Happy Independence Day! All District Buildings Closed on Friday, July 4
In observance of Independence Day, all TPS buildings will be closed, along with our Summer Meal Program, on Friday, July 4. We will reopen on Monday, July 7.
We wish all of our students, staff, and families a fun and safe holiday weekend!
TCALC Teaching Pathway Scholars Achieve National Recognition at Educators Rising Conference
We are excited to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our TCALC Teaching Pathway scholars, who recently represented the district with excellence at the Educators Rising National Conference in Orlando, FL.
Congratulations to Elie Hisey, who earned a Top Ten national placement in Lesson Planning & Delivery in the Fine Arts, and Aveline Bowling, who took home 1st place in the nation in the Children’s Literature Pre-K category—a highly competitive and prestigious event!
These exceptional students spent months preparing for this moment, guided by the dedication and expertise of their instructors, Mrs. Diane Kimsey and Dr. Robin Dixon. Their hard work, creativity, and commitment to future teaching careers continue to inspire us all!
TPS Theater Students Shine at International Thespian Festival
Topeka Public Schools proudly celebrates the outstanding achievements of our talented theater students who recently showcased their skills at the International Thespian Festival—one of the most prestigious events in high school theater.
From Topeka High School, Mija Geering earned a Superior rating—the highest possible distinction—for her powerful solo performance of "Still Hurting" from The Last Five Years.
Topeka West students also delivered exceptional performances:
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Jordyn Tombs & Brady Clark received Superior for their duet from Gruesome Playground Injuries.
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Shelby Saunders & Joey Westphal earned Superior for their performance of They Promised Her the Moon.
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In the monologue category, Phoebe Edgerton-Kufahl, Kivrin Staley, and Joey Westphal each received a Perfect Score—an extraordinary accomplishment.
Earning these accolades at the International Thespian Festival is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent of these incredible students and their teachers. Congratulations to all for representing Topeka Public Schools with excellence on the national stage!
Two TPS Graduates Named 2025 Topeka Capital-Journal Athletes of the Year
We are proud to share that two Topeka Public Schools Class of 2025 graduates have been recognized for their outstanding achievements in athletics!
Jo’Mhara Benning, a triple-sport athlete from Topeka High, and Adrian Lehman, a track star from Topeka West, were named the Topeka Capital-Journal’s Girls and Boys Athletes of the Year. Additionally, Adrian was honored at this week’s City Council meeting by Mayor Padilla for breaking two 50-year-old school records in distance running (1600 and 3200 meter).
Jo’Mhara will continue her academic and athletic journey at Coppin State University on a softball scholarship, while Adrian will be running cross-country and track at Washburn University. These students truly exemplify excellence, and we know they will continue to make our district proud!
Robinson Ravens Shine at the Horatio Alger Summit in Washington, D.C.
This summer, Robinson Middle School 8th graders had the opportunity of a lifetime as they traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in the prestigious Horatio Alger Summit.
During the summit, students raised their voices on important issues, engaged in powerful conversations, and embraced their roles as future leaders. From exploring our nation’s capital to connecting with peers from across the country, this experience showed them the impact they can make—not only nationally, but right here in their own community.
A special thank you to Robinson teachers, Mr. Michael Kates and Ms. Jessie Revell, for their leadership and mentorship throughout the journey. Topeka Public Schools is proud to partner with the Horatio Alger Association in empowering our scholars to dream big, lead with purpose, and create meaningful change.
View photos from this exciting trip on the Robinson Middle School Facebook page.
TPS Welcomes Mrs. Pam Stranathan as New Executive Director Overseeing Operations
Topeka Public Schools is proud to welcome Mrs. Pam Stranathan as our new Executive Director of Operations!
With over 35 years of experience in public education, Mrs. Stranathan brings a wealth of knowledge in teaching, instructional leadership, and district operations. Her impressive career spans roles in Texas, Colorado, and Kansas, including eight years as a superintendent and most recently as Assistant Superintendent of Business & Operations in Emporia Public Schools.
Mrs. Stranathan holds degrees and certifications from Fort Hays State University, Texas Woman’s University, Pittsburg State University, and Adams State University, and is currently pursuing her doctorate in Educational Leadership at the University of Arkansas.
She is known as a forward-thinking, student-centered leader who has secured over $700,000 in grant funding and earned multiple awards for her advocacy and service. Her work in advancing STEM, CTE, and social-emotional learning initiatives has been recognized at both the state and national levels.
Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Stranathan to the TPS family! We look forward to the incredible impact she will make in our schools and community.
TPS Keeping Scholars Engaged Through Summer Learning Opportunities
Last week, Topeka Public Schools concluded our 2025 Academic and Enrichment Summer Programs and Extended School Year, which provided students with meaningful opportunities to stay engaged, learn new skills, and have fun.
From robotics, coding, and virtual reality to culinary arts, drone flying, and chess, students explored hands-on activities designed to support academic growth and personal development.
Our Quincy Elementary scholars even enjoyed an exciting field trip to Lake Perry, where they enjoyed fishing, bike riding, and other outdoor activities! The 21st Century Community Learning Center (21st CCLC) program at Quincy also offered enrichment in the arts, STEM, wellness, and more—supporting both students and families during the summer months.
View photos from our summer programs on Flickr and our social media channels.
Fueling Learning All Summer Long: TPS Summer Meal Program Continues Through July 25
Throughout the summer, Topeka Public Schools Food Service staff are proudly serving students and families by ensuring access to nutritious meals across the city.
The 2025 Summer Meal Program runs through July 25 and provides free meals to all children 18 and under, Monday through Friday, at designated congregate meal sites throughout Topeka. Please note that meals must be enjoyed on-site in accordance with federal guidelines.
To view a complete list of meal sites, menus, and serving times, visit our Summer Meal Program page at topekapublicschools.net. We thank our dedicated Food Service team for helping keep our students healthy and energized all summer long!
TPS & Harvesters Partner to Provide Summer Food Support for Families
Topeka Public Schools remains committed to supporting families throughout the summer months. Our partnership with Harvesters will continue to provide access to fresh food and essential items through mobile food pantries at multiple school sites.
- Jardine Middle School – Second Saturdays: July 12, August 9 | 9:00–10:00 AM
- Capital City School – Fourth Fridays: July 25, August 22 | 9:00–10:00 AM
- Robinson Middle School – First Fridays: August 1 | 4:00–5:00 PM
Additionally, here is a list of food banks, pantries, and meal sites (English and Spanish) available across Topeka to ensure families have continued access to food and resources when school is not in session.
We are incredibly grateful to Harvesters and the many volunteers and organizations that continue to support the well-being of our students and their families. Together, we are building a stronger, healthier community.
Sunflower Summer App Provides Free Activities for Kansas Families in July & August
Looking for fun family activities this summer? Download the Sunflower Summer app!
Developed by the Kansas State Department of Education in partnership with Kansas teachers, Sunflower Summer provides a fun and engaging way to ensure student learning continues during the summer months.
All Kansas students in grades PreK-12, and up to two accompanying adults, may access one ticket voucher to each of the participating attractions in the Sunflower Summer app at no charge from July 12 - August 3, 2025.
To get started, visit sunflowersummer.org to learn how the program works. Next, download the free mobile app and start planning your adventures!
Enroll Now for the 2025-2026 School Year!
Enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year is now open at topekapublicschools.net! Families are encouraged to register early, as we anticipate classes filling up quickly again this year.
Information regarding enrollment, school supply lists, and other items for families to prepare for next year is available at topekapublicschools.net. View the 2025-2026 Academic Calendar here.
As a reminder, returning families will register their students through the Synergy Student Information System and by logging in to ParentVue. Families new to Topeka Public Schools will follow the steps to create a new account and register.
For questions about online registration or your ParentVue account, please email SISHelp@tps501.org or call 785-438-4750 between 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM for assistance.
Join Us at All Schools & Quinton Heights For In-Person Enrollment on July 23
Join us on Wednesday, July 23 at all schools and the district Welcome Center at Quinton Heights for in-person enrollment! Staff members will be available to help you enroll from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (and from 5:00 - 7:00 PM by appointment only).
Online enrollment, a school supply list, and the 2025-2026 academic calendar are available at topekapublicschools.net.
For questions about enrollment, please call the district office at 785-295-3000. For assistance with your Synergy ParentVue online account, please reach out to our Information Technology team via email at SISHelp@tps501.org.
Join the Topeka Public Schools Team!
Topeka Public Schools is recruiting certified and classified talent for positions across the district as we look forward to the upcoming 2025-2026 school year!
Why choose Topeka Public Schools?
- Five-time National Magna Award winner for innovation & excellence
- Home of the 2023, 2024, & 2026 Region 2 Kansas Teachers of the Year
- Nationally recognized PreK–12 Dual Language Program
- Cutting-edge professional development for all staff
View this flyer to join us at hiring events throughout the summer, or learn more about available positions and apply online at topekapublicschools.net/careers.
Join Us for a Substitute Information Meeting on Tuesday, July 15
Topeka Public Schools is hosting a Substitute Information Meeting on Tuesday, July 15 from 6:00–7:00 PM at the Burnett Center (624 SW 24th St).
This is a great opportunity to learn how you can support TPS as a valued substitute team member! Whether you're seeking a flexible schedule, extra income, or a way to give back to the community, we have a role that fits your needs.
We’re hiring for multiple positions, including:
Substitute Teachers
Substitute Special Education Paraprofessionals
Substitute LPNs
Substitute Secretaries
Substitute Custodians
Substitute Food Service Workers
Scan the QR code on the flyer or visit topekapublicschools.net/careers to apply today! For questions, contact TPS Substitute Services at 785-295-3000.
Text Messaging Service Sends Alerts to TPS Families
Topeka Public Schools utilizes the SchoolMessenger system for web services and to deliver text messages to families in the district. Alerts come straight to your mobile phone with important information about school events, school closings, and more.
Parents and guardians can participate in this free service by sending a text message of "Y" or "Yes" to the TPS short code number 67587. You can also opt-out of these messages at any time by simply replying "stop" to one of our messages.
View our communications document in English and Spanish to learn more about how Topeka Public Schools communicates with families throughout the school year.
Don't forget to follow us on social media! We're active on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
District Calendar & Upcoming Events
The first day of school will be here before we know it, and we can’t wait to welcome our students back in August for another exciting year of learning and growth! View the 2025-2026 academic calendar here.
Legislative Advocacy
Topeka Public Schools Publications
TPS Tip Line
Use the helpline numbers:
- 785-GET-HELP
- 785-438-4357
for any emergency questions or concerns.
TPS In The News
TPS Parent Resource Site
View information and health alerts from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) on our Parent Resource Site.