July 2026 Maize Pulse
Maize USD 266
As we prepare for the 2026-27 school year, we have a few important updates that will impact our families, students, and employees. These changes are the result of new state laws and represent adjustments to some of our current policies and practices across the district to ensure Maize USD 266 stays legally compliant.
Beginning this school year, students will follow updated expectations regarding personal electronic devices during the school day. We recognize that changes to routines can take time, and we appreciate your partnership as we work together to help students understand and adjust to these expectations. Please read more in the article below.
We are also transitioning to ParentSquare and Bound as our district-approved communication platforms for school-related communication. This change will provide consistent, secure ways for families and students to receive important information from their schools and our district and communicate with teachers and staff members using district-supported systems. You can read more about these changes below, as well.
Our leaders have been working carefully to prepare for these updates and provide the information and support families need. We know that clear communication and strong partnerships between schools, our district, and our families are essential to student success, and we appreciate your patience as we navigate these changes together.
Thank you for your continued support of Maize USD 266 and for the important role you play in your child’s education. We look forward to a successful 2026-27 school year!
Dr. Raquel Greer
Superintendent, Maize USD 266
Staying connected: ParentSquare, Bound to launch for 2026-27 school year
Maize USD 266 will officially launch ParentSquare with families on Aug. 10 as the district transitions to new, district-approved platforms for school-related communication.
ParentSquare will serve as the district-approved, secure communication platform for official school use, providing a safe, monitored, and transparent way for employees, students, and families to communicate about school-related matters. Please watch for an email invitation on Aug. 10 to get started and learn more! We’ll also share information about how to set up your account and customize your notification preferences.
We are also introducing Bound as a district-approved resource for high school athletics and activities. The Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) has partnered with Bound, an all-in-one digital platform for Kansas high school athletics and activities. Bound helps centralize important information.
These changes support the district’s compliance with new state law and also align with feedback shared during our recent communication audit. Families and employees expressed a desire for more streamlined communication and fewer platforms to navigate. ParentSquare and Bound will help provide secure, district-supported places to access important school, district, athletics, and activities information. We know transitioning to new tools can take time, and we appreciate your partnership and patience as we make these changes together.
New state law changes student personal device use during the school day
Beginning with the next school year, a new Kansas law limits student use of personal electronic devices during the school day. This change will affect students across Maize USD 266 and throughout Kansas.
Under the new law, students will not be allowed to use personal devices while school is in session. This includes cell phones, personal tablets or laptops, smartwatches, wireless earbuds, headphones, and other personal messaging devices. The requirements apply to any device that is not issued by the school.
The law defines the “school day” as the full instructional day, from the start of school until dismissal. This includes class time, recess, lunch, and passing periods.
During the school day, personal devices must be turned off and securely stored in a location that is not accessible to students. Students are asked to leave personal devices at home or in a locked vehicle, including a vehicle parked on school property. Limited exemptions are available for medically necessary devices included in a student’s plan.
We understand that this will be a significant change in routine for some students and families, particularly our high school students accustomed to communicating by cell phone during the school day. When personal electronic communication devices cannot be used, students will be provided reasonable access to the district’s phones in the school office or classrooms to contact a parent or person acting as a parent during the school day as needed.
Our schools will work with students and families to help everyone adjust to these new expectations. We appreciate your partnership as we implement these new state requirements and support students through this change.
With Kansas State Board of Education approval, bond plan moves forward to strengthen school safety, student opportunities
On July 14, the Kansas State Board of Education voted to approve Maize USD 266's request for a bond, and the plan to strengthen school safety and student opportunities is now cleared to go before voters during a March 2, 2027 election.
On June 8, the Maize Board of Education voted 7-0 to unanimously approve the proposed school bond plan, marking an important next step for Maize USD 266’s future. A cornerstone of the plan is the expansion of secure school entrances, providing improved visibility and controlled access to create safer, more secure schools for our students, employees, and community.
The plan invests in students and the future of Maize USD 266 by expanding learning spaces, growing career and technical education opportunities, strengthening student support services, and creating spaces where students can participate and succeed.
The plan also reflects community feedback and responsible planning in support of the district’s Lead Forward strategic plan. The recommendation was shaped by more than 18 months of study and input from students, employees, parents, and community members. It represents the work of the district’s community-led Facilities Steering Committee and a thoughtful approach to meeting district needs without increasing the mill levy.
Maize USD 266 is now enrolling!
Families are invited to enroll for the 2026-27 school year by July 23, 2026, if possible, or at your earliest opportunity. Please visit the enrollment page on our website, www.usd266.com/enroll. Enrollment is available online from your home or at the Enrollment Center, 201 S. Park Ave. in Maize.
- Students must live in the Maize USD 266 district.
- Kindergarten students must be age 5 on or before Aug. 31, 2026.
- Pre-k is available to children who are age 3 or 4 by Aug. 31, 2026 and is first come, first served. Contact our Maize Early Childhood Center at 316-722-3105 after Aug. 1, 2026 for additional paperwork.
Translation services are available at the Enrollment Center. All enrollment must be completed on a computer.
Maize USD 266 named Wichita area's 11th largest employer
Maize USD 266 has been recognized as the 11th largest employer in the Wichita area, according to the Wichita Business Journal. The annual ranking includes employers across Sedgwick, Butler, Harvey, and Sumner counties.
With 1,866 employees, we are proud to be one of the region’s largest employers while remaining focused on our mission to inspire students to discover their potential through connecting, learning, and leading. Every teacher, paraeducator, bus driver, custodian, food service worker, administrator, and support staff member plays an important role in creating exceptional learning experiences for about 8,000 students.
Attracting and retaining expert educators is one of the four focus areas of the district's Lead Forward strategic plan. The district is accomplishing this in several key ways.
- Bolstering total compensation: We are committed to ensuring employees know they are valued and supported. In the past four years, employee compensation has increased by an average of 15 percent. By investing in our people, we have strengthened student success while making Maize USD 266 a place where outstanding educators choose to build their careers.
- Energizing workplace culture: Principals and district leaders have introduced new ideas in every building to create welcoming, engaging environments for both employees and students. A positive workplace culture helps staff members feel valued, connected, and empowered to do their best work each day.
- Creating impactful professional learning: Since 2023, the district has expanded individualized professional learning opportunities, including Para Academy, Mentor Training, and New Teacher sessions. These programs equip employees with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to grow professionally and continue making a difference for students.
Next school board meeting
The Maize Board of Education's next regular monthly meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 10, 2026 at the Maize Performing Arts and Aquatics Center (MPAAC), 1155 W. Academy in Maize. Meetings are open to the public. Find a link to meeting agendas and minutes, school board member information, and policies at www.usd266.com/schoolboard.
Save the date: 18th annual charity golf tournament scheduled for Sept. 21
Make plans to join us on Sept. 21 at Reflection Ridge Golf Course for our annual golf fundraiser, presented by Heartland Credit Union! Don’t miss fan-favorite extras like Money Ball, Hole-in-One, and Tame the Beast!
Whether you’re out to win or just playing for a great cause, every swing supports innovative programs for Maize USD 266 students.
Team sign-ups and volunteer opportunities are open now! Click here to visit mef.usd266.com/events/golf-tournament or contact Maize Education Foundation Director Emi Kniffin Simmons at esimmons@usd266.com to get involved.
We’re also seeking generous sponsors who want to make an even bigger impact! Sponsorship is a powerful way to showcase your business to community members and district leaders AND invest in education. Plus, some sponsorship levels include space for you to have a tent and join us on the course.
Let’s drive change, one swing at a time.
Leave a legacy: Join the 266 Club
The 266 Club is a new opportunity to create an endowment fund to sustain Maize Education Foundation programs for years. It will bring new technology, engaging speakers, and innovative projects to Maize USD 266 classrooms. It will fuel Student Enrichment Grants that send students to nationwide conferences and competitions.
Be one of the first 266 families to join the club, and your name will be preserved in history on our Founding Families plaque. With a $266 donation, you can join the club and leave a legacy for Maize USD 266.
The 266 Club is so much more than a way to preserve your name in Maize history. Of course, it IS a way to preserve your name in Maize history, but its value is far greater than a name on a plaque.
Ultimately, the 266 Club will help us enhance educational excellence for Maize students and educators, and you can be part of it.
Important dates
July
- July 31: School offices open
August
- Aug. 12: No school, Parent-Teacher Conferences (See school schedules below for full details.)
- Aug. 13: No school, Parent-Teacher Conferences (See school schedules below for full details.)
- Aug. 18: Start of Term 1
- Aug. 18 to Aug. 20: Staggered first day of school schedule (See article below for full details.)
September
- Monday, Sept. 7: No school, Labor Day
Back-to-school night and parent-teacher conference details
Our educators are excited to meet their new students and families! Please join us for these upcoming events.
Wednesday, Aug. 12
- Maize Early Childhood Center and all elementary schools: Individually scheduled parent-teacher conferences, 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- Intermediate schools: Open House, 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- Middle schools: Open House, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- High schools and Maize Career Academy: Open House, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Complete High School Maize: Parent-teacher conferences, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 13
- Maize Early Childhood Center and all elementary schools: Individually scheduled parent-teacher conferences, 8 a.m. to 3:40 p.m.
- Intermediate schools: Open House with assigned times available, 7:30 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.
- Middle schools and high schools: Open House with individual parent-teacher conferences scheduled on request, 7:30 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.
- Complete High School Maize: Parent-teacher conferences, 8 a.m. to 3:40 p.m.
First day of school schedule
We are excited to welcome our students back to the classroom for our next school year! Please note that Maize USD 266 observes a staggered start day for students as follows:
- Tuesday, Aug. 18: First day of school for all of grades 1 through 9 and pre-k and kindergarten students with last names beginning with letters A through K.
- Wednesday, Aug. 19: Second day of school, with school in session for all of grades 1 through 12 and pre-k and kindergarten students with last names beginning with letters L through Z. Please note that, as with all Wednesdays, Aug. 19 will observe early release for professional development time for educators.
- Thursday, Aug. 20: School in session for pre-k through 12.
Fill the Bus returns Aug. 4 to support our students in need
Mark your calendar for one of our favorite back-to-school traditions! The annual Fill the Bus school supply drive returns from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4 at Chick-fil-A, 10515 W. 21st St. in Wichita.
Each year, families, students, and community members come together to help stock classrooms and support students as they start the school year strong. You can get involved by bringing school supplies to fill our Maize bus! Each person who donates supplies will receive a card for a free Chick-fil-A sandwich.
Last year’s event brought incredible energy, with student groups from across our schools welcoming donors and a community-wide effort that helped provide essential supplies for students in need. We’re looking forward to building on that momentum again this year.
Congratulations to winners of 2026 Celebrating Excellence Awards, Maize USD 266's highest employee recognition
We're proud to recognize our 2026 Celebrating Excellence winners! The district's Celebrating Excellence Awards date back to 2002 and represent our district’s highest recognition for outstanding employee performance. These awards honor exceptional educators and professionals from schools and departments across Maize USD 266. Over time, the program has expanded to include two award categories. With the addition of this year’s 44 honorees, that legacy now spans a quarter century of excellence. Visit usd266.com/awards to learn more about the Celebrating Excellence program and view past winners.
The Celebrating Excellence in Education Award recognizes outstanding educators and paraeducators who work to improve student performance, interact positively with students and their families, and work as a team player in the district to provide quality educational experiences for students. Congratulations to our 2026 winners!
- Maize Early Childhood Center: Teacher Angela Allen
- Maize Central Elementary School: 2nd Grade Teacher Natalie Mark Luu
- Maize Elementary School: 4th Grade Teacher Megan Provenzano
- Maize South Elementary School: Kindergarten Teacher Caitlin Wohler
- Pray-Woodman Elementary School: English Speakers for Other Languages (ESOL) Teacher Stephanie Rempel
- Vermillion Elementary School: 1st Grade Teacher Dana Doerflinger
- Maize Intermediate School: English Language Arts Teacher Erin Packer
- Maize South Intermediate School: Math Teacher Steven James
- Maize Middle School: English Speakers for Other Languages (ESOL) Teacher Linda Slusser
- Maize South Middle School: English Language Arts Teacher Abbey Ward
- Maize High School: Project Search Instructor Melissa Paulus
- Maize South High School: Engineering Teacher Heather Clevenger
- Complete High School Maize: Math Teacher Stacy Pinkerton
- Hope Learning Center: Transnet Teacher Kristin Rohlman
- Maize Virtual Preparatory School: Teacher Amy Parker
- Please click here to see photos of our winners.
Celebrating Excellence in Paraeducators Award 2026 winners:
- Maize Early Childhood Center: Leslie Ackerman
- Maize Central Elementary School: Andrew Moreno
- Maize Elementary School: Teresa Gerig
- Maize South Elementary School: Alison Pike
- Pray-Woodman Elementary School: Mary Rozner
- Vermillion Elementary School: April Griffin
- Maize Intermediate School: Cailea Burgett
- Maize South Intermediate School: Evie Reed
- Maize Middle School: Lori Werner
- Maize South Middle School: Marrisa Miller
- Maize High School: Ramon Reynaga
- Maize South High School: Mike Magness
- Complete High School Maize: Angie Ramsey
- Hope Learning Center: Julie Cheeley
- Please click here to see photos of our winners.
The Celebrating Excellence in Education Support Staff Award recognizes the incredible contributions of our support staff employees and the important role they play in advancing our mission of connecting, learning, and leading. Congratulations to our 2026 winners!
- Business/Finance: Melissa Edwards
- Clerical: Christina Rau
- Counselor: Taluia Pentecost
- Custodial: Susan Rodgers
- Food Service: Lisa Stuever
- Library/Media: Kelly Blurton
- Maintenance/Grounds: JD Weis
- Mechanical/HVAC: Christopher Straub
- Nursing: Kristen Kahmeyer
- Substitute: Tiffany Broberg
- Technology: Jenny Pauls
- Transportation: Caitlyn Haynes
- Additional Support Positions: Elaine Mullens, Speech Language Pathologist; Sara Goodall, Speech Language Pathologist; and Jaclyn Goodrich, Social Work Interventionist
- Please click here to see photos of our winners.
Join our team for the 2026-27 school year!
Looking to make a difference in the lives of students?
- Explore special education teaching opportunities across Maize USD 266, including openings supporting students of all ages. Our special education teachers receive strong support, substitute coverage for Individualized Education Program (IEP) preparation, ongoing professional learning opportunities, tuition reimbursement, and extra compensation for low-incidence roles. Join a district committed to helping both students and educators grow and thrive. Part-time and full-time positions are available.
- Our Maize Special Education Cooperative is seeking a dedicated and compassionate registered nurse to provide one-on-one medical support to a student in the Life Skills program at Colwich Elementary School. This role is essential to ensuring the student's health and safety, allowing them to focus on their educational and developmental goals in the classroom setting. This could be a part-time job shared between multiple nurses.
Apply for these positions and others now at usd266.com/careers.
Maize USD 266 supports safe schools across Kansas
Earlier this summer, Maize USD 266 hosted a school safety training session for school resource officers from 16 law enforcement agencies across Kansas. This training was part of the week-long School Resource Officer basic training program administered by the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC). With students and staff members enjoying Summer Break, participants had the opportunity to engage in hands-on professional learning in a school setting. The training session focused on responding to threats of violence in schools and provided valuable experience and collaboration opportunities that help support safe learning environments for students and staff members. Instructors for this training session came to Maize from across the country and are part of the United States Deputy Sheriff's Association training staff.
Explore Kansas for free with Sunflower Summer
Looking for ways to keep the summer fun going? The Sunflower Summer program gives Kansas families with a child enrolled in pre-k through 12th grade the chance to visit attractions across the state for free. Learn more by visiting www.SunflowerSummer.org.
Now available: Summer food resources for your children
Check out these programs that provide nutritious food options for children and teens at no cost to you.
SUN Meals: Free meals and snacks during the summer: Children 18 years old and under can enjoy free meals and snacks at schools, parks, and neighborhood sites. Find a site near you by:
- Clicking here to access a searchable website
- Texting "FOOD" or "COMIDA" to 304-304
- Texting "SUMMER MEALS" to 914-342-7744
- Calling the Hunger Hotline at 1-866-3-HUNGRY.
SUN Bucks: $120 grocery benefit: Eligible school-aged children can receive a one-time $120 benefit for the summer to buy groceries. Most families who qualify for free/reduced-price lunch or SNAP are enrolled automatically, but others may need to apply.
- Apply by Aug. 31, 2026.
- Click here to learn more.
Families can participate in both SUN Meals and SUN Bucks simultaneously.
Super Note is Maize USD 266 Superintendent Dr. Greer's e-newsletter written to students. Click to explore the archive of past editions.
Maize Pulse is Maize USD 266's district e-newsletter, shared about once a month with parents, employees, and the community. Click to explore the archive of past editions.