News
USD489 to hold July Community Garage Sale of Lincoln & HHS obsolete items
The USD489 Board of Education (BOE) voted unanimously to hold a Community Garage Sale in July to sell obsolete property from Lincoln Elementary and the current Hays High School.
Cedar Bluff Reservoir Release Complete
The Kansas Water Office (KWO), in response to requests from City of Hays and City of Russell, made releases from Cedar Bluff Reservoir from May 5 through May 12, 2025.
Hays Optimist Club Leaves Lasting Legacy with New Fund for Youth
After nearly six decades of service to local youth, the Hays Optimist Club is disbanding — but their commitment to the community will live on through a newly established fund at the Heartland Community Foundation.
Destroyed donated USD489 scoreboard to be replaced
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.
USD489 BOE gets first look at "No Cell Phone" policy for 2025-2026
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.
New completion date HMS Bathroom/Concessions, Tennis Courts on pace
Aug Completion expected for new HMS Bathroom/Concession Bldg, Tennis Courts on pace to be ready for 2025-2026 School Year
Heartland Community Foundation Awards $134,675 in Grants to Local Organizations
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.
Kansas Profile – Now That's Rural: Paul Kaeb, KSi
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.
Hays emergency responders remind residents to be aware of fireworks danger, regulations
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.