On June 16, USD489 Superintendent Ron Wilson reported to the Board of Education (BOE) that Columbia Insurance (representing Commercial Signs) has agreed to honor the district’s request that a $28,541 replacement scoreboard will be provided for the scoreboard destroyed by high winds this spring. He stated that the total package includes an adjustment on the installation piece for the re-installation of the scoreboard.
Student Handbooks for the 2025-2026 were presented for 1st Read to the USD489 Board of Education (BOE) on June 16, 2025, with the expectation that the Handbooks will be brought back in July for approval. The 2025 Student Handbooks include the district’s new “No Cell Phone” policy.
Aug Completion expected for new HMS Bathroom/Concession Bldg, Tennis Courts on pace to be ready for 2025-2026 School Year
The Heartland Community Foundation recently awarded $134,675 to local organizations in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego County during our spring grant cycle. In total, the community foundation helped fund 33 projects -- including 14 that were fully funded and 19 that were partially funded.
The Kansas Exporter of the Year award is being presented, and the Governor of Kansas has made the trip to present the award in person.
The City of Hays Fire and Police Departments are urging residents to follow safety guidelines carefully as they prepare to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks.
By Gaille Pike Special to the Hays Daily News On June 24, 2025, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) announced plans to temporarily close lanes… Login to continue reading Login…
By Gaille Pike Special to the Hays Daily News Over the past year, Ellis County Commissioners and Public Works (PW) Director Brendan Mackay have suggested… Login to continue reading Login…
Youngsters may be enjoying the lazy, hazy days of summer. But the staff at First Call for Help of Ellis County is busy collecting supplies for backpacks.
On June 16, 2025, the USD489 Board of Education unanimously approved Master Negotiated Bargaining Agreements with a $1800 salary increase for certified teachers and approved (4-3) a 2.5% wage increase for Classified employees, Directors, Administrators, and other licensed personnel. For certified teachers employed next year, $1000 will be added to each base of the District’s Standard Salary Schedule and an additional $800 will also be added in exchange for changes expected to be negotiated next year in the Medical Insurance and Fringe Benefit Plan for teachers.