As the final school bells ring for students across Hutchinson’s USD 308, Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson says the work is far from over for district leaders.
Dr. Johnson reflected on a year of academic achievement, successful graduations, and significant community engagement — while also looking ahead to major projects including a new childcare center and a substantial bond proposal that could transform local education infrastructure.
Graduation, Promotions, and Student Success
Hutchinson High School graduation was on Sunday, marking a milestone for approximately 300 seniors. Dr. Johnson praised the community for its respectful and celebratory support. “I've been to a lot of graduations, but ours really stand out for how respectful and meaningful they are,” she said.
Highlighting academic achievement, Johnson noted that an overwhelming majority of graduates had already completed college-level or career and technical education (CTE) courses, many thanks to a strong partnership with Hutchinson Community College. “I was overwhelmed by how many students stood up when we asked who had taken a college course,” Johnson said.
As the district celebrated seniors, it also recognized younger students transitioning between school levels — from Pre-K to kindergarten and sixth graders moving on to seventh grade — with eighth grade promotion happening on Thursday
New Child Care Center: “Little Hawks” to Open in January
One major development this year was the groundbreaking of the Little Hawks Early Learning Center, located near Morgan Elementary at 29th and Adams. The project aims to address a pressing community need: quality, affordable child care for working families.
“This wouldn’t be possible without years of advocacy and community involvement,” said Johnson. “Thanks to grant funding through the Reno County Childcare Task Force, we’re able to lower the cost and make this accessible.”
The center is currently accepting applications, which are evaluated based on family income and the age of the child due to its integration with the Head Start program. Parents can apply at usd308.com/earlychildhood.
Looking Ahead: $109 Million Bond Proposal on the Horizon
As the district transitions into summer, planning takes center stage — particularly for a $109 million bond issue expected to go before voters in November 2025.
According to Johnson and Director of Communications Stacy Goss, the bond was shaped by extensive community input gathered through more than 29 meetings held last spring. One of the clearest takeaways: a strong desire for a comprehensive middle school serving grades 6 through 8.
Currently, students switch between different middle schools (HMS 7 and HMS 8), which many parents and educators say creates gaps in student-teacher relationships and disrupts social and academic continuity.
Highlights of the bond proposal include:
74% of funds dedicated to building a new, centralized 6–8 middle school on existing district land at 23rd and Severance.
15% allocated for safety and security upgrades at the six elementary schools, including safe rooms.
4% for expanding Pre-K offerings.
5% to repurpose HMS 8 for administration and student services.
2% to relocate community athletics fields, baseball and soccer, currently at the middle school site.
The district also plans to decommission and repurpose older buildings like Old Town and HMS 7, which could help offset maintenance and insurance costs, reducing the tax burden.
“We’re trying to be smart and efficient,” Johnson said. “We already own the land. The community has told us the need is now — and we agree.”
Military and Leadership Development Under Review
During the conversation, Johnson also addressed inquiries about offering a Junior ROTC program. While previously explored, it was shelved due to staffing and curriculum overlap with existing leadership courses. However, renewed community interest could bring the idea back into focus.
“JROTC isn’t about recruiting for the military — it’s about leadership, citizenship, and discipline,” Johnson said. “It could be a great opportunity if we can make it work.”
Next Steps: Community Engagement This Fall
As summer approaches, the district will shift into high gear to prepare next year’s budget and begin a second round of community engagement about the bond.
Meetings and public forums will resume in September and October to ensure voters are informed ahead of the November election.
“This is about setting our students and our city up for success in the long run,” Johnson concluded. “We’re grateful for our community’s involvement — and we’re excited for what’s ahead.”