The “magic” of USD 265 doesn’t just happen in one place, it happens in our classrooms, hallways, kitchens, and on our buses. The Goddard Education Foundation, alongside our Legacy Partners at Lange Real Estate, was thrilled to present the #265Family Award to 15 outstanding staff members who embody the spirit of our District and lead with heart every single day.

Today, we are proud to recognize our winner from Oak Street Elementary: Mira Mullen

"I am writing to formally nominate Mira Mullen, the Speech-Language Pathologist at Oak Street Elementary, for her exceptional contributions over the past 26 years. While Mira provides vital support to our students in her professional role, she goes far beyond her assigned duties to shape the positive culture that defines our school.

Mira leads our school culture committee and serves as a Capturing Kids' Hearts Process Champion, representing our building on the District Committee. She has played an integral leadership role in implementing our positive behavior supports and school-wide behavior initiatives. Every week, she coordinates our Tiger Trait Drawings, often securing prizes on her own time and providing social media updates to celebrate student success with the community.

Beyond student support, Mira is deeply invested in our staff and families. She orchestrates support for colleagues during major life events, collaborates with the PTO to provide meals during conferences, and leads student initiatives like our annual pumpkin bread delivery to school neighbors to teach kindness and giving. This year, she also developed new systems for both parents and staff to nominate colleagues for recognition.

Mira is a cornerstone of the Goddard community and a tireless advocate for our students and staff. Her dedication and leadership are truly invaluable to Oak Street Elementary."

- Ashley Miller, Oak Street Elementary Principal

This celebration is made possible by Lange Real Estate. Their commitment to recognizing the vital role our staff plays in creating a thriving learning environment ensures our #265Family Heroes feel seen and valued.
In USD 265 we don’t just work together, we lift each other up. Congratulations Mrs. Mullen for proving that we truly are #BetterTogether!

To nominate a staff member for the #265Family Award visit - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqBYiNp1_fBQ0Mhx_qC5-usWNmkBSCI5eF9Lgui-2ipsJxdw/viewform?usp=publish-editor

To learn more about how Lange Real Estate serves our #265Family visit - https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DCFEnmZU4/

1 day ago, Goddard Education Foundation
#265Family Award

The “magic” of USD 265 doesn’t just happen in one place, it happens in our classrooms, hallways, kitchens, and on our buses. The Goddard Education Foundation, alongside our Legacy Partners at Lange Real Estate, was thrilled to present the #265Family Award to 15 outstanding staff members who embody the spirit of our District and lead with heart every single day.

Today, we are proud to recognize our winner from the USD 265 District Office: Mellisa Schwartz

"Mellisa Schwartz is the steady presence at the heart of the USD 265 District Office, the person who ensures that everything and everyone is cared for from the moment a call is answered or a visitor walks through the door. As the primary point of contact for the entire district, she manages an extraordinary volume of calls, visitors, and daily requests with a level of professionalism and efficiency that sets the tone for our entire organization.

Each day, Mellisa supports multiple departments, including Human Resources, School Police, and Community Relations, while also managing the mailroom and front office workroom. She does this seamlessly, knowing exactly where each call should go and how each staff member prefers to receive communication. During the busiest times of the year, especially the start of school or periods of high staff onboarding, she remains calm and composed, ensuring that the district office continues to operate smoothly no matter the pace or pressure.

What truly sets Mellisa apart is not just what she does, but how she makes people feel. She creates a warm, welcoming environment through genuine eye contact, a kind smile, and a consistently positive attitude. Visitors feel at ease, staff feel supported, and the entire office reflects her sense of organization and care. Even in the smallest details, from maintaining an orderly workspace to raising the flag each day, Mellisa demonstrates pride in her role and in the district she serves.

Beyond her responsibilities, Mellisa is someone people trust. If faced with a challenging situation, whether professional or personal, she is a steady listener who brings a calm and thoughtful presence. She has a unique ability to help others work through problems with clarity and confidence, offering understanding without judgment. In an environment that can often be hectic and highly emotional, Melissa remains grounded and consistent, a source of stability during both challenging and celebratory moments.

Mellisa Schwartz is more than an outstanding professional, she is the foundation that helps our district office function at its best. Her service-minded approach, her unwavering consistency, and the care she shows to every individual make a lasting impact on our staff, our families, and our community. Quite simply, this place would not be the same without her, and she is truly deserving of the #265Family Award."

- USD 265 Community Relations Team

This celebration is made possible by Lange Real Estate. Their commitment to recognizing the vital role our staff plays in creating a thriving learning environment ensures our #265Family Heroes feel seen and valued.
In USD 265 we don’t just work together, we lift each other up. Congratulations Mrs. Schwartz for proving that we truly are #BetterTogether!

To nominate a staff member for the #265Family Award visit - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqBYiNp1_fBQ0Mhx_qC5-usWNmkBSCI5eF9Lgui-2ipsJxdw/viewform?usp=publish-editor

To learn more about how Lange Real Estate serves our #265Family visit - https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DCFEnmZU4/

3 days ago, Goddard Education Foundation
#265Family Award

The “magic” of USD 265 doesn’t just happen in one place, it happens in our classrooms, hallways, kitchens, and on our buses. The Goddard Education Foundation, alongside our Legacy Partners at Lange Real Estate, was thrilled to present the #265Family Award to 15 outstanding staff members who embody the spirit of our District and lead with heart every single day.

Today, we are proud to recognize our winner from Challenger Intermediate: Megan Alexander

"She helped me when I was removed from my family and taken into foster care for 2 days, she helped me heal those wounds and feel comfortable with myself. She tried to make every kids life better even if it hurt her soul to do so. She deserves recognition for truly being an angel."
- Former Student

This celebration is made possible by Lange Real Estate. Their commitment to recognizing the vital role our staff plays in creating a thriving learning environment ensures our #265Family Heroes feel seen and valued.
In USD 265 we don’t just work together, we lift each other up. Congratulations Mrs. Alexander for proving that we truly are #BetterTogether!

To nominate a staff member for the #265Family Award visit - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqBYiNp1_fBQ0Mhx_qC5-usWNmkBSCI5eF9Lgui-2ipsJxdw/viewform?usp=publish-editor

To learn more about how Lange Real Estate serves our #265Family visit - https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DCFEnmZU4/

15 days ago, Goddard Education Foundation
#265Family Award

The “magic” of USD 265 doesn’t just happen in one place, it happens in our classrooms, hallways, kitchens, and on our buses. The Goddard Education Foundation, alongside our Legacy Partners at Lange Real Estate, was thrilled to present the #265Family Award to 15 outstanding staff members who embody the spirit of our District and lead with heart every single day.

Today, we are proud to recognize our winner from Eisenhower Middle School: King Sanders

"Mr. Sanders made a huge difference in my life, not just in school but also outside of school. He showed me how to show respect towards others and not to repent. He helped me learn not just in the classroom but in my personal life as well. I believe he deserves this because he truly shows he loves what he does and he isn't just there for the paycheck, he is there to help students throughout life. Still to this day as a Junior in high school I go to see him at every parent teacher conference. "
- Kimber Donahue, Former Student

This celebration is made possible by Lange Real Estate. Their commitment to recognizing the vital role our staff plays in creating a thriving learning environment ensures our #265Family Heroes feel seen and valued.
In USD 265 we don’t just work together, we lift each other up. Congratulations Mr. Sanders for proving that we truly are #BetterTogether!

To nominate a staff member for the #265Family Award visit - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqBYiNp1_fBQ0Mhx_qC5-usWNmkBSCI5eF9Lgui-2ipsJxdw/viewform?usp=publish-editor

To learn more about how Lange Real Estate serves our #265Family visit - https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DCFEnmZU4/

17 days ago, Goddard Education Foundation
#265Family Award

Beyond the Stage: Microphones, Media, and Modern Theatre

How do we keep fine arts education relevant in a rapidly evolving digital world? Daniele Baxa, Theatre educator at Eisenhower High School, found a brilliant way to answer that question.

As communication and entertainment technology shifts toward digital audio platforms like podcasts and audiobooks, high school fine arts students need hands-on opportunities to learn, create, and produce content in these highly relevant fields.

“As technology is continually evolving so is the world of fine arts and the way we reach our audiences.” Mrs. Baxa shares. “Podcasts, YouTube, and Audiobooks are just an example of some areas that have gained popularity and growth in the past few years. Our students need to have an opportunity to learn and create in these areas in a safe and supported learning environment.”

Utilizing an Innovative Teacher Grant from the Goddard Education Foundation (GEF), the school purchased 4 starter audio recording sets that integrate seamlessly with student Chromebooks. This new equipment isn’t just for one project; it is changing the game across several different classes, each tailored to unique learning goals:

- Theatre Arts: Students are stepping behind the mic to master the art of voice acting and voice overs.

- Public Speaking: Students are researching, structuring, and producing their very own podcasts.

- Advanced Acting/Directing & ELL Classes: Students are exploring the world of audio books by recording children’s books. Best of all, English Language Learner (ELL) students will record these books in their native languages to share directly with elementary classrooms across our district.

Through this grant, students aren’t just learning how to use technology; they are developing content for real audiences, collaborating with their peers, and building future career or hobby outlets. They are creating a bridge of storytelling that connects our high schoolers with the growing world of technology.

Thank you to the GEF and all the contributors who make these innovative, and real-world learning experiences possible for Goddard students.

21 days ago, Goddard Education Foundation
Teacher Grant Visit- Baxa
Teacher Grant Visit- Baxa
Teacher Grant Visit- Baxa
Teacher Grant Visit- Baxa
Teacher Grant Visit- Baxa
Teacher Grant Visit- Baxa

The “magic” of USD 265 doesn’t just happen in one place, it happens in our classrooms, hallways, kitchens, and on our buses. The Goddard Education Foundation, alongside our Legacy Partners at Lange Real Estate, was thrilled to present the #265Family Award to 15 outstanding staff members who embody the spirit of our District and lead with heart every single day.

Today, we are proud to recognize our winner from Discovery Intermediate: Jordan Brown and Ben Jervis

"They are always nice to others and encourage other kids to do better not only in band but in life."
- Mason Norris, Student

This celebration is made possible by Lange Real Estate. Their commitment to recognizing the vital role our staff plays in creating a thriving learning environment ensures our #265Family Heroes feel seen and valued.
In USD 265 we don’t just work together, we lift each other up. Congratulations Mr. Brown and Mr. Jervis for proving that we truly are #BetterTogether!

To nominate a staff member for the #265Family Award visit - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqBYiNp1_fBQ0Mhx_qC5-usWNmkBSCI5eF9Lgui-2ipsJxdw/viewform?usp=publish-editor

To learn more about how Lange Real Estate serves our #265Family visit - https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DCFEnmZU4/

22 days ago, Goddard Education Foundation
#265Family Award

Unlocking Inclusion: The Impact of the Adaptive Book Library

Every teacher wants their students to thrive in the classroom and during Specials times (like music, science, and library). But for students in our Mixed Abilities classrooms, staying engaged during these times hasn’t always been easy. When classroom content isn’t accessible or at their academic level, it’s hard for these students to fully participate.

For teachers, creating custom theme-based materials for dozens of different learning levels every single week is an exhausting uphill battle.

Thanks to a generous innovative teacher grant from the Goddard Education Foundation (GEF), two Special Education teachers at Amelia Earhart Elementary are changing the game. Amanda Wilson and Christa Larson share a deep passion for providing an adaptive learning environment, and their project is doing just that.

The teaching duo’s innovative teacher grant provided their building a library of adaptive board books and custom-printed books complete with velcro interactive pieces and simple QR codes for easy teacher check-out. Now, when a class is learning about science, music, or the seasons, teachers can instantly grab an adaptive book that matches that exact theme but is tailored precisely to each child’s academic level.

Mrs. Wilson and Mrs. Larson shared, “It is our goal that by providing materials to help students be more engaged during their inclusion and Specials times, they will connect more with the content with the adaptive books, learn social skills from being more engaged with their peers, and build deeper relationships with other students that will continue throughout their school journey.

We are so excited to see these books continue to spark joy, connection, and learning at Amelia Earhart Elementary for years to come. Thank you to the GEF and the generous contributors who support innovative education.

23 days ago, Goddard Education Foundation
Teacher Grant Visit- Wilson, Larson
Teacher Grant Visit- Wilson, Larson
Teacher Grant Visit- Wilson, Larson
Teacher Grant Visit- Wilson, Larson
Teacher Grant Visit- Wilson, Larson

The “magic” of USD 265 doesn’t just happen in one place, it happens in our classrooms, hallways, kitchens, and on our buses. The Goddard Education Foundation, alongside our Legacy Partners at Lange Real Estate, was thrilled to present the #265Family Award to 15 outstanding staff members who embody the spirit of our District and lead with heart every single day.

Today, we are proud to recognize our winner from the USD 265 Maintenance Department: The EHS Building Engineer Team

"Kim and her team are always so willing to do what needs to be done. She will check in with me instead of waiting for me to ask when it comes to pep rally needs. I have never had to wait even a full 24 hours to get help with needs in the building or room. She has a wall in the building engineers' office with pictures of her team and special things going on with them in the building and outside. That alone makes me want to nominate her. Even when she has had to do things that are awful, she still smiles. The whole team is friendly and smiles all the time. Ennis, one of the daytime team members goes to the football games and sits with the kids. They love when he is there. It is expected. The students absolutely love him. The evening guys, Matt, Jake, and Seth are amazing. Because of the time that they work they do not get to work directly with the students often. However, my room is amazing, and more importantly, they make me feel like family. When something is going on in their lives they will come find me to tell me their good news. That makes me feel pretty special. I truly love these guys and consider them an important part of the school and better yet, friend to students and staff. I am proud to work with them."
- Carol Mock, EHS Co-Worker

This celebration is made possible by Lange Real Estate. Their commitment to recognizing the vital role our staff plays in creating a thriving learning environment ensures our #265Family Heroes feel seen and valued.
In USD 265 we don’t just work together, we lift each other up. Congratulations EHS Building Engineer Team for proving that we truly are #BetterTogether!

To nominate a staff member for the #265Family Award visit - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqBYiNp1_fBQ0Mhx_qC5-usWNmkBSCI5eF9Lgui-2ipsJxdw/viewform?usp=publish-editor

To learn more about how Lange Real Estate serves our #265Family visit - https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DCFEnmZU4/

24 days ago, Goddard Education Foundation
#265Family Award

Data-Driven Performance: Reaching New Heights at GHS

What happens when you mix athletic training with data science? You get Physical Education that connects with math and science.

With the help of an Innovative Teacher Grant from the Goddard Education Foundation (GEF), Jordan Echer, PE Teacher and Coach at Goddard High School (GHS), is completely transforming how Goddard Lions track their fitness growth.

Through his grant, Echer introduced the Just Jump Plyometric System! Previously, testing vertical jumps for massive classes during a single period was incredibly difficult and time-consuming. Now, with this portable, high-tech system, Coach Echer can capture highly accurate, real-time data including jump height, hang time, and ground contact time in just a matter of seconds.

But this isn’t just about athletic development. It’s an innovative academic connection! “What makes this unique is how we’ll use it across every level of physical education, not just with athletes.” Echer shares. “Students will receive real-time feedback, learn to interpret data, and see how effort translates to measurable results.”

By tracking and analyzing their own stats, students are getting a hands-on look at classroom topics like averages, rate of change, and the physics of motion all while sparking some healthy, data-driven motivation in the gym!

“These metrics give us a full view of how students are developing, not just how high they jump, but how efficiently they produce and sustain power,” says Echer. “This approach supports both physical and academic success by showing that data isn’t just something learned in math class, it’s something students can see in action.”

This system will be shared across the entire GHS physical education department, directly impacting over 400+ GHS students each semester as well as 3rd-8th grade summer program participants and athletes.

Thank you, Coach Echer, for bringing real-world data tracking to the gym, and thank you GEF for funding innovative teacher grants that help our students reach new heights!

28 days ago, Goddard Education Foundation
Teacher Grant Visit- Echer
Teacher Grant Visit- Echer
Teacher Grant Visit- Echer
Teacher Grant Visit- Echer
Teacher Grant Visit- Echer

The “magic” of USD 265 doesn’t just happen in one place, it happens in our classrooms, hallways, kitchens, and on our buses. The Goddard Education Foundation, alongside our Legacy Partners at Lange Real Estate, was thrilled to present the #265Family Award to 15 outstanding staff members who embody the spirit of our District and lead with heart every single day.

Today, we are proud to recognize our winner from the USD 265 Transportation Department: Dwane Scheidt

"Dwane has helped create a true sense of family within our district by stepping up in a way that goes far beyond his role as lead mechanic. When a need arose to safely and respectfully support students with complex medical and physical needs during field trips, Dwane didn’t just assist, he embraced the mission wholeheartedly.
An idea to use a trailer equipped with a changing table and Hoyer lift became a reality because of Dwane’s commitment. He has taken ownership of this initiative, ensuring that the trailer is available and operational for every field trip where it is needed. More importantly, he has gone above and beyond to make the space functional, dignified, and comfortable by adding supplies such as glove holders and disposal systems. He has also ordered a heating and cooling device so students and staff can be cared for appropriately in all conditions.
Through his actions, Dwane has shown that every student matters. He has helped remove barriers so that students with significant needs can fully participate alongside their peers. That level of care, inclusion, and respect fosters a true “family” environment where everyone belongs."

- Tabatha Clark, Co-Worker

"Dwane went above and beyond for me after my car ended up in a ditch on my way to a training at Challenger. I got to my training and at lunch went to check on my car and noticed a tire was low on air. I emailed the director of transportation and he directed me to Dwane. After my training, I drove next door to the bus garage and Dwane came out to look at my car. He aired up my tire and checked for a leak, found one around the rim and he worked on my tire until there was no more leak. He checked all my other tires for me to make sure they were good as well. He didn’t have to do any of that. He simply could have aired up my tire and sent me on my way. Instead he made sure my tire was safe enough for me to drive on and checked all the others. After a stressful start to my morning, he made me feel more at ease driving my car home. I can’t thank Dwane enough for doing that for me! He said he would do it for anyone who worked for Goddard, which shows me he cares about his co-workers and would treat us all the same."
- Danielle Vequist, USD 265 Employee

This celebration is made possible by Lange Real Estate. Their commitment to recognizing the vital role our staff plays in creating a thriving learning environment ensures our #265Family Heroes feel seen and valued.
In USD 265 we don’t just work together, we lift each other up. Congratulations Mr. Scheidt for proving that we truly are #BetterTogether!

To nominate a staff member for the #265Family Award visit - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqBYiNp1_fBQ0Mhx_qC5-usWNmkBSCI5eF9Lgui-2ipsJxdw/viewform?usp=publish-editor

To learn more about how Lange Real Estate serves our #265Family visit - https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DCFEnmZU4/

29 days ago, Goddard Education Foundation
#265Family Award

Small Station, BIG Impact!

Sometimes innovation in the classroom looks like a dedicated corner of a classroom where breakthroughs happen every single day.

Meet the students of Mrs. Toribio’s Mixed Abilities class at Amelia Earhart Elementary. For these incredible learners, staying regulated, focused, and ready to learn can sometimes feel like a steep uphill climb. “When students are dysregulated they are unable to engage in learning thus losing precious academic time,” shares Mrs. Toribio. “Many students in the Mixed Abilities program can spend a lot of their day in a dysregulated state due to delays in social/emotional learning.”

To help combat this and increase learning time in her classroom, Mrs. Toribio, with the help of a Goddard Education Foundation (GEF) Innovative Teacher Grant, was able to build a brand new Sensory Station directly into her students’ daily learning rotations. Instead of leaving the classroom to regulate, students now have a proactive, independent space right in the classroom to decompress, stimulate fine and gross motor skills, and reset their bodies.

“Utilizing the Sensory Station, which includes different physical manipulatives like stepping stones, balance boards, textured floor mats and tunnels, provides that crucial regulation,” shared Mrs. Toribio. “By providing students with tools that help them to regulate their physical and emotional needs we are able to increase the time our students are in a ready-to-learn state.”

By providing the sensory station, Mrs. Toribio isn’t just teaching academics, she is teaching lifelong regulation skills for independence and success.

Thank you Mrs. Toribio for your dedication and creative teaching, and to the GEF for funding an Innovative Teacher grant that helps ensure every student has the tools, space, and support to thrive.

about 1 month ago, Goddard Education Foundation
Teacher Grant Visit- Toribio
Teacher Grant Visit- Toribio
Teacher Grant Visit- Toribio
Teacher Grant Visit- Toribio
Teacher Grant Visit- Toribio
Teacher Grant Visit- Toribio

The “magic” of USD 265 doesn’t just happen in one place, it happens in our classrooms, hallways, kitchens, and on our buses. The Goddard Education Foundation, alongside our Legacy Partners at Lange Real Estate, was thrilled to present the #265Family Award to 15 outstanding staff members who embody the spirit of our District and lead with heart every single day.

Today, we are proud to recognize our winner from Explorer Elementary: Danielle Vequist

"If you've been blessed to work with Danielle you will know how passionate she is about her profession and the kiddos/family's she serves. Not only does she go above and beyond to make those connections with staff, students and their families while at work, but she does so outside of the school setting as well. Danielle can be found spending time cultivating those relationships outside of the work setting as she is queen of organizing/hosting get togethers with her vast groups of work colleagues. Danielle is one to make others feel at home, their voice heard, and that we can truly all make a difference in children's lives. Danielle wears many hats both at work, at the state level and at home; she beautifully melds these together to advocate for the students she so fervently serves. Danielle's service to our #265 district family is irreplaceable."

- Geri Beatty, Co-Worker

This celebration is made possible by Lange Real Estate. Their commitment to recognizing the vital role our staff plays in creating a thriving learning environment ensures our #265Family Heroes feel seen and valued.
In USD 265 we don’t just work together, we lift each other up. Congratulations Mrs. Vequist for proving that we truly are #BetterTogether!

To nominate a staff member for the #265Family Award visit - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqBYiNp1_fBQ0Mhx_qC5-usWNmkBSCI5eF9Lgui-2ipsJxdw/viewform?usp=publish-editor

To learn more about how Lange Real Estate serves our #265Family visit - https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DCFEnmZU4/

about 1 month ago, Goddard Education Foundation
265Family Award Tour

No More Pressure: Harmonizing Music at Amelia Earhart Elementary

When most adults think about learning the recorder, they likely recall obnoxious, ear-piercing squeaks. For decades, mastering this instrument has been a challenge for developing elementary students who may not have the manipulative skills needed to cover the tiny open holes that prevent air leaks and the inevitable squeaks.

For 3rd and 4th-grade students at Amelia Earhart Elementary, who have been eagerly waiting for their chance to play a recorder, fine motor skill deficits can quickly crush that excitement. But thanks to the help of a Goddard Education Foundation Innovative Teacher Grant, Amelia Earhart Music Teacher Rochelle Mann is changing the “tune” by introducing Nuvo Recorder+ instruments to her classroom.

These recorders feature soft silicone flaps that seal completely with just a gentle press, an upgrade that allows students of all abilities to achieve the correct tone without the squeaks.

“After sampling the new recorder with a student in my music classroom, he immediately went home and exuberantly told his family how he would be playing the recorder just like all his other classmates,” shared Mrs. Mann.

The immediate emotional impact of this grant is undeniable, particularly for special education learners. By providing these upgraded and adaptive recorders for the entire class, music at Amelia Earhart continues to be an inclusive environment that ensures every student can find success with their instrument.

“Student success is the whole reason I wrote this grant,” explains Mrs. Mann. “I have watched first hand students who were frustrated from day one, who had given up ever playing recorders alongside their peers, instantly thrive when switched to the new recorders. With these recorders, every student can feel that joy, pride, and sense of accomplishment.”

These results won’t stop when students leave Amelia Earhart; elementary instrument success can help build that confidence and contribute to future participation in band or orchestra as they continue their journey through Goddard Public Schools.

Thank you, Goddard Education Foundation, for removing the pressure, allowing students to participate in music with minimal stress or fear of failure… and helping every instrument in our #265Family ring out clear and true!

about 1 month ago, Goddard Education Foundation
Teacher Grant Visit- Mann
Teacher Grant Visit- Mann
Teacher Grant Visit- Mann
Teacher Grant Visit- Mann
Teacher Grant Visit- Mann
Teacher Grant Visit- Mann
Teacher Grant Visit- Mann
Teacher Grant Visit- Mann
Teacher Grant Visit- Mann
Teacher Grant Visit- Mann

The “magic” of USD 265 doesn’t just happen in one place, it happens in our classrooms, hallways, kitchens, and on our buses. The Goddard Education Foundation, alongside our Legacy Partners at Lange Real Estate, was thrilled to present the #265Family Award to 15 outstanding staff members who embody the spirit of our District and lead with heart every single day.

Today, we are proud to recognize our winner from Eisenhower High School: Blake Morgan

"He really brings passion to everything he does in the classroom. He also genuinely cares about his students health and mental wellness. He is willing to help out struggling students."
- Emmarie Barger, Student

"Mr. Morgan not only accepts his students with an insane amount of respect, but also with almost a belief in his responsibility for these kids. Rather than the typical teacher title, Mr. Morgan creates a familial feeling in his classroom. Teaching the sciences don't always leave the teacher as a student favorite, but he is the exception. So I nominate Blake Morgan (BMO)."
- Derek Hunsaker, Student

"He has been amazing with my son’s high school career and has been so helpful and kind at all times. He’s a fantastic teacher and a great asset to my son."

- Sara Parker, Parent of Student

"He is very inspirational and makes the classroom a fun environment that makes me want to learn."
- Sophia School, Student

This celebration is made possible by Lange Real Estate. Their commitment to recognizing the vital role our staff plays in creating a thriving learning environment ensures our #265Family Heroes feel seen and valued.
In USD 265 we don’t just work together, we lift each other up. Congratulations Mr. Morgan for proving that we truly are #BetterTogether!

To nominate a staff member for the #265Family Award visit - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqBYiNp1_fBQ0Mhx_qC5-usWNmkBSCI5eF9Lgui-2ipsJxdw/viewform?usp=publish-editor

To learn more about how Lange Real Estate serves our #265Family visit - https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DCFEnmZU4/

about 1 month ago, Goddard Education Foundation
#265Family Award

Multiplying Potential: The GHS Math Challenge

For many young students, a high school building can feel intimidating. But for a group of third through eighth-grade USD 265 students, math teacher at Goddard High School Joel Burgeson’s innovative GHS Math Challenge is creating an avenue for excitement, belonging, and highlighting academic success.

The idea sparked after the GHS Math Club competed in regional college math relays during the 2024-2025 school year. Seeing how much his high schoolers benefited from the STEM-focused environment, Mr. Burgeson, with the help of his Math Club students, designed a localized event to “spark and maintain interest in mathematics” for younger USD 265 students, giving them an opportunity to experience their own math competition.

During the half-day event on May 7th , 161 top-performing math students (approximately 20 students from each K-8th school) got to take part in a brief math lesson, tackled problems aligned with Kansas Math Standards, completed group mathematical activities, and toured Project Lead the Way labs and math classrooms at Goddard High School; finishing off their field trip with lunch alongside GHS Math Club high schoolers. Elementary teachers praised the event, noting “it was so nice to have an extra incentive that motivated students at the end of the school year and celebrated our top math performers with a fun challenge.”

Beyond test scores, this program builds mathematical confidence in our younger USD 265 students. In fact, freshmen who previously experienced the challenge shared that being in the building made them feel “ more confident that they were prepared to make the transition from middle school to high school.”

“Improving student participation in math and other STEM disciplines was the focus of the GHS Math Challenge,” shares Mr. Burgeson. “Increased effort and math achievement will be the immediate measure that students are learning. Looking forward, this Innovative Teacher Grant provides a powerful investment to expand the program to host even more students from across the District in the future. What do you call that kind of District-Wide dedication to STEM? As Mr. Burgeson puts it: “Answer = SUCCESS!”

Thank you Goddard Education Foundation for helping multiply potential for our #265Family!

about 1 month ago, Goddard Education Foundation
Teacher Grant Visit- Burgeson
Teacher Grant Visit- Burgeson
Teacher Grant Visit- Burgeson
Teacher Grant Visit- Burgeson
Teacher Grant Visit- Burgeson
Teacher Grant Visit- Burgeson
Teacher Grant Visit- Burgeson
Teacher Grant Visit- Burgeson
Teacher Grant Visit- Burgeson
Teacher Grant Visit- Burgeson

The “magic” of USD 265 doesn’t just happen in one place, it happens in our classrooms, hallways, kitchens, and on our buses. The Goddard Education Foundation, alongside our Legacy Partners at Lange Real Estate, was thrilled to present the #265Family Award to 15 outstanding staff members who embody the spirit of our District and lead with heart every single day.

Today, we are proud to recognize our winner from Clark Davidson Elementary: Ana Jimenez

"She always makes sure the kids are happy and is always positive around kids and staff."

- Jimena Saenz, Student

This celebration is made possible by Lange Real Estate. Their commitment to recognizing the vital role our staff plays in creating a thriving learning environment ensures our #265Family Heroes feel seen and valued.
In USD 265 we don’t just work together, we lift each other up. Congratulations Mrs. Jimenez for proving that we truly are #BetterTogether!

To nominate a staff member for the #265Family Award visit - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqBYiNp1_fBQ0Mhx_qC5-usWNmkBSCI5eF9Lgui-2ipsJxdw/viewform?usp=publish-editor

To learn more about how Lange Real Estate serves our #265Family visit - https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DCFEnmZU4/

about 1 month ago, Goddard Education Foundation
#265Family Award

The Lion’s Pride: Giving Every Student a Voice Through ELA and Journalism

At Clark Davidson Elementary, the news is spreading fast… literally. Thanks to an Innovative Teacher Grant from the Goddard Education Foundation, one 4th-grade teaching team is taking learning beyond the traditional textbook through an ambitious project: The Lion’s Pride Newspaper.

The project focuses on creating an inclusive educational environment that provides learners various and unique opportunities to demonstrate their understanding. Whether a student is a gifted writer, an English Language Learner, or someone navigating the challenges of dyslexia, these resources provide a platform where students can thrive.

"This grant allows us to meet the needs of all our learners in non-traditional ways," the 4th-grade team, Rachel Dodge and Shanae Riggs, shared. "It’s about breaking down barriers so students can demonstrate their understanding through multiple means of representation."

The GEF grant provided two critical components to make this possible:


* Professional Journalism Tools: Cameras and supplies for The Lion’s Pride Newspaper, an after school club, where students capture stories throughout the school day, conduct interviews, write features, and practice real-world STEM and literacy skills. The finished product… The CDS Lion’s Pride Newspaper.

* Specialized Literacy Resources: Specialized books designed for students with dyslexia remove reading barriers, ensuring that even those who struggle with traditional reading have the tools to build confidence and excel in ELA.
The impact of executing these two tools is already being felt in more than just test scores. It’s visible in the student who, once hesitant to read, now holds a physical book designed for their specific needs. It’s seen in the young reporter interviewing their peers, building communication skills that will last a lifetime.

"The effect of true inclusion in the classroom cannot be measured with exact data alone," says the team. "Success is shown in how our students interact with their school, their peers, and the world around them."

Your generosity to the Goddard Education Foundation ensures that programs like The Lion’s Pride Newspaper and Literary Resources can continue to grow. When you support GEF, you aren’t just funding a newspaper—you’re ensuring that every student has a sense of belonging and a way to share their story.

about 1 month ago, Goddard Education Foundation
Teacher Grant Visit- Riggs
Teacher Grant Visit- Riggs
Teacher Grant Visit- Riggs
Teacher Grant Visit- Riggs
Teacher Grant Visit- Riggs
Teacher Grant Visit- Riggs
Teacher Grant Visit- Riggs
Teacher Grant Visit- Riggs

Growing Beyond the Classroom: How the GHS Pollinator Garden is Rooting Science in Real-World Success

At Goddard High School, science education isn't just about reading text or memorizing formulas, it is about getting your hands dirty.

For decades, GHS has been the home of an Outdoor Wildlife Learning Site (OWLS), a mature, native grass and pond ecosystem. It is a beautiful space to look at, but for some students, just looking isn’t enough. As GHS Science Teacher Darcie Lowry notes, “Since the OWLS area is primarily established native perennials and grasses, it is more to look at than work with.” They need to build, tend, and discover the “fruits” of their labor.

With the help of an Innovative Teacher Grant, Mrs. Lowry aims to cover the upfront funding to build a Pollinator Garden to expand the hands-on, outdoor tactile learning students can experience.

Every year, students at GHS have the opportunity to enroll in Ecology. For many of these students, this course is a practical choice for those eyeing a “career-over-college” pathway. These are students who thrive when learning is tactile and directly tied to real adult life. Unfortunately, meaningful hands-on learning often carries a high material cost. Mrs. Lowry explains, “Gardening of any type is a fantastic way to bridge classroom learning to real-life application. Most adults will eventually find themselves interested in gardening of some variety regardless of career.”

While the existing OWLS site offers an incredible ecosystem to observe, it is largely self-sustaining and doesn’t offer very many hands-on opportunities. To bridge this gap, Mrs. Lowry and the GHS science department envisioned a brand-new, highly interactive space located right in front of the school greenhouse. By establishing a dedicated, semi-maintained pollinator garden, science transitions from a passive lecture into an active workspace. To maximize the grant’s impact, the science department has already partnered with District Maintenance and Facilities to provide the topsoil, rock, and weed barriers at no cost to the program.

Through this Innovative Teacher Grant, the GHS Pollinator Garden will introduce a structured, collaborative layout featuring a rear bed of native perennials and a front rock bed containing a raised garden bed for every lab table group of 2 to 4 students.

The beauty of the GHS Pollinator Garden lies in its long-term viability. While the upfront grant funding is critical to build the infrastructure, the garden is designed to be completely self-sustaining in the years to follow, requiring little to no additional funding as future classes handle the seasonal upkeep.

What starts as a specialized project for 50 Ecology students will blossom to impact nearly every student in the building. The garden will serve as a core resource for Biology classes, a required class for all GHS students, and will remain open to any class looking to take a restorative brain break or read in a vibrant, natural environment.

The garden is already contributing in big ways to the Goddard Community. GHS students helped propagate, cultivate, and grow plants that were used as part of the Goddard Plant Swap in conjunction with Neighbors United in April. This hands-on experience directly reinforces the real-world value of their hard work.

By funding the GHS Pollinator Garden, you are investing in a tangible, lasting resource that gives hardworking, career-minded students the practical skills, pride, and environmental stewardship they need to grow into the leaders of tomorrow.

about 1 month ago, Goddard Education Foundation
Teacher Grant Visit- Lowry
Teacher Grant Visit- Lowry
Teacher Grant Visit- Lowry
Teacher Grant Visit- Lowry
Teacher Grant Visit- Lowry
Teacher Grant Visit- Lowry
Teacher Grant Visit- Lowry
Teacher Grant Visit- Lowry
Teacher Grant Visit- Lowry
Teacher Grant Visit- Lowry

The Goddard Education Foundation is excited to introduce the Goddard Public Schools Hall of Fame Class of 2026!

Established in 2018, the Hall of Fame celebrates, honors, and recognizes the extraordinary service, success, and achievements of our alumni, retired staff, and dedicated friends of education.

Join us in celebrating the Class of 2026:


* Dan Buchanan, Former Educator & Coach
* Dr. Mary Cohen (Shinogle), Goddard High School Class of 1986
* Jerry Longabaugh, Former Educator, Administrator, and Current USD 265 Board of Education Representative
* Dr. Christopher Warren, Goddard High School Class of 1992
* Dr. Michael Vivion, Goddard High School Class of 1962


Save the Date!
Please join us on September 18, 2026, to celebrate the Class of 2026.
Keep an eye out for event details, registration opens in July.
Stay tuned as we highlight each of our individual inductees in the coming weeks. Let's join together to celebrate the past and inspire the future of Goddard Public Schools.

Learn more about the Goddard Hall of Fame and read about past Honorees HERE or https://www.goddardef.org/o/gef/page/hall-of-fame .

about 1 month ago, Goddard Education Foundation
Hall of Fame 2026

Independence and Adaptive Tools for Mixed Abilities Learners

For many K-4 students in the Mixed Abilities program at Oak Street Elementary, the physical act of handwriting can be an exhausting roadblock; one that often can lead to deep frustration, sensory overload, and a desire to give up.

Thanks to a Goddard Education Foundation (GEF) Innovative Teacher Grant, Oak Street Elementary Mixed Abilities Teacher, Mrs. Bally is tearing down those barriers and redefining what “writing” tools look like. With funding from the grant, her Mixed Abilities classroom introduced adaptive writing tools, specifically specialized letter and number stamps along with flexible, sensory-friendly seating.

By using stamps, students who struggle with fine motor skills can now independently spell words, construct sentences, and solve math problems with minimal staff support. The stamps aren’t replacing pencil and paper but instead, serve as a bridge that allows students to show what they know without being held back by a pencil grip.

Coupled with flexible seating that helps students stay calm, regulated, and in a “ready-to-learn” state, these tools are completely transforming the classroom environment. Best of all, these resources are entirely mobile, traveling with students as needed.

By taking the physical struggle out of the equation, Mrs. Bally is boosting classroom focus and giving students independence in learning.

Thank you Goddard Education Foundation for helping fund opportunities to bridge the gap for all types of learners in Goddard Public Schools.

about 1 month ago, Goddard Education Foundation
Teacher Grant Visit- Bally
Teacher Grant Visit- Bally
Teacher Grant Visit- Bally
Teacher Grant Visit- Bally
Teacher Grant Visit- Bally
Teacher Grant Visit- Bally
Teacher Grant Visit- Bally
Teacher Grant Visit- Bally
Teacher Grant Visit- Bally