HUTCHINSON PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Hutchinson Public Schools is one of only three school districts in Kansas to berecognized by the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) and the Kansas State Board of Education for achieving a Silver Star for excellence in preparing students for kindergarten. This honor highlights USD 308’s commitment to early childhood education and its strong partnerships with families and the community.
The Kansas State Department of Education emphasizes that a child’s path to lifelong success begins well before kindergarten. Early learning experiences and strong community partnerships play a vital role in preparing children for school and life.
Through its Kansans Can Star Recognition program, KSDE honors districts and communities that provide high-quality, inclusive early childhood opportunities for young children and their families. The goal is to ensure every child enters kindergarten at age five socially, emotionally, and academically ready to learn and succeed.
Hutchinson Public Schools also received recognition in two additional areas. One for their outcomes in individual plans of study (Bronze Star), providing opportunities for students to experience connected learning which develops academic knowledge and technical and employability skills. The other in social-emotional growth (Copper Star), promoting character competencies for life-long learning and success in life.
The Star Recognition Program celebrates Kansas school districts and systems for their outstanding achievements in key areas that reflect success across the state’s education system. The program highlights excellence, using both quantitative and qualitative measures to showcase districts’ accomplishments and areas of strength. Districts can receive gold, silver, bronze or copper stars.