In this edition ...

As an administrator in a small, rural district in western Kansas, Jessica Ralston wears many hats, ranging from handling disciplinary issues, to leading instructional leadership, substitute teaching and covering the lunchroom. 

“While it’s certainly stretched me, it’s also accelerated my growth,” said the first-year principal at Bucklin Elementary, Bucklin USD 459. “I’ve had the chance to engage deeply with every facet of school operations which is something that might have taken years in a larger district.”  

School Principals Day is May 1, a day to recognize and appreciate the work principals do to create positive learning environments that impact children’s educational experiences.  

Explanation of KESA’s compliance evaluation process  

The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) will take a snapshot of each system’s compliance status in each of the KESA compliance areas on May 15 of each year. If a system is not in compliance in any one area as of that date, the superintendent will be notified soon after May 15.   

Kansas Preschool Pilot (KPP) grantees for the 2024-25 school year must enter data into the Early Childhood Foundations for School Success authenticated web application by May 31.  Click here for a list of 2024-25 Kansas Preschool Pilot grantees. 

The KPP survey can be found in the Early Childhood Foundations for School Success web application in KSDE authenticated applications.  

School Lunch Hero Day, observed on May 2, is a celebration of the impact school nutrition professionals have on every child who comes through their cafeteria.  

This day is a way of recognizing the efforts of these team members who provide healthy meals to students—not only preparing food but also serving it with a smile and kind word, encouraging children to try new things and get all the nutrients their growing bodies need.