Hold onto your hats, Lions, because we’ve got a super-duper, mega-awesome, record-breaking shoutout this week! 🦁✨ Our very own Russell Wasem has achieved the ultimate feat of educational excellence: PERFECT ATTENDANCE! That’s right, folks—Russell has shown up, stood tall, and embraced every single day like a true attendance superhero! 🦸♂️📚
We all know the saying, “Early to bed and early to rise makes a person healthy, wealthy, and wise,” but Russell is taking it to a whole new level—because at Elk Valley, showing up to school literally pays off! 💰💡 Who knew that opening your locker and walking into class could be so rewarding? Step aside, lottery tickets—Russell just proved that the real jackpot is being here every single day! 🎰📖
Let’s give it up for the dedication, the perseverance, and the unwavering commitment to learning that Russell shows every single morning. From the first bell to the final dismissal, he’s there, ready to roar with the rest of the Lions! 🦁💥
Russell, your perfect attendance is more than just a streak—it’s an inspiration to every student and teacher at Elk Valley. You’ve shown that consistency, determination, and a smile in the hallway are the real keys to success. 💪🎓
So here’s to you, Russell Wasem! May your days continue to be full of learning, laughter, and, of course, perfect attendance! Because when it comes to showing up, you’ve truly cashed in on the school day jackpot! 🏆🎉
#PerfectAttendance #LionsLead #ShowingUpPaysOff #ElkValleyPride #AttendanceHero #SchoolDayJackpot
Elk Valley Lions kick off the Spring Semester tomorrow — January 6th! We hope you’re rested, recharged, and ready for an action-packed January in the Valley of the Lions!
Get ready for:
🏀 More Middle & High School Basketball action
🤼 More Wrestling dominance on the mat
🏹 Archery locked in and on target for our first tournament
🎮 eSports battling in the KSHSAA Championship Playoffs
🇺🇸 Kansas Day celebrations and learning
There’s no slowing down as our students, athletes, and teams continue to represent Elk Valley with pride, effort, and excellence.
📌 Be sure to check out the attached Newsletter and Lunch Menu to stay up to date on everything happening this month at Elk Valley!
Let’s make January unforgettable — Go Lions! 🦁🔥
Important Update to Transportation Procedures Policy
To keep students safe and make dismissal run smoothly, any changes to your child’s transportation must be communicated to the school office no later than 3:00 p.m. on the day the change is needed.
How to Request a Change:
Changes may be made by calling the school office or by sending a written, signed note with your child.
Only a parent, guardian, or authorized emergency contact listed in the student’s records may request a transportation change.
Important Reminders:
Changes made after 3:00 p.m. cannot be guaranteed and may not be possible due to end-of-day procedures already in progress.
The school cannot accept transportation changes through email, text, ClassDojo, messages left with teachers, or handwritten notes delivered after 3:00 p.m.
If we do not receive a valid change by the deadline, your child will follow their regular dismissal plan.
🧡🖤 Elk Valley Lions Powerlifting Results – 2025 League Competition 🖤🧡
The Lions showed up strong in this year’s league-wide powerlifting event! Although this meet was completed in class, results were reported from across the entire league territory—and our athletes proved their strength in every weight class. Check out these standout performances:
🏋️♂️ Boys Results
• Mason Journot – 2nd, 114 lbs
• Damon Rehmet – 2nd, 123 lbs
• Dallas Best – 3rd, 123 lbs
• Ruger Harris – 3rd, 140 lbs
• Caden Thomas – 2nd, 148 lbs
• Hayden Journot – 5th, 172 lbs
• Charles Kiesel – 1st, 181 lbs
• Denver Cascarano – 5th, 198 lbs
• Russell Wassem – 3rd, 220 lbs
• Team Finish – 4th Place Overall!
🏋️♀️ Girls Results
• Kabella Hilyard – 2nd, 114 lbs
• Paeshence Best – 2nd, 123 lbs
• Madison Letterman – 2nd, 140 lbs
• Nezaria Luce – 4th, PWR
• Team Finish – 3rd Place Overall!
Huge congratulations to all our competitors for their hard work, discipline, and Lions pride. The orange and black were well represented—great job, athletes! 💪🦁
Join us for a festive school tradition filled with holiday cheer and a delicious Christmas meal! Families are invited to attend during their student’s scheduled lunch time:
🕒 Lunch Schedule
• PreK: 10:45 AM
• K–5th: 11:00 AM
• MS/HS: 12:00 PM
To help us prepare, please sign up by December 17th using any of the following options:
📱 Scan the QR code below
📞 Call the school at 620-642-2215
📝 Or use this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfPSeO7IK_-4DHbLGWZqeMz2OkgXTo0bJ2TX84D-GIumqqfJw/viewform?usp=header
We look forward to celebrating the season with our Elk Valley family! 🎁✨
Friday, December 19th | 5:30–8:00 PM
Elk Valley School Cafeteria
701 S Delaware, Longton, KS
Join us for an evening full of festive fun, great food, and holiday cheer for the whole community!
🕠 5:30–6:30 PM — Free Pancake Dinner
Start the night with a warm, delicious meal!
🎅 6:30 PM — Santa Arrives!
Goodies for the kids and a perfect holiday photo op!
🎄 6:30–8:00 PM — Christmas Games for All Ages
Fun, laughter, and friendly competition for everyone!
🎁 White Elephant Gift Exchange
Bring a wrapped $10 gift to join in!
🥫 Food Drive Donations
Canned and boxed items appreciated—let’s support local families this season!
🍿 FREE Treats All Night:
Popcorn • Cookies • Hot Chocolate • Apple Cider • Door Prizes!
👕 Dress for Holiday Spirit!
Wear your ugly Christmas sweater or festive PJs for a chance to win prizes!
A huge THANK YOU to all our amazing donors who make this event possible!
Come celebrate the season with us—everyone is welcome! 🎁✨
The mats are set, the wrestlers are ready, and the 2025-2026 season kicks off THIS WEEK! Don’t miss the first meets of the season:
🏆 Girls Meet: Friday, December 5th at Caney
🏆 Boys Meet: Saturday, December 6th at Caney
Check out the full schedule so you can cheer on our Lions all season long:
📅 Elk Valley Wrestling 2025-2026 Schedule
12/5/25 – Caney – Girls
12/6/25 – Caney – Boys
12/20/25 – Cherryvale – Both
1/17/26 – Labette County – Both
1/23/26 – Eureka – Both
1/26/26 – Parsons – Boys
1/31/26 – Fredonia – Both
2/13-14/26 – Regionals – TBA – Girls
2/21/26 – Regionals – TBA – Boys
💪 Come support our athletes, feel the energy, and roar with pride in Orange & Black! Go Lions! 🖤🧡
Varsity goes head-to-head with Royal Valley High School
Junior Varsity battles Kapaun MT Carmel Catholic High School
📺 Catch all the live action here: https://www.twitch.tv/elkvalleylions
Let’s show our Lions some serious support!
#KSHSAAEsports 💻🏆
#ElkValleyEsports #GameOn #LionsLead
Join us on Wednesday, December 10th, at 6:30 PM in the Elk Valley Gym for an evening filled with holiday cheer and incredible student performances!
This year’s concert features:
🎶 PreK–5 Choirs
🎺 Middle & High School Band
🎸 Guitar & Piano Classes
Our students have been working hard to bring the season to life—come celebrate their talent and dedication!
And don’t miss out on the holiday fun before the show…
🍽️ Dinner & Auction begin at 5:00 PM!
All proceeds support Prom and After Prom, so your participation makes a big difference for our students.
Bring your family, your festive spirit, and enjoy a night of music, community, and holiday magic at Elk Valley! 🎅🌟
December is packed with exciting events and opportunities to support our Lions! Check out this month’s menu, calendar, and newsletter to stay up to date on everything happening across the district.
🏀 Basketball
🤼 Wrestling
🎄 Annual Christmas Concert – December 10th
Don’t miss out on cheering on our students and celebrating all the winter activities that make this season special. Go Lions! 🦁🖤🧡
Our Lions are geared up, locked in, and ready to dominate the digital arena!
🏆 Fortnite Zone Wars – BOTH Teams Make Playoffs!
Huge congratulations to our Fortnite squads who battled their way into the postseason!
🐗 Elk Valley Bush Boyz – 32nd Seed
• Johnny Best & Russell Wasem
💦 Elk Valley Sweaty But Steady – 28th Seed
• Charles Kiesel & Dakota Luce
They jump into Round 1 of the playoffs this Thursday! Let’s go, Lions! 🦁💥
🎮 Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – KSHSAA’s Inaugural Season!
Elk Valley will be fielding TWO powerhouse teams this year!
Matches will be on Wednesdays, except next week’s preseason match on MONDAY!
🥇 Varsity
• Keith Rehmet
• Charles Kiesel
• Johnny Best
• Caden Thomas*
🥈 Junior Varsity
• Matthew Roach
• Russell Wasem
• Kabella Hilyard*
🚗💨 Mario Kart Varsity – Racing Thursdays!
These drivers are ready to drift, boost, and dominate the track:
• Charles Kiesel
• Jamee White
• Paeshence Best
• Johnny Best
• Keith Rehmet*
🚀⚽ Rocket League Varsity – Also Thursdays!
High-flying, fast-paced, and ready to score!
• Russell Wasem
• Dakota Luce
• Caden Thomas*
🔴 WATCH LIVE!
All Elk Valley eSports matches will be live-streamed on our official Twitch channel!
📺 Tune in at: https://www.twitch.tv/elkvalleylions
Come cheer on your Lions from anywhere—let’s fill the chat with EV pride! 🦁🧡🎮🖤
Let’s make this season legendary!
*denotes team Captain
🦃 You're Invited to Elk Valley’s Annual Thanksgiving Lunch! 🍂
We’re excited to welcome families to join us for a special Thanksgiving meal with your student on Tuesday, November 25th! Come enjoy a warm meal, great company, and time together as we celebrate the season of gratitude.
🍴 Lunch Schedule:
🧡 Pre-K – 10:45 AM
🖤 K–5 – 11:00 AM
🧡 6–12 – 12:00 PM
💵 Lunch Cost: $5.25 per guest
📞 RSVP by November 21st by calling 620-642-2215
or simply scan the QR code in the image!
You can also sign up directly here 👉
🔗 Thanksgiving Lunch RSVP Form
Let’s gather together to give thanks and share a delicious meal! 🦁 #ElkValleyPride #ThankfulTogether
Elk Valley wants to share an important resource for our families and community members. 🧡🖤
The Food Resource and Community Services Directory, developed by the Kansas DCF Communications Team, provides one-stop access to a variety of community support services — especially helpful given recent delays to SNAP benefits.
The Kansas Food Source website allows you to search for assistance by county, making it easy to find local help and resources.
🔗 Visit the site to explore available resources: https://www.kansasfoodsource.org
Special thanks to Greenbush, ESSDACK, and Orion for helping share this valuable information. Please help spread the word with others who may benefit!
#ElkValley #CommunitySupport #KansasFoodSource #Greenbush #ESSDACK #Orion
🎖️ Elk Valley’s Annual Veterans Day Celebration – You’re Invited! 🎖️
Let’s honor the heroes among us! Join us Friday, November 14th for a heartfelt day of recognition and community.
✨ Event Highlights:
Recognition Assembly: 10:00 – 11:00 AM – Celebrate our veterans’ service!
Veterans Luncheon: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Veterans + 1 guest eat FREE! All others: $5 per meal.
📲 Reserve Your Spot: Scan the code below or call 620-642-2215 by November 12th – don’t miss out!
Bring your family, bring your friends, and let’s show our veterans the appreciation they deserve. ❤️
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScVO_T7sSix5eAhWIF9JRTsq1mexOp3PZuJcGAJnn4U8d_OmA/viewform?usp=header
🍂 November is here at Elk Valley! 🍂
Check out what’s happening this month by viewing our November Lunch Menu, Newsletter, and School Calendar! 🗓️🥪📬
Stay up-to-date on all the important events, delicious meals, and classroom highlights happening across the district.
📎 Find them all here!
We’re thankful for our amazing students, staff, and community—let’s make it a great month at Elk Valley! 🦁 🖤🧡
A HUGE shoutout to our students who have earned perfect attendance with zero tardies so far! Your dedication to showing up on time and ready to learn is something to celebrate — and we see you! 👏🎓
This year, we’re excited to kick off a weekly attendance incentive program! Each week, students with perfect attendance and no tardies will be entered into a drawing for special rewards — and we’ll be celebrating our winners right here with weekly posts! 🎁✨
Our very first winner, Zoey Keitzer, took home a $20 bill this week for her outstanding commitment to being at school every day and on time! 🎉💵 Way to go, Zoey — we are proud of you! 🦁🖤🧡
At Elk Valley, we believe that every day in class is an opportunity to learn, grow, and build a strong foundation for the future. Consistent attendance helps students stay on track academically, build strong habits, and become part of our amazing school community.
📚 Every minute counts. Every day matters.
Thank you to our students — and families — for making education a priority. Let’s keep showing up, learning, and leading the Lion way! 💪🦁
Stay tuned next week — it could be YOU! 👀🏆
#ElkValleyPride #EveryDayCounts #AttendanceMatters #LionStrong #ShowUpAndShine
📣 Elk Valley Parent-Teacher Conferences are TODAY! 🍁
We’re kicking things off at 1:00 PM and running until 7:30 PM — Thursday, October 23rd!
🍬 Don’t forget… there’s usually a SWEET reward for attending after Fall Break!
👩🏫 Middle & High School: Come-and-go format — stop by anytime!
📚 Elementary: Conferences are as scheduled with your child’s teacher.
Can’t make it in person? No problem! 📞 Contact the school to make alternate arrangements.
We look forward to connecting with all our Elk Valley families and celebrating our students’ progress!🧡 🦁🖤
It’s that delicious time of year again — the annual Texas Roadhouse Rolls & Legendary Honey Cinnamon Butter Fundraiser! 😋
🧈 Only $12 per dozen!
Perfect for your holiday meals and gatherings.
📅 Rolls will be delivered November 10th — just in time for the holidays!
Have questions or want to order?
Contact any member of the Senior Class of 2026 or Mrs. Ramsey at 📧 cramsey@usd283.org
💵 Make checks payable to Elk Valley.
Support our seniors and stock up on some warm, buttery goodness! 🥖💛 #ElkValleyLions #Classof2026 #TexasRoadhouseFundraiser
Don’t forget — tomorrow, Wednesday, October 15th, is Picture Day at Elk Valley! 😄✨
Make sure to dress your best and bring your brightest smiles! We can’t wait to see everyone looking sharp and ready to shine for their school photos. 🖤🧡
#ElkValleyLions #PictureDay #DressYourBest #LionsPride
We’re celebrating Red Ribbon Week, Anti-Bullying & Suicide Awareness, and Fire Safety Week — all rolled into one powerful week of fun and purpose!
Here’s what’s happening:
📅 Tuesday, Oct 14: Dreaming of a Drug-Free Future — Wear your pajamas and house shoes! 💤
📅 Wednesday, Oct 15: SHARE the Spirit of KINDNESS — Dress your BEST for Picture Day! 📸
📅 Thursday, Oct 16: Throwback Thursday — Rock your favorite 80s, 90s, or 2000s look! 🎸🕹️
📅 Friday, Oct 17: Stop, Drop, & Roll! — Dress as your favorite book character! 📚🔥
✨ Then join us for a Bonfire Celebration on Friday, October 17th from 7:00–8:30 PM for grades 6–12!
$5 per person | Hotdog meal provided! 🌭🔥
Let’s come together to celebrate kindness, safety, and making smart choices — the Lion Pride way! 🦁❤️ #ElkValleyStrong #RedRibbonWeek #KindnessCounts #FireSafetyWeek
