Valley Center Public Schools, USD 262

Valley Center Public Schools, USD 262 No. 262, please visit www.usd262.net. The page provides a limited open forum for you to ask questions and share your opinions and experiences. Thank you.

Serving more than 3,200 students, USD 262 is dedicated to being a premier school district known for excellence in education, innovative instruction, outstanding programs, and a commitment to every student’s success. Welcome to the official page for Valley Center Schools USD 262

If you are looking for more information about the Valley Center School District, U.S.D. This page is intended t

o provide updated information and discussion about Valley Center Schools and to serve as a resource for our parents, students, teachers, staff members and our local community. While we are making this a limited open forum, we ask that you show respect for your fellow users if you comment on our page by ensuring the discussion remains respectful and family-friendly, especially since Facebook allows students as young as 13 to join. In addition to keeping the conversation and content family-friendly, we ask that you adhere to the Commenting Policy we have established below. Valley Center Schools USD 262 reserves the right to remove at any time, and without prior notice, any and all comments or other material posted on this page that does not conform to these rules, school board policy, or any applicable law and to deny access to School District social media sites to any individual who repeatedly violates such rules, policy or law. COMMENTING POLICY

Valley Center Schools USD 262 encourages interaction from Facebook users but is not responsible for comments or wall postings made by visitors to the page. Additionally, the appearance of external links, as posted by fans of this page or other Facebook users, does not constitute endorsement on behalf of Valley Center Schools USD 262. Please be aware that all content and posts are bound by Facebook’s Terms of Use https://www.facebook.com/terms.php). You should not provide private or personal information (phone, email, addresses, etc.) regarding yourself or others on this page. Any posts or comments containing personal information of this nature may be deleted. The School District administration maintains and operates this Facebook site as a limited public forum for dissemination and exchange of information of interest to parents, students, staff and the community. Although Valley Center Schools encourages pertinent and thoughtful questions, comments and concerns, all users must understand that this is not an open forum, but instead is a moderated online discussion site in which all users must adhere to some basic rules for advancement of the School District’s educational mission. We reserve the right, but assume no obligation, in the sole judgment of Valley Center Schools USD 262, to remove content or posts containing:

• Comments, pictures, or graphics that are violent, obscene, defamatory, abusive, profane, vulgar, or sexually explicit;

• Personal attacks upon or derogatory, false, or defamatory comments concerning any individual or such individual’s character or appearance;

• Comments or information concerning confidential matters involving individual District students or staff members, or that violate the privacy of any School District student or staff member;

• Content that expresses, promotes, fosters, or perpetuates discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, age, religion, gender, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, physical or mental disability, or national origin;

• Sexual content or links to sexual content;

• Advertisements or solicitations for private business or commerce;

• Content that is unlawful or in violation of Valley Center School USD 262 policy or regulations, or that encourages, promotes, or condones such unlawful conduct, activity, or violation;

• Threats or other information or comments that, in the sole judgment of Valley Center USD 262, compromise the safety or security of students, staff, or other individual or any school or other public facility or systems;

• Content that violates copyrights or property interests of any other party;

• Comments or posts in support of, or in opposition to, the nomination, retention or election of any person to public office, or that urge voters to vote in favor of or against any ballot issue or referred measure, including any posts containing links to political campaign or candidate websites; and

• Comments or posts that are excessively long or repetitive, or that concern topics or issues that are inappropriate or not School District-related. You participate at your own risk, taking personal responsibility for your comments, your username, and any information provided. We encourage you to share your support for our students and connect with other supporters here on our page and to visit frequently for news and updates. The foregoing rules are subject to amendment or modification at any time without prior notice. We do not sponsor or endorse any content posted on this social media site by third party users and such posts do not necessarily represent the views or position of Valley Center Schools USD 262. If you have complaints about Facebook posts or questions about the Valley Center Schools page, please e-mail Superintendent Cory Gibson at [email protected] or Assistant Superintendent Mike Bonner at [email protected] . Board Policy: KBAB Facebook Comments Policy KBAB
The Valley Center Public School District encourages interaction from Facebook users but is not responsible for comments or wall postings made by visitors to the page. Comments posted also do not in any way reflect the opinions or policies of the District. We reserve the right, but assume no obligation, to remove comments that are racist, sexist, abusive, profane, violent, obscene, spam, contain falsehoods, inappropriate, offensive, off-topic, or that defame, libel, incite, threaten or make ad hominem attacks on USD 262 students, employees, guests or other individuals. We also do not permit messages selling products or promoting commercial or other ventures. Comments and postings are also subject to Facebook’s and USD 262’s Terms of Use and Code of Conduct policies as well as USD 262’s board policies. Valley Center Public Schools asks that people making comments on the page show respect for other users and viewers by ensuring the discussion remains civil, especially since Facebook allows individuals 13 and over to join. Remember that your name and photo will be seen next to your comments, visible to all visitors on the page. Facebook and Valley Center Public Schools encourages all users to utilize the “Report” links when they find abusive/offensive content. Facebook does not allow any information from children under the age of 13. If we learn that we have information posted on our page from a child under age 13, we will delete that information as quickly as possible and report that user to Facebook. If you believe that any information has been posted to our page from a child under the age of 13, please contact the superintendent and/or designee. If you have any questions about the Valley Center Public Schools page or desire to report unlawful, inappropriate or offensive material or a violation of intellectual property rights, please email the superintendent and/or designee to review the Terms of Use or Service. Approved: February 14, 2011

06/11/2026

Please welcome Ginny Banister to the ! Ginny will join West Elementary School as a third grade teacher for the 2026-27 school year.

"I live in Valley Center with my husband, two children and two dogs. I stay very busy with my family and all of our activities, but when I have free time, I enjoy reading, gardening and walking.

It is an absolute dream to be joining the USD 262 team. My husband and I moved here from Wichita 12 years ago, before we started our family, because we knew we wanted our children to attend school in this district. Our two children have had a wonderful experience in USD 262, and I am thrilled to be part of all the amazing things happening in this incredible district!"

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06/09/2026

Sydney Kaiser will join Valley Center Intermediate School as a fifth-grade English language arts and social studies teacher for the 2026-27 school year. Please welcome her to the !

"I am from Hesston, Kansas, and graduated from Hesston High School in 2023. I was heavily involved in sports and school and community activities while growing up in Hesston. I then attended Fort Hays State University and graduated in May 2026 with a bachelor's degree in elementary education. Growing up, I always wanted to be a teacher, and I am excited to begin my first year of teaching this fall at Valley Center Intermediate School. I enjoy spending my free time with friends and family, going for walks, and watching movies and television shows.

I am excited to be part of USD 262! I am thankful to join a school district with a supportive community and dedicated staff. I look forward to teaching fifth grade English language arts and social studies and getting to know the students and staff."

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06/08/2026

Please welcome Julie Dohm to the ! She will be a speech/language pathologist at Valley Park Elementary School for the 2026-27 school year.

"Hi! I'm Julie Dohm. You can call me a speech therapist, speech pathologist or speech teacher. I've answered to all of them for the past nine years. My husband and I are blessed to live on 20 acres with several ponds. I have four toddlers who love to roam and explore our land. Fun fact: I have twin boys!

I have been told that USD 262 feels like family, and I am excited to be part of this growing community. I look forward to building connections with staff members, students and families. Joining the Hornet Family will also allow me to be with my children as they enter their school age years."

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06/05/2026

Please welcome Chelsea Reed to the ! Chelsea will be the library/media specialist at Valley Center High School for the 2026-27 school year.

"I grew up in Andover and still call it home today. I’m married and a proud mom of two boys, Teryl, 12, and Tyler, 15, who keep life busy! When I have free time, I enjoy getting lost in a good book, working on crafting projects and spending time gardening. Next year will mark my 21st year in education. Over the years, I have taught fifth grade, as well as sixth through eighth grade English language arts, social studies and math. I have also served as a high school counselor.

I'm excited to join the team at USD 262! While I am new to the role of librarian, it has long been my dream job, and I am eager to support both teachers and students in a meaningful way. I bring a creative spirit and genuine love of reading, and I look forward to fostering a welcoming, engaging library environment for the entire school community."

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06/03/2026

Amy Steadman will join Valley Center Abilene Elementary as a fourth grade teacher for the 2026-27 school year. Please welcome her to the !

"I am elated to be starting my 22nd year in education here USD 262 after serving another district for the past 21 years in elementary education, gifted education and administration. I have three children, two of whom are adults pursuing what they love in life, and a middle schooler. I spend my free time running, working with my therapy dog, being a dance mom and supporting my family in our three generation hobby of drag racing, which began when I was 15 years old. I love iced coffee, dark chocolate, Winnie the Pooh and the beach!

Valley Center is a growing community located near my 'second home,' the drag strip, and has always been a school district where I could envision working. Its mission, vision and commitment to doing what is best for the students and families of Valley Center, Kechi, Park City and Wichita align with my personal beliefs as an educator. I am excited to jump back into the classroom and collaborate with a strong teammate while supporting the fourth grade scholars and leaders at Abilene Elementary School!"

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06/01/2026

Please welcome Victoria Griffitt to the ! Victoria will a band teacher at Valley Center Intermediate School, Valley Center Middle School, and Valley Center High School for the 2026-2027 school year.

"With 23 years of experience, I bring a strong track record of building outstanding band programs, fostering meaningful student connections and believing that great music making should be both excellent and fun.

I am currently the director of bands at Andover High School, and I spent 18 years in Derby shaping instrumental programs and leading ensembles to consistent top ratings and state performances. A percussion specialist at heart, I have been teaching private lessons for decades and presenting on classroom culture across Kansas and beyond because great bands start with great relationships.

Outside of school, you will find me following my sons, who are also musicians, to their next performance or making memories with my family at the lake.

I have greatly admired USD 262 for the deep rooted traditions and high standards of its band program. Beyond the music, the sense of pride within the community is well known and widely admired, and I could not be more excited to contribute to that culture and officially join the Hornet Family!"

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05/28/2026

Please welcome Jake Becker to the ! Jake will be a social studies teacher at Valley Center Middle School for the 2026-27 school year.

“I am a 2010 graduate of Garden Plain High School and am joining the teaching profession after 10 years in the criminal justice field. I have three brothers and am a proud uncle to two nephews and four nieces. I enjoy spending time with family, playing sports and going to the lake during the summer!

I chose USD 262 because, after being here as a substitute teacher and coach for four years, it has become like home to me. The community has been warm and welcoming since my first day here, and I look forward to beginning a long career as a teacher this fall. I am proud to be a Hornet!”

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05/26/2026

Jessica May will join Valley Center Intermediate School as a sixth grade math and science teacher for the 2026–27 school year.

“I have been teaching for 17 years. I graduated from Southern Nazarene University with a Bachelor of Science degree and also earned a master’s degree in teaching and learning from Friends University. I love teaching and helping kids learn and grow.

I have lived in Valley Center for several years and decided I wanted to teach in the community that I love. I am excited to join Valley Center Intermediate School as a sixth grade math and science teacher for the upcoming school year.

Outside of school, I spend a lot of time with my family and friends and enjoy reading and being outdoors.”

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Today, USD 262 staff across the district rolled up their sleeves to help with a major move connected to the bond issue a...
05/22/2026

Today, USD 262 staff across the district rolled up their sleeves to help with a major move connected to the bond issue approved by our community on May 7, 2024.

With construction continuing on Valley Park Elementary School, additional classrooms at Valley Center High School and the new Supplemental Learning Center, every building in the district was impacted by today’s move. Some teachers and staff are relocating to different buildings and classrooms, while two entire grade levels are transitioning to new school buildings as part of the district’s new grade level configuration.

Beginning next school year:
📚 All elementary schools will serve kindergarten through 4th grade
📚 Valley Center Intermediate School will serve 5th and 6th grades
📚 Valley Center Middle School will serve 7th and 8th grades

In addition, prekindergarten programs will be located at Abilene Elementary and West Elementary, while Parents as Teachers will be housed at Valley Park Elementary.

Today’s move required teamwork from staff across the district, and we are grateful for the flexibility, collaboration and dedication shown throughout the process as we prepare for these exciting changes for Hornet students and families.

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Today, USD 262 staff gathered at Valley Center High School for an end of the year celebration to recognize the achieveme...
05/21/2026

Today, USD 262 staff gathered at Valley Center High School for an end of the year celebration to recognize the achievements, dedication and impact of our incredible school community.

During the event, we honored the 2025–2026 Superstar Employee Recognition Program winners:
⭐ USD 262 Classified: Rob Carter, Maintenance/Grounds
⭐ AVSEC Classified: Kylie Payne, Valley Center Middle School
⭐ USD 262 Licensed K–5: Rachel Ely, West Elementary
⭐ USD 262 Licensed 6–12: Jeannette Blackwell, Valley Center Intermediate School
⭐ AVSEC Licensed: Samantha Walton, Valley Center Middle School
⭐ Friend of Education: Nathanial Thurman

We also recognized 17 retirees whose combined service to USD 262 totals an incredible 294 years! Thank you for your dedication to Hornet students, staff and families.

Congratulations to:
• Jill Bourne, Library Media Specialist, Valley Center High School
• Kenna Flicker, Instructional Support Para, Valley Center High School
• Kathleen Hakenholz, Positive Behavior Support Para, Valley Center High School
• Kristen Joyal, Math Teacher, Valley Center High School
• Matt Klusener, Social Studies Teacher, Valley Center High School
• Cindi May, 3rd Grade Teacher, Wheatland Elementary
• Trish McFarland, 1st Grade Teacher, West Elementary
• Lee Owens, Youth Horizons Online Teacher, Valley Center High School
• Angie Persyn, Positive Behavior Support Teacher, Valley Center High School
• Brad Phillips, Custodian, Valley Center High School
• Tara Sander, 6th Grade Science Teacher, Valley Center Middle School (not pictured)
• Sheila Schul, 5th Grade Math/Science Teacher, Valley Center Intermediate School
• Julie Sirignano, Library Media Specialist, Valley Center High School
• Karen Spring, 4th Grade Math/Science Teacher, Valley Center Intermediate School
• Jan Verboom, Band Teacher, Valley Center High, Middle and Intermediate Schools
• Cindy Westmoreland, Math/Science Teacher, Valley Center Middle School
• Gina Zimmerman, 5th Grade Math/Science Teacher, Valley Center Intermediate School

As we close another successful school year, we celebrate the commitment, passion and contributions of all USD 262 staff. Thank you for continuing to help us be a premier school district.

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Address

143 S. Meridian
Valley Center, KS
67147

Opening Hours

Monday 7:30am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 7:30am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 7:30am - 4:30pm
Thursday 7:30am - 4:30pm
Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm

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