Back to School Newsletter

Greetings, Pirate Nation!

As we stand on the threshold of a brand-new school year, I am thrilled to unveil our theme for the year: #PURPLEREIGN. This powerful mantra is more than just a rallying cry; it’s a celebration of who we are, the values we hold dear, and the excellence we pursue every day.

#PURPLEREIGN over your potential.

To our incredible students: You are the heart of Piper Nation. This year, let your curiosity, courage, and creativity reign. Set bold goals, take risks, and know that you have the full support of your Pirate community behind you. You are capable of greatness! Let it shine!

#PURPLEREIGN in every classroom.

To our dedicated staff: Your unwavering commitment to our students and each other is what sets Piper apart. Let this be the year where your passion, innovation, and leadership reign supreme. Your influence is far-reaching and deeply impactful. Together, we will inspire excellence.

#PURPLEREIGN throughout our community.

To our families and partners: Your trust and involvement empower us. Your encouragement and collaboration are what help make our vision for student success a reality. Together, we build bridges that support learning and ensure every child feels valued and seen.

#PURPLEREIGN in our future.

With expanding enrollment, bold innovation, and a shared commitment to excellence, Piper USD 203 is one of the fastest-growing districts in Kansas—now ranked second in per-pupil growth statewide. This momentum reflects the strength of our vision, the dedication of our staff, and the trust of our community. As we look ahead, we remain rooted in tradition while boldly embracing transformation. The future is bright…and it's ours to reign!

Let this year be marked by unity, pride, and purpose. Let’s lead with compassion, learn with conviction, and lift each other higher than ever before. Together, let’s show the world what it means to live and lead under the banner of #PURPLEREIGN.

With Pirate Pride,

Dr. Jessica Dain

Superintendent Piper USD 203

Piper is pleased to offer our families the opportunity for in-person enrollment. Families will be able to meet with our school secretaries to complete the enrollment process, talk with DS Bus Lines about bus transportation, visit our Food Service team, and have nurses review immunization records.

Details:

July 29 | 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Piper Early Childhood Center, 4410 N 107th St

These events are open to families from all buildings/schools.

Why should families attend the Enrollment Fair?

• Skyward enrollment assistance
• Transportation information
• Food service for any allergy/dietary restrictions
• Nurses available to review immunization records

Transportation requests submitted by parents for the 2025-26 school year have been successfully received by DS Bus Lines. If you have not completed your transportation request, please submit as soon as possible so that routing can be completed. Transportation requests are a part of the online enrollment process through Skyward. Please be sure you complete this portion of the enrollment process if your student requires bus transportation.

Any transportation request made after August 1, will result in your student not having transportation until after the first week of school. All assignments for transportation can be found in Skyward on August 8.

Piper School District was proud to be the first district to pilot the Parent Family App last school year. Thanks to your valuable feedback, DS Bus Lines has been able to enhance the app’s features and functionality. Since then, the app has successfully launched in several other school districts—progress made possible in part by our community’s involvement and support.

The app now includes an exciting update: families can track the entire bus route their student is on in real time. We encourage you to download the Parent Family App (directions below) and explore its new features.

Please note, LATE START FRIDAYS will begin on August 22!

There WILL NOT be a late start on August 15.

Please note, high school students do not have school supply lists. Teachers will notify students on the first day of school if they will need certain supplies for the semester (this will vary per teacher).

Free and Reduced Lunch Applications are now available for families to complete within Skyward. Families are not required to complete an application but are encouraged to complete one if you believe your household may qualify for free or reduced meals. For step-by-step instructions on how to complete, click the attachment below.

Before and after school care is provided by the YMCA's Y Club. For more information about the program or to register your student, visit Y Club Academy - Piper | YMCA of Greater Kansas City.