Leavenworth USD 453

Leavenworth USD 453 📍Leavenworth, KS #️⃣ 💙 Amazing students & staff 💙 The Superintendent of Schools, Mr. Any person may also contact the Asst.

Applicants for admission and employment, students, parents of elementary and secondary school students, employees, sources of referral of applicants for admission and employment, and all unions or professional organizations holding collective bargaining or professional agreements with USD 453 are hereby notified that this institution does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national orig

in, gender, age, religion, marital status, gender orientation, veteran status, handicap, sex, or any other legally protected status in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs and activities. As required by law, the district will provide equal access to district facilities and related benefits and services and will not discriminate against any group officially affiliated with the Boy Scouts of America, the Girl Scouts of the United States of America or any other youth group designated in applicable federal law. Any person having inquiries concerning USD #453 compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, Age Discrimination Act, and the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act is directed to contact USD #453, 200 N 4th Street, (913) 684-1400. Mike Roth, has been designated to coordinate the institution's efforts to comply with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, Age Discrimination Act, and the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act. Secretary for Civil rights, U.S. Department of Education, regarding the institution's compliance with the regulations implementing Title V), Title IX, Section 504, Age Discrimination Act, or the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act. The local Office for Civil Rights is located at 1010 Walnut Street, Suite 320, Kansas City, MO 64106; Phone (816) 268-0550 or 877-521-2172 (TTY); Email: [email protected]. Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 U.S.C. Section 12131 states: Public entity The term "public entity" mean a) any State or local government; b) any department, agency, special purpose district, or other instrumentality of a State or States or local government; and c) the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, and any commuter authority (as defined in section 24102(4) of title 49). Qualified individual with a disability The term "qualified individual with a disability" means an individual with a disability who, with or without reasonable modifications to rules, policies, or practices, the removal of architectural, communication, or transportation barriers, or the provision of auxiliary aids and services, meets the essential eligibility requirements for the receipt of services or the participation in programs or activities provided by a public entity. Comments, respectful dialogue, and an open exchange of ideas are encouraged, but content will be moderated. Attacks or extreme negativity directed towards an individual, obscenity or profanity, selling of commercial products, or endorsements of political candidates or positions, are not welcome in this school district forum. We reserve the right to remove any inappropriate comments. Individual student issues will not be addressed in this forum, and should be directed via email to: [email protected]

The School District and Board of Education encourage all issues or complaints regarding the district to be resolved at the lowest administrative level possible. Whenever a complaint is made directly to the Board as a whole, or to a Board member as an individual, it will be referred to the administration for study and possible resolution.

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: Sydney Freiberg 🎓I plan to attend the University of Missouri next year along with one of my...
06/15/2026

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: Sydney Freiberg 🎓

I plan to attend the University of Missouri next year along with one of my best friends Alivya Cannon-Shelley. We are both very interested in the field of healthcare as a whole, so I am excited to see where that takes me. I will join the university’s nursing program after my sophomore year to hopefully earn my Bachelors of Science in Nursing. From there, I plan to work for a few years to figure out what parts of nursing I enjoy the most, so that I can go back to school to specialize further.

As of now, I enjoy spending my time hanging out with my friends or family, or working on various craft projects. Additionally, I have been getting back into reading recently which has proved to be very enjoyable. Overall, I am sad to be leaving this chapter of my life and all the relationships I have made along the way, but I am more than excited to see what the future holds and how I will inevitably grow in these new experiences.

Student Essay – By Sydney Freiberg
Mr. Tanner has always clearly shown his care for his students in the classroom, whether that be through cracking a joke to get kids engaged or by ensuring that everyone in the room is understanding the material. He continues to dole out assignments and information that prepare us to be successful after high school no matter where our plans may take us. For me personally, Mr. Tanner has given me an outlet to discuss literature that no other English teacher has offered. He allows his students to discuss and suggest ideas in an open manner instead of simply guiding them into one “correct” answer. Additionally, he has continued to support me through some difficult times, and constantly reminds me of how capable I truly am, even if I lose sight of that myself. Mr. Tanner clearly cares deeply for the students he teaches, and I hope that he continues to understand how valued he truly is.

Teacher Essay – By Michael Tanner
I met Sydney in my Senior English class this year. While she provided deeper level analysis for classroom discussion, it was her ability to connect with classmates that stood out the most. She quickly became friends with those around her and they helped each other tackle daily tasks. During our mystery unit, Sydney always had theories as to what would happen next or who was behind everything and seeing her enjoy a novel so much was truly touching. I looked forward to those daily conspiracy sessions and we also bonded over Hannibal and other books.

It is undeniably true that Sydney is quite academically gifted, but who she is as a person is even more impactful and lasting. Sydney will always be remembered by me as a student who puts others before herself, who always leads with understanding, and who always seeks to discover the wonders of the world. Her inquisitive nature is what has helped her to be successful thus far, and I have no doubt that it will continue to lead her to accomplish and achieve great things in life.

Photo provided by First City Photo and Frames

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: Sam Gilman 🎓I grew up driven by curiosity and discipline, shaped by my experiences in JROTC...
06/14/2026

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: Sam Gilman 🎓

I grew up driven by curiosity and discipline, shaped by my experiences in JROTC and the challenge of Raider training that first drew me in. Those moments taught me resilience, leadership, and how to push past limits. I’ve always been drawn to science and math, which let me to pursue biochemistry on a pre-med track at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. My goal is to become a neurosurgeon, combining precision, knowledge, and serve to change lives. Every step I take is focused on making a lasting impact.

Student Essay – By Sam Gilman
There are teachers who do their job, and then there are those who change lives. Mr. Mesler is that teacher for me. I met him as a Freshman in Honors English. He created an environment where I not only felt seen, but also challenged. He didn’t just teach literature, he taught confidence, critical thinking, and ow to carry myself with purpose. He consistently emphasized the importance of loving your neighbor as yourself, a lesson that shaped how I treat others every day. Even after freshman year, Mr. Mesler continued to support me. Often offering advice and reminding me of my potential. He was always there when I needed guidance. He became more than a teacher. He became a role model. Because of him, I’ve grown not only as a student, but as a person. He has significantly influenced me and shaped who I aspire to become.

Teacher Essay – By Sam Mesler
Sam Gilman has a character arc to rival that of Narnia’s Edmund, AOT’s Eren, and ATLA’s Zuko. I watched Sam start as a quiet, shy, thoughtful freshman into one of the school’s greatest leaders. I have been so lucky to watch his friendships develop and watch his personality flourish.

Sam and I share many things. Our name, for one. We have also both worked at Chick-Fil-A. And we’re obviously both drop dead gorgeous. But something Sam has that I don’t is a natural born ability to lead. People follow him. People respect him. People trust him.

I often say the world is short on good young men. Sam, I mean it as the highest compliment I can give when I say that you are a very, very good young man. You have a solid foundation that you’ll stand on to become a great man.

Photo provided by First City Photo and Frames

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: Natalie Gillogly 🎓Natalie was born on a crisp October morning at Fort Lewis, Washington, in...
06/13/2026

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: Natalie Gillogly 🎓

Natalie was born on a crisp October morning at Fort Lewis, Washington, in 2007. As a military child, she has moved often, learning to adapt while keeping her passions for singing, playing music, and loving her dogs. She began school at the Women’s Community Y in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, then moved to San Antonio, Texas, where she embraced cowgirl fashion, backyard swimming, and “fixin’ to” do just about anything. From there, her family headed north to Fort Wainwright, Alaska, where she attended Ladd Elementary from first through eighth grade, becoming a Ladd Leader who welcomed new students into the school community. Natalie later attended Lathrop High School before moving back to Kansas and becoming a proud Leavenworth Pioneer. A dedicated JROTC cadet, color guard member, and dependable leader, she also plays soccer and sings in A Capella and church choirs. She plans to serve her community as a nurse and will attend Wichita State University in fall 2026.

Student Essay – By Natalie Gillogly
No one story encapsulates my most influential teacher, so here are some experiences that show why he is my most influential teacher. Sargent Loewen, as the color guard sponsor, is responsible for transporting the cadets to the colour guard location from the school. This is normally done via the school’s white vans. During these trips, we have what we call van discussions, where we talk about life and our plans and get advice from Sargent Loewen. These conversations about pretty much everything have helped me formulate many plans and goals for the future, as well as made me rethink some possible choices. Sargent Loewen also provides motivation and has encouraged me to try or apply for things that I may not feel ready or qualified for, but ultimately enjoyed doing.

Teacher Essay – By 1SG Rex Loewen
When I met Ms. Gillogly, my first impression was of her sincerity and earnestness. These three years later, my impression has not dwindled, only become stronger. As just like H.R. Puffenstuff, “she can’t do a little, because she can’t do enough.” I truly believe she could not be disingenuous if she tried. I can remember both her passion planning the JROTC as the Battalion Command Sergeant Major, as well as her genuine concern that the event was not so much perfect, as it met the expectations of the cadets. That they felt the weight of tradition and history, as well as fully enjoy the event, building both joyful memories of a time evening happily enjoyed and a sense of belonging and purpose as traditions were upheld and continued. Ms. Gillogly is the epitome of genuine concern and willingness to serve, after all, she can’t do a little, because she can’t do enough.

Monday night's USD 453 Board of Education meeting was another opportunity to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of...
06/11/2026

Monday night's USD 453 Board of Education meeting was another opportunity to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our student-athletes! 👏🏊‍♀️

We proudly recognized the Leavenworth Senior High School Girls Swimming team for an historic season and outstanding performances at the Kansas State High School Activities Association 5A State Championships.

Senior Elisabeth Howell made school history by becoming Leavenworth Senior High School's first-ever KSHSAA State Champion, winning the 100 Freestyle and earning All-State First Team honors. Elisabeth also earned a third-place finish in the 50 Freestyle, setting school records in both events. 🥇🥉
We also celebrated the accomplishments of Alexandrea Howell, who earned a 5th-place finish in the 500 Freestyle, as well as Addison Allen and Ella Dall, whose contributions helped Leavenworth's relay teams achieve outstanding success at the state meet.

Together, Addison, Ella, Elisabeth, and Alexandrea accomplished something truly remarkable. The team earned top-eight finishes in nearly every event they entered, including a 5th-place finish in the 200 Medley Relay and a 7th-place finish in the 400 Freestyle Relay. Competing with just four swimmers, the Pioneers finished 9th overall out of 52 teams at the state championships - an incredible achievement that reflects their hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence. 🏆

Congratulations to these outstanding student-athletes, their coaches, and their families on an unforgettable season. We are proud to celebrate this historic accomplishment and the way these students represented Leavenworth High School and USD 453.💙

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: McKennah Embry 🎓High school senior McKennah Embry enjoys living her life to the fullest and...
06/11/2026

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: McKennah Embry 🎓

High school senior McKennah Embry enjoys living her life to the fullest and is passionate about staying active, creative, and involved in the community. She’s very passionate about volleyball, where she has learned discipline, perseverance, and teamwork both on and off the court. McKennah is also deeply involved in theatre, where she has enjoyed bringing stories to life by expressing creativity, building confidence, and connecting with others through performance. She was honored to be this year’s NHS Chapter President, serving her community and members of the school through various volunteering opportunities. McKennah wants to continue to make a positive impact in the community and hopes to do this by getting a bachelor’s in nursing, specializing in pediatrics, and supporting and uplifting children in the community. With a positive attitude and a hard work ethic, she is determined to take the next step toward making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

Student Essay – By McKennah Embry
I chose Mr. Arnold as my most impactful teacher because he has been there for me my whole high school career. From the moment I walked into LHS as a freshman, Mr. Arnold molded advisory to be a place where I felt supported and encouraged, both academically and personally… even when I was so stressed out and spent advisory in a cabinet. He truly believed in me when I doubted myself and pushed me to work hard and be proud of my accomplishments. Even though Advisory seems like such a small part of the day, Mr. Arnold made it count. Whenever I had a problem, he was quick to offer a solution or just be there to listen. Because of his kindness, I was able to be confident and enjoy high school. His impact will stay with me for life, and I will never be able to thank him enough.

Teacher Essay – By Bobby Arnold
It was around Homecoming time and McKennah Embry along with others in our Advisory were on the planning committee for the dance. As she does with most things in her academic life, she was trying to make it perfect. So perfect in fact that the worry about the dance and other academic activities at the time were all consuming to her. She would pace, hold her head in her hands, be a little snappy, but most of all, my closet. I have a very skinny closet in my room for hanging coats but McKennah decided to make it her own safe space. Did she stay in there very long, no? Did she go in more than a few times, yes? The stress of classes and the dance preparation had gotten to her. Handling this like the champ she is changed her confidence in herself. The next two years you see a more confident McKennah that will be such a success in whatever she wants to do.

🏈💙Congratulations to Leavenworth Senior High School football coach Sean Sachen who was honored as the 2026 Dave Bassore ...
06/10/2026

🏈💙Congratulations to Leavenworth Senior High School football coach Sean Sachen who was honored as the 2026 Dave Bassore Head Coach of the Year for Kansas by the Greater Kansas City Football Coaches Association during the All-Star game on June 5.

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: Emma Draves 🎓I’ve attended Leavenworth High School for all four years, but my story starts ...
06/10/2026

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: Emma Draves 🎓

I’ve attended Leavenworth High School for all four years, but my story starts a bit earlier. As a military kid, I lived in Spain for four years, where I learned to speak Spanish and developed a love for new experiences. In high school, I’ve stayed busy with Ambassadors, the Military Child Education Coalition’s Student Advisory Council, Scholars Bowl as captain, band where I play the flute, Model UN, and NHS. Summers usually find me working at a summer camp in the Flint Hills, leading activities and helping kids grow in confidence and skills. Along the way, I’ve discovered that I enjoy learning, asking questions, and connecting ideas across subjects. I plan to attend college out of state and study something in the liberal arts or social sciences, with the long-term goal of working in academia through research, teaching, writing, or another path.

Student Essay – By Emma Draves
Mrs. Kuchinski has been my most influential teacher throughout high school and a defining part of my Horizon Scholar journey. I was fortunate to have her first as a freshman in AP European History and again as a senior in AP Government, allowing me to grow under her guidance across four years. In her classes, I developed strong critical thinking skills by closely examining historical events, analyzing multiple perspectives, and forming evidence-based arguments. She consistently challenged me to think deeper and question assumptions. Beyond the classroom, she has also been the Model UN sponsor, where I have been an active member all four years. Through both her teaching and mentorship, she has shaped my confidence, curiosity, and ability to engage thoughtfully with the world around me.

Teacher Essay – By Sharon Kuchinski
I’ve had the privilege of knowing Emma since her freshman year. From the first days in my AP Euro class, I saw that Emma was not only an exemplary student, but a source of continuous positivity. Her smile and willingness to help others made her instantly recognizable as a person you could count on. She also provided the spark that led to meaningful conversation and observations in my classroom.

As a senior, Emma has blossomed into a mature leader. Her interest in history, government and politics, combined with excellent communication skills, makes her a superior student. She’s an outstanding critical thinker and is quick on her feet in debates. This is definitely obvious in her very successful participation in my classroom and in Model UN. I often find myself thinking about things much more deeply after she speaks. She also convinces others with confidence and a smile, which is a winning combination that I truly admire!

Photo provided by First City Photo and Frames

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: Shyanne Dobbs 🎓Hello! I am Shyanne Dobbs, I’m involved in KAY Club, Student Council, Nation...
06/09/2026

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: Shyanne Dobbs 🎓

Hello! I am Shyanne Dobbs, I’m involved in KAY Club, Student Council, National Honor Society, Varsity Cheer, and I am also senior class president. I’ve grown up in Leavenworth my entire life, where I’ve volunteered at local homeless shelters, animal shelters and food pantries. I’m currently enrolled in the KCKCC CNA program, and as I move forward into the next four years, I plan to major in nursing at the University of Kansas, with hopes to pursue a career in the NICU. Some things I enjoy doing outside of academics include reading, journaling, cooking, shopping, and being with my friends and family!

Student Essay – By Shyanne Dobbs
I chose Mrs. Miller as my most influential teacher because of the overwhelming and outstanding impact she had on my character, and how she caused me to grow into the successful person I am today. She was my 3rd and 4th grade teacher at Henry Leavenworth Elementary, which were some of my most impressionable years. The biggest impression she had on me was my nickname, which she gave to each student to make them feel seen, and special. The nickname she gave to me was Star, because in her words, I shined like one. Through the struggle of bullying, personal life changes, and even trying to understand math, there was always one constant in my life, and that was being her Star. Through each challenge, Mrs. Miller gave me the courage, confidence, and passion which stuck with me forever, to overcome some of the roughest times in my early life, and to aid in my current life as well. Being her Star to me didn’t mean I was better than any other student, but it showed me that her love and compassion for each of us is what made her such a brilliant and impactful teacher.

Teacher Essay – By Karen Miller
There are people who aspire to higher learning and a drive to succeed, and people who inspire others, leaders who ascend ladders of success, and trailblazers who reach out a helping hand, intelligence and goodwill. It is always a profound honor for a teacher to know a student with both. Shyanne has a passion for learning and a gentle, kindhearted soul.

There is a light that speaks from Shyanne’s eyes of great excitement and potential, a spark that seeks a challenge with the highest expectation, the first thing I noticed when she told me she would study to become a nurse. I could immediately envision the impact of both zealous compassion and the expertise of medical science the people she will work with and care for will know.

A shining star makes her mark. I am so grateful for the light she has shone in my life.

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: Kyliah Dixon 🎓My goal starting high school was to break out of my shell and push myself bey...
06/08/2026

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: Kyliah Dixon 🎓

My goal starting high school was to break out of my shell and push myself beyond my limits. Throughout my high school career, I have been involved in 15 clubs, in multiple leadership positions, and have been accepted into 13 colleges. I have prided myself on my hard work, as I come from a family of hard-working African American women. I am excited to be a first-generation college student, studying in the School of Business at KU. My goals are to study marketing and international business and, hopefully, study abroad. I have lots of ambition for my future, and I am extremely excited to get started.

Student Essay – By Kyliah Dixon
Mrs. Longberg has played a role as my school mom, my protector, and my advisor throughout my entire high school career. She has always been the person I could go to when I needed motivation or a reminder of who I am and what I can do. Her quirky personality and sense of humor make her so refreshing and unique. She is always authentically and unapologetically herself, and that is something I admire about people. I picked Mrs. Longberg as my most influential teacher because she has been there to guide me through difficult times, and she has always fueled me to keep pushing, no matter what, because I am deserving of a win in life.

Teacher Essay – By Annie Longberg
When it comes to Kyliah the word I would use to describe her is courageous. Courage is the ability to do something even when you are afraid; doing the right thing when it is hard or not popular. As the president of Student Council, decisions have to be made that are not always the easiest and not always or what everyone wants due to constraints or ability. Kyliah has stepped into the role of President and absolutely flourished.
She is willing to make hard decisions doing so out of necessity but always has a smile on her face and grace in her heart. She is kind, open-minded, a good listener, and always willing to help out or explain difficult decisions that get made. She is self-less, putting others before herself in everything I have seen. She is truly an amazing, bright, wonderful young woman and I am so lucky I got to know her and work with her.

Photo provided by First City Photo and Frames

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: Kristi Leanne Damasco 🎓My name is Kristi Leanne Damasco, and I’m a 17-year-old senior atten...
06/07/2026

🎓 Horizon Scholar Spotlight: Kristi Leanne Damasco 🎓

My name is Kristi Leanne Damasco, and I’m a 17-year-old senior attending Leavenworth High School, graduating in May 2026. I come from an inspiring family of six, including my parents and three other siblings. My academic journey has been defined by a deep passion for the science field and a desire to support my family. It was my sophomore Chemistry class with Mrs. Longberg and my junior Anatomy and Morphology class with Mr. Bode that truly set my path in motion and fueled my dream to one day provide assistance through a healthcare profession. This fascination led to my post-secondary plans, attending Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA. I intend to major in Biochemistry under the Pre-Dental track in hopes of becoming a General Dentist! I knew I wanted to pursue this career after being inspired by D.D.S. Kay Chung, who vlogs what a day in a dental student’s life looks like.

Student Essay – By Kristi Leanne Damasco
I chose Sean Murphy as my most influential teacher because he supported me during times when I struggled in any of my classes. I had Mr. Murphy in AP U.S. History my Junior year, and U.S. Government last semester. When the coursework was overwhelming or rigorous, his unwavering empathy left one of the greatest impacts of my high-school years. During the moments I fell behind, he was more than a teacher; he was a mentor who truly listened. Every time he saw me struggling with an issue, he met me with understanding rather than judgment. His support taught me resilience to ask for help more often. Due to Mr. Murphy’s kindness, I learned to persevere with confidence. I’m very grateful for Mr. Murphy being an amazing teacher, and I’ll never forget the standards he held with all of his students, and the fact that he’s one of the fastest teachers who grades assignments in the whole building.

Teacher Essay – By Sean Murphy
One of the greatest compliments I can give Kristi Damasco is that I’m thoroughly impressed by how she handled a course-load that wasn’t as simple as maybe she thought it would be. During her year in AP United States History, she really had to confront her self-doubt and own mistakes that she made. Not an easy task for any of us, especially for a young person that wasn’t used to hiccups or bumps in her academic road.
I certainly can appreciate and marvel at her perseverance and resilience. Not everyone can handle the voices in the head or the pressure of being from a successful family. Kristi is a student that really stands out for me because she did struggle. She learned from her mistakes. She met her challenges and made setbacks into strengths. She has truly grown as a person and as a student. Both are equally important for all of us to do but Kristi the person is now a confident, driven, self-aware and exceptional young woman that is going to make the world a better place. I am truly honored that she picked me as her Horizon Teacher.

Photo provided by First City Photo and Frames

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200 N 4th Street
Leavenworth, KS
66048

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