Foundation in Focus
April 29, 2025
As we approach the end of another school year, I find myself in that familiar end-of-year daze, wondering how we got here so quickly. It feels like just last week we were kicking off the year with new supplies and big plans. Now, somehow, we’re knee-deep in all the year-end events. It’s a whirlwind, but it’s a great one.
Through it all, I am continually in awe of the hard work and dedication of our educators throughout Maize USD 266. The passion and commitment they bring (both seen and unseen) truly make our district an exceptional place to learn and grow. Our educators' tireless efforts ensure that students not only receive a quality education but also have enriching experiences that extend beyond the classroom.
One of the privileges of being involved with the Maize Education Foundation is getting a front-row seat to some of this remarkable work. Just last month, we were invited to witness an innovative project called “Cultivate Maize,” where the Food Service Department collaborated with STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) teachers to grow vegetables in a hydroponic garden. The produce from this garden is used by the Food Service Department to prepare school lunches. What an incredible example of how our educators make learning practical, engaging, and fun.
Another highlight of this year was our annual Birds and Bulls Gala in February, which not only celebrated our district's amazing achievements but also raised more than $35,000 for impactful projects. Thanks to the generous support of our community, we were thrilled to help fund an outdoor art and science classroom at Vermillion Elementary School and provide switch-adaptive toys for students with special needs at the Maize Early Childhood Center. Seeing these initiatives come to life reminds me how fortunate we are to have such dedicated educators and supporters. I am excited for us to share the other teacher and student grants the Maize Education Foundation will be funding soon.
Professionally, being a part of the Maize Education Foundation has not only deepened my involvement within the district but also connected me with others in the community who share a passion for public education. I encourage everyone to get involved - whether by serving on the foundation board, volunteering at one of our events, or participating in a community project. Your involvement makes a meaningful difference and strengthens our shared commitment to our students and schools.
Most of all, thank you for your continued support. Together, we are helping create incredible learning environments that benefit every student.
Terry Johnson
President,
Maize Education Foundation Board of Directors
Playground StoryWalk
Last spring, the Maize Education Foundation proudly awarded a $6,000 Challenge Grant to the library team at Pray-Woodman Elementary School to develop a Playground StoryWalk, a dynamic new experience that brings books to life right on the playground.
The concept is simple yet powerful: A children’s picture book is laminated, mounted on angled aluminum posts, and placed along the perimeter of the school’s playground. As students move from post to post, they read each page of the story while engaging in fun physical activities along the way.
The Playground StoryWalk isn’t just about reading — it’s about moving, imagining, exploring, and growing. This initiative is helping Pray-Woodman students boost their literacy skills, stay active, support their mental well-being, and strengthen their leadership as growing reader-leaders. It’s a joyful combination of learning and adventure!
On April 24, 2025, the Maize Education Foundation welcomed 100 community members, business leaders, educators, and supporters to our 6th annual Spring Breakfast. Held at Maize Career Academy, the event offered an inspiring morning of connection, exploration, and a shared commitment to advancing education across Maize USD 266.
Guests enjoyed a delicious breakfast catered by Maize USD 266 culinary students while participating in an interactive activity that showcased Maize Career Academy’s Pathway Programs. Attendees visited classrooms, workshops, and studios, where students and staff demonstrated the real-world technology available to Maize students. Activities included golfing with robots, exploring a working greenhouse, using virtual welders, measuring high jumps, and more.
Thank you to everyone who attended, sponsored, and donated to make this event a success!
Broadcasting teacher Ryan Tarletsky shows off the broadcast studio to guests, including Maize USD 266 Board of Education member Todd Dumler.
STEAM teacher Samantha Kempf shows guests how to program robotic balls to drive themselves down a miniature golf green. The golf green was designed and built by Maize students.
Each year, the Maize Education Foundation proudly offers a $500 Legacy Scholarship to one graduating senior from both Maize High School and Maize South High School. This spring, we are pleased to announce that a generous donation from Peoples Bank and Trust will allow us to award two scholarships at each school!
Thank you to Peoples Bank and Trust and to all of the seniors who applied for scholarships. Award recipients will be announced at each school’s Awards Night on May 7, 2025.
