication of services. “We’re really excited about this partnership and what it could grow into countywide,” Couchman said.
Greenhouse Projects
Thanks to a grant from the Buhler Community Foundation, two new greenhouses are being added—one at Prairie Hills Middle School and another at Ad Astra Academies.
These facilities will give students hands-on learning in plant science, sustainability, and agriculture. The district already operates a successful greenhouse at the high school tied to its FFA program.
Building Community in Elementary Schools
Elementary students are now part of a new “house” system inspired by the Ron Clark Academy.
Students from different grade levels are placed in houses that encourage teamwork, mentorship, and positive behavior through monthly activities and competitions. “It’s really a way of getting kids connected beyond their grade level, building culture, community, and pride,” Couchman explained.
Early Musical Production
This year, Buhler High School shifted its annual musical from the traditional November “dead week” to the start of the school year. Students performed Bye Bye Birdie in late August, following auditions last spring and rehearsals over the summer.
Couchman said the change reduces scheduling conflicts with sports and activities, while easing the long days for students who balance band, athletics, and theater. “It was really healthy for our kids to enjoy the process without being in the buildings for 15 hours a day,” said Couchman.
The production, directed by Kyler Comley with choreography by Katelyn Stoss, included multiple daytime shows for elementary and middle school audiences, as well as evening performances for the community.
Sports and Student Life
Fall sports are underway with volleyball, football, cross country, and golf already in action. Couchman praised the strong community turnout at recent events, adding, “There’s always something to cheer for in Buhler—no reason to be bored in this community.”