Board Highlights
October 12, 2026
Celebrating Our Kansas Teacher of the Year Building Nominees
Congratulations to Piper’s Kansas Teacher of the Year building nominees! This program celebrates exemplary educators who strengthen student learning, lead in their schools and advance the teaching profession.
Our elementary nominees are Cierra Jones, Piper Creek; Brianna Wilson, Piper Prairie; and Abby Klinger, Piper Early Childhood Center. Our secondary nominees are John Black, Piper High School, and Gary Kohlasch, Piper Middle School.
The Board of Education recognized these outstanding teachers for their dedication to students and contributions to their school communities. We are proud to celebrate their commitment to helping every student become future ready!
Recognizing Our Horizon Award Nominees
Piper’s newest educators are already making a meaningful difference! The Board of Education celebrated our Kansas Horizon Award nominees: Kinley Brown, third-grade teacher at Piper Creek Elementary, and Emily Kunkler, Academy Prep teacher at Piper Middle School.
The Kansas Horizon Award Program recognizes outstanding first-year teachers who demonstrate strong teaching skills and a dedication to student learning. Kinley and Emily exemplify the enthusiasm, care and promise this program celebrates. Congratulations to both on their nominations!
Thank You, Back to School Event Committee!
Piper’s inaugural Back to School event brought together more than 1,000 students, family members and community partners for a day of connection, celebration and community spirit. At its October meeting, the Board of Education recognized the volunteers whose planning and hard work made the event a resounding success.
Thank you to Amy Bolend, Stella Cushenbery-Andrews, Cody Busick, Michelle Busick, Beth Daze, Megan Geist, Marci Hunter, Kim Brown, Tarasina Schneller, Olivia Schneller and Steve Schneller.
We are grateful for the time, energy and talents this committee shared to welcome our families and create a memorable start to the school year!
October Certified True North Recipient: Holly Heinenger
Congratulations to Holly Heinenger, Piper Early Childhood Center teacher, our October Certified True North Award recipient!
A parent’s nomination celebrated Holly’s ability to make a child’s introduction to school a joyful, positive experience. Through meaningful instruction, hands-on learning and caring relationships, she creates a classroom where students feel safe, valued and loved.
As the parent shared, “She set the bar incredibly high and gave her such a positive foundation for her education!”
Thank you, Holly, for guiding our youngest Pirates with kindness, purpose and dedication.
October Classified True North Recipient: Amy Malec
Congratulations to Amy Malec, Piper Middle School nurse, our October Classified True North Award recipient!
A parent nominated Amy for the exceptional care and reassurance she provides as their child navigates a new Type 1 diabetes diagnosis. Her attentiveness and willingness to go above and beyond help students feel supported at school and give families invaluable peace of mind.
Although Amy was unable to attend the Board meeting, we were proud to celebrate her dedication and the difference she makes each day. Thank you, Amy, for helping our Pirates stay healthy, safe and ready to learn!
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