Congratulations to Washburn Rural High School!

Visit U.S. News & World Report to learn more about the six factors used to determine rankings: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools. 💙🤍

Mauri Decker has been inspiring young minds for nearly 30 years, first as a primary classroom teacher and now as the art teacher at Wanamaker Elementary School. From reimagining the art curriculum to creating the Wanamaker Art Gallery, her passion turns every corner into a place of creativity. Congratulations to August’s Crystal Apple Award recipient, Mauri Decker! Read more at https://www.kmaj.com/2025/08/10/3342/.

Fall practice starts Monday, which means Friday Night Lights and other exciting sporting events are just around the corner! Skip the line by securing your Washburn Rural High School activity passes and single game tickets today! Purchase online at https://gofan.co/app/school/KS24358.

REMINDER FOR FANS 62 AND OLDER: You qualify for a lifetime activity pass that grants access to every home athletic event (excluding post-season KSHSAA-sponsored events). Stop by the Shuler Education Center during business hours to claim your pass!

Marching in this heat? No sweat!

Well, maybe a little.🥵

Our Washburn Rural High School Marching Band has spent the last two weeks mastering fundamentals, music, drill, choreography, and routines as part of their annual summer Band Camp. Not only are they nailing the notes, they're proving that nothing – not even this August heat – can stop them. Here’s to a season filled with precision, passion, and unforgettable performances!

Stop by Pauline South Intermediate School this afternoon – Thursday, August 14 – from 3:30–4:30 pm for our community food pantry. Free groceries available. Please help us spread the word so no one misses out!

Proceeds from this golf tournament will help advance the Auburn-Washburn Public Schools Foundation mission of enhancing, enriching, and expanding educational opportunities for students in all grade levels across the district. Register today at http://www.2025AWPSF.golfgenius.com!

Today marks a new era in the Auburn-Washburn district, as teachers and students embark on the first day of classes at Washburn Rural North Middle School!

This morning, the Auburn-Washburn team came together for our annual All Staff Convocation to celebrate “Our Strength. Our Story. Our Community.” We proudly welcomed new faces and reflected on the powerful connections that make this district so special.

In a closely held surprise, Dr. McWilliams honored four family members who, together, have dedicated nearly 70 years of service to the Auburn-Washburn community through teaching, coaching, and mentoring – Washburn Rural Middle School teacher and coach Steve Chooncharoen, Washburn Rural North Middle School teacher Azure Chooncharoen, Indian Hills Elementary School lunchroom aide "Grandma Joyce" Moser, and Indian Hills Elementary School teacher and Washburn Rural High School coach Dave Chooncharoen.

These individuals embody what it means to lead with heart, showing up for our students in every way that matters. Their stories reflect the core of who we are – a close-knit community that cheers each other on, lifts each other up, and cares deeply for one another. Watch now to hear how valued these staff members are: https://youtu.be/_ocjsteDCh8.

It is time.

Elementary "Meet the Teacher" events kick off this week across the district! Students and their families are invited to visit classrooms, drop off supplies, and get ready for an exciting year ahead.

Friday, August 8
✏️ Auburn Elementary School | 4:30–6:00 pm | Grades K–5 & Early Childhood
✏️ Farley Elementary School | 4:30–6:00 pm | Grades K–5 & Early Childhood
✏️ Jay Shideler Elementary School | 4:30–6:00 pm | Grades 1–5
✏️ Pauline South Intermediate School | 4:00–6:00 pm | Grades 3–5
✏️ Wanamaker Elementary School | 4:30–6:00 pm | Grades 1–5 & Early Childhood

Monday, August 11
✏️ Indian Hills Elementary School | 4:30–6:00 pm | Grades 1–5

Tuesday, August 12
✏️ Wanamaker Elementary | 4:30–6:00 pm | Kindergarten

Note: Pauline Central Primary School is hosting Hopes & Dreams Conferences on August 7 & 8 in place of traditional Meet the Teacher Night.

📞 Please contact your school directly with specific questions.

What a difference a day makes!

Construction is moving quickly on the new multipurpose building at Washburn Rural High School. When complete, the building will support physical education classes during the day and a wide variety of student activities and programs after hours.