Board Highlights

Thank you to Krystina Williams, Kassie Dolan, and Delia Trowbridge for organizing our 5th Grade STUCO members to lead the Pledge during the February Board of Education meeting.

In early November, a record 16 Piper High School choir students auditioned for the Kansas All-State Choir, representing Piper with exceptional preparation and professionalism. From more than 500 auditionees statewide, three Piper students were selected for the Northeast District Honor Choir. From that group, Trin Bales was chosen to perform in the All-State Mixed Honor Choir, with Danika Thoele named as an All-State alternate. This marks Trin’s second All-State selection, reflecting a sustained level of excellence. These achievements are made possible through the leadership and dedication of choir director Mrs. Shelly Cole, whose commitment to musical excellence continues to elevate the Piper choir program. We are proud of all our choir students and look forward to supporting them at the All-State performance in Wichita at the end of February. Piper High School Assistant Principal Kelsey Anselmi joined us yesterday evening in recognition of these accomplishments.

The Kids Feeding Kids initiative celebrates the dedication, compassion, and leadership of Piper High School students and staff who have committed their time and talents to serving our community. Through preparing nutritious meals, organizing distribution, and supporting families in need, these individuals have demonstrated exceptional teamwork, responsibility, and heart. To date, the group has prepared and served two meals to the community, with one additional meal currently being planned and scheduled for completion before the March Pirate Pantry to support families in April. We proudly recognize Beth Luhman, Diana Mora, Theresa Love, along with students from the Culinary classes and FCCLA members, for their outstanding service. Their efforts reflect the true spirit of service learning and the meaningful impact students can make. Piper High School Assistant Principal Kelsey Anselmi joined us yesterday evening in recognition of this service.

Congratulations to Josh Baxter, who has been named the 2025 Kansas Cross Country and Track and Field Coaches Association 5A Boys Track Coach of the Year. Under Coach Baxter’s leadership, the Piper Boys Track and Field team enjoyed an outstanding season, earning the titles of 2025 League Champions and 2025 Regional Champions, and finishing third overall at the State Track Meet. Coach Baxter has dedicated 26 years to coaching track and field, including 22 years as the Head Track Coach at Piper. His commitment to excellence and to developing student-athletes is evident not only in competitive success, but in the character and work ethic of the athletes he leads. In recognition of his impact, he was also named the 2025 United Kansas Conference Track Coach of the Year. We congratulate Coach Baxter and thank him for his continued leadership, dedication, and positive influence on the Piper community. Coach Baxter was joined by Piper High School Athletic Director Brian Gray.

This month’s Classified Purple Reign Award is presented to Missy Hurrelbrink, Administrative Assistant at Piper Creek Elementary.

Missy was nominated by a colleague for her initiative and problem-solving on behalf of secretaries across the district. When a critical website used daily for address verification became unavailable, Missy proactively contacted the UG, identified the new site, and developed a clear, user-friendly guide that she shared with her colleagues. Her efforts significantly improved the efficiency and accuracy of the residency verification process for all.

Missy’s actions reflect collaboration, leadership, and a strong commitment to supporting others. We are grateful for her dedication and are proud to recognize her as this month’s Classified Purple Reign Award recipient. Congratulations. Missy was joined by her principal, Jane Martin.

This month’s Certified Purple Reign Award is presented to Carmean Volp, 1st Grade Teacher at Piper Prairie.

Mrs. Volp was nominated by a parent who shared how deeply invested she is in her students’ academic growth. She consistently goes above and beyond expectations and communicates thoughtfully with families, sharing both concerns and celebrations when needed. Her dedication has made a meaningful impact, and the family expressed how fortunate they feel to have such an exceptional teacher.

Mrs. Volp’s work reflects professionalism, care, and a strong commitment to student success. We are proud to recognize her as this month’s Certified Purple Reign Award recipient. Congratulations. Carmean was joined by her principal Mrs. Anne-Marie Short.

Follow the link below for updates from Dr. Jessica Dain.