During Monday's Board of Education meeting, Principal Debbie Williams from Pauline Central Primary School had the privilege of recognizing some truly incredible members of their school community. Here's a quick recap of the well-deserved recognitions:

✨ Shining Star Student Award – Finnly Kratina
Finnley lights up every room she enters with her joyful spirit, determination, and kindness. Her positive attitude, perseverance, and willingness to encourage others make her a wonderful friend and an inspiration to those around her.

✨ All Star Staff Award – Cheri Scott
Speech aide Cheri Scott was honored for her dedication, kindness, and reliability. Known for always stepping up to help wherever needed, Cheri's positive attitude and deep care for students and staff make a lasting impact on our school community.

✨ All Star Team Award – Mental Health Team (Dan Allinder, Mitchel Carver, Amy Heckman, Andrea Okruhlik, and Hannah Toews)
The Pauline Central school-based mental health team was recognized for the powerful work they do supporting students and families. Their compassion, collaboration, and commitment help create a safe, supportive environment where every student can succeed.

Watch the full recognition here: https://www.youtube.com/live/XiRgkeLGu0c?t=1168s

Thank you to these remarkable individuals for making Pauline Central such a special place! 💙

Come support your Jr. Blues and all the students participating at tonight's baseball double header vs. Emporia! First game starts at 4:00 PM at the 61st St Baseball Fields next to WRMS and will be live streamed at http://wrhs.net/live.

Support our schools while saving at local businesses! The Auburn-Washburn Public Schools Foundation's Major Saver Campaign is underway through April 24. Check out the post below to learn how you can support students across our district.

Come support your Jr. Blues and all the students participating at tonight's baseball double header vs. Topeka High! First game starts at 4:00 PM at the 61st St Baseball Fields next to WRMS and will be live streamed at http://wrhs.net/live.

We are proud to share that Pauline South Intermediate School teacher Carlin Smith was selected as one of just six teacher leaders in Kansas for the Midwest STEM Alliance Teacher Corps. This prestigious opportunity is part of a National Science Foundation–funded initiative aimed at strengthening STEM education in rural elementary schools.

As a member of this elite cohort, Mrs. Smith will collaborate with educators across four states to enhance science instruction and integrate science, mathematics, and English Language Arts in meaningful ways.

Through this program, participants receive ongoing professional development, mentorship, and support over four years, all while helping elevate the teaching profession and improve outcomes for students.

Congratulations, Mrs. Smith! We are so proud to have you representing our district.

Kindergarten Roundup is next Friday, April 10! The event introduces families to school staff and helps them learn what to expect as they prepare for the year ahead. Learn more and register at http://www.usd437.net/roundup.

Nearly 400 students from more than 30 schools will gather at Washburn Rural Middle School tomorrow for the annual SUMday Mathematics Competition. Students in grades 4-8 will test their skills in two individual events – geometry and number sense. Each test is designed to challenge their mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills.

We are especially proud of the 105 Auburn-Washburn students who are participating tomorrow. These students have spent countless hours over the past several months preparing for this competition.

Best of luck to all of our competitors. We're cheering you on!

The Auburn-Washburn Board of Education has reached an agreement with Dr. Katie Collier to serve as the district’s next Superintendent of Schools.

Dr. Collier currently serves as Deputy Superintendent of Blue Valley School District and brings more than 30 years of experience in public education. She was selected following a comprehensive national search that included extensive community input.

Dr. Collier will succeed Dr. Scott McWilliams, who is retiring after 11 years of service to Auburn-Washburn. She is expected to begin her role on July 1, 2026, pending formal board approval at an upcoming meeting.

Read the full media alert here: https://usd437.net/news/2026-03-auburn-washburn-board-of-education-announces-next-superintendent

🌿🔬 Calling all young scientists!

Get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure at Science Camp! Students entering 1st–7th grade will explore nature, wildlife, and the world around them through hands-on activities like hiking, discovering insects, and investigating pond life.

Spots are limited and fill quickly. Don’t miss out on this fun, engaging outdoor learning experience!

Register today at https://usd437.net/assets/fliers/summer-science-camp-3.

Make that three in a row!♟️

The Washburn Rural Middle School Chess Team placed first at the Kansas State Chess Championships again this year! Congrats to them on their back-to-back-to-back victory in the K-8 Division!