🎉🐾 Elk Valley Milestone Moment! 🐾🎉
We are beyond proud to share that the Class of 2025 achieved an incredible 100% post-secondary acceptance rate AND an 85% post-secondary going-rate straight out of high school! 🙌
This is a huge accomplishment for our Lions, showing their hard work, determination, and commitment to their futures. 🧡🖤
👏 Let’s give it up for the Class of 2025—you’ve set the bar high and made Elk Valley proud!
We can’t wait to see what an amazing year the Class of 2026 has in store. Keep roaring, Lions! 🦁✨
#ElkValleyPride #Classof2025 #LionStrong
We are beyond proud to share that the Class of 2025 achieved an incredible 100% post-secondary acceptance rate AND an 85% post-secondary going-rate straight out of high school! 🙌
This is a huge accomplishment for our Lions, showing their hard work, determination, and commitment to their futures. 🧡🖤
👏 Let’s give it up for the Class of 2025—you’ve set the bar high and made Elk Valley proud!
We can’t wait to see what an amazing year the Class of 2026 has in store. Keep roaring, Lions! 🦁✨
#ElkValleyPride #Classof2025 #LionStrong
🎉🧡🖤🦁 Show Your Elk Valley Pride! 🦁🧡🖤🎉
The Class of 2028 is on a mission to pump up the spirit and help you get geared up for the year! Whether you’re cheering from the stands, representing at school, or just want to show your Lion pride around town, we’ve got you covered. 🧢👕
🛒 Shop now:
➡️ Visit https://www.spiritgeardirect.com/Store
➡️ Choose Kansas
➡️ Search Elk Valley to get started!
Promotion ends September 12th!
🔥 If there’s a big roar for more gear, we’ll add new items in the spring — so let us know what you want to see!
Let’s make this year one for the books, Elk Valley! 🧡🖤#LionPride #ClassOf2028 #EVSpirit
🎉 TONIGHT IS THE NIGHT! 🎉
Join us at Elk Valley’s Meet the Teacher Night from 4:00–6:00 PM!
🌭 Free Hotdogs
👋 Meet our amazing new teachers & staff
🏫 Tour classrooms and connect with the Elk Valley family
Whether you’re a returning Lion or brand new to the pride, we can’t wait to welcome you! 🧡🖤
📍 Location: Elk Valley School
🕓 Time: 4–6 PM TONIGHT!
#ElkValleyLions #MeetTheTeacher #WelcomeBack2025 #CommunityStrong
Join us at Elk Valley’s Meet the Teacher Night from 4:00–6:00 PM!
🌭 Free Hotdogs
👋 Meet our amazing new teachers & staff
🏫 Tour classrooms and connect with the Elk Valley family
Whether you’re a returning Lion or brand new to the pride, we can’t wait to welcome you! 🧡🖤
📍 Location: Elk Valley School
🕓 Time: 4–6 PM TONIGHT!
#ElkValleyLions #MeetTheTeacher #WelcomeBack2025 #CommunityStrong
Elk Valley Lions - Student Registration Day is TOMORROW!
Monday, August 4th 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM at Elk Valley High School Music Auditorium
Are you hungry? Elk Valley is getting ready for you! Check out what's on the menu for the first month of school!
Big News for Elk Valley Families!
Welcome back one of your favorites!
Meet Stephanie Dowell – First Grade Teacher
Stephanie Dowell serves as the First Grade Teacher at Elk Valley, where she brings more than 20 years of dedicated experience in education. Originally from Sharon Springs, a small town in northwest Kansas, Stephanie moved to Longton in 1996 after living in Overland Park with her husband, Douglas.
She holds an Associate of Science from Pratt Community College, a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Pittsburg State University, and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education, also from Pittsburg State. Stephanie has worked in a variety of educational roles, including positions with the YMCA before/after school programs, as a paraprofessional, a Title I aide, and a teacher mentor. Throughout her career at Elk Valley, she has taught preschool, kindergarten, 1st grade, 5th and 6th grades, and middle school Language Arts and Social Studies.
Stephanie’s passion for teaching stems from her lifelong desire to inspire young minds to do great things. She considers Elk Valley her home and is excited to reconnect with familiar faces and meet new students and staff this school year.
Beyond the classroom, Stephanie enjoys singing on her church’s worship team—a passion sparked during college when she performed in show choir and several musicals. One of her favorite life mottos is Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” If given the chance to travel, she'd choose a cooler destination—she much prefers the cold over the heat!
Stephanie and her husband are proud parents of two children and grandparents to five wonderful grandchildren. She is honored to continue serving the Elk Valley community with joy, experience, and heart.
In just a few days, new teachers report! We look forward to all of the new staff and seeing all of you soon for registration!
We are also excited to welcome Mr. Tyler Coots as the new Principal at Elk Valley!
Mr. Coots grew up in Neodesha and now lives in Coffeyville with his wife, Ashley, and their three daughters. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Pittsburg State University (2015) and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership, also from PSU (2023).
No stranger to Elk Valley, Mr. Coots previously served here from 2016 to 2020 before continuing his educational journey at Chetopa and most recently Coffeyville. His roles have included Physical Education teacher and basketball coach. Now, he’s thrilled to return to the EV family and step into his first year as principal.
Mr. Coots was drawn back to Elk Valley because of its strong sense of community and the close-knit, supportive school culture. He is passionate about building positive relationships and fostering a thriving environment for students and staff.
Outside of school, he’s a dedicated fan of the Chiefs, Royals, Sporting Kansas City, and the Boston Celtics. One of his favorite quotes comes from Isaiah 41:10: “So do not be afraid, I am with you. Do not be terrified, I am your God.” If given the chance to travel anywhere in the world, he’d love to visit Germany and Hawaii.
We are proud to have Mr. Coots leading Elk Valley and know this year will be full of growth and exciting opportunities!
We are also excited to welcome Mr. Tyler Coots as the new Principal at Elk Valley!
Mr. Coots grew up in Neodesha and now lives in Coffeyville with his wife, Ashley, and their three daughters. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Pittsburg State University (2015) and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership, also from PSU (2023).
No stranger to Elk Valley, Mr. Coots previously served here from 2016 to 2020 before continuing his educational journey at Chetopa and most recently Coffeyville. His roles have included Physical Education teacher and basketball coach. Now, he’s thrilled to return to the EV family and step into his first year as principal.
Mr. Coots was drawn back to Elk Valley because of its strong sense of community and the close-knit, supportive school culture. He is passionate about building positive relationships and fostering a thriving environment for students and staff.
Outside of school, he’s a dedicated fan of the Chiefs, Royals, Sporting Kansas City, and the Boston Celtics. One of his favorite quotes comes from Isaiah 41:10: “So do not be afraid, I am with you. Do not be terrified, I am your God.” If given the chance to travel anywhere in the world, he’d love to visit Germany and Hawaii.
We are proud to have Mr. Coots leading Elk Valley and know this year will be full of growth and exciting opportunities!
9 Days until Registration! So many new faces and so many returning! We can't wait! Just like another returning Lion who will be with us this year!
Meet Jessica Osburn, Elk Valley’s enthusiastic new 2nd grade teacher! Jessica brings a wealth of experience, a global perspective, and a heart for teaching to the classroom. Born in Germany and raised as an Army brat, she’s lived in several states and countries—but now calls Independence, Kansas home, where she lives with her husband, youngest daughter, and their three playful dogs.
Jessica holds a Bachelor’s degree in Arts for Education from Newman University and a Master’s in Special Education from Emporia State University. She’s currently pursuing her second Master’s degree in Curriculum and Administration, further demonstrating her dedication to growth and excellence in education. Her teaching journey began at Jefferson School in Independence as a 4th grade teacher, followed by two years in special education. She then returned to the general education classroom, teaching 1st and 2nd grade at Eisenhower Elementary.
This isn’t Jessica’s first time at Elk Valley—she served as a special education teacher here in 2020, and she’s thrilled to be back! She looks forward to reconnecting with familiar faces and becoming a part of the close-knit EV community once again.
In addition to her passion for teaching, Jessica speaks fluent German, enjoys traveling, discovering new music, and cheering on her favorite teams—the Kansas City Chiefs, Royals, and Sporting KC. Her favorite book is The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch, and if given the chance, she’d always choose Germany as her next travel destination—it’s where her roots are and holds a special place in her heart.
Jessica is excited to start the school year and can't wait to make lasting memories with her 2nd grade students at Elk Valley!
Meet Jessica Osburn, Elk Valley’s enthusiastic new 2nd grade teacher! Jessica brings a wealth of experience, a global perspective, and a heart for teaching to the classroom. Born in Germany and raised as an Army brat, she’s lived in several states and countries—but now calls Independence, Kansas home, where she lives with her husband, youngest daughter, and their three playful dogs.
Jessica holds a Bachelor’s degree in Arts for Education from Newman University and a Master’s in Special Education from Emporia State University. She’s currently pursuing her second Master’s degree in Curriculum and Administration, further demonstrating her dedication to growth and excellence in education. Her teaching journey began at Jefferson School in Independence as a 4th grade teacher, followed by two years in special education. She then returned to the general education classroom, teaching 1st and 2nd grade at Eisenhower Elementary.
This isn’t Jessica’s first time at Elk Valley—she served as a special education teacher here in 2020, and she’s thrilled to be back! She looks forward to reconnecting with familiar faces and becoming a part of the close-knit EV community once again.
In addition to her passion for teaching, Jessica speaks fluent German, enjoys traveling, discovering new music, and cheering on her favorite teams—the Kansas City Chiefs, Royals, and Sporting KC. Her favorite book is The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch, and if given the chance, she’d always choose Germany as her next travel destination—it’s where her roots are and holds a special place in her heart.
Jessica is excited to start the school year and can't wait to make lasting memories with her 2nd grade students at Elk Valley!
Hey 9th & 10th Grade Families!
If your student is in Mr. Russell’s Intro to Computer Science class, here’s some important info: This course is a graduation requirement for the Class of 2028 and younger, and it’s powered by Kansas State University’s Cyber Pipeline program. That means your student will be learning with college-level materials developed by K-State’s computer science experts!
The course uses online tools like Canvas (for organizing lessons) and Codio (a coding platform), which your student will use throughout the year. K-State faculty and grad students will support Mr. Russell by helping with grading and answering questions — so your student is in great hands!
Rest assured, all student data is carefully protected and only shared as needed to help teachers and support the program. Privacy and security are top priorities.
There’s also an optional part where students can take surveys to help improve the course — but participating won’t affect their grade or whether they can take the class.
Forms with more details will be available during enrollment, so keep an eye out. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Mr. Russell at jrussell@usd283.org
If your student is in Mr. Russell’s Intro to Computer Science class, here’s some important info: This course is a graduation requirement for the Class of 2028 and younger, and it’s powered by Kansas State University’s Cyber Pipeline program. That means your student will be learning with college-level materials developed by K-State’s computer science experts!
The course uses online tools like Canvas (for organizing lessons) and Codio (a coding platform), which your student will use throughout the year. K-State faculty and grad students will support Mr. Russell by helping with grading and answering questions — so your student is in great hands!
Rest assured, all student data is carefully protected and only shared as needed to help teachers and support the program. Privacy and security are top priorities.
There’s also an optional part where students can take surveys to help improve the course — but participating won’t affect their grade or whether they can take the class.
Forms with more details will be available during enrollment, so keep an eye out. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Mr. Russell at jrussell@usd283.org
We are counting down the days and counting up all the amazing new additions to Elk Valley! Meet the lady who will be bringing in some great teaching experience!
Meet Tara Yarnell, Elk Valley’s new 6th–12th Grade English Language Arts teacher! A lifelong resident of Erie, Kansas, Tara brings a deep passion for literature, writing, and student growth to her classroom. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and a Master's Degree in English Literature—both from Pittsburg State University—and is certified K-9 with a 6–12 ELA endorsement.
Tara has a rich background in education, having taught English at both the high school and college levels. Most recently, she taught ELA at Fredonia Jr/Sr High School for six years and Composition I at Pittsburg State University. She also previously taught at various community colleges, building a strong foundation in both instruction and mentorship.
After taking a year off following a personal loss, Tara was encouraged by a friend to visit Elk Valley—and it was love at first sight. She’s excited to return to the classroom, share her love of literature, and connect with students and colleagues in a supportive, close-knit environment.
Outside of school, Tara is married to her high school sweetheart, Mike. They’ve been together for over 30 years and share a beautiful family of five children and five grandchildren. Tara is a proud pet mom to three dogs and six cats, including her Husky, Echo, and Gaston, her late son’s beloved Bernadoodle. She’s also an avid fan of Louise Penny’s Inspector Gamache series, and one of her favorite quotes from the books is:
“These four sentences, when said easily, lead to wisdom: I’m sorry. I was wrong. I don’t know. I need help.”
If given the chance, she’d love to visit the UK or Canada to walk in the footsteps of her favorite authors and characters. Tara is thrilled to join the Elk Valley family and looks forward to building meaningful connections throughout the school year.
Meet Tara Yarnell, Elk Valley’s new 6th–12th Grade English Language Arts teacher! A lifelong resident of Erie, Kansas, Tara brings a deep passion for literature, writing, and student growth to her classroom. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and a Master's Degree in English Literature—both from Pittsburg State University—and is certified K-9 with a 6–12 ELA endorsement.
Tara has a rich background in education, having taught English at both the high school and college levels. Most recently, she taught ELA at Fredonia Jr/Sr High School for six years and Composition I at Pittsburg State University. She also previously taught at various community colleges, building a strong foundation in both instruction and mentorship.
After taking a year off following a personal loss, Tara was encouraged by a friend to visit Elk Valley—and it was love at first sight. She’s excited to return to the classroom, share her love of literature, and connect with students and colleagues in a supportive, close-knit environment.
Outside of school, Tara is married to her high school sweetheart, Mike. They’ve been together for over 30 years and share a beautiful family of five children and five grandchildren. Tara is a proud pet mom to three dogs and six cats, including her Husky, Echo, and Gaston, her late son’s beloved Bernadoodle. She’s also an avid fan of Louise Penny’s Inspector Gamache series, and one of her favorite quotes from the books is:
“These four sentences, when said easily, lead to wisdom: I’m sorry. I was wrong. I don’t know. I need help.”
If given the chance, she’d love to visit the UK or Canada to walk in the footsteps of her favorite authors and characters. Tara is thrilled to join the Elk Valley family and looks forward to building meaningful connections throughout the school year.
Can you believe how close we are to kicking off another great year to be a lion? We are ready to ROAR into the new school year! Check out another great addition to our teaching staff this year!
Meet Haley Roberts, Elk Valley’s new Pre-K teacher! A proud graduate of Sedan High School, Haley brings a wealth of early childhood experience and a passion for helping young learners thrive. Since 2016, she has owned and operated Neverland’s Adventures Child Care in Sedan, providing nurturing and educational care to children in her community. She is currently pursuing her degree in Early Elementary Education to further her commitment to teaching and supporting early learners.
Haley previously served as a paraprofessional in Sedan for six years, where she gained valuable experience working one-on-one with students. She was drawn to Elk Valley by its small, family-oriented environment—an ideal setting to build strong connections with students and their families.
This school year, Haley is most excited to meet new faces and become a part of the Elk Valley school system once again. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her family. She’s been married to her husband, Boog Roberts, since 2015, and together they have three boys—Hyde, Hale, and Hatcher. Haley is a big fan of the Oklahoma State Cowboys and has a special love for the mountains of Montana, where she’d travel in a heartbeat.
Haley is thrilled to begin this new chapter and is looking forward to a fun and meaningful year with her Pre-K students!
Meet Haley Roberts, Elk Valley’s new Pre-K teacher! A proud graduate of Sedan High School, Haley brings a wealth of early childhood experience and a passion for helping young learners thrive. Since 2016, she has owned and operated Neverland’s Adventures Child Care in Sedan, providing nurturing and educational care to children in her community. She is currently pursuing her degree in Early Elementary Education to further her commitment to teaching and supporting early learners.
Haley previously served as a paraprofessional in Sedan for six years, where she gained valuable experience working one-on-one with students. She was drawn to Elk Valley by its small, family-oriented environment—an ideal setting to build strong connections with students and their families.
This school year, Haley is most excited to meet new faces and become a part of the Elk Valley school system once again. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her family. She’s been married to her husband, Boog Roberts, since 2015, and together they have three boys—Hyde, Hale, and Hatcher. Haley is a big fan of the Oklahoma State Cowboys and has a special love for the mountains of Montana, where she’d travel in a heartbeat.
Haley is thrilled to begin this new chapter and is looking forward to a fun and meaningful year with her Pre-K students!
We are just weeks away from welcoming so many new faces, both students and staff. We can not wait to start 2025! Check out one of our newest staff! Meet Zac Hill, one of the new Principals of the ROCS program at Elk Valley! Originally from Nixa, Missouri, Zac now lives in Sedan, Kansas, where he has continued to grow both professionally and personally. With nearly a decade of experience in education, Zac brings energy, leadership, and a passion for student success to his new role.
Zac began his teaching career in Missouri, where he taught Business and coached boys' basketball for six years. After marrying and relocating to his wife’s hometown of Sedan, he continued working in education, taking on roles in PE and coaching. His experience spans multiple schools and subjects, including business, weights, small engines, and athletics, giving him a well-rounded perspective on student development.
Drawn to Elk Valley by its positive culture and strong sense of community, Zac is excited to be part of a team that’s committed to helping students grow and thrive. This school year, he’s especially looking forward to building relationships with students and watching them achieve their goals.
Outside of education, Zac is a passionate car enthusiast—so much so that even his wife has lost count of how many vehicles he owns! His favorite quote, from the classic film Joe Dirt, is: “Life’s a garden, dig it.” And if he could travel anywhere, Lake Powell is at the top of his list for its breathtaking views and peaceful vibe.
Zac is thrilled to join the Elk Valley family and looks forward to connecting with students, staff, and the entire school community.
It's another great day to be a lion and another great day to introduce new staff!
Meet Mrs. Ashleigh Orton, Elk Valley’s new Agricultural Education Teacher and FFA Advisor! Originally from Benedict, Kansas, Ashleigh now lives just outside of Chanute. She brings a wealth of agricultural knowledge and hands-on experience to the classroom, along with a deep passion for shaping the next generation of ag leaders.
Ashleigh holds an Associate of Science degree with an emphasis in Agriculture and a certificate in Livestock Management from Allen County Community College. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences and Industry from Kansas State University and will complete her Master of Arts in Teaching—Agricultural Education from K-State this December. Her professional background includes internships in Precision Agriculture with MKC and swine reproduction and management with Perdue Farms. This is her second year teaching and advising in the Southeast District.
Inspired by her belief that the future of agriculture lies in the hands of today’s youth, Ashleigh is excited to bring engaging, hands-on learning experiences to Elk Valley students of all grade levels. Prior to joining Elk Valley, she substitute taught in Chanute and began her ag teaching career in Madison.
Outside the classroom, Ashleigh enjoys spending time with her growing family. Her daughter is an honors student at Chanute High School, her son is starting preschool at Elk Valley, and she is expecting another baby girl in October. A lover of travel and tradition, Ashleigh has a goal of taking her kids on memorable adventures—most recently to the Grand Canyon, with Niagara Falls next on the list. Her favorite motto is: “You can only control what you can control.”
Ashleigh is thrilled to be part of the Elk Valley team and looks forward to a meaningful year ahead with her students!
Meet Mrs. Ashleigh Orton, Elk Valley’s new Agricultural Education Teacher and FFA Advisor! Originally from Benedict, Kansas, Ashleigh now lives just outside of Chanute. She brings a wealth of agricultural knowledge and hands-on experience to the classroom, along with a deep passion for shaping the next generation of ag leaders.
Ashleigh holds an Associate of Science degree with an emphasis in Agriculture and a certificate in Livestock Management from Allen County Community College. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences and Industry from Kansas State University and will complete her Master of Arts in Teaching—Agricultural Education from K-State this December. Her professional background includes internships in Precision Agriculture with MKC and swine reproduction and management with Perdue Farms. This is her second year teaching and advising in the Southeast District.
Inspired by her belief that the future of agriculture lies in the hands of today’s youth, Ashleigh is excited to bring engaging, hands-on learning experiences to Elk Valley students of all grade levels. Prior to joining Elk Valley, she substitute taught in Chanute and began her ag teaching career in Madison.
Outside the classroom, Ashleigh enjoys spending time with her growing family. Her daughter is an honors student at Chanute High School, her son is starting preschool at Elk Valley, and she is expecting another baby girl in October. A lover of travel and tradition, Ashleigh has a goal of taking her kids on memorable adventures—most recently to the Grand Canyon, with Niagara Falls next on the list. Her favorite motto is: “You can only control what you can control.”
Ashleigh is thrilled to be part of the Elk Valley team and looks forward to a meaningful year ahead with her students!
As we continue to share our new staff, we hope you are ready for what this new year brings!
Meet Callie Lawrence, a new paraprofessional at Elk Valley who brings both a deep-rooted connection to the community and a diverse professional background. Originally from Longton, Kansas, Callie now resides in Fredonia with her husband and two young sons. Her ties to Elk Valley run deep—she attended elementary and junior high here, and is excited to return to the district that shaped her early years.
Before joining the Elk Valley team, Callie worked in the criminal justice field as a Trial Clerk for the State of Kansas and spent two years in a local law office. She also gained early experience in education and childcare through her time working at the Fredonia Childcare Center while in high school and college. Wanting more family time and a meaningful career shift, she transitioned into education, drawn by the opportunity to work one-on-one with students and contribute to a small school environment that she knows and values.
Callie is looking forward to reconnecting with familiar faces, meeting new people, and making a positive impact on students. In her free time, she enjoys baking, fishing at the family pond, and hosting game nights with loved ones. A fun fact—Callie is one of four sisters, and all of them were pregnant at the same time!
Her favorite quote is by E.E. Cummings: "The most wasted of days is one without laughter." If she could travel anywhere, she’d choose Scotland to explore its rich history.
Callie is thrilled to be part of the Elk Valley family and looks forward to a great school year ahead!
Meet Callie Lawrence, a new paraprofessional at Elk Valley who brings both a deep-rooted connection to the community and a diverse professional background. Originally from Longton, Kansas, Callie now resides in Fredonia with her husband and two young sons. Her ties to Elk Valley run deep—she attended elementary and junior high here, and is excited to return to the district that shaped her early years.
Before joining the Elk Valley team, Callie worked in the criminal justice field as a Trial Clerk for the State of Kansas and spent two years in a local law office. She also gained early experience in education and childcare through her time working at the Fredonia Childcare Center while in high school and college. Wanting more family time and a meaningful career shift, she transitioned into education, drawn by the opportunity to work one-on-one with students and contribute to a small school environment that she knows and values.
Callie is looking forward to reconnecting with familiar faces, meeting new people, and making a positive impact on students. In her free time, she enjoys baking, fishing at the family pond, and hosting game nights with loved ones. A fun fact—Callie is one of four sisters, and all of them were pregnant at the same time!
Her favorite quote is by E.E. Cummings: "The most wasted of days is one without laughter." If she could travel anywhere, she’d choose Scotland to explore its rich history.
Callie is thrilled to be part of the Elk Valley family and looks forward to a great school year ahead!
We’re excited to continue welcoming new faces to the USD 283 family! 🧡🖤 Each new staff member brings unique strengths and passion to our team, and we can’t wait for you to get to know them. Stay tuned as we continue introducing the newest members of our Elk Valley community! 🦁 #USD283 #ElkValleyPride #WelcomeToEV
Today, meet Gwendolyn Sally—known by most as Gwen or Ms. Sally—who joins the Elk Valley team in Student Support Services. Originally from Claremore, Oklahoma, Gwen now calls Coffeyville home. With over 13 years of experience in education and more than a decade in the corporate world before that, Gwen brings a diverse and dynamic background to her new role.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Northeastern State University, a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Texas at Arlington, and most recently earned her Building Administrator certification from Pittsburg State University. Gwen has served in a variety of school settings—urban, suburban, and rural—teaching 2nd, 4th, and 5th grades, and supporting fellow educators as an instructional coach for 5th and 6th grade.
Drawn to Elk Valley by the strong reputation for caring leadership and a supportive environment, Gwen is excited to become part of a team that puts students first. She looks forward to connecting with staff, students, and the community, and is eager to contribute to student growth both academically and personally.
Outside of school, Gwen is kept on her toes by her two dogs, Charlie and Lola, and her bearded dragon, Lizzy—who surprisingly enjoys following Charlie around the house. Her favorite book, The Giving Tree, holds deep personal meaning, reminding her of her mother’s resilience and unconditional love. If she could travel anywhere, the Maldives would be her dream destination, where she could fully unwind by the ocean.
Gwen is thrilled to begin this new chapter with the Elk Valley Lions and can’t wait to meet everyone and dive into a great year ahead!
🎉 As we gear up for an exciting new school year, we’re thrilled to introduce the amazing new teachers and staff joining the Elk Valley team! 🎓🍎
Over the next few weeks, keep an eye on our page as we highlight each new face and share a little about what makes them special. Welcome to the EV family!🧡🦁🖤 #ElkValleyPride #WelcomeToEV #BackToSchool2025
First up, meet Sydnee Simmons, a proud Longton native and former Elk Valley student who is excited to return to her roots as a paraprofessional. Sydnee is currently in her second year of college, working toward becoming a certified teacher through the Para-to-Teacher program. Her passion for working with young children and her own positive experiences as a student at Elk Valley inspired her to pursue a career in education.
Last year, Sydnee gained valuable experience working as a paraprofessional at Fredonia ELC, assisting in various classrooms. This year, she looks forward to building relationships with students and becoming an active part of the Elk Valley staff and community. She’s especially grateful that her daughter will be close by in the Little Lions Daycare.
Outside of school, Sydnee enjoys life on the farm with her husband, their baby girl, and two dogs. She and her three sisters recently shared the special experience of being pregnant at the same time, making for lots of fun—and a little bit of chaos—at family gatherings. Her favorite quote is, “Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.” If she could travel anywhere, she’d love to relax on the beautiful beaches of Mexico.
Sydnee is thrilled to be joining the Elk Valley team and can’t wait to contribute to a great school year!
🎒📚 School Supply Lists Are Here! 📚🎒
Elk Valley USD #283 is gearing up for an amazing 2025-2026 school year, and we’re excited to announce that School Supply Lists are now posted and ready! 📝✨
Whether you're prepping backpacks or planning that last summer shopping trip, we've got you covered with everything your student needs to start the year off strong. 💪💼✂️
🗓 Registration is August 4th
🏫 First Day of School is August 12th
Let’s make this year the best one yet! 🦁
#ElkValleyPride #BackToSchoolReady #USD283 #SchoolSupplyTime #LionsLeadTheWay
Summer Program Update
Due to the pool closing early for a swim meet and possible weather at arrival time, we will NOT be going to the pool today. Instead, we'll be enjoying a movie and popcorn at school!
Pick-up time remains the same at 2:30 PM. Thanks for understanding!
🐾 Elk Valley Summer Program Zoo Trip Reminder! 🐾
We’re excited for our big adventure to Sedgwick County Zoo TOMORROW – Wednesday, June 11th! 🎉
This trip is for students who earned it with PERFECT ATTENDANCE and NO BEHAVIOR ISSUES – great job! 🙌
🕖 Breakfast starts at 7:30 AM sharp
🚌 Departure follows shortly after
🕟 We’ll return around 4:30 PM
✅ REMINDERS:
👟 Wear tennis shoes (we’ll be walking a lot!)
👕 Dress in appropriate, weather-friendly clothing
🌞 Don’t forget sunscreen if needed!
We can’t wait for a fun-filled day celebrating your hard work and great behavior! 🐯🦓🦒
#ElkValleySummer #ZooTrip2025 #PerfectAttendance #PositiveChoices
