HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The more than 800 Hutchinson Public Schools staff members formally began the 2014-15 school year with the annual opening convocation Thursday at Hutchinson High School.
Superintendent Shelly Kiblinger gave a State of the District presentation during the event. Thursday, Dr. Kiblinger formally unveiled the district’s new Strategic Plan. The plan has two research-based strategic actions which includes “teach literacy across the curriculum” and “teach, model and reinforce positive behaviors.”
All staff members will have a part in helping the district accomplish its strategic actions and drive the district toward its mission – “All students graduate with the knowledge, skills and behaviors to be college and career ready.”
Several educators were honored during the event. The Davis Foundation made its annual Teachers of the Year Awards. The elementary winners were Kristi Farley, second grade teacher at Lincoln, and Ashleigh Vieyra, third grade teacher at Wiley. The middle school winner was Alma Henry, reading teacher at Hutchinson Middle School – 7. The high school winners were Leann Gleason, broadcast journalism teacher in the Career and Technical Education Academy, and Kris Anshutz, English teacher at HHS who retired in May.
Each winner receives $4,000. The Davis Foundation has contributed millions of dollars to Hutchinson Public Schools’ staff and students since its first scholarships were awarded to HHS seniors 56 years ago. This is the 33rd time the awards have been made to teachers.
Also recognized during the event were the USD 308 Kansas Teacher of the Year nominees – Ashleigh Vieyra, third grade teacher at Wiley; and Tobie Henline, drama teacher at HHS.
Recognized during the convocation as the Classified Employee of the Year for 2013-14 was Mel Dower, secretary at HHS.
Staff will have professional development and room preparation for the 2014-15 school year through Aug. 12. Students in prekindergarten through ninth grade return on Aug. 13. High school sophomores through seniors begin the year on Aug. 14.