Mother Nature seems to have a good sense of humor this time of year. Whether a 70-degree day in February or a snowstorm as soon as spring sports kick off, she always keeps us guessing!
At the same time, I always love the renewed energy that March brings to our schools. As the days get longer and early signs of a new season pop through, Ellis classrooms begin to burst with new curiosity and creativity. From spring activities and reading celebrations to outdoor learning, this is a time when we see our district at its very best — vibrant, connected and full of promise. It’s no wonder spring is associated with hope and optimism!
If you haven’t already heard about our special Presidents Day guest at Washington Grade School, it was wonderful! Back in 1976, Ellis resident Michael Jilg painted a George Washington mural to celebrate America’s bicentennial. Using house paint and his artistic skills, he created a local landmark of sorts that still looks amazing. Originally, the mural was outdoors for one year and I still remember thinking how large it was at the end of the hallway it as I grew up in Ellis. As it turns out, he is still an artist living in Hays, and he warmly accepted an invitation to speak to our students about his mural and his life in Ellis 50 years ago. It was such a special moment for our school community, and we can’t thank Mr. Jilg enough for his lasting contribution to our schools. A huge thank you goes to Shelly Hensley, our school librarian, for organizing and promoting this special event!
Reflecting on our recent Presidents Day activities, we also must thank the Ellis VFW Auxiliary for sharing all about our nation’s flag. And combined with the wonderful contributions of our student ambassadors and band, it truly was a great day to celebrate our country’s history.
Here is some more good news from the last few weeks:
· Senior Kinley Jones was surprised with a four-year Rudd Foundation full scholarship to Wichita State, where she plans to major in nursing.
· Congratulations to the Dane G. Hansen Scholarship recipients: Gus Peine, Elie Brull, Owen Richards, Gracie Ball, Payten Burd, Brody Fischer, Carson Schartz.
· Congratulations to Tayler Schmidt who participated in the Kansas Music Educators Association in Wichita, where she held the position of first chair bass clarinet in the 1-2A honor band!
· Mark Wildeman will be WGS principal starting this summer when Mr. Flinn takes over as superintendent. Mr. Wildeman has taught science for grades 7-9 for the last five years and will be great in his new role.
· The Ellis County Spelling Bee featured WGS students Mason Fitzgerald, Daxton Burd, Opal Birdsong and Addyson McMillian as participants. They were great representatives of our schools and community!
· Eight journalism staff members placed at the Regional Meet. They will advance to the state level in April.
· Our student musicians who performed at the MCEL Music Festival earned top ratings for every performance!
EHS athletes and coaches who competed in substate basketball and state wrestling represented our community with great sportsmanship. Congratulations to senior Kia Mader, for placing 4th at state!
Our seniors participated in the annual EHS role model event. Students shared inspiring words about their role model, and it was made even more special by how many of those individuals were able to be there for and enjoy the moment. Thank you to the EHS for supporting and encouraging important people in student’s lives.
Fifth grade completed a series of D.A.R.E. lessons with Sheriff Braun, learning about making smart choices that will help them stay healthy and safe.
Last but not least, I want to thank all of the families, teachers and staff who had a hand in making our spring parent-teacher conferences a success. Ellis always has a great turnout, which reveals the tremendous commitment of our schools and community. Conferences are a big part of how we can all work together to make a positive, lasting difference for every child and young person in Ellis. Working together, we truly have countless reasons to be Railer PROUD!
Janice Wilson
Superintendent