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Explore how Eudora Schools is bringing its strategic plan to life—building belonging, advancing instructional excellence, and preparing students for the future. Explore the amazing things happening in our schools! #EudoraProud
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What’s Inside
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Staff Directory
Directory of Schools
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The Power of Attendance
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Jogathon
Health Science Program
“IRL: In Real Life”
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Peer Mentoring
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Excellence in Eudora
Staff Directory DR. STU MOECKEL Superintendent of Schools stumoeckel@eudoraschools.org
ALBANIA ANDRADE Communication and Engagement Specialist, albaniaandrade@eudoraschools.org
DR. BILL DEWITT Head Principal, Eudora High School billdewitt@eudoraschools.org
MACHAELA BESHEARS Transportation Director machaelabeshears@eudoraschools.org
CARA KIMBERLIN Assistant Principal and Activities Director, Eudora High School carakimberlin@eudoraschools.org
BETSY CRABILL Finance Director betsycrabill@eudoraschools.org
SEAN HAYDEN Assistant Principal, Eudora High School seanhayden@eudoraschools.org
HEATHER HUNDLEY Director of School Improvement Services heatherhundley@eudoraschools.org
JESSICA JOHNSON Director of Cardinal Academy/Assistant Principal jessicajohnson@eudoraschools.org
SHANDA HURLA Eudora Schools Foundation Executive Director shandahurla@eudoraschools.org
JEREMY THOMAS Head Principal, Eudora Middle School jeremythomas@eudoraschools.org
CHUCK JAMES Director of Facilities chuckjames@eudoraschools.org
TY PATTISON Assistant Principal and Activities Director, Eudora Middle School typattison@eudoraschools.org
RON LONG Technology Director ronlong@eudoraschools.org
SETH HEIDE Head Principal, Eudora Elementary School sethheide@eudoraschools.org
NICOLE PARKS Food and Nutrition Director nicoleparks@eudoraschools.org
JAMIE GRADO Assistant Principal, Eudora Elementary School jamiegrado@eudoraschools.org
YEMEN SHAABAN After School Program Director yemenshaaban@eudoraschools.org
SARAH MILLER Assistant Principal, Eudora Elementary School saramiller@eudoraschools.org
AMANDA BRUNKOW AMY SHANKS Human Human Resources Resources Director Director amandabrunkow@eudoraschools.org amyshanks@eudoraschools.org
KRISTEN LEWIS Early Learning Center Director kristenlewis@eudoraschools.org
STEPHENIE AMY O’HARESUDDUTH DistrictNurse Nurse District stepheniesudduth@eudoraschools.org amyohare@eudoraschools.org
Directory of Schools
Eudora Schools is Seeking Substitute Teachers
Eudora Early Learning Center 1310 Winchester Rd. 785-542-4920 elc.eudoraschools.org Eudora Elementary School 801 E. 10th St. 785-542-4910 ees.eudoraschools.org Eudora Middle School 2635 Church St. 585-542-4960 ems.eudoraschools.org
Eudora Schools and Morgan Hunter are partnering in substitute staffing. Substitute teaching in the Eudora School District is an excellent opportunity for parents, retirees, college students, or anyone who loves working with children!
Eudora High School 2203 Church St. 785-542-4980 ehs.eudoraschools.org
Substitute teaching is flexible and is a great way to give back to the community while making a nice income. For this school year, the minimum requirement to substitute teach is a high school diploma and a clean criminal background check.
Eudora Schools Virtual Learning 785-542-4989 esvl.eudoraschools.org
Please contact Morgan Hunter Education at
866-923-6433
or visit their website https://morganhuntereducation.com/ substitute-teacher-jobs/requirements/ for additional information.
Eudora Unified School District No. 491 1310 Winchester Rd. P.O. Box 500 Eudora, KS 66025 785-542-4910
On eudoraschools.org • District Calendar • PowerSchool Portal • e-Funds Portal • School & Lunch Menus • Shuttle Information
Eudora School Newsletter is a quarterly magazine which includes content provided by the Eudora Schools communication department and is produced by the Lawrence Journal-World. To advertise in this magazine, contact advertising@ljworld.com.
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THE POWER OF ATTENDANCE: Building Belonging, Boosting Performance, and Shaping Futures In every school, one of the most powerful predictors of student success is something simple: showing up. Consistent attendance is more than just a measure of compliance—it is a cornerstone for creating a culture of belonging, supporting academic achievement, and setting students on the path to future success. When students attend school regularly, they build stronger connections with teachers and peers, experience a sense of routine, and feel recognized as valued members of the classroom. These consistent interactions reinforce belonging, helping students see school not as a place they have to be, but as a place where they are wanted and supported. The Link to Academic Performance Research consistently shows that students who attend school regularly are more likely to achieve higher grades, develop strong learning habits, and meet academic benchmarks. Attendance ensures steady exposure to lessons, practice, and feedback—all of which directly impact achievement. Even a few missed days can add up quickly, resulting in lost instructional time, missed collaboration with peers, and reduced confidence in the classroom. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, “Teacher effectiveness is the strongest school-related determinant of student success, but chronic student absence reduces even the best teacher’s
ability to provide learning opportunities. Students who attend school regularly have been shown to achieve at higher levels than students who do not have regular attendance.” Similarly, the National Center for Children in Poverty (NCCP) found that chronic absence in kindergarten is associated with lower academic performance in first grade for all children—regardless of gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. Preparing for the Future Beyond grades and test scores, attendance instills habits that extend into adulthood. Regular participation teaches
The district’s goal is to have 10% or fewer of our students chronically absent. We invite our community to join us in supporting this effort by getting involved in meaningful ways. You can help by serving as a WatchDOG or WatchMOM at Eudora Elementary School, volunteering to be a mentor at Eudora Middle School, ensuring students arrive on time each day, and partnering with our schools to support learning and participation in school activities. Together, we can make consistent attendance a shared community commitment that helps every student succeed.
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accountability, time management, and perseverance—skills that employers and colleges value highly. Students who develop these habits early are better prepared to navigate higher education and the workplace, where reliability and consistency are critical to success. Why Attendance Matters Each day in school represents an opportunity—to learn, to grow, to connect, and to prepare for the future. Missing school means missing those opportunities. Good attendance is not just about today’s learning but about building a foundation for tomorrow’s dreams. When students are present, they are more confident, more engaged, and more equipped to succeed. Attendance is not just about filling a seat—it’s about building connections, learning consistently, and preparing for the future. Our goal at Eudora Schools for our Cardinals is to foster a culture of belonging through strong attendance so every student can perform their best today and thrive in the years ahead.
Eudora Elementary Celebrates Another Successful Jogathon
Eudora Elementary School hosted its annual Jogathon in September, a beloved tradition that brings students, families, and the community together for a day of fitness, fun, and fundraising. Each year, the Jogathon offers students a wonderful opportunity to engage in healthy exercise while supporting the school’s mission to provide exciting educational opportunities. During the event, students ran, jogged, or walked laps around the school grounds, cheered on by teachers, parents, and volunteers. Every step contributed to a shared goal — raising funds to enhance learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom. Donations collected through the Jogathon play a vital role in supporting everyday classroom needs, while also enabling the Eudora Elementary PTO to fund
memorable field trips and special programs that extend learning beyond the school walls.
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This year’s Jogathon once again showcased the incredible energy and support of the EES community. The event’s success ensures that students will continue to benefit from hands-on activities and enriching experiences that make learning come alive throughout the year. Eudora Elementary is deeply grateful to everyone who contributed — from students who gave their all on the track to families, staff, and local supporters who helped make the day possible. The enthusiasm and teamwork shown at the Jogathon truly reflect the caring spirit that defines EES. With the community’s continued involvement, Eudora Elementary looks forward to many more years of running, laughing, and learning together through this cherished tradition.
“IRL: In Real Life” – Preparing Students Beyond the Classroom
Middle schoolers at Eudora are getting a unique opportunity to step into adulthood early with a brandnew elective, IRL: In Real Life. The class focuses on practical skills students can put to use immediately, helping bridge the gap between academics and everyday life. Hands-On, Real-World Learning The heart of IRL lies in its focus on hands-on experiences. Students
practice cooking, laundry, gardening, and even simple home maintenance— skills that build both confidence and independence. “I’m most excited for students to practice skills they’ll be able to use right away outside of school,” Mitchell Tegtmeier explained. “These are the kinds of things that give them the confidence to tackle realworld tasks, which ties directly into our district goal of preparing kids for real life.”
Choosing the Right Skills The class curriculum wasn’t developed overnight. Collaboration played a key role. “Mrs. Plegge and I began piecing this together by bouncing ideas off one another. I also drew inspiration from other teachers, friends, my wife, and even community members. Over the summer, I jotted down ideas as they came to me,” Mr. Tegtmeier shared. The guiding principle was to choose skills that were both practical and age-appropriate. Student Reactions: Empowerment in Action For many students, the class has been eye-opening. Everyday tasks— like tying a tie or grilling for the first time—have led to moments of real pride. “When they successfully cook a meal or tie a tie, you can see it on their faces. That sense of accomplishment gives them an immediate confidence boost, and we hope they take those skills home to help out.”
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IRL
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One of the highlights has been Food Fridays. Students plan meals on a budget, then bring them to life using tools like a Blackstone griddle, pellet smoker, charcoal grill, gas grill, Instant Pot, and air fryer. “The kids have been in charge of creating the meals, and so far it’s been successful. They get really excited about it,” he said. Balancing Life Skills with Academics The philosophy behind IRL is
that academics alone aren’t enough. “Academics provide knowledge and critical thinking, but practical skills give students the tools to apply that knowledge in everyday life. Teaching both ensures kids are well-rounded, able to solve problems in the classroom, and navigate real-world situations.” Lessons for Life When asked which single skill he believes all middle schoolers should master before high school, Mr. Tegtmeier didn’t hesitate:
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problem-solving. “Life rarely goes as planned. Eighth graders need troubleshooting skills. Sometimes kids struggle with learned helplessness— the reluctance to even try. But so much of life comes down to being willing to dive in and figure it out. That’s what builds confidence.” By practicing both everyday tasks and resilience, IRL: In Real Life helps prepare students for high school, future jobs, and adulthood. It’s not just about tying a tie or cooking a meal— it’s about equipping kids with the confidence to face life head-on.
Peer Mentoring: A New Elective at EMS Eudora Middle School has introduced a new elective this year—Peer Mentoring—designed to build connections between 8th grade students and R.I.S.E.(Reaching Independence Through Special Education) students. We asked Mandy Shockley, R.I.S.E. teacher, to share more about the class. Q: What inspired the idea to add Peer Mentoring as an elective at EMS? A: I wanted to create more opportunities for authentic inclusion and meaningful connections between our 8th graders and our R.I.S.E. students. The idea grew out of seeing how powerful it can be when students support one another, and how much both groups gain when they learn and grow together. Last year was my first year as the teacher in the R.I.S.E classroom and I was beyond excited when we started having peers come to our room just to say hi to our students. They loved being able to interact with my students and my students adored their peers. Q: How do you see the 8th graders and R.I.S.E. students benefiting from this partnership? A: Both groups benefit in unique ways. The R.I.S.E. students gain peer models who help encourage independence, social interaction, and confidence in new skills. Our 8th graders benefit by developing empathy, patience, and leadership skills they will carry with them long after middle school. It’s truly a two-way street of learning.
Q: Can you share a specific moment or example that has stood out to you in class so far? A: One moment that really stood out was during a team-building activity. An 8th grader noticed a R.I.S.E. student struggling and, without hesitation, stepped in to offer encouragement and break down the task into smaller steps. The pride on the R.I.S.E. student’s face when they succeeded—and the genuine excitement from their peer mentor— showed exactly why this class matters. I have students every day who do not want to attend classes and peers will notice and offer to walk them to class. It brings tears to your eyes seeing the connections these kids are making. Q: What skills or lessons do you hope they take away from this experience? A: I hope the 8th graders walk
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away with a deeper understanding of inclusion, stronger communication skills, and the confidence to lead with kindness. For the R.I.S.E. students, I hope they gain independence, self-advocacy, and friendships that extend beyond our classroom walls. For both groups, I want them to leave knowing the value of teamwork and respect. Q: How do you envision this class growing or evolving in the future? A: I see Peer Mentoring becoming a cornerstone of our school culture. I’d love to expand the opportunities for collaboration, perhaps by involving more grade levels, connecting with community programs, or building longterm partnerships between mentors and mentees. Ultimately, I want it to continue fostering a school where every student feels seen, valued, and supported.
Eudora High School’s Health Science Program: Building Future Healthcare Leaders At Eudora High School, the Health Science Program continues to grow under the leadership of Danielle Young, who also serves as the advisor for the school’s HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) chapter. Through her dedication and the program’s handson approach, students are gaining valuable experience, certifications, and professional skills that prepare them for careers in the healthcare field.
of courses, including Introduction to Healthcare, Healthcare Research, EMS First Responder, Medical Terminology, and Professional Learning Experience. Students especially enjoy the hands-on learning opportunities these classes provide — from CPR training and first
A Program Built on Experience and Passion In 2008, while serving as the district nurse, Danielle Young began teaching 1-2 Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) courses each year. By the 2019– 2020 school year, she transitioned into a part-time teaching role, and after the return from COVID-19 closures in Fall 2020, she moved into a full-time teaching position. Today, Young teaches a variety
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aid to nurse aide skills. Beyond the classroom, students participate in educational visits and volunteer with local healthcare organizations, gaining real-world insight into the medical field. Continued to page 12
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Certifications and Real-World Credentials Through Eudora’s Health Science program, students have the opportunity to earn multiple industry-recognized certifications, including CPR, AED, and First Aid certification, Stop the Bleed training, Certified Nurse Aide (CNA), and the OSHA 10 Healthcare Industry Certification. For those who wish to go further, optional courses allow students to earn additional credentials as Home Health Aides and Certified Medication Aides, giving them an impressive start in the healthcare workforce. HOSA: Building Leadership and Community Connections The Eudora HOSA chapter gives students a chance to develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills through a variety of events and service projects. Last fall, twenty-two EDTEC students represented the school at the Fall Leadership Conference, where they participated in workshops on leadership development, teamwork, and professional ethics — all designed to prepare them for success in healthcare careers. In December, HOSA members organized HOSA Week, a series of activities aimed at promoting community service and raising awareness about the organization’s mission. Students hosted a hygiene drive supporting local school
health offices, a holiday craft session at Homestead, and a special evening visit with residents filled with conversation, crossword puzzles, and shared holiday traditions. They also created an informational display in the school commons and connected with peers during breakfast and lunch to encourage more student participation. Student Success and Recognition HOSA students have already earned recognition for their efforts. At last year’s Fall Leadership Conference, two students tied for third place in the Job Seeking Skills competition — senior Molly Griffin of Mill Valley High School and freshman Khloe Brake of Eudora. During the Spring Leadership Conference, four students competed with
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strong results: Milkana Maneva placed 6th in Pharmacology Science, and Molly Griffin earned 7th in Nursing Assisting. This school year is off to an equally strong start. Junior Xanthe Combs recently served as the moderator for the Health Science Lunch and Learn event on September 15, 2025. With 23 of the 41 HOSA members signed up for this fall’s Leadership Conference, excitement is high as students prepare for workshops, lectures, and skills sessions later this month. Preparing Students for the Future Through their participation in the Health Science program and HOSA, Eudora students are gaining both personal and professional confidence. Many graduates have gone on to work as certified nurse aides, while others have continued their education in nursing, pharmacy, ultrasound technology, sports medicine, and even medical school. Young says one of the most rewarding parts of her job is watching students discover their passion. “Through involvement in the program, many students become more confident in their decision to pursue a health-related career,” she shared. The Health Science Program at Eudora High School continues to empower students to make a difference — in their classrooms, their community, and their future careers.
Excellence in Eudora Early Learning Center Every week, our preschoolers look forward to a special visit from “Singing Sarah”, our wonderful music teacher! She brings so much joy and energy to our classrooms through music. During her time with the children, they sing fun and engaging songs, explore rhythm, and play a variety of instruments. Hallie Woods, an EHS student, led a fun lesson with the Pre-K class to explore ten frames. Miss Hallie has been observing in the Pre-K classroom throughout the first quarter, and she has been a wonderful addition to the class.
Elementary
Photo By: BELLA LEWIS
Youth Cheer Clinic The 2025–2026 Eudora High School cheer squad hosted its annual Youth Cheer Clinic, marking its highest participation yet with 130 elementary students. Over three days after school, the young participants learned chants and a routine in preparation for their halftime performance at the EHS football game against Ottawa. The routine was choreographed by captains Dylynn Jayne, Maggie Nelson, and Hailey Hunt. During halftime, the cheerleaders also performed a routine they learned at their summer camp, which included a cheer, band chant, and dance with stunts. The cheerleaders will compete with a similar routine in November at State Game Day.
Cardinal Marathon Club For about 14 years, the Eudora Elementary Cardinal Marathon Club has been a special way to bring fitness and fun to students, staff, and families. What began with the hope of 30 kids has now grown to 126 students from EES and Quest! Big thanks to sponsors Barbie Grado and Lynae Rebman for their incredible support and dedication.
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Excellence in Eudora Middle School Eudora Middle School has officially launched its enrichment programs, and the Cardinal LinkUp Mentoring Program already has over 130 students signed up.To give every student a mentor, the program is inviting about 20 more caring adults to join in. Those interested in making a difference can contact EMS counselor Michelle Pledge at michelleplegge@ eudoraschools.org for more details.
High School EHS Principal Dr. Bill DeWitt announced that Colton Jenkins was named a Commended Student in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program. A Letter of Commendation from the school and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), which conducts the program, was presented to this academically talented senior. About 34,000 Commended Students nationwide were recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they did not continue in the 2026 competition for National Merit Scholarship awards, these students ranked among the top 50,000 who entered the program by taking the 2024 Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT).
Eudora Cardinal Regiment kicked off the second annual Eudora Invitational Marching Festival. 11 schools participated in the competition on Oct. 6, 2025. They placed 4th out of 11 schools.
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