Valley Heights District Newsletter
August Edition 2024
Welcome Back Letter
Note from the Superintendent
Dear Students, Parents, Guardians, and Community Members,
I hope this letter finds you all in good health and high spirits as we gear up for the start of a new school year at Valley Heights School District. As we enter my second year in the district, I am thrilled and honored to continue working with this incredible community of learners, educators, and supporters.
To our returning students, welcome back! And to our new students, we are excited to have you as part of the Valley Heights family. Each of you brings a unique perspective and potential, and I am eager to witness your growth and achievements in the coming months.
To the parents and guardians, your partnership is fundamental to our students' success. Your support and engagement play a vital role in fostering a positive learning environment, and I encourage open communication between home and school to ensure the best possible outcomes for our students.
To the dedicated educators and staff members, thank you for your commitment and dedication to our students' education. Your passion for teaching and mentorship makes a profound difference in the lives of the young minds we serve. Together, we will continue to create an environment where every student feels valued and inspired to reach their full potential.
To the broader community, your involvement and support are invaluable. As we work collaboratively to shape the future of our students, I am eager to build strong connections and partnerships that will enrich their educational experiences and provide them with a well-rounded foundation for success.
In addition to our ongoing efforts, I am pleased to announce that we will be conducting Strategic Planning meetings with the community starting in September. These meetings will be an excellent opportunity for all stakeholders to provide input and help shape the future direction of our district. Your participation is crucial, and I encourage everyone to get involved and share their perspectives.
Before the in-person community meetings, the district will be sending out a stakeholder survey in order to gather data. These surveys will be available to the public starting on August 19th and ending September 2nd.
I am excited about the potential and possibilities that lie ahead. Together, let us embrace the challenges and celebrate the successes that the new school year will bring. I encourage everyone to be actively involved in our school community and to participate in the various events and activities that will enrich our students' educational journey.
I am truly honored to be part of the Valley Heights School District, and I look forward to getting to know each one of you. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions, ideas, or concerns you may have. Your input is invaluable as we work together to ensure the success and well-being of our students.
Here's to a fantastic and fulfilling school year for all!
Sincerely,
Sean Spoonts
Superintendent
Important Beginning of the Year Dates
Valley Heights PK-12th Grade Enrollment Coming Soon!
Online Enrollment is set to Open August 1st. In-Person Enrollment will be available August 7th from 11am-7pm. If you do not have a PowerSchool Parent/Guardian Login, you may contact Ron Hardin to create a Login prior to enrolling.
Strategic Planning Update
Dates for Strategic Planning
August 1st- Community Focus Groups- Invite the community to take part in the discussion about long-range planning for USD 498
August 19th-September 2nd- Send out all stakeholder survey
September 9th 5:30-8:30pm Community/Board
Provide Dinner/Refreshments starting at 5:15pm
Community Input-include building admin, teachers, and support staff from each building (VHE), Board of Education, and other stakeholders
Provide State of the District-Superintendent
Review District Data (Survey and Successful Graduate Input)
SWOT Analysis
Identify Theme Areas
Sept. 23rd Facilities Tour @ 6pm - (Special Meeting) Board and Community invited. Tour will start at Blue Rapids @ 6pm. Each tour will take 30 minutes. Focus will be on future improvements and recent upgrades.
September 30th- 5:30-8pm Community/Board
Provide Dinner/Refreshments starting at 5:15pm
Review vision and data
Reflect on Theme Areas
Review and Discuss Actions= “WHAT” and “WHY”
Develop Strategies for Action and Success
October 28th- 6-7:15pm Board Only
Review Goal Focus Areas
Reflect on Community Input
Finalize Action Steps
Next Steps Board of Education
Link to Facilities Assessment and Strategic Planning Timeline
News from the Nurse- Student Immunizations
Free and Reduced Meal Application
Food Service Application
Here is the link to complete the Reduced and Free meal application:
This is the fastest and preferred way of applying. Paper applications are also available by request at any school office.
Your household status on this application may also reduce your enrollment fees, PreSchool/KinderPrep fees & ACT Test fees.
Dance Registration
Registration is now open for Valley Heights Community Education and Waterville Dance Fall session! Click the link to register:
Valley Heights USD #498
Email: sspoonts@valleyheights.org
Website: https://www.valleyheights.org
Location: 2274 6th Road, Blue Rapids, KS, USA
Phone: 785-363-2398
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vhusd498/
Twitter: @usd498
