Don’t forget! The Mother/Son Night of Fun is tomorrow at 7:00PM-10:00PM! Weather permitting it will be at the football field! If weather decides to rain on our fun, we will move to the gym/commons!!
SCHOOL'S OUT, CAMP'S IN!!
Valley Heights 21st CCLC Camp Exploration registration is now open! Click the link to register today!
https://forms.gle/Sc39Wtw3GRTGjCQE8
Join us Friday, May 14th for our annual Kindergarten-6th grade Kick-off to Summer Kickball Night at the Blue Rapids Ball fields! We can't wait to see you there!
First and second grade classes traveled to the Rolling Hill Zoo in Salina! These are just a few of the second graders who had a fabulous time!
Happy Teacher Appreciation Week to all our USD 498 teachers!!
Enjoy this snip-it from out staff and students out here at VHHS! Click on the link below or go to our Documents on the Valley Heights webpage and click on Teacher Appreciation!
https://5il.co/sadb
Reminder that Play Day has been moved to Wednesday, May 19th. Waterville Grade School will compete in the morning and Blue Rapids Grade School will compete in the afternoon. More information on the time of events will be sent out on Friday, May 7th.
It's much more than just Teacher Appreciation Week to me. I have something very important to say about the amazing humans in this picture. In the past nine months I've gotten to know and build a relationship with each and every one of them, and I have the privilege of seeing what those outside of our walls rarely have the opportunity to. The past year has presented challenges that no amount of professional development or college courses could have prepared them for. Yet from day one they have rolled through the changes, embraced the challenges and put our students and their needs before anything else. I've seen them laugh, cry, celebrate and mourn for the students in their care. When confronted with adversity and obstacles they could easily have chosen to grow complacent and bitter, but instead they utilized the opportunity to grow, to learn and to do better. That is exactly what I've witnessed in my short time in USD 498, and I am so proud of these amazing humans. Each of them have a significant role in the success of our students, and each of them deserve much more than a paragraph or two once a year. I'm humbled and blessed by their presence, and I firmly believe that our district is one to be envied because of the individuals within it. The future of Valley Heights is bright folks, and you have every reason to be #MustangProud!
Melissa Kennedy
Superintendent
Come join us at Spring Fling tomorrow night May 5th. Senior displays and art projects will start at 6 followed by music at 7.
National Honor Society members helping a community member. These young people did an amazing job!!
ALL IN FOR SEMIS. Audra Steinfort, Abigail Steinfort, Aiden Nemechek, and Tyrel Wagner are moving on to the semi-final rounds at State Champs Forensics. They are competing virtually at the high school all day and hope to move on to the medal round this afternoon.
Congratulations to Damian Yungeberg and Emma Toerber for shooting personal best scores in the Valley Height Golf Invitational today!
The 4th graders went around town and delivered May Day baskets to the local businesses.
One more reminder about the 3 on 3 tournament on May 8 at VH. We still have open spots for teams. Please email jyungeberg@valleyheights.org by Sunday May 2nd to sign up. Schedules will be made and sent out on Monday.
SCHOOL'S OUT, CAMP'S IN!!
Valley Heights 21st CCLC Camp Exploration registration is now open!
Click the link to register today!
https://forms.gle/tCzm2Cs2MDo741KE8
VHHS will be hosting regional track on 5/21 and we are looking for volunteers to help with field events. If you would like to help please email ttrimble@valleyheights.org. Thanks for your support! #MustangProud
The Valley Heights Economics class is doing a baked goods sale at our April 30th and May 4th home track meets for a final semester project. Please come out and support! If anyone would like to donate baked goods, please contact Cameron Beardsley at 785-477-5217 or Jeremy Neff at 785-927-0360 by call or text. Proceeds will benefit the students of VHHS with locker room improvements.
Don't forget..,.Jr. High Drama Night and Forensics Night tonight at 6-8pm
Colt's Round-Up after school program will go until May 20. We hope this will help kids and families finish the year strong!
Also be looking for the Summer Camp Exploration online registration in the next couple days on Bloomz and Valley Heights Facebook page! #AfterschoolWorks
To view today’s Jr High Live Track Meet Results, go to http://68.234.97.3/track/
Last Reminder!! Tickets for the Athletic Banquet must be purchased by 3:30 today, April 26th. Tickets are available at First Commerce/St Bank of Blue Rapids and Citizens Bank in Waterville. Tickets are $12 per adult and $6 for children 12 years of age or younger. Come out and enjoy some good food prepared by Vathauer Catering.
Reminder there is a 3 on 3 tournament at Valley Heights on May 8th. We have divisions for 3rd/4th, 5th/6th, 7th/8th, and high school. Please email jyungeberg@valleyheights.org to sign up your team. Register at the door.
The Daddy/Daughter dance was such a fun success!! There were so many laughs, lots of pictures, popcorn all over the place (remind me to not do popcorn bar again ha!) and just an overall good time! I am so thankful for such a great group of cheer girls, who I think enjoyed it just as much!
Click the link below to get your pictures!
https://katcophotography20.pixieset.com/daddydaughterdance2021/
Gregory Mather, VHHS class of 1972, volunteered to create a stained glass replica of our logo. He enlisted his friend, Dave DeCamp, to make the lighted display box. The result is a beautiful piece of art. Today it was hung in the VHHS Commons at the high school to be enjoyed by students, staff, alumni, and visitors.
A piece of very important information that you may not know is that Greg was the fifth-grader who won the contest to name the new school district we know as Valley Heights!
Greg shared a few interesting facts about his time as a Valley Heights student. For the older BRHS grads and the early VHHS grads, Greg still uses the skills and the mechanical drawing set he used in Mr Brychta's mechanical drawing class. Pretty impressive, and surely Mr. Brychta would be pleased!
Other interesting facts..... His class was the last class to use the old BRGS before it was razed. The class of VHHS 1972 was the last class to use the old Waterville High School as a junior high. In addition, that class was the last class to use the old Blue Rapids High School buildings.
We are so grateful to Mr. Mather for this amazing addition to our high school, and invite you to stop by and take a look at his amazing craftsmanship!
Valley Heights Forensics Night
April 28, 2021 at 7 PM
Valley Heights High School Commons
The Student/Community Color Run event will be tomorrow at approximately 9:45 AM, or when the talent show has concluded. The public is welcome to attend or participate. There is no registration fee! There will be a track that is 3.2 miles (5K), and a walking track approximately 1 mile in length. Students are advised to bring a change of clothing and a towel to clean up afterwards, to avoid transfer of dyes onto vehicles, busses, and other school & personal property. So, wear clothing that you won't mind getting some dye on and come out and enjoy the fun!
USD #498 is accepting applications for the Maintenance Director and Library Para positions. Please go to https://www.applitrack.com/valleyheights/onlineapp/
The Student/Community Color Run event will be tomorrow at approximately 9:45 AM, or when the talent show has concluded. The public is welcome to attend or participate. There is no registration fee! There will be a track that is 3.2 miles (5K), and a walking track approximately 1 mile in length. Students are advised to bring a change of clothing and a towel to clean up afterwards, to avoid transfer of dyes onto vehicles, busses, and other school & personal property. So, wear clothing that you won't mind getting some dye on and come out and enjoy the fun!
The Marshall County Special Services Cooperative is seeking applications for an Elementary Special Education Teacher for Valley Heights USD 498 for the 2021-2022 school year. Please access the "Apply for this Position" link within the embedded document.
https://marysville.tedk12.com/hire/ViewJob.aspx?JobID=175
The JH track meet that was rescheduled for Wednesday will have a start time change. Field events will start at 12:30 and running will start at 2:00.
The JH and HS track meets scheduled for tomorrow have both been cancelled due to the expected bad weather. The JH meet at Frankfort will be made up on Wednesday 4/21 and field events will start at 12:30. The HS meet has not been rescheduled yet.
Valley Heights Kindergarten, Kinder-Prep and Preschool will be having an open house on Monday, April 26th from 5:30-7:00 pm. The teachers will be in their classrooms with information about the upcoming school year and will be available to answer any questions. You can come and go as your schedule permits and visit the classrooms your child/children will attend. All Preschool students (age 3 by September 1) will go to the Preschool building and all Kinder-Prep students (age 4 by September 1) and Kindergarten students (age 5 by September 1) will go to the Waterville Grade School Building. At 6:00 pm you can attend a grade-level presentation in your child’s respective classroom to get information on the upcoming school year. Preschool and Kinder-Prep will have new class options this fall so please come to hear about the changes and sign your child up for a class. Official enrollment papers will be completed in August. We look forward to seeing everyone on April 26th!
Congratulations to the 4th grade classes of Mrs. Meadows and Mrs. Crowther for winning the food drive contest at BR Elementary. They earned a root beer float party as their prize. Thank you to all of the students who participated. What a great service for our communities.
Congratulations to Mrs. Tryon’s second grade class for winning the food drive contest for the Waterville Elementary. They have earned an ice cream sundae party as their prize. Thank you to all the students who participated. What a great service for our communities.
Congratulations to Mrs. Brzon’s seminar for winning the food drive contest! They earned a pizza party as their prize. Thank you to all VHHS students who participated. What a great service for our communities.
Valley Heights NHS is having a 3 on 3 tournament on May 8. Check out the flyer for information.
The JV golf meet that was scheduled at Onaga today has been cancelled.
Due to weather conditions, the Valley Heights Jr High will not have a track meet in Washington today. We will keep you posted on possible make-up date.
Brooks and Lucy were chosen to have lunch with Officer Dan!!
Valley Heights Community Education is excited to bring back Moore Gymnastics! Registration will be open now until April 23!
Click on the link to register:
https://forms.gle/YLk9i3JBUEQBQymv7
Jami Gillig with Marshall County Farm Bureau visited the Kindergarten students and talked about where their food comes from.
Don't forget to sign up for Dancing With Daddy in support of VHHS Cheer! April 1st is the deadline!
March 25th is the deadline to register for summer rec. ball.
Click on the link below to register your student!
https://forms.gle/ipZqTEsBWTUSUg8a8
National Honor Society is having a food drive this week and next. All food collected will be delivered to the BR Food Pantry. It will conclude on April 2. If possible please have your student bring non perishable food items to school and give them to their seminar teacher. The elementary students are also participating in this event. This is a great way to help our communities.
USD 498 COVID Update
If you are interested in ordering State basketball programs, they are currently available through the KSHSAA website.
https://kshsaapublications.square.site/state-programs
State championship apparel will also be available the week after the state tournament concludes. Please check out the KSHSAA website under state apparel.
https://www.kshsaastore.org/
You can also get the state basketball ticket link at www.valleyheights.org
Game time Friday at 7:00pm.
For guaranteed entry, all KSHSAA Girls Class 2A State Basketball Championship tickets must be purchased in advance, online through the KSU website. Below is the custom link assigned specifically to our school for the upcoming semifinal game on March 12.
1. Our school has been allotted 800 total tickets for purchase through this link for the semifinal game. Tickets will be available via this code from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM on March 10. VH fans will sit across from the scoretable on the east side.
2. https://kstatesports.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/SEGetEventInfo?ticketCode=PR%3AKSU%3AKS20%3AG4%3AG4EAST&linkID=kansuse&shopperContext=&caller=PR&appCode=&prc=G4EAST&ppc=G4EAST&dataAccId=187&locale=en_US&siteId=ev_kansuse
3. Purchase deadline: 5:00 PM - After the deadline this link can no longer be used to purchase tickets. Any unsold tickets will be made available for purchase on the KSU website to the general public.
Girls 2A state bracket. VH girls will play at 7:00 on Friday. We will send ticket purchasing information as soon as we receive it.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZeOJcAIUMLjg9Fwip8En65dZfGjXn7zs/view?usp=sharing
Hats of to some of Valley Heights frontline heroes! Thank you so much to Kode Pacha and all of the fantastic food service staff for stepping up a year ago and all the way through today to make sure our kids came first! Also a big thank you to Dinah Umscheid who spent countless hours on phone calls, zoom meetings and filling out forms to make sure we complied with all of the guidelines to make it happen!
A great group of people who are deservedly being recognized as heroes!
#MustangProud
Sign up now for Valley Heights Summer Rec. softball and baseball. Click on the link to Register.
https://forms.gle/yxAnezxxD2K5Gxj76
STATE BASKETBALL TIPS OFF TUESDAY FOR THE VALLEY HEIGHTS LADY MUSTANGS AND HANOVER WILDCATS. WE’LL AIR THE 6 PM TIP OFF WITH VALLEY HEIGHTS HOSTING WABAUNSEE ON KNDY FM 95.5, AND THE HANOVER BOYS GAME WITH ST JOHNS TIPTON FROM MARYSVILLE WILL AIR ON KNDY AM 1570/FM 94.1. BOTH GAMES STREAMING LIVE ON OUR WEBSITE AT KNDYRADIO.COM, AND VIA THE RESPECTIVE MOBILE APP FOR EACH STATION. STATE BASKETBALL EXCITEMENT LIVE ON KNDY.
Second graders are enjoying this beautiful weather!!
Go to valleyheights.org or visit the following link to purchase tickets for the girls basketball first round game of the the state tournament held at Valley Heights High School on Tuesday at 6:00. #MustangProud https://gofan.co/app/school/KS24354
Come out and congratulate the VH girls basketball team with a trip around the square! Line the edges around 7:00 pm Saturday to celebrate!
Thank you to Mrs. Pacha for providing great food in the hospitality room for sub-state basketball. Also, thank you to all the wonderful workers and volunteers. You have been amazing!
Mrs. Kennedy read Green Eggs and Ham to Mrs. Tryon’s second grade class to celebrate Read Across America week!
A.D. Trimble and Asst. A.D. Winslow will assist you with all your sub-state basketball needs. Come out and support the Lady Mustangs!
The Kindergarten students are having a fun Dr. Seuss week. Mr. Kenworthy read Green Eggs and Ham which was followed by making and eating green eggs.
Mrs. Steinfort’s class has been working on their stream table labs. The nice weather gives the students an opportunity to get outside.
Blue Rapids Elementary had a special guest today. Officer Ryan Woodyard was here to share a book with the 3rd Graders for Read Across America Week.
Valley Heights Community Education will be hosting Hunter Education on April 10th and 11th. Class size is limited to the first 15 who sign up.
PRIORITY WILL BE GIVEN TO VALLEY HEIGHTS STUDENTS AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS.
Please click on the link to access the form.
https://forms.gle/mezwd2k6wRTmQwC9A
This makes us VERY happy!
Here is the link to purchase tickets for the Sub-State games at VHHS on Tuesday. You can also connect to the link on the Valley Heights Webpage. Fans will not be allowed in the building until 6:30.
https://gofan.co/app/school/KS24354
Valley Heights got results from the We The People LEW Whitson Memorial Kansas High School competition. As a team, Valley Heights took 3rd place. The Unit 4 Team of Distinction Award went to the presentation from Shyanne Carder, Alexis L'Ecuyer, and Jake Yungeberg. If you would like to see the awards presentation, please use the following website address: https://youtu.be/hOLI9vyP7ew
Congratulations to the Valley Heights We The People participants!
Hello All, my name is Caley Brenner and I am a bachelor level Social Work student through Washburn University. I have been interning with Valley Heights to provide social/emotional support for the Valley Heights School District. Part of my internship includes community outreach, therefore I have developed a survey to gather feedback on yours or your child's experience while at Valley Heights. Your feedback is appreciated and confidential to myself and my field instructor Tina Stillwell, LSCSW.
Link to the Survey: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfasgODEo02K-crf2-m4esF9sFmGNa3gemxWo1kY3jK4oVztQ/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0&usp=mail_form_link
Please click on the link to check out the brackets for the sub-state basketball tournament.
https://5il.co/pzkk
The USD 498 Board of Education will have a special meeting on Monday, March 1 at 6:00 p.m. at VHHS. The purpose of the meeting is to have a reflection/work session with Ben Moore of Ben Moore Studio.
Basketball / Cheer Parents night tonight. All parents of HS basketball players and cheerleaders will be allowed into the game for free. We will have a short ceremony after the varsity girls game.
4:30 JV girls - 2 quarters
5:15 JV boys - 2 quarters
6:00 Varsity girls
7:30 Varsity boys.
Games at Washington tonight:
6:00PM Varsity Girls in HS Gym 6:00PM JV Boys in West Gym
730PM Varsity Boys in HS Gym 7:30PM JV Girls in West Gym
REMINDER:
There will be no Colt's Round-Up after school on Monday, February 22 or Wednesday, February 24 because of student success meetings. There will be normal Colt's Round up on the 23rd and 25th.
There will be no Colt's Round-Up after school on Monday, February 22 or Wednesday, February 24 because of student success meetings. There will be normal Colt's Round up on the 23rd and 25th.
Sophomores visited Highland Western Center in Baileyville yesterday to learn about educational opportunities and career options. John Haefke even drew blood from the practice arm! And of course we had to stop to get ice cream because it was a whopping 20 degrees out! It was a great afternoon for exploring careers and options!
Due to the dangerously cold conditions and forecasted wind chills throughout tomorrow and Tuesday morning, there will be NO SCHOOL for USD 498 on Monday, February 15th and Tuesday, February 16th. All activities are cancelled.
Tomorrow was already a scheduled day off in our calendar, so we will be back in session on Wednesday, February 17th. Please stay safe and warm!
The Valley Heights vs Washington County basketball game on 2/15/21 has been cancelled. If a makeup date is confirmed, it will be communicated.
Public Notice
The schedule for tonight's games with Centralia has changed. We will start the Varsity girls game at 4:00 and then the boys Varsity game will follow at around 5:30. There will be no JV games this evening.
What's more fun than playing with play dough? 8th grade exploratory agriculture class made model flowers to learn about male and female parts of flowers.
Please remember that Valley Heights is under KSHSAA guidelines for mask wearing and social distancing. Masks are required at all sporting events, including those hosted by Valley Heights. According to KSHSAA, any or all of the following consequences could happen to Valley Heights if proper COVID protocol does not happen:
1. lose the hosting of sub-state basketball tournament
2. Valley Heights could have to forfeit sub-state basketball tournament
3. forfeiture of all KSHSAA activities for the remainder of the year
4. school can be fined
Valley Heights supports KSHSAA in their expectations to complete the winter sports season. To assist in assuring our students get to continue to play basketball, fans that do not comply or have repeated reminders concerning COVID protocol, will be removed from the facility and will not be allowed to return the rest of the season.
In an effort to support our students in their endeavor, please be respectful to the COVID protocol. Thank you!
The schedule of games for Thursday and Friday nights are as follows:
4:15 JV girls followed by 2 quarters of JV boys then the two varsity games to follow. All games will be played at the HS gym. No games in BR either night.
Mr. Green read to the Kindergarten students for the 100th day of school.
The high school games scheduled for Tuesday will now start at 4:30 instead of 4:45 and all the games will be played at the HS gym. No games in Blue Rapids.
USD 498 COVID 19 Update:
Last Friday, the Valley Heights Student Council provided pizza and pop to the high school staff. They also shared the following message, read to the staff by Catherine Toerber.
Thank you Student Council for the kind gesture and heart felt words.
“Where your talents and needs of the world cross; there lies your vocation.” -Aristotle.
"As I read this quote, I realized it does not fail to represent each and every single teacher, coach, para, janitor, cafeteria worker, counselor, secretary, principal, or superintendent here at Valley Heights. The
talent in this room alone, is beyond measure. It takes a special kind of person to be able to connect with the diverse and special personalities that you encounter every single day. It takes a special type of person to come to their job everyday and wear a bright smile everyday after
getting a few hours of sleep, or having a rough morning, but you guys do it. It takes a special type of person to give young people a basic education before taking on the real world, but you guys do it. I don’t think that any of us students say thank you enough for that. The teachers and staff here at valley heights are really the best of the best. Every single student here is so lucky to have mentors like you all. If you haven’t heard it today, or any other day, I would just like to say, thank you. Thank you for being people that change lives. Thank you for being a solid rock for people that don’t have that type of foundation at home. Thank you for showing up everyday with a positive attitude even when the outside world may be trying to tear you down. Thank you for giving young people skills that are needed to survive in the real world. Thank you for using your talents to meet the needs of the world. Thank you for being teachers. This world needs more selfless, kindhearted people like you, but I am glad that Valley Heights was lucky enough
to get all of you. So many lessons have been learned here at Valley Heights, and that goes beyond the lessons over WW2, or the lessons about the biology of a plant, or the lessons over the history of rock and roll, you guys teach life lessons. Your talent reaches beyond the needs of the world, your talent meets the needs of each and every individual student. You guys are crazy awesome and I cannot express how thankful Stuco and I feel to have such great staff here at Valley Heights. So thank you again for being so talented and amazing. There aren’t enough words to thank you all enough. You all have made a difference in many different lives, and we are beyond lucky to have you all."
USD 498 will have a two hour delay tomorrow, Monday, February 8, 2021. There will be no a.m. preschool.
The BVL BB Championship games for Saturday, February 6th, will be postponed. When dates and times are confirmed, we will let you know. Please have a safe weekend!
Kelsey Kennedy, recovering addict, and drug and alcohol counselor spoke to students of Valley Heights Jr/Sr High this week. She presented to grades 7-9 Thursday and 10-12 Friday. We appreciate her sharing her personal story and path to recovery. In addition, she shared so much information to help prevent others from the struggles she had. The message was very powerful, also showing students that there is always help and hope to overcome adversity in life. We thank Kelsey for being so “real” with our students and the courage to share with all of us!
BVL BB Tournament will be pushed back in the day for now. VH JH boys and girls will play around 2:15 pm. If more changes are announced, we will let you know.
USD 498 COVID19 Update:
Congratulations to the winners of the Blue Rapids Spelling Bee! Winners will take part in the Marshall County Spelling Bee on February 11. Winners are Guen Conti, Kinze Wessel, and Elliott Bachura. Congratulations!
USD 498 COVID-19 Update:
The games tonight at Wetmore will be broadcasted on NFHSnetwork.com and also on the radio, 92.1 FM KMZA. Here is the link to listen online.
http://us7.maindigitalstream.com/3763/
Congratulations to the Valley Heights FFA members at contest today. Northeast FFA district Employment Skills contest results.
A-Team
Sophie Brungardt 4th
B-Team
Dakota Gillig 1st
Super Bowl Spirit Week!
The Kansas City Chiefs are Super Bowl bound! PreK-12 will be celebrating by having a Super Bowl Spirit Week! See the dress up days in the image attached!
Congrats to the Valley Heights FFA members who competed in the Northeast FFA district speech contest.
Sophomore Prepared:
Dakota Gillig 3rd
Emma Brungardt 13th
Extra Upper Prepared:
Robbie Stryker 8th
After assessing our rural routes, we have made the decision to cancel school and all activities for today, Wednesday, January 27th.
USD 498 Board of Education Spotlight:
Robert Chase has served for three years on the Valley Heights Board of Education. He lives in Waterville with his wife, Trinda and works for D&S Cattle Co. as a ranch hand. They have three children. Jerrika lives in Wichita, Hunter in Manhattan, and their youngest daughter Reilee Mae who is still in high school. Robert is also a board member for his church, as well as serving on its worship team and security team. In his free time he enjoys hunting and fishing.
Robert said he chooses to serve on the board because, "I love our school district. I grew up here and graduated from Valley Heights High School in 1994." Being able to support his fellow Mustangs is the most rewarding part of his role.
Thank you, Robert, for making time in your busy life to serve our district and give back to our community. We appreciate you and all you do for USD 498!
On January 29th KSHSAA will change its attendance policy to allow a few more fans to attend games. Based on their criteria, the TVL has decided to use the following guidelines:
1. Away teams---will only be allowed to bring parents/guardians only and are on the parent/guardian list and will check in at the gate. Individual schools may use the option to limit further if needed. That will be communicated on as needed.
2. No cheerleaders at away games
3. Home teams----can use what their gym allows as well as county health and school board guidelines up to 4/participant no more than 50% capacity. Individual schools may use the option to limit further if needed. This will be communicated by each school.
There will be NO SCHOOL for USD 498 on Tuesday, January 26th. All activities are cancelled.
There will be a two hour delay tomorrow morning, Tuesday, January 26 for all of USD 498. Should conditions warrant canceling for the entire day, a decision will be made and announced by 7:00 a.m. Please stay tuned to our social media platforms tomorrow morning!
USD 498 Board of Education Spotlight:
Theresa Minihan has served on the Valley Heights school board for 6 years. She and her husband, Michael, live in Blue Rapids were she serves as the Vice President of Operations at First Commerce Bank. They have two children, Meghan Wemhoener and her husband, Ben, live in Independence, MO; and their son Daniel, and his wife Kaitlynn, live in Blue Rapids. Theresa and Mike enjoy the time they get to spend with their family enjoying outdoor activities like camping and boating.
When asked why she chooses to serve on the board, Theresa stated, "Our children received quality educations through the Valley Heights system and serving on the board allows me to give back to the community". She feels most rewarded in her role on the board through seeing students succeed and transition to adulthood with skills that will serve them positively in the future.
Theresa, please know how much we appreciate you and your continued service to the students and staff of USD 498. We applaud your leadership in our community!
In case you missed it.......
Due to the impending winter storm, there will be NO SCHOOL for Valley Heights, USD 498, tomorrow, Monday, January 25th.
The HS boys basketball game vs Axtell in Onaga tonight as been moved back to a 6:00 start time. Game will be livestreamed by Onaga on the NFHSnetwork.
USD 498 Board of Education Spotlight:
Mrs. Melva Sanner has served our district as a Board of Education member for 7 years. She and her husband, David, reside in Blue Rapids and have three children; Jaqi Woodyard of Blue Rapids, Rebecca (Becca) Lanik, Wahoo, NE, and Sarah Bailey, a traveling nurse. Melva recently retired as the Administrative Director of Country Place Senior Living's Assisted Living facility. When time allows she enjoys all outdoor activities including camping, fishing, hunting, boating, recreational vehicles and horses. Reading is something else she truly enjoys.
"To help provide a good learning experience for our students to be successful in life" is her personal motivation for her service on her board. She also believes that being a positive influence for our district is the most rewarding part of that role.
Melva, we appreciate all you do to serve the students and staff of USD 498. Thank you for being a positive world changer by choosing to give back to our community and district!
USD 498 COVID-19 Update
USD 498 Board of Education Spotlight:
Mr. John Walsh is currently in his 8th year as a member of the Valley Heights Board of Education. John lives in Blue Rapids and works as a miner at Georgia Pacific. He has four children, Gabriel, Mason and Madeline Walsh, and Justine (Walsh) deBoer.
When asked why he chooses to serve on the USD 498 school board, John said he does so "to help serve the community and school". Seeing the district grow is the most rewarding part of his job. He enjoys spending quality time with his family and good friends whenever he can.
John, we truly appreciate that you choose to give your time and effort to serve the students and staff of our district. We appreciate you and your devotion to Valley Heights!
Because of the TVL tournament game that we lost for tonight ,the Valley Heights boys team will now be playing Axtell on Friday at 4:30. We will still have our game that was is scheduled for Saturday at 2:30. Both games will be played at Onaga High School.
USD 498 COVID-19 Update:
The HS boys basketball game at Onaga vs Linn that was scheduled for tonight has been cancelled due to COVID protocols.
Mr. Smith’s ECONOMICS class helped serve over 200 area families with Harvester’s and the Waterville Methodist Church today!
USD 498 Board of Education Spotlight:
Mike Vermetten is in his 8th year of serving Valley Heights Schools as a member of the BOE. He and his wife, Stacy, live in Waterville and have four daughters; Shelby, who lives in Joplin, MO, Samantha is a student at KSU, and Madison and Mia attend VHHS. Mike also serves our community as the Undersheriff of the Marshall County Sheriff's Office. He enjoys camping, hiking and biking with his family.
When asked why he chooses to serve on the board he said, "because kids' futures matter!". Mike believes that seeing the district continuing to improve in the process of education with the youth of our community is the most rewarding part of his role on the board.
Mike, we appreciate your service to the students and staff of USD 498. You are an outstanding asset to our school and our community! Thank you!
How to watch the TVL tourney games this week. Girls in Frankfort and boys n Onaga. Both schools will use the NFHSnetwork for games in their main gym and their schools Facebook for games in their secondary gym.
The JH basketball games that were scheduled for tonight at Hanover have been canceled.
USD 498 Board of Education Spotlight:
Sharon Osborne in her 7th year as a Valley Heights Board of Education member and currently serves as the Vice President. She spent her career as an elementary teacher in our district, and lives in Blue Rapids with her husband, Dennis. They have two children; Jennifer Osborne Pishny lives at Lake Elbo, just east of Manhattan. Their son, Justin, lives in Omak, Washington. She enjoys reading and traveling in her spare time.
Sharon said she serves on the board because, "as a retired teacher, I am able to provide insight from an educator's perspective". She states that the most rewarding part of her role on the board is helping fellow board members as they strive to make decisions that are best for our students.
Sharon, we are so grateful to you for the many things you do for our district! Thank you for your service to USD 498!
USD 498 COVID-19 Update: Loving these LOW numbers!
Important Announcement: Due to water main issues there will be NO SCHOOL tomorrow, Thursday, January 14th for students in grades 7-12 at Valley Heights Jr./Sr. High School. Your basketball coaches will be contacting you regarding practice times.
Winter King and Queen of Courts Candidates this year are: Sophie Brungardt, Shyanne Carder, Makenzie Joseph, and Kayla Nemechek for queen. King candidates are Cesar Aguirre, Evan Haines, Josh Whelan, and Cade Zidek. Crowning will take place at 9:00 p.m. Saturday night during the dance, due to the game being postponed Thursday night. Parents of candidates are invited to come for the crowning. Congratulations to all candidates.
USD 498 Board of Education Spotlight:
David Vermetten currently serves as the president of the Valley Heights BOE and is in his 8th year as a board member. David and his family live in rural Waterville where he owns and operates his structural engineering business, VMT Engineering P.A. His wife, Suzie, is a kindergarten teacher for USD 498, and their son, Dawson is in the 6th grade at Blue Rapids Grade School. When he does have free time, he likes to spend as much time as he can with his family.
David summed up his boardsmanship as follows:
"I would not be the person I am today if not for the educational experience and care I received at Valley Heights. I serve as a thank you for what I received." He said the most rewarding part of his role on the board is watching students grow, succeed and ultimately graduate.
Thank you, David, for your consistent and dedicated service to USD 498 and our students! We appreciate you!
January is School Board Recognition Month, a great opportunity to say thank you to the Valley Heights Board of Education who are committed to the success of every student in our community.
Our board of education includes David Vermetten, Sharon Osborne, Robert Chase, Theresa Minihan, Melva Sanner, Mike Vermetten and John Walsh.
These seven community leaders volunteer hundreds of hours attending meetings, reading reports and discussing plans and programs to support educational achievement. Our board members develop policies and make complex decisions that shape the future of our education system. As you can see, a board member’s responsibility goes far behind the monthly meeting.
The administration and staff of USD 498 encourages the entire community to thank a school board member, not only this month but throughout the entire year. Please join with us in sharing our gratitude for these devoted community members who consistently go above and beyond to serve the entirety of Valley Heights schools!
Stay tuned to our social media and live feed as we feature each of our board of education members throughout the month of January!
Link for the high school basketball games tonight in Minneapolis.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNKYSH3sWMj3xssKyM-r9JQ/
Schedule @ Minneapolis tonight:
-Game Order/Times: 4:30-6:00-7:15
4:30pm New Gym- JVG, VG, VB
10 Minute Warmup Prior to JV/C Games 5-Halftime
15 Minute Warmup Prior to Varsity Games 10-Halftime
Livestream: We will be livestreaming all levels. All levels will be broadcast on
YouTube as well the varsity games will be given a second option with City Link.
YouTube Link-
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNKYSH3sWMj3xssKyM-r9JQ/
City Link Broadcast-
http://www.citylinktv.com/channel/minneapolis-high-school/
Happy Friday! First half day Friday of the semester!
#mustangproud
USD 498 COVID-19 Update:
Here is the livestream link for the HS basketball games at Troy Friday night. #MustangProud
https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/troy-high-school-troy-ks/gam0237b8295a
UD 498 COVID 19 Update
Just a quick reminder for our students, parents and patrons ~ The calendar changes that were voted upon in November will take effect this week, January 8, with a 12:30 dismissal each Friday for the entirety of the second semester. The Wednesday PLC early release days have been cancelled for the remainder of the school year.
USD 498 COVID-19 Update:
Happy New Year! 2021 is up and running and so is Colt's Round-Up afterschool! CRU will start back up Tuesday, January 5. We look forward to another successful semester of building character, relationships and having fun!
USD 498 COVID-19 Update:
USD 498 COVID-19 Update
Light up your vehicle or other transportation, if you choose, and come join the Christmas Cruise, sponsored by KAYS, NHS, FFA, and FCCLA. Santa will start the cruise, then be available in the bandstand for pictures (at a safe distance), along with Mrs. Claus, Rudolph and elves. Hot Cocoa, Candy Canes, and Gingerbread men will also be available. KNDY will be broadcasting for the event so tune in! See you Saturday night on the square!!
Valley Heights High School basketball make-up dates:
Jan. 26th at Doniphan West; Feb. 11th home vs Frankfort; Feb. 15th at Washington County.
USD 498 COVID-19 Update:
We weren't able to have Santa's Gift Shop this year but we want to make sure our Kindergarten - 6th grade families have a hand decorated "brown bag" under their tree! Thanks to our Colts Round-Up Afterschool Elves for helping decorate the bags! One student per family will be bringing one home tomorrow or Friday!
The Junior High basketball games scheduled for Thursday 12/17 with Frankfort have been canceled.
USD 498 COVID19 Update
USD 498 COVID19 Update:
To keep track of all the schedule changes for basketball this year, please visit our website. We will attempt to keep the schedules on here as updated as we can. https://www.valleyheights.org/athletics
Due to recent positive test results, our high school boys basketball team is in quarantine. The game scheduled for tonight vs. Frankfort and Friday night's game vs D West will be rescheduled.
USD 498 COVID 19 Update
USD 498 COVID 19 Update:
The monthly board meeting will be at the Valley Heights High School Library at 6PM tonight.
Due to the VH girls varsity team being quarantined, we will only have a boys varsity game on Tuesday. The game will start at 6:00.
USD 498 COVID19 Update:
We currently have two positive cases on the VHHS girls basketball team, and they have been placed in quarantine. Our Lady Mustangs will NOT be playing against Frankfort Tuesday evening or Doniphan West on Friday. With several pending COVID tests among our student body, please continue to check our social media and USD 498 website for updates on the status of the Junior and Senior High basketball games scheduled for this week.
We ask that you continue to practice all those things that have kept our numbers relatively low since Thanksgiving break......mask wearing, hand washing and social distancing. Let's enter into our Christmas break has healthy as we possibly can!
Agriculture Natural Resource Management class worked today to design their version of the water cycle.
Agriculture Natural Resource Management class worked today to design their version of the water cycle.
Mustang Fans, as you know by now KSHSAA is allowing only parents to start attending games. Masks and social distancing are required. All fans must enter through the front door of the building.
Adult tickets for JH games are $3 per person and $5 for HS games. Please bring exact change because we WILL NOT BE GIVING CHANGE. Any extra will be taken as a donation.
USD 498 COVID-19 Update
Tonight's BB Rosters.
Valley Heights - https://5il.co/nlvq
Marysville - https://5il.co/npac
Just a reminder to all Valley Heights supporters: you may view tonight's games that are being played at the high school on NFHS network. All games being played at the Blue Rapids gym can be viewed on Valley Heights Facebook Live.
USD 498 COVID-19 Update
Valley Heights KAYS and FCCLA are joining together with Rhonda Joseph from KSRE SNAP-Ed to help families in the community with a Christmas meal. There are two options, to either donate food, or a monetary donation to help families in need.
If you need a meal or know of any family that needs a Christmas meal, please contact Marcy Manley at 363-2508 or Rhonda Joseph at 458-2295.
To see the flyer, go to https://5il.co/nomu
USD 498 COVID-19 Update
To view the junior high basketball games on 12/7/20 in Linn, please search 'Linn Bulldogs Live' on YouTube. The games will be live streamed from their YouTube channel.
Anatomy students began the rabbit dissection project this week. Next week they will start identifying rabbit muscles and comparing them to human muscles. Student are off to an amazing start as you can see.
The Valley Heights Basketball Rosters can be viewed at:
JH BB - https://5il.co/nlvp
HS BB - https://5il.co/nlvq
USD 498 COVID-19 Update
It's hard to believe that in just a couple of weeks we will be ending our first semester of the 2020-2021 school year. We have appreciated the support you have given to our students, our teachers and our staff as we navigate through unchartered times. As we approach our mid-year break and prepare for the start of the second semester, we would appreciate receiving your responses and insight on the successes and challenges of the first half of our school year. Could you please take a few minutes as a parent, a community member or a patron to provide us with valuable feedback? Although this survey is anonymous, there is an opportunity for you to share your name and contact information if you choose. I would be more than happy to reach out and visit with you about your questions or concerns.
Please use the link below to complete the survey:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe7j2-v5OpREEr1_-9lILp7erXNNQrtPYdT2xNA2iniHgkThA/viewform?usp=sf_link
Thank you for taking the time to help us do the very best we can to meet the educational and social emotional needs of our students!
Melissa Kennedy
Superintendent of Schools
USD 498 COVID-19 Update
Help show your support for our basketball girls and boys by filling the stands! Purchase your Flat Fan through our technology and productions class by contacting kschreiner@valleyheights.org
#MustangProud #FillTheStands
The high school basketball games Friday, 11/4 at Riley County will be livestreamed on the following links. North Gym Live Stream: JV Girls, V Girls, V Boys https://www.facebook.com/events/817535715732715/: JV Boys https://www.facebook.com/events/217703083126907?acontext=%7B%22action_history%22%3A[%7B%22surface%22%3A%22page%22%2C%22mechanism%22%3A%22page_admin_bar%22%2C%22extra_data%22%3A%22%7B%5C%22page_id%5C%22%3A156210247762885%7D%22%7D%2C%7B%22surface%22%3A%22events_admin_tool%22%2C%22mechanism%22%3A%22events_admin_tool%22%2C%22extra_data%22%3A%22[]%22%7D]%2C%22has_source%22%3Atrue%7D
The JH basketball games tonight will all be livestreamed. Both gyms will start at 5:45 and will play A team followed by B team.
The girls games will be on the NFHS network at the following link. https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/valley-heights-high-school-blue-rapids-ks/gamf8a40381ce
The boys will be livestreamed on the VH facebook page at the following link. https://www.facebook.com/vhusd498
The USD 498 2020/2021 Reopening Plan and Remote Learning Handbook have been updated for the second semester. Updates include KSHSAA Winter Sports protocols, revised quarantine guidelines, and additional remote learning criteria. You can find these documents on our website under the Documents tab.
The direct link to the updated Reopening plan is: https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/1027887/USD__498_Reopening_Plan__1_.pdf
To access the Remote Learning Handbook, click here:
https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/1027890/USD_498_Remote_Learning_Handbook_.pdf
Please feel free to contact me should you have any questions.
Melissa Kennedy
Superintendent of Schools
USD 498 COVID-19 Update
Because there will not be Santa's Gift Shop on Thursday, December 3rd, there will be Colt's Round-Up as normal on that day.
Basketball season is finally upon us! As you know, the recent KSHSAA ruling prohibits any fan attendance through the months of December and January. However, we are happy to continue offering the opportunity for our parents and patrons to tune in from the comfort of their homes.
The games played at the VHHS gym will be available via live stream at the following link:
https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/schools/valley-heights-high-school-blue-rapids-ks
Games played in the Blue Rapids gym will be streamed via Facebook live on our district Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/vhusd498
Our first home event will be this Thursday night with our Junior High teams playing Washington County. Please stay tuned to our website and Facebook page for up to date playing and streaming times!
USD 498 COVID-19 Update:
On Tuesday, November 24th, the Board of Directors for the Kansas State High School Activities Association met to discuss and take action in regard to the Winter Activity Season. Attached is the press release following that meeting. Please note that NO SPECTATORS will be permitted for high school and middle school contests, December 1 through January 28th, 2021. We will be updating you with more information specific to our district soon. Please feel free to contact me with questions or concerns.
Melissa Kennedy
Superintendent of Schools
USD 498 COVID-19 Update:
We are very excited to have our Junior/Senior High School students back in the building today! In looking at our current COVID-19 data, it is easy to see that our numbers have dropped significantly and our percentage of quarantined students is back within a very manageable range. What we have learned throughout the course of this semester is that the spread is NOT happening in our schools. This is a testament to our teachers and staff and their diligence in following the recommended protocols, as well as keeping our facilities clean and sanitized. Thank you for doing your part by refraining from social gatherings, wearing masks and maintaining a safe social distance. After a much needed Thanksgiving break, we are glad to be back with our students and are hopeful for a successful conclusion to the first semester! Please feel free to contact me with if you have questions or concerns.
Melissa Kennedy
Superintendent of Schools
Let's always keep the spirit alive!
This year, perhaps more than ever, we are filled with gratitude for the love of our students, and the consistent support from our parents, patrons and community. Although the challenges of this school year are novel and trying, our spirits are lifted through the grace and understanding that is extended to us. We are #Mustang Proud!
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at USD 498!
We had another great group of volunteers Saturday for recycling! Love seeing our students make a difference!!!
A reminder that there is no school for all of USD 498 this week! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
USD 498 COVID-19 Update
There will be no meals served next week, November 23rd - 27th. Have a great Thanksgiving break. We look forward to seeing everyone on the 30th.
USD 498 COVID-19 Update
Good Morning Valley Heights!
With the increase of positive COVID-19 cases we need to be more diligent with the the types of mask and proper mask wearing. The proper placement of a mask is to cover both the nose and mouth. We will no longer allow neck gaitors or bandanas to be worn, as for most of those are NOT 2ply. The approved mask are procedural mask, surgical mask, KN95, N95 or mask with 2 layers of washable, breathable fabric. If you do not have one of the approved masks or questions please feel free to email me at: jvathauer@valleyheights.org
Thank you for your compliance!
USD 498 COVID-19 Update
USD 498 COVID-19 Update:
Effective November 16, 2020, the Marshall County Health Department announced Updated Contact Tracing and Exclusion of Contacts in a low risk school setting. What this changes for our district quarantine protocols is summarized here:
Wearing of Masks Exclusion Protocol
Mask wearing has been shown to be an effective way to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Individuals who are wearing masks and are in close contact (6 feet for 10 minutes or more) with an infectious individual wearing a mask are considered low risk for contracting COVID-19. Because schools have policies and monitoring capabilities for mask wearing, Marshall County Health Department does not recommend excluding students and staff who are close contacts of a COVID-19 positive individual, as long as masks were being worn correctly (covering nose and mouth) and in what is otherwise considered to be a low risk exposure. In those situations, quarantine of close contacts would not be required. Individuals who were unmasked within 6 feet for 10 consecutive minutes or more or participated in a high-risk activity with a COVID-19 positive individual during their infectious period, or who were directly exposed to respiratory droplets/excretions for any amount of time, will be excluded for 14 days from their last interaction with the individual. I have also attached the Health Department Risk Exposure definitions.
This means that proper and consistent mask wearing DOES make a difference, and it will significantly reduce the number of students in our district placed in quarantine IF MASKS ARE WORN CORRECTLY AND WITH FIDELITY! If you have any questions about this information, or any other district matters, please feel free to contact me at the district office. Thank you!
Melissa Kennedy
Superintendent of Schools
Unfortunately we were not able to have our book fair in person this year due to the Covid 19 and guidelines. We are however having an online book fair in its place. Our fair will be running until November 22nd, 2020.
Scholastic has come up with a way for you to even visit our "fair" as it would've been, if it were here in our very own gym!!
I have included the link below that will take you direct to our online virtual fair. All orders are shipped direct to your homes and offer free shipping for all orders over $25. This is a great time to order books for Christmas or for that car ride if you are going out of town over any of the upcoming holidays!!
If you have any questions at all or need assistance with the fair and ordering please let me know: Candice Brooks (785) 363 2530
https://bookfairs.scholastic.com/bookfairs/cptoolkit/homepage.do?method=homepage&url=valleyheightselementary1
USD 498 COVID-19 Update: Monday, November 16, 2020
USD 498 COVID-19 Update:
I have included below an open letter from the Kansas COVID Workgroup for Kids. I can assure you that I agree with the message it shares. In analyzing the positive cases in our district, the heart of the outbreak within our school is from positive direct contacts outside of our buildings. Our teachers and staff have done an outstanding job of keeping students safe in our buildings ~ mandatory masks, frequent hand washing, exceptional sanitation and social distancing. We are following the protocols necessary to prevent the spread of this virus from within!
We want nothing more than for our students to be with us in our buildings each and every day. We know remote learning is not best for kids, and that segregation from teachers and peers is hard on their social emotional well-being. Quarantines, contact tracing, serving and delivering lunches, staff shortages, remote learning , etc. Our system is being taxed in ways that are unprecedented, and the toll on both our physical and human resources is unparalleled.
We need your help. We want our students back on November 30! They need us, and we miss them! Our behaviors over the next two weeks will determine how successfully we can make it through the remainder of the semester. Please take extra precautions for you and your family's health. Stay healthy, stay safe and stay home!
Melissa Kennedy
Superintendent of Schools
USD 498 COVID-19 Update:
In the table below is the most current and specific information for COVID19 within the Valley Heights district. Thank you all for doing your part in supporting our students and staff as we navigate through these challenging times. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Melissa Kennedy
Superintendent of Schools
We regret to inform you that we will not be having Colt's Round-Up next week, November 16 - November 19. This decision was not arrived at easily however with recent events we have been limited with staffing and to assure the health and best interests of both our students and staff we will be cancelling Colt's Round-Up and resuming on Monday, November 30 with our normal schedule.
USD 498 COVID-19 Update:
This morning, Thursday, November 12, we received word that two Waterville Elementary students have tested positive for COVID-19. Our district health nurse, with assistance from the Marshall County Health Department, did the appropriate contact tracing. All families have been notified and those with direct contact have been placed in quarantine. At this time our district has now had 27 positive cases. We ask that you continue to practice health department protocols of mask wearing, social distancing and frequent hand washing. Our goals remain the same, to keep our elementary schools open and return our middle school and high school students back to on-site learning. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at the district office.
Melissa Kennedy
Superintendent of Schools
USD 498 Students, Parents and Patrons,
At their monthly board meeting last night, the USD 498 Board of Education voted to alter the 2020-2021 school calendar as follows:
Thanksgiving break has been extended to include Monday, November 23rd and Tuesday, November, 24th. There will be no school the week of November 22, and all district students will return to on-site learning on Monday, November 30th.
Effective January 1, 2021, all PLC early release Wednesday's will be cancelled, and we will instead release every Friday of second semester at 12:30 p.m.
We want to give you a heads up on these changes so you have ample time to alter your calendars and make necessary changes in your schedules. We appreciate your understanding as we continue to adjust and adapt through these unprecedented times.
USD 498 COVID-19 Update: As of this evening, Monday, November 9 at 8:00 p.m. our district has a total of 25 positive COVID cases. These continue to be VHHS students and staff members. Please avoid social gatherings, wear masks, wash your hands thoroughly and often, and practice social distancing whenever possible. It is also important that quarantined individuals stay at home and adhere to the recommendations of the Marshall County Health Department. We really want our VHHS kids back in school with us, and to keep our elementary students in their classrooms each day. Thank you for helping us keep our schools safe and our students learning!
Melissa Kennedy
Superintendent
USD 498 COVID19 Update: As of this morning, Friday, November 5 at 11:00 a.m., our district has a total of 21 positive COVID cases. These remain to be among students and staff of the VHHS building. Please continue to practice the protocols of mask wearing, social distancing and frequent handwashing. Contact the Marshall County Health Department if you or a family member begin to exhibit COVID symptoms. Have a great weekend, and thank you for putting the safety and continued learning of our students first!
Melissa Kenney
Superintendent
USD 498 COVID19 Update:
As of this morning, Wednesday, November 4 at 9:00 a.m., our district has a total of 20 positive COVID cases. Currently all of these are among the students and staff of the VHHS building. Our elementary buildings, although affected by quarantine due to positive contacts, remain COVID free. Our primary goal at this time is to continue on-site learning for our elementary buildings, as we know remote learning is even more challenging for elementary students and their families. Please help us! We ask that you diligently wear your masks and practice social distancing. If you or a household member exhibits symptoms of COVID19, please contact the Marshall County Health Department and communicate transparently with our school health nurse. Contact tracing is essential at this time in containing the spread in our district and community, and we want to extend a huge thank you to those that are abiding by the isolation and quarantine guidelines. Let's continue to do our part in keeping our students and staff safe!
I will continue to update bi-weekly to ensure transparency and that our parents and patrons stay informed.
The USD 498 Special Board meeting to address COVID19 within our district will held in the VHHS Commons tonight, November 2, at 6:00 p.m. Social Distancing will be practiced, and a mask will be mandatory upon entry. We have made this meeting available via Zoom at the following link:
https://zoom.us/j/98661962951?pwd=ZkN6aVgvQUxNZENNa0dOSXYwZjhYQT09
Meeting ID: 986 6196 2951
Passcode: 5V7sMH
Reminder - lunches will be served curbside for 7th - 12th grade students from 11:30 - 12:30 at the Waterville Elementary bus stop and Blue Rapids Gym. This will continue throughout their remote learning dates. If delivery arrangements are needed, please contact the High School 785-363-2508.
Due to the increase of our numbers of COVID 19 cases in the community we would like to remind you of some current CDC guidelines. If you or your child are going to, or have been tested please contact the school to let us know. You will need to keep your child or children at home until you receive a negative test result. The only exception would be if you are tested regularly due to you being a health care/essential worker. If your child is sick or showing symptoms you need to keep them home. For more information please click on the following link:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/quarantine.html
Happy Halloween from the Kindergarten students!
There will be a Special Board Meeting, Monday, November 2nd at 6PM at the High School in the commons area. Masks will be mandatory.
Class of 2023-Your class ring orders are now due NOVEMBER 6th. The high school office will have a ring sizer here at the beginning of next week. If you need to get your finger sized before ordering, please come out to the high school for this. Mrs D. will be collecting your orders at the office or you may go ahead and order online if you wish. Must have $75 for a down payment to order your ring. Again class ring orders are due NOVEMBER 6th!!!
Class of 2021--We have gotten the order date for Jostens changed. Orders are now due November 6th!!!! You can just bring your orders to the high school. I will collect them and get them all sent off for you. You may order online as well. Your choice!! Again Josten's Senior orders are DUE NOVEMBER 6th!
There has been a significant rise in the number of COVID-19 cases in our junior and senior high school over the course of the past few days, which results in even more students being placed in quarantine. The district administration, along with the Marshall County Health Department, has made the difficult decision to enter into a remote learning environment for our middle school and high school students effective immediately. These students will return to school on-site on Monday, November 30th. It is important to note that this is strictly the VHHS building, and DOES NOT affect the elementary schools, as both the Waterville and Blue Rapids grade schools will continue to operate as usual. Lunches/breakfasts will be available for pick-up between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. at the Blue Rapids gym or the south door of the Waterville Grade School. Please go to the location in the town in which you reside. Delivery is possible if you are quarantined or lack the means for in-person pick-up by calling the high school or district office. All extra curricular activities, including athletics are postponed until further notice. We will continue to keep you informed and appreciate your understanding as we navigate through these challenging decisions.
National FFA Convention looks slightly different this year being all virtual. Today the greenhands watch the opening ceremony in their Agriscience class. Congratulations to Brady Trimble who received his American FFA Degree (only about 1% of FFA members acheive this degree).
Lady Mustangs Beat Sacred Heart In three sets
And beat Marion in two sets
And we're in the Sub-state Championship
Go Mustangs
Here is the link to watch the livestream of Sub-State Volleyball tomorrow. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCry0OWR1pyQF_17jHdO4Pew
#MustangProud #LadyMustangs
Here is the link to watch the football game at Northern Heights Friday. https://fb.me/e/4hdppgooi
There are 40 tickets available for the FB game at Northern Heights on Friday. If you would like one please call the high school 785-363-2508 to get your name on the list. Once your name is on the list you will be able to purchase a ticket when you get to the game.
Here is the Sub-State Volleyball bracket. #MustangProud http://www.kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Volleyball/2ASub-State.cfm?Activity=5&Class=5&WeekID=4729
5th Graders created inventions or innovations. Great job! #MustangProud
There will be a limited number of tickets available for the football game Friday at Northern Heights. After the players families, we will open up the remaining tickets to the public. Be on the lookout for another post letting you know how you can get them.
UPDATE: Valley Heights USD #498 is pleased to announce that the USDA approved another Waiver that is extending FREE breakfast and lunches for ALL students until the end of the school year!! When kids eat school meals it helps your budget and ours – it’s a Win for all! If you have any questions, please let us know
You can livestream the Championship rounds of the TVL volleyball tournament on www.nfhsnetwork.com. The first game can be found at the following link. https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/washington-county-high-school-washington-ks/gam55f1478920
Valley Heights has had our first positive case of COVID within our schools. A middle school student has tested positive and close contact tracing is currently going on. If you do not receive a call from the VH Administration or the Marshall County Health Dept., you are not considered a direct contact. Contact tracing should hopefully be completed by this evening. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the district office.
Today 4th grade began converting units in terms of capacity. They got to measure the capacity of a beaker using water and recognize the relationship between milliliters and liters. They are adding and subtracting using these units. #grade4math #mustangproud
Congratulations to the Junior High volleyball team for winning the BVL tournament. Great job ladies!!
There will NOT be a JV football game tonight due to to a lack of players available to participate.
Today in Interactive Media, students Escaped the Classroom! They followed clues, entered codes, and beat the clock! Some were not so lucky! #MustangProud
Today in Interactive Media, students Escaped the Classroom! They followed clues, entered codes, and beat the clock! #MustangProud
Shout out to our Valley Heights Community, students and staff for braving the breezy conditions to help recycle!!
#MustangProud
Final score
Final score with 11 men only GO MUSTANGS
Second grade students are learning about place value in Math.
Kinderprep through 2nd grade students were visited by the Waterville Fire Department for Fire Prevention Month! Thank you to Chief Dane Parker and Fireman Logan Woodyard!
Today October 16th Valley Heights Schools will have 12:00 pm dismissal.
There will be NO lunch served.
Congratulations to Aiden Nemechek and Payton Woodyard on a solid showing at the league cross country meet yesterday. Payton placed 24th and Aiden 50th.
The Valley Heights football game at Jackson Heights will be live streamed on YouTuibe at the following link. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJCWBOOD6ilXYucR1KcjK9Q
The Valley Heights athletic director was contacted this morning by the Republic County Health Department instructing our junior high football players to enter quarantine until Friday, October 23rd. The Mustang junior high football team played against Republic County on Thursday, October 8th, two days prior to the onset of symptoms of the two positive cases, which is within the contagious window. We will follow the protocols set forth by our local health departments. Although parents and siblings are not required to quarantine, we do ask that you contact the Marshall County Health Department at (785)562-3485 if you or your child(ren) exhibit any symptoms of COVID19. As always, we appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Please continue to wear masks and social distance whenever possible. We would like to extend a huge thank you to the Marshall County and Republic County Health Departments, our athletic director Mr. Tony Trimble, and our school nurse, Jenna Vathauer, for their quick response and ensuring our students stay informed and safe.
10/13/2020- Volleyball for tonight's games versus D-West/Wetmore do not have limited seating. We will have varsity games at the high school and JV games at the elementary so more seating will be available. Please be diligent about wearing your mask!
CORRECTION: Flu clinic at VHHS is Thursday October 15th.
Just a reminder that there will be limited entry into the volleyball games tonight, October 12, here at Valley Heights. If you do not have a voucher, you will not be able to have access to the games.
Reminder of the Flu Shot Clinic tomorrow October 13th! Please send forms back with the student.
Blue Rapids 9:45-11:00AM in the gym
Waterville 1:30-2:30PM
If questions contact me at:
jvathauer@valleyheights.org or Marshall County Health Dept @ 785-562-3485
**VHHS will be on Wednesday October 15th 7:30-9:30AM those forms are located in the office or you can print one the Marshall County Health Department website:
www.marshallcohealth.org under the forms tab- vaccination consent
Flu immunization clinic Tuesday,October 13 at the Blue Rapids Elementary from 9:45 to 11:00.
More images of the Mustang harriers yesterday at Riley County.
#MustangProud
The Mustang CC team had a sprightly showing at the Riley County cross country meet yesterday. Amidst a plethora of talent the placings were as follows: Kloee Martin 21st, Logan Gray 4th, Hudson Nemechek 5th, Dustin Denton 13th, Kebeb Zimmerman 14th and Payton Woodyard 71st.
Valley Heights is needing some volunteers to assist with some upcoming extra-curricular activities. If you are interested in helping, please send Tony Trimble an email at the following address: ttrimble@valleyheights.org
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
Great day for some kick ball. #MustangProud
Valley Heights Jr/Sr High School staff and admin would like to thank the parents and students for their participation in the fall Student Success Meetings. The junior high had participation from 71 of the 74 students and parents. The high school had participation from 93 of the 108 students and parents. This gives our Mustang family a 91% attendance rate! Great job and thank you for your support!
There will be limited attendance for the JH volleyball games tonight. If you do not have a voucher you will not be able to buy a ticket. Masks are required at all indoor activities. The football game will still have no limit on attendance.
Valley Heights would like to thank the employees at Community Memorial Healthcare for their donation of two cases of Kleenex’s for our school!
Just a reminder, Jr/Sr High Student Success Meetings will be tomorrow, Monday, Oct. 5 and Wednesday, Oct. 7 in the high school gym, starting at 5:30 pm. Your scheduled time was sent in the progress report earlier. Please remember to wear your masks and limit participation to the parents and student, no siblings please, unless absolutely necessary. We look forward to seeing you and sharing the accomplishments of our students!
Congratulations to Aiden Nemechek and Payton Woodyard on a great showing at the Centralia cross country meet this morning. Payton placed 24th and Aiden 65th!
Today is National Custodians Day! We have the very BEST and we appreciate them so much for all they do to keep our buildings clean and safe.!
Game day!
Updated Homecoming Parade information!
There has been an addition to the volleyball schedule. C Team volleyball will play in a quad on Thursday, October 8th beginning at 5:00 pm in Sabetha.
Here is the Homecoming parade route and the order of the floats that will be in the parade. If you have any questions, please contact VHHS!
The JH games that were scheduled at Washington County Thursday 10/1 have been CANCELLED. Valley Heights Jr High will still play but will travel to Clifton instead to play Clifton-Clyde. A team VB will start at 4:30 followed by B team VB. The FB game will start at 6:30.
The volleyball games at Linn tonight have had some changes. Washington County will no longer be playing in the triangular. VH will begin playing JV VB against Linn at 5:00 and Varsity will play following the JV. Games will still be at Linn High School.
Congratulations Mustang cross country team on a great meet last night in Washington. Placings are as follows: Kebeb Zimmerman 13th, Dustin Denton 5th, Hudson Nemechek 2nd, Logan Gray 1st, Kloee Martin 7th and Peyton Woodyard placed 21st! Great job Mustang runners!
Homecoming Parade Information
On Friday, October 2nd the Valley Heights Homecoming Parade will be held in Waterville at 2:30pm. Waterville Elementary 1st and 2nd graders will walk up to main street and watch the parade with their class. Blue Rapids Elementary will not be attending the parade this year. We are working on the possibility of students being able to watch the homecoming activities remotely from school. If your child is not scheduled to go to the homecoming parade and you so desire him/her to go then you as a parent will have to make arrangements to pick up your child from school. If you have any questions please contact your child’s school.
Waterville Grade School: (785) 363 2530 Blue Rapids Elementary: (785) 363 7693
Check out downtown Waterville! The Art Club painted windows for homecoming!
Due to Covid precautions, Valley Heights Jr/Sr High will only release students that are directly involved in the homecoming parade on Friday. If you wish for your student to attend the parade, you must call in to the high school before 3:30 on Thursday and give permission for them to leave for the parade. Students will not be allowed to leave before 2pm on Friday. Please call sooner than later. Thank you for your cooperation.
Sophomore class would like to thank Parker Seed for the use of their shop to build the 2020 Homecoming float. #hoco2020 #parkerseed #sophomoreclass
Natural Resources class is learning about what makes up an ecosystem. To determine what bug biodiversity exists in the ecosystem around school students designed and installed collection traps.
REMINDER: We will not have Colt's Round-Up after-school on Monday, September 28th or Wednesday, September 30th because of Pre-K thru 6th grade student success meetings.
CRU will operate as normal Tuesday the 29th and Thursday the 1st.
Go check out the artwork outside the Blue Rapids Clinic! The art club decorated the sidewalks for nurse appreciation week! The kids did an AMAZING job!
REMINDER: MUSTANG CHEER KIDDIE CLINIC: October 9th
If you have not signed your kiddo up for the cheer clinic but would still like to, please click on the link below. Payment must be sent in with your kiddo's to school by Sept 30th. If you have any questions please feel free to contact your building secretary or Katlen Schreiner at kschreiner@valleyheights.org
https://forms.gle/Jnvt1gkGmKaVmMKV9
Kindergarten had a bucket calf and a rabbit come to visit them this week to learn about how to take care of pets!
Congratulations to the JH XC runners at Washington! VH JH boys finished 1st Logan Gray, 2nd Hudson Nemechek, 4th Dustin Denton, and 11th Kebeb Zimmerman. Girls had Kloee Martin finish 7th!
Interested in having a float in the Homecoming Parade? Please click on the link to see the details for having a float in the parade. Community members are encouraged to participate.
https://5il.co/l86j
The JV football game on Monday will now start at 5:30 instead of 6:00. #MustangProud
Halfte score at Horton
Tonight's football game at Horton will be live streamed. For instructions on how to connect, click the following link. https://5il.co/l5it
To watch tonight's football game live stream: Go to http://rainbow-live if you are a new customer it is free until Oct. 1st. Use the username: rainbowLIVE and the Password: Free2020 Hit login and it will take you to Rainbow LIVE. Click on the "LIVE" tab to watch the game.
Checking out Bellus Academy with students considering cosmetology!
KAY members help distribute food in Waterville this morning for Harvesters. Great work guys!! You are awesome!!
REMINDER: Tomorrow Wednesday, 16th is a district wide early dismissal! Kprep - 6th grade parents will need to fill out the below form by clicking on the link, if you have not done so via Bloomz for your child’s dismissal instructions. Thank you!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdaaAxkdoBXc7iN2CN_nAyi0UO2ivIpr-88bfoBWfP60quJVg/viewform?usp=sf_link
Come join our Mustang Family and cheer on the VH Girls Volleyball teams tonight as they take on Axtell and Troy. Varsity games are at 4,5, and 7 at the high school. Jr Varsity will play at 4 and 6 in Blue Rapids. We will also have a C team game tonight at Blue Rapids at 7. Come join us and celebrate Parents Night too.
Reminder: Monday, Sept 14 is JH/HS Picture Day. School pics and sports pics will be done. Dress your best and don’t forget your uniforms! It’s also good to comb your hair!
High School Volleyball scores at Clay Center. Lost to Great Bend 25-19, 16-25, 17-25. Lost to Clay Center 15-25, 17-25. Won against Chapman 17-25, 28-26, 25-17. Won against Chapman 25-20, 25-15.
Saturday's Riley County VB Tournament will be played at Clay Center High School. You must have a tournament voucher to enter the gymnasiums for the tournament, it is not open to the general public. If you are attending, masks must be worn at the entrance and when unable to social distance.
The following will be the VH schedule:
9:00 - VH vs Great Bend (District Gym)
Followed by: VH vs Clay Center (HS Gym)
Followed by: VH vs Chapman (District Gym)
Followed by: Bracket play
The game will also be live streamed through the Clay Center YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSDt0DuzCHPkG15UnN8c64w
The Cross Country meet at Washington County that was scheduled for tomorrow has been postponed due to weather. We will let you know when that meet will be rescheduled once we have that information.
Great night for some Friday night lights 🏈💜
The Agriculture Natural Resource class spent the afternoon outside identifying plants and insects in the fields around school.
The Agriculture Natural Resource class spent the afternoon outside identifying plants and insects in the fields around school.
The Sixth Graders are trying to determine the effects of Hydrogen Peroxide on turnip seeds. Various amounts were added to water and we are observing the growth of the turnip seeds for two weeks! #MustangProud
Tune in to the VH Facebook Live Video in about 15 minutes for a wonderful performance! Starts at 3:00!
Cross country competed in their first meet Thursday in Concordia. The young, inexperienced runners did a great job! Here are the results:
JH Girls: Kloee Martin=24th
JH Boys: Hudson Nemechek=2nd, Jay Esslinger=15th, Kebeb Zimmerman=18th, Drayton Browning=36th
HS Girls: Payton Woodyard=26th, Charity Williams=30th
HS Boys= Aiden Nemechek=39th, Torrance Crook=40th
Great start to XC!
I forgot to attache the link.
https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/marysville-high-school-marysville-ks/gam4d409f88a5
You can watch the live stream of the HS football game tonight at Marysville. #MustangProud
Junior High Football beat Hanover tonight 46-0 in their season opener.
#Mustang proud.
Reminder - there will be no food or drinks allowed in the gymnasium for any athletic activity hosted at Valley Heights High School!
Valley Heights USD #498 is thrilled to announce that the USDA approved a Waiver which will allow both breakfast and lunch to be FREE for ALL students starting September 4th! The waiver to serve free meals goes until 12/31/2020 or until USDA funds run out. Your student’s participation is critical! When kids eat school meals it helps your budget and ours – it’s a Win for all!
If you have any questions, please let us know.
Masks won't stop us from working together to solve a problem! The Sixth Graders were looking for answers for our Social Studies questions in their papers. #MustangProud
Go to the following website to get a subscription to watch Valley Heights Jr/Sr High School activities being live streamed. Many of the league schools are also streaming activities when we play at their location. You can search for their school and watch with your subscription as well. Your subscription allows you to watch any activity in the country being live streamed on the NFHS website.
https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/schools/valley-heights-high-school-blue-rapids-ks
Valley Height Fall Sports Covid protocols for home games.
Kids outside and the band starts practicing the National Anthem. #MustangProud #ProudToBeAnAmerican #Respect
Volleyball at Onaga
VH 25 25
Onaga 16 16
VH 25 25
FHS 14 15
Football tickets for the football game in Marysville will go on sale to the general public at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 2nd for Valley Heights patrons. Tickets will be limited to maximum 4 tickets per family or number of immediate family members in the household. Tickets are $5 per adult and $3 per student. Exact change or personal check (made out to VH) will be accepted. Tickets must be purchased at the front doors of the high school and no reserves will be taken.
Change in Times for Volleyball today (at Onaga):
VH Volleyball times for this evening have changed.
South Gym: 3:45-VH vs Frankfort, 5:00-Onaga vs VH, 6:00 Frankfort vs VH.
North Gym: 5:00-Onaga vs VH, 6:00-Frankfort vs VH
Valley Heights will be allowed 150 tickets for the HS FB game in Marysville this week. Once the players families have purchased theirs, the remaining tickets will be available starting Wednesday morning on a first come first serve basis. $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for students. You can purchase your tickets in the HS office.
ALL TICKETS WILL BE PRE-SOLD. NO WALK UP TICKETS.
ALL FANS WILL ENTER ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE STADIUM (OFF 12 TH STREET-DUE TO CONSTRUCTION).
FANS ARE EXPECTED TO FOLLOW ALL OF THE USD 364 COVID GUIDELINES AND PROTOCOLS.
-Masks must be worn at the gate to gain entry into the stadium.
-Spectators are required to follow social distancing guidelines.
-Spectators can remove mask if social distancing can be followed.
-Masks will be required if needed to enter the school for restrooms or concession stand.
- Spectators will not be allowed on the field/track or near teams before, after and during play.
- Concessions will be limited to drinks and pre-packaged items.
VH Volleyball Fans. September 1st Volleyball at Onaga. Here is some information for you to follow if attending the games Tuesday night.
https://5il.co/kfbd
Valley Heights Girls, Girl Scouts are not cancelled!
Live Feed link to the Marysville Volleyball Tournament. VH girls start play at 9am. www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=133410240185179&ref=br rs. Hope you all will tune in.
Reminder to parents of Kinder-prep through 6th graders, Wednesday, August 26 is the final day to register for Colt's Round-Up afterschool program.
https://forms.gle/NN6YncS317uRjH376
Due to COVID restrictions and minimal opportunities for collaboration, the VHHS Goal Setting Night scheduled for Monday, August 31st, has been cancelled. Information from Goal Setting Night will be included into the Student Success Meetings. Thank you for your understanding!
Ms. Jayne Whitson and Miss Jenna teach Mrs Tryon’s class about proper hand washing.
Due to the football Jamboree being cancelled, the VHHS football team will be having a Gatorade scrimmage this Friday 8/28 at 6:00. Please bring bottles of Gatorade for the team to use throughout the season. #MustangProud #FootballFamily
What a great group of kids. I’m extremely proud to have such great selfless kids in our school. The Valley Heights football managers are working hard to keep our players safe. After every drill they are disinfecting the equipment and getting it ready for the next drill. #MustangProud
Sixth Grade STEM Challenge - How high can you build a spaghetti marshmallow tower in 15 minutes? The children did fantastic!! The winner was 18 1/2 inches tall! #mustangproud
We are so excited to get students back into the building to kick off our 2020-2021 school year! Many of you are familiar with our after school program known as Colt's Round-Up (CRU). We are getting a little later start this year than normal but we are happy to release our first semester online registration. Students will attend CRU in Blue Rapids or Waterville Elementary based upon their home address. They must be onsite learners and students will ride their normal bus at the end of the school day. There will be no transportation at 5:30 when CRU dismisses.
Please fill out a form for each student who will be attending. Registration will close after August 26th.
https://forms.gle/hxfu1egcQx6Yf3So9
Loved seeing all my masked bandits in third grade today!
The VH Community Appreciation Night is going to be postponed from 8/21/2020. When a new date is established, it will be communicated. The volleyball scrimmage for 8/21/2020 does begin at 5:15.
Blue Rapids building start of school letter
Good morning Valley Heights Junior/Senior High School students and parents. As we begin the 2020 school year, we are in unprecedented times with the COVID virus. These times are requiring safety measures that no student, parent, teacher, or administrator have wished for. With these safety measures, all changes will continue to be re-evaluated and modified to maximize the safety of our students while ensuring students continue to receive the best educational opportunities available.
Please review a few of the procedural changes with your child prior to school beginning. Teachers will give more details to the students during the first day of school.
Masks will be required at all times when social distancing can not happen.
Students are encouraged to enter the building after 7:45 a.m. and must report to their first period classroom. If gym bags or musical instruments are needing to be dropped off in their respective areas, students should drop them off and immediately report to their 1st period class. Breakfast will be available during the 1st period class.
Students in grades 7, 8, & 9 should enter through the front main door. Students in grades 10, 11, & 12 should enter through the back door by Mrs. Coon's room. If you are riding with siblings, students should enter the door with the oldest sibling.
Temperature checks and hand sanitizer will be required upon entry into the school.
Between each class, students need to report directly to their next class period.
For a full look at the VH Reopening Plan, please visit the school's website.
Finally, the first day of school will be a 'Purple' day. So please report to your P1 class. Friday will be a grey day.
Don't forget back to school night!
Transportation reminders
Grateful to be back at it with a great staff and fall sports returning. #MustangProud #AttitudeOfGratitude
Grateful for a beautiful view from the high school! #MustangProud #AttitudeofGratitude @mischelmiller @VHSupt @USD498
Back to school night information! #Mustang
If you are having a hard time finding Lysol/Clorox wipes for the school supply list, please do not worry about bringing them to school!
Just a reminder about the All Fall Sports patent meeting tonight @6:00 at the FB stadium. Individual teams will meet following the group meeting. Please bring a mask in case your group meets in the building. #MustangProud
#MustangProud - Staff is excited to be back at Valley Heights!
Good week of conditioning camp so far! #MustangProud
Thank you Maecyn G., Emma Y., Abigail S., Mr. Kenworthy and Mrs. Haefke for helping at 7th grade orientation tonight! I appreciate you so much. Also, thank you to all the 7th graders and parents that came out for the evening! We are going to make it a great year!! #MustangProud
Mrs. M 😊
Reminder that 7th Grade and new student orientation will be at the high school tonight at 6:30 pm. Masks will be required.
We will be hosting an ALL FALL SPORTS parents meeting Thursday August 13th at 6:00 pm at the football stadium. After the all sports meeting, we will break up into individual sports for those parent meetings. Please bring you child's physical form if you have not already turned it into the office. Hope to see you all there! We have lots of new and important items to discuss.
Mrs. Coon is in the process of selecting the All School Play and needs to know how many Freshman through Seniors will be trying out. If you could contact her by email at Lcoon@valleyheights.org to let her know she would really appreciate it. She is leaning towards a western melodrama.
Back to school message from Valley Heights Jr./Sr. High Principal, Chad Kenworthy.
Back to school message from Valley Heights Elementary Principal, Robert Green.
Message from Valley Heights Superintendent, Melissa Kennedy.
Early Childhood Screening Thursday, August 20th, 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm at Waterville Elementary. https://5il.co/j8e4
Clarification on face mask...
If your child chooses to wear their own they have be double layered. If they want to wear a gaiter, like the one pictured in earlier post, it has to be doubled layered as well. So basically any mask that they want to wear it has to have 2 layers. Sorry for the confusion. If any further questions feel free to contact to me at jvathauer@valleyheights.org
Attention Parents and Guardians: The deadline to opt for On-Site or Remote Learning for the start of the 2020 school year was Monday, August 3rd. If you have not yet completed the form, please do so at the following link:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfV3ZggGkH8yiwQWSmzRD6jHQu55cmVqtTRCdMoSp2lnrjw7w/viewform?usp=sf_link
Looking for Substitute Teachers for the upcoming 2020 school year!! Click on the link below for the credentials needed to apply for the license.
https://www.ksde.org/Agency/Division-of-Learning-Services/Teacher-Licensure-and-Accreditation/Licensure/License-Requirements/Emergency-Substitute-License-Requirements
Valley Heights is looking for volunteers with Training and/or background in the medical field (nurse, EMT, etc.) that would be interested in assisting our nursing staff with isolation room coverage at our buildings. If interested please contact Central Office (785)363-2398 or Jenna Vathauer- jvathauer@valleyheights.org
Reminder for the kids that need to get up to date on vaccinations! If you aren’t sure if your child is current on vaccinations feel free to contact me at jvathauer@valleyheights.org or the Marshall County Health Department at 785-562-3485
Just a reminder that Valley Heights Food Service will not be serving meals until school starts.
Valley Heights will be providing several cloth masks for each student this year, parents will be responsible to wash and make sure your child wears them to school each day. If you choose to send your child with their own mask, it has to be double layered as well as a face gaiter (For the gaiter it has to be two layers, either folded or made with two layers, see image for what a gaiter is).
Spread the word!
Class of 2025, this coming year’s 8th graders, don’t forget to watch the upcoming NASA launch of the Mars rover, Perseverance. Remember, your names and boarding passes are onboard! Countdown begins July 30th!!!
Here is the link to view the Reopening Plan: https://5il.co/iotx
Here is the link for the Fall 2020 Learning Option form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfV3ZggGkH8yiwQWSmzRD6jHQu55cmVqtTRCdMoSp2lnrjw7w/viewform
Valley Heights Graduation 2020 is today at 11:00 AM at the Valley Heights Football Stadium. You can view the Scholarship list and Senior Video at https://www.valleyheights.org/graduation-2020--20
The graduation will be live-streamed on the Valley Heights Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/vhusd498
The day is FINALLY here, Graduation Day 2020!
Below are a few of the details for attending the graduation ceremony:
Ceremony will be on the VH football field beginning at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 25.
Attendees are highly encouraged to wear masks and/or keep social distancing between families.
Please remain in your seat for the duration of the ceremony. The VH journalism staff will provide two photographers to take pictures during the ceremony. All pictures will be shared through the VH Facebook page. You are more than welcome to save any pictures that are taken.
There will not be a congratulatory processional line following the graduation ceremony.
Finally, we will be using Facebook Live to stream the ceremony. We recognize that not all family members and guests feel comfortable traveling or attending larger groups. It will be available through Facebook Live.
Double FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Chicken Patty on Bun Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Chicken & Waffles Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
2020 VH Graduates. Reminder that graduation practice is Thursday, 5:00 pm at the football field. If you are participating in the graduation ceremony, you need to be at practice.
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Corn Dog Today!!
Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
There will be NO lunches served July 27th - July 31st.
We will start back up on August 3rd - August 28th, serving Monday through Thursday, with double meals on Thursday's.
FREE for ages 1-18!
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! BBQ Rib on Bun Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
Double FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Beef Fritter on Bun Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
Greetings Valley Heights Families!
As many of you may have heard, Laura Kelly, the Governor of Kansas announced yesterday an executive decision to postpone the first day of school until after the Labor Day holiday. Although this does delay our actual return date, we are still planning on getting our enrollment and preparatory work started. Under the current conditions, this planning and preparation for back-to-school looks very different than it has in years past. As our country, state, county and communities continue to navigate the complexities of the COVID19 pandemic, USD 498 is in the process of developing an educational plan that addresses the health and safety of our students, staff and families.
Although reopening our schools this fall is not without risk, we also know that prolonged school closure, the loss of access to social/emotional support and connection, and inconsistency of supportive services are significant losses for our students. Therefore, we are excited to share that we will allow options for student learning as the school year begins.
The Fall 2020 Learning Options are as follows:
Option One: On-Site Learning
Safety guidelines that address the health and well being of our students, staff and families will be strictly adhered to and protocols will be in place for day-to-day operations including:
Transportation
Medical/Health
Classrooms
Common Spaces
Transitions
Extra and Co-Curricular Activities
Facilities
Food Service
All district leadership, certified and non-certified staff are working diligently to craft a plan that addresses each of the above components. Included in this planning conversation are the Marshall County Health Department and Marshall County Emergency Management, with adherence to the recommendations put forth by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, as well as the Kansas State Department of Education. This comprehensive plan, once completed and reviewed, will be shared with all parents, students and stakeholders.
Option Two: Remote Learning
Virtual learning that will be structured under the following mandates:
Students and parents will complete a daily log of engagement and activities completed that must be submitted to the school district.
Students will be assessed on the same standards and competencies as onsite students.
Students must have a daily and/or per class period connection with teachers. Each day/class period that a student does not participate online, they will be marked absent. State and local truancy guidelines will be adhered to.
A Remote Learning commitment is a minimum of one academic quarter. Options for remote learning will be reevaluated each quarter.
We ask that you consider your options carefully as you make the best decision for the educational and social emotional needs of your child(ren) and family. The deadline for the Fall 2020 Learning Option decision is Monday, August 3rd. Please submit one response per family. You may utilize any of the following options for submission:
An embedded link in the email you receive.
Fall 2020 Learning Option Form (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfV3ZggGkH8yiwQWSmzRD6jHQu55cmVqtTRCdMoSp2lnrjw7w/viewform?usp=sf_link)
Valley Heights USD #498 website
Valley Heights Facebook page
Enrollment
For the safety and convenience of our parent community, we are offering an online enrollment process this year. Enrollment will officially open on Monday, August 3rd and close on Friday, August 14th. A link will be sent via email and shared on our district website the morning of August 3rd. Should you prefer to enroll in person, our building secretaries will be available in their respective offices on those days to accommodate you.
Should you choose online enrollment, invoices for fee payment will be sent out by your building secretary or you can pay online.
Students new to the district will need to enroll in person at the appropriate attendance center, or at the District Office at 121 E. Commercial in Waterville.
As always, we are here to answer your questions and hear your concerns.
Sincerely,
Melissa Kennedy
Superintendent
This afternoon Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced that per executive order schools will not reopen for the fall semester until after the Labor Day holiday. Please stay tuned to USD 498 social media for upcoming information.
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Taco's Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Cheeseburgers Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Deli Club Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
Double FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Pepperoni Pizza Munchables Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Sloppy Joe Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Chicken Patty on a bun!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
MUSTANG MAGIC DRILL TEAM TRYOUTS
Just a reminder that practice for Drill Team Tryouts is tonight 7/6/20 at 6PM at the HS Gym!!
Tryouts will be this Wednesday 7/8/20 at 6PM at the HS Gym.
Questions can be directed to Candice Brooks on (785) 713 2146 or Email: cbrooks@valleyheights.org
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Pork Rib on Bun Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
Good morning Valley Heights!
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Chicken & Waffles Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
Valley Heights Parents and Guardians,
Please check your email for a brief, but very important, survey to provide us with valuable information as we begin planning for the '20/'21 school year!
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Taco Salad Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
Valley Heights Community Fireworks will be at the High School, July 4th at dusk.
Please no alcohol & no personal fireworks.
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Italian Beef Fritter on Bun Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
Please click the link for information concerning graduation plans for the Valley Heights Class of 2020. Graduating seniors, please check your school email for a letter with information concerning graduation practice and preparing for graduation.
https://5il.co/hqfy
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Italian Turkey & Ham Sandwich Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
This is a reminder that meals will continue to be served June 29 thru July 23. Thanks to all that have made our summer food service program a success.
June KRR Camp has come to an end! Thanks to all staff and parents for your help and support!
June KRR Camp has come to an end! Thanks to all staff and parents for your help and support!
FREE COOKIE DAY!!! To show our appreciation to everyone's participation in Valley Heights Summer Meal Program we are handing out free cookies with your meals today!!
Today we are serving Corn Dogs!! Also, it is double meal day!!
Reminder to redeem your winning boxes for an extra sweet treat!!
See you all for lunch!!
Summer Food Service Program Meal update!!
We will continue to distribute meals Monday's -Thursday's through July 23rd!!
Thank You All for your participation in our Summer Food Service Meal Distribution!!
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Chicken Patty on Bun Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
Week 2 of KRR Summer Camp is flying by!
Week 2 of KRR Summer Camp is flying by!
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Beef & Bean Burrito Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! Cheeseburgers Today!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
Just a reminder about cheerleading tryouts this coming week. Practices will be held Monday and Tuesday from 6-7:30 at the high school and tryouts to be held Thursday beginning at 5:30!
Happy Father’s Day to all the Mustang Dads our there!
*MUSTANG MAGIC DRILL TEAM TRYOUTS*
At this time we are reopening tryouts for those that are interested in being on the Mustang Magic Drill Team.
Drill Team Practice will be on Monday July 6th at 6pm.
Drill Team Tryouts will be on Wednesday July 8th at 6pm.
For more information on Drill Team tryouts and tryout video please contact Candice Brooks on (785) 713 2146 or cbrooks@valleyheights.org
KRR Summer Camp week one in the books!! Shout out to all these great kids and staff!
KRR Summer Camp week one in the books!! Shout out to all these great kids and staff!
FREE LUNCH for Ages 1-18 !! CHICKEN & WAFFLE DAY!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
FREE LUNCH!! Ages 1-18 Beef Fritter on Bun!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm. Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for your winning boxes!!
Valley Heights would like to congratulate Coach White on his 50 years of coaching! With that being said, Coach White has retired from the coaching ranks. Congratulations on your retirement.
Moving forward, Valley Heights has hired Titus Staples as the new Cross Country Coach. Mr. Staples is the elementary counselor and has coached cross county at other schools he has worked at. If you are interested in participating in cross country (either summer workouts or next school year), please contact Coach Staples through his school email address: tstaples@valleyheights.org
FREE LUNCH!! Ages 1-18
BBQ Pork Rib on Bun!!
Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm.
Reminder to continue to claim your prizes for the winning boxes!!
Congratulations Mr. Bergkamp on your final School Board meeting before retirement! At tonight’s BOE Meeting, members recognized Mr. Bergkamp’s 31 years of service to Valley Heights. Happy retirement!
Deli Clubs Today!!
Serving at both grade schools from 11am-1230pm!!
FREE Lunches for ages 1-18!!
Remember to check your lunch boxes to see if you have a winner to claim your prize!!
Pizza Munchable's!!
Come out to either grade school to claim your DOUBLE meals TODAY!!
Serving from 11am-12:30pm!!
Ages 1-18 are free!!
Reminder to claim your sweet treat for your winning lunch box!
Valley Heights community recycling will resume on Saturday, June 20. Collection site will be in Waterville at the RV park from 9:30-11:00. Sorted materials only please! Glass, Plastics and Cardboard do not need to be sorted by weight or color. We appreciate cardboard boxes being broken down prior to drop off.
Chicken Patty on a Bun this fine Wednesday!!
Serving at both grade schools from 11am-1230pm.
Come out and enjoy the nice weather and claim you free lunches!!
Reminder to check your lunch boxes to see if you have a winner!! If so be sure to claim your sweet treat!
For all who are interested:
Cheer tryout practices will be held on June 22 & 23 from 6:00-7:30PM.
Cheer tryouts will be conducted on June 25, beginning at 5:30PM.
If you have not previously signed up for cheer and would like to try out, please contact Katlen Schreiner at kschreiner@valleyheights.org
Taco Salad Tuesday today, June 9th!!
Serving both grade schools!
All children ages 1-18 are FREE!!
Keep those winning boxes coming, and claim your sweet treat!!
Lunch Today is Sloppy Joe!! Serving at both grade schools from 11am-12:30pm!! Ages 1-18 are free!! Don't forget to claim you sweet treat if you received a winning box!!
Due to the gyms floors being refinished, and the smell that goes along with it, we will be closing down the office at the high school for the rest of the day. Sorry for any inconvenience.
Hotdogs today!! Reminder, you will get double meals today. No meals served tomorrow. Serving at both grade schools from 11-12:30pm. 1-18 are FREE!! Don’t forget to let us know if you got a winning meal so you can get a sweet treat!
Today’s lunch is Chicken Salad Sandwiches!! Serving meals at both grade schools from 11-12:30pm.. 1-18 are FREE!! Don’t forget to come get a treat for the winning meal!
Today’s lunch is BBQ Sandwich!! Serving at both grade schools from 11-12:30pm .. 1-18 are FREE!!
Registration for KRR and 21st CCLC summer camp will be closing soon. If you haven't registered yet do so soon! Go to the link below to register online. https://forms.gle/wWV39yF43LPFrEie8
Cheeseburgers for lunch today! Serving at both grade schools from 11-12:30pm. 1-18 are FREE!! Don’t forget to redeem your winning meal for a sweet snack!!
Summer Recreation Ball fees need to be submitted today by 3:30 to Valley Heights Central Office in Waterville.
For questions contact Tony Yungeberg 785-363-2211 or tyungeberg@valleyheights.org
Here are a few of our winning meals from yesterday!! They got to choose between a sweet treat or a soda!
Chicken and Waffles today!! Reminder no meals served tomorrow so you will get double meals today. Also, remember to come get your prize for the winning meals!! Serving at both grade schools from 11-12:30pm. 1-18 are FREE!!
Class of 2020-Your Awards packets are ready to be picked up at the high school office. Please stop by and pick yours up. Monday-Thursday 7:30am-4pm and Friday 7:30am-12pm.
Today meal is pork rib on a bun!! Serving at both grade schools from 11-1230pm. 1-18 are FREE!! Don’t forget to claim your prizes for the winning meals!
It’s TACO TUESDAY!! Serving from 11-1230pm at both grade schools. 1-18 are FREE!! Reminder to come claim your prize for the winning meal!
Corn dogs today!! Reminder to come claim your prizes for the winning meals!! Serving at both grade schools from 11-1230pm.. 1-18 are FREE!
Congratulations to Mrs. Oatney and Mrs. Buck for their retirement from Valley Heights! They have served a lot of years to the Valley Heights community!
Today’s lunch is Pizza Muchables!! Serving at both grade schools from 11-12:30pm. 1-18 are FREE!! REMINDER: Today is the last day for k-6 to return IPads, chargers, text and library books to the grade schools!!
The Kansas Department of Education has dedicated May 20th as the #KSClassof2020 Appreciation Day. Graduating seniors are encouraged to take a picture of throwing your graduation cap into the air at 8:20 pm (20:20 military time) and share it with the hashtag:
#KSClassof2020
For more information, click on the link below.
https://5il.co/g8p8
Today’s we’re serving Cheeseburgers!! Serving at both grade schools from 11-12:30pm. A couple reminders: today and tomorrow you can return your iPads, chargers, text and library books. Also, don’t forget about the winning meal!! Post it on the Valley Heights Facebook page and you will win a sweet treat!
Reminder to the Valley Heights community:
Beginning this week there will not be meals served on Fridays for the remainder of the summer. You will now get your Friday meal with your Thursday meal.
Also in observance of Memorial Day, we will not serve a meal Monday, May 25.
As the Valley Heights KAY sponsor I get the opportunity to work with a great bunch of students. We organize a lot of activities in the community and school. I am looking forward to continuing these activities for the next school year. Having said that, I am happy to announce the 2020-21 KAY officers are: Emma Toerber, President, Emma Yungeberg, Vice-President, Maecyn Gunn, Secretary, and Abigail Steinfort, Stuco Rep. Also, as most of you know, Mrs. Oatney will be retiring at the end of the end, and we will miss her as a co-sponsor!
Today’s meal is Italian deli sandwiches!! Serving from 11-12:30pm at both grade schools. 1-18 are FREE!
Happy Friday!! Today’s meal is Chicken and waffles!! Serving from 11-12:30 at both grade schools!! 1-18 are FREE!!
Student and Parents of Valley Heights Elementary. On Tuesday May 29th and Wednesday May 20th are scheduled check in days at Valley Heights Elementary. Textbooks,iPads,library books and other school materials are to be returned between 11:00 and 12:30 on those days.
Today meal is a Cheeseburger!! Serving till 12:30pm. Serving at both grade schools.. 1-18 are FREE!!
ATTENTION: Today’s lunch is Chicken Patty!! Also, starting today there will be a SPECIAL marked box going forward everyday and if you get that box, take a picture of it and post it to our Valley Heights Facebook page to redeem a special TREAT the following serving day!! Serving at both grade schools from 11-12:30pm!! 1-18 are FREE!!
JH/HS Students - The school year is quickly coming to an end and materials still need to be returned following the completion of the 2019-2020 school year. Please return all materials to the commons at the high school between the weekdays of May 20th - May 27th. Lori will have the office hours open between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Items that need to be returned include: ipads (including seniors), textbooks, library books, calculators, and any other materials belonging to the school. Also, if you want to reconcile any bills that need paid, that will be available through Lori. If you have any questions, please contact the office at 363-2508.
Today’s meal is BBQ Rib on a Bun!! Serving from 11-12:30pm at both grade schools! 1-18 are FREE!
Here is a link to the Valley Heights June & July Camp Registration Form. June is current grades K-3 and July is current grades K-6. Form will close after May 18th.
Form Link: https://forms.gle/vGetmz6e8X7hALx9A
If any 8th-11th grade students are interested in trying out for the Mustang Magic Drill Team please email Mrs. Smith at kasmith@valleyheights.org. We will be having virtual tryouts this year so please check your email.
Happy Monday! Today’s meal will be Hotdogs!! Serving at both grade schools from 11-12:30pm. 1-18 are FREE!
Happy Friday!!! Today’s lunch is a Crispy Chicken Wrap! Serving at both grade schools from 11-12:30pm. 1-18 are FREE!
Today’s lunch is Pizza Muchables! Serving at both grade schools from 11-12:30pm. 1-18 are FREE!
Today’s lunch is BBQ Pork on a bun! Serving from 11-12:30 at both grade schools. 1-18 are FREE!!
Congratulations to the 2020-2021 Valley Heights FFA officer team.
Congratulations to Catherine and Maddy on being voted the Student Council president and vice-president for next school year!
It’s TACO TUESDAY!! Serving meals from from 11-12:30 at both grade schools! 1-18 are FREE!!
Today’s lunch is a BACON & egg salad sandwich!! Serving from 11-1pm at both grade schools. 1-18 are FREE!
Today’s lunch is Chicken and Waffles!! Serving at both grade schools from 11-1pm. 1-18 are FREE!
Today’s lunch is Hotdogs, fresh fruit and slaw!! Serving from 11-1pm at both grade schools!
Valley Heights Jr/Sr High School will be hosting a Virtual Activity & Awards Day on May 16, 2020. This is a combination of the traditional Awards Night and Athletic Banquet. Please click the following link for more information.
https://5il.co/fpd1
Today’s lunch is Chicken patty on bun with fresh fruit & vegetable pasta salad!! Serving till 1pm at both grade schools!
A message from the Blue Rapids Staff.
Valley Heights Seniors 2020 - If you have not turned your senior profile into the Marysville Advocate, you need to do so ASAP! If your profile is not turned into the Advocate by 8:00 a.m. on May 1, your profile will not be included in the salute. If you have any questions, please visit with Mrs. Coon.
Today’s lunch is a Ham & Turkey Club Sandwich! Meals served from 11-1pm at both grade schools and 1-18 are FREE!!
Pizza Munchable for lunch today!! Serving from 11-1pm. 1-18 are FREE!
Starting Monday, May 4th, our lunch serving times will be 11:00 - 12:30!
Cheeseburgers are what’s for lunch!! Serving at both grade schools from 11-1pm. 1-18 are FREE!
Today’s lunch Chicken Patty Sandwich!! Serving 11-1pm at both grade schools.. 1-18 are FREE!!
The 2020 Valley Heights Graduation Ceremony has been rescheduled.
Given the restrictions we are currently operating under, there is no possible way to hold graduation ceremonies in May unless it was done virtually. We are cautiously optimistic that by moving graduation for the class of 2020 to Saturday, July 25th, beginning at 11:00 a.m., it will increase the likelihood that some of the social gathering restrictions will be released and we will be able to hold graduation ceremonies. While we hope that those ceremonies are more traditional in nature, we must be prepared to adjust the ceremonies to meet any social distancing requirements and crowd size limitations that we are operating under at the time. Hopefully, with some flexibility, we are able to offer the Class of 2020 a traditional graduation ceremony!
Today’s lunch TACO TUESDAY!!! Meals are served at both grade schools from 11-1pm . 1-18 are FREE!!
Today’s lunch is Chicken and Waffles!! Look in your bag for heating instructions. Serving at both grade schools from 11-1pm . 1-18 are FREE!
Forensic Science students are studying insects of death, the insects that are attracted to decaying flesh. Below is Gates Carder’s experiment. She put raw chicken into a vented container and has it hanging outside in her yard. She takes daily pictures to determine which insects arrive and in what sequence. The project is due May 1st. It will be interesting to see her results.
Today’s meal is a Turkey and Ham Deli stack! Serving at both grade schools from 11-1pm. 1-18 are FREE!
Today’s Meal is a Chicken Patty on a bun. Serving from 11-1pm at both grade schools. 1-18 are FREE!
Below is a resource shared by the Kansas Department of Education. Especially now with the transition to Distance Learning Plans, things are different. If you are struggling with social-emotional awareness, please reach out to this resource or the school for assistance.
Since 1993, Kansas Children's Service League’s Parent Helpline (1-800-CHILDREN) has offered a voice who will listen and empathize with callers’ concerns and provide help with simple questions or complex situations. Information, referrals and support are provided statewide anonymously to parents, relatives, caregivers, youth and professionals 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This line is designed to meet the needs of parents and caregivers who feel isolated and frustrated when trying to meet the challenges of raising children. In calendar year 2019 the Parent Helpline answered 1,648 calls. Inquiries can be made via email or text using 1800CHILDREN@kcsl.org.
The Parent Helpline is also available as a mobile phone App. This is a free download that can be found by searching The Parent Helpline in either the Android or Apple stores. The App also contains links for Parent Tip Cards on the KCSL website or has simple one touch dialing if you decide you need additional information.
Top reasons for calls to the Parent Helpline include basic parenting, child development, behavior management, questions about reporting child abuse and neglect, mental health, legal concerns and information about programs/services.
Call the Parent Helpline at either 1-800-CHILDREN or 1-800-332-6378 for resources, referrals and other information.
An email was sent to families with a link to a registration for summer ball. The form is also located on our website by clicking on forms and registrations under the Community Education tab.
Don’t forget about meals being served today at both grade schools from 11-1pm! Today is a hot meal with instructions how to warm up at home! 1-18 are FREE!
Happy Easter to our Valley Heights family!
There will be no meal delivery or pickup on Friday, April 10th. There will be 2 meals sent home on Thursday for each student/child to hopefully help with this. Meals will begin again as normal on Monday, April 13th.
We are sorry to inform everyone that the blood drive scheduled with the mobile unit at Valley Heights Central Office in Waterville tomorrow has been canceled.
Tuesday, March 31st will be the final day to pick up books and necessities for distance learning classes. Office staff will also begin working from home and the offices will be closed. Friday packet delivery and pickup from school will still be available. If you do have questions, please call the school phone number and the call will be forwarded to a live person.
Staff. The parade was amazing. I am so proud of the Valley Heights family. Stay strong and good luck as we begin a new way of teaching and learning. It's a Great Day to Be a Mustang.
Valley Heights Families:
We miss you and want to see you! VH staff will be driving through the communities to wave and say hi this Sunday, March 29th at 5:00 in Blue Rapids and approximately 5:45 in Waterville.
You are invited to wave and shout from your porch, yards and sidewalks, but please do not approach the vehicles or gather in large groups. We must stick to the social distance guidelines.
The line of vehicles will be starting at the fairgrounds in Blue Rapids and follow the route shown on the map below. We will then proceed to Waterville. If we are not driving down your street feel free to walk or drive somewhere and wait for us along the route. We hope to see as many of you as possible!
Please share and help get the word out!
It’s a Great Day to Be a Mustang!
We'd like to give a huge shout out to our food service and support staff for making the best out of tough times! At the end of service time today we've served 4275 total meals! It's a Great Day to be a Mustang!!!
Reminder:
Don't forget to pick up instructional packets at our two food service sites, BR Elementary & Waterville Elementary, between 11 & 1 today unless other arrangements have been made.
And students don't forget to get a good meal at the same time.
When it’s time for a teacher break and it’s Mr. Bergkamp’s birthday, you have pizza and cake!
Jr/Sr High School Students and Parents. Here is a picture or you can click on the link for a PDF, but this is the schedule for the E-Learning that will be happening beginning Monday, March 30th, 2020. Teachers will be utilizing Google Classroom through the students' school email. Assignments and activities in the classes are NOT optional. Assignments and activities need to be completed and grades will be given accordingly. If you have any questions, please contact the high school at 363-2508.
https://5il.co/e58v
Please share.
Reminder we will continue to serve breakfast and lunch daily, Monday - Friday from 11am-1pm at both grade schools! Ages 1-18 are FREE!
Don't forget breakfast and lunch will still be served this week from 11am-1pm at both grade schools! Ages 1-18 are FREE!
Regarding elementary school supplies and personal belongings:
Starting today and the rest of the week, supplies and belongings will be available for curbside pickup at each elementary building from 11:00am-1:00pm. Call the elementary offices if you have any questions.
Jr/Sr High Students and Parents-please wait till Tuesday or Wednesday to call for appointments to pick up your personal items. Thank you for your patience.
Attention everyone: We still have around 40ish meals left in Waterville and 30ish left in Blue Rapids!! Today’s meal is Lent Friendly! Serving till 1pm! 1-18 if FREE!
Valley Heights served 160 students yesterday!! Breakfast and lunch will be served from 11-1pm at both grade schools and they are FREE for ages 1-18.
Valley Heights community recycling scheduled for the 3rd Saturday or each month has been postponed until further notice.
There have been a few requests by junior/senior high school students wanting to get materials or items from their lockers. Beginning Monday, March 23rd, students can contact Lori in the office to set a time to come to the school and grab the materials they need.
Check out our AMAZING staff!!
Our food service program will continue to serve a breakfast and lunch to all children 1-18 years old for FREE! Come to one of our grade schools from 11am-1pm today!
Hello Valley Heights:
Today the Governor suspended school as we currently know it until the end of May. We are receiving guidance from the Kansas Department of Education on how we are to proceed with delivering instruction to our students. The Legislature has also approved for districts to apply for waivers that will mandate two things. 1) Continuous Learning Plans are to be developed and delivered to students. 2) All hourly employees will be paid.
The following schedule will apply to Valley Heights schools:
March 23 - 27 - Staff will develop instructional delivery methods. NO instruction will be provided this week.
March 30th. Instructional delivery methods will be implemented.
Please stay tuned for more specific instructions on how we will deliver our Continuous Learning Plans.
Additional cancellations at Valley Heights High School: Our Junior High Dance for this Friday night will be postponed to a later date. Also the Twin Valley dance for this Saturday will be postponed at this time. Thank you for your patience.
Just a reminder that the Prom Night Tux/Flower Order session, that was to be at the high commons this evening, has been cancelled.
Parents and Students - Are you looking for some educational online resources to sustain your time at home during the COVID-19 outbreak? Please click on the link to see dozens of resources available to keep your mind stimulated while at home.
https://5il.co/du0w
Parents of Drivers Education students: We have extended our online testing for Driver's Ed to go through April 3rd. Students will need to have their 16 online test completed and passed with an 80% by this date. Our written test will be rescheduled upon return to regular classes.
Correction to previous message:
Child, not parent or guardian must be present for FREE meals. Sorry for the confusion, please share the message.
Good Morning Valley Heights. Just a reminder that our food service program goes into effect today from 11 to 1 at both elementary schools. All meals are FREE to anyone age 1 to 18. Parents or guardians must be present to pick up the meals. Let us know we can improve the service.
The regular scheduled board meeting for tonight has been moved to the High School at 5:30.
ACT has decided to reschedule the April 4, 2020 National ACT® test date to our June 13 and July 18 test dates in response to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19).
ACT will be notifying registered students directly in the next few days, informing them of the postponement and providing instructions for next steps.
If you live on a rural route and would like to participate in the FREE meal program during the closure, please contact Central Office, 363-2398 ASAP to make arrangements.
During the current closure, USD 498 will operate a FREE curbside food program sponsored by KSDE. Starting Tuesday, March 17th breakfast & lunch will be served from 11AM-1PM at both elementary schools. All children ages 1-18 are eligible for these meals. Questions call 363-2398.
Based on the recommendation from the State Education Commissioner and the Kansas State Board of Education, the Valley Heights school district will be closed the week of March 16 - 20. There will be no activities during the week and staff is to remain off site unless directed otherwise.
Valley Heights schools will be closed Monday, March 16th. We will send out updated information tomorrow regarding future plans for resuming school. The Kansas State Department of Health and Environment is conducting a statewide meeting that may provide guidance on how public schools should plan for the near future. Please stay tuned for more information.
Valley Heights fitness center will be closed until further notice. There are no exceptions for public, students or staff.
The BVL Scholars Bowl Tournament, scheduled for Monday, has been cancelled.
Due to concerns of the COVID-19 (Corona) Virus, the KSHSAA has cancelled the remainder of the 2020 State Basketball Tournament. The Valley Heights Girls semi-final game has been cancelled!
Pep Band - If you play in the VH Pep Band, they will be leaving at the following times from the high school:
Wednesday = 6:00 and Thursday = 4:00
SEND OFF! The following leave times will be used by the state basketball tournament teams. If you would like to help send the teams off, please come out to the high school.
Girls = Leave from VH at 4:45 p.m. Wednesday.
Boys = Leave from VH at 3:00 p.m. Thursday.
Here is some general information for the state basketball tournament in Bramlage Coliseum. You can also find any information from the KSHSAA.org website.
Prices:
Adults = $10
Students = $7
No food or outside drinks are allowed in the coliseum.
If you are unable to attend the games, there is a 'Watch Live' link on the KSHSAA website. There is a cost to watching the live games.
K-State's Clear Bag Policy is in effect. Only clear bags smaller than 12"x6"x12" or "non-clear" clutch bags 5.5"x7.5" are allowed in the Coliseum. More information is provided in the following link:
https://5il.co/di4n
“Perseverance” is the name selected for the new Mars Rover. Over 28,000 students, including Mrs. Laughlin’s seventh grade science students, had the chance to write a persuasive essay to try and convince NASA to select their rover name. Perseverance will be launched this year and is designed to look for microbial life on Mars. Here is a link to follow the story. https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/news.php?feature=7612
Girls and Boys Sub-State Finals will be on KNDY radio!
State Robotics Update: we made it to state but did not make it to quarter finals. Final standing for Freedom Genuik and Kris Jamieson is 23 in the State of Kansas. Thanks to Sam Caswell and Chase Morris for all their help in getting Robot 498B ready for competition.
The State Robotics tournament is ready to begin. Team 498B is making final adjustments to their robot before heading to inspections.
The Valley Heights Booster Club is looking for donated items for the silent auction at the athletic banquet. If you have something you would like to donate, please visit with Stacy Vermetten.
Vet Tech students practiced their sewing skills today in Ag. They were learning how to perform basic surgical stitches.
Vet Tech students practiced their sewing skills today in Ag. They were learning how to perform basic surgical stitches.
Early Childhood Screenings will be held on Friday, March 27 from 8:30am-12:00pm at Marysville Elementary and from 12:30am-3:30pm at Waterville Elementary. This is provided for children ages three to five.
Mr. Kenworthy visited Kindergarten today and read Dr. Seuss’s Green Eggs and Ham. Then the kids made and ate green eggs!
Sub-State Basketball games at Horton High School:
Girls will play Thursday night at 6:00 PM vs Horton.
Boys will play Friday night at 6:00 PM vs Winchester-Jefferson County North.
Tonight’s first round sub-state boys basketball game is broadcast live on KNDY FM 95.5, online at sunflower state radio.com, and the KNDY mobile app!
Congratulations to Sam Vermetten on getting to 1,000 career points in a big team win in the first round of sub-state!
8th graders that finished their AR on time for the quarter had the privilege of going to the movie “Call if the Wild” today. They had read and studied the novel earlier this winter. Thank you Alex, at Astro 3, and the VH Foundation!
Valley Heights has posted on our website a link to information on the facts and what we need to know about Coronavirus, and how to stop the spread of germs. As always, we ask that anyone experiencing symptoms of a respiratory disease stay home until you are symptom free.
Just a reminder to VH parents: If you are wanting your student to take drivers ed this summer, payment for the class is due by the end of the day today.
Congratulations Ethan Steinfort for completing your 30 Book Challenge!!
FFA week carried over to this week at Colt's Round-Up with a visit from the animals!
FFA members:
Hallie & Rylie & Mr. O with their farm dogs (Red, Blue & Tucker)
Emma & Sophie with their Mustangs
Dakota with Goats
Thanks for taking time to make our day better! #FFARocks
Girls Sub-State Bracket:
http://www.kshsaa.org/public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Basketball/2ASub-State.cfm?Activity=2&WeekID=4534
Just a reminder: Students who are wanting to take Driver's Ed this summer, the sign-up ends this Thursday, Feb. 27th. The cost is $150. Please return payment and enrollment sheet by Thursday to the high school office.
Sophie represents Denmark in the Model U.N. Economic and Social Council
Tyler and Emma in General Assembly II at Topeka Model U.N.
Model U.N. is underway in Topeka with five Valley Heights students joining over 640 students from Kansas at the 56th annual event.
VH Junior class field trip to the Eisenhower Center in Abilene
Mustang Junior class at the Eisenhower Center in Abilene
VH Junior class field trip to the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum & Boyhood Home in Abilene
Congratulations Chance for completing your 30 Book Challenge!
Congratulations Cooper Watt for completing your 30 Book Challenge!
Congratulations Jaci Vathauer for completing your 30 Book Challenge!
Congratulations Lizzy Swearingen on completing your 30 Book Challenge!
Game schedule for tonight @ Blue Valley
New gym:
4:45 start- 3 quarters JV girls, 6pm Varsity Girls then Varsity Boys.
Old Gym:
4 quarters of JV boys starting AFTER JV girls is done.
Fun night cheering on the Cats with the Jr. High girls basketball team.
Congratulations Reece Parker for completing your 30 Book Challenge!
Congratulations Guen Conti for completing your 30 Book Challenge!
The Valley Heights community is invited to Marysville High School for a featured Mental Health speaker, Coach Mark Potter on Thursday, February 27 at 7:00 pm. Please click on the link for more information.
https://5il.co/d39f
Come help us celebrate National FFA week and enjoy some great pancakes and sausages from the VH FFA chapter this Thursday Feb. 20th. Serving 7-9am in the VH FFA shop.
Game schedule for tonight vs. Clifton Clyde. (Parents Night)
All games are at the High School.
4:00 half JV girls
4:45 JV boys
6:00 Varsity girls
-Parents Night-
7:30 Varsity boys
Kindergarten students made slime for an fun Valentines Day activity. They read a recipe and used glue, contact lens solution, baking soda and water to make their stretchy slime which they will play with in the classroom.
Regular board meeting scheduled for tonight, 5:30 at the District Office.
There is a Drivers Education signup sheet in the office at the high school. If interested, please have your student signup by February 27. If your child will be 14 by March 1, 2020, they will be eligible to enroll. Cost is $150.00.
HS basketball schedule for Friday at Centralia.
4:45-JV girls (main gym)
4:45-JV boys(secondary gym)
6:00-varsity girls (main gym)
6:00-1/2 c-team boys (secondary gym)
7:30-varsity boys (main gym)
Colt's Round-Up is traveling around the world in afterschool! Right now we're weaving our way through Asia and learning the art of becoming Sushi Chefs! #LearnNewCultures
Congratulations Connor Mockerman for completing your 30 Book Challenge!
Congratulations Raegan Stevenson for completing your 30 Book Challenge!
Valley Heights alumni - will you be doing your student teaching block during the 2020-2021 school year? Scholarships are available.
Also, available is the Dirk Hargadine Memorial Scholarship for college juniors & seniors enrolled in an environmental or ag related field.
Scholarship Deadlines: VALLEY HEIGHTS - March 5th.
Others due before March 1 include Little Black Dress, Southeast Comm College, GPACAC, Evergy/Haines-Weber, Paul Max Service. Check the VH webpage for details.
New game times for high school basketball at Linn on Tuesday 2/11/20. 4:00 JV girls followed by 2 quarters of JV boys followed by varsity girls then varsity boys.
Here is the link for the boys and girls basketball brackets for the 2020 BVL Tournament.
https://5il.co/cuqk
Game Schedule for tonight vs. Axtell
ALL GAMES IN HS GYM
4:15 JV girls (3 quarters)
5:15 JV boys (2 quarters)
6:00 Varsity girls
7:30 Varsity boys
The Wide Awake 4-H club is having a free will donation potato bar at the Valley Heights High School starting at 5:00pm until gone.
Several KAY members left bright and early today for Unit Conference in Manhattan! Look at this great group developing leadership skills and service ideas!!
The Wide Awake 4-H club is having a free will donation potato bar at the Valley Heights High School, Friday, Feb. 7th. Food will be served starting at 5:00pm until gone. Money will be used for club activities. Thanks for supporting the kids in your local 4-H club!
I'd like to say a huge THANKS to our partners for Colts Round-Up yesterday! Marshall County Extension Service, Highland Community College Western Center and Schools That Care! A communities strengths are measured by the people that care and we are STRONG!
HS BB Game schedule for tonight at Hanover
4:45- JV Girls in High School Gym
JV Boys will play in St John’s Gym after JV girls finish.
6:00- Varsity Girls in High School Gym
Followed by Varsity Boys.
7th grade Language Arts students wrote persuasive letters last week. Some students chose school or sports topics. Mr. Kenworthy wrote letters back to each of the students that had addressed him, and explained the rationale or their next step in trying to change the policy. Thank you, Mr. K
Tonight, Jan. 31
FCCLA is hosting a Mac N Cheese bar at the VHHS. Free will donation starting at 4:30.
ALL GAMES IN THE HS GYM - NO games in Blue Rapids.
4:00 half JV girls
4:45 JV boys
6:15 Varsity girls
7:45 Varsity boys
Attention
King and Queen of Courts will be at halftime of the varsity boys game tomorrow night at Valley Heights High School. Come out to support the basketball teams and watch the crowning. Queen candidates are Rylie Borgerding, Shae Murk, and Kate Wanamaker. King candidates are Wes Denton, Austin House, and Jake Winslow. See you there. Go Mustangs!!🏀
The USD 498 Board of Education has announced the selection of Melissa Kennedy, as the new superintendent. Melissa will take the reins on July 1, 2020 after the retirement of John Bergkamp.
Dr. Porter came to Blue Rapids today to talk to students about becoming a Veterinarian.
The Kansas State We The People traveling championship trophy was named to honor the legacy of Mr. LEW Whitson, and the Whitson family was able to be part of the Awards Ceremony.
Congratulations to senior students earning Distinction for Unit 3 and Unit 5 at the We The People state competition!
Congratulations Raegan Berger for completing her 30 Book Challenge!
Schools that Care February Donation Drive: Spring Cleaning
Waterville Elementary students celebrated Kansas Day by learning facts about Kansas from Lila Swearengin and Tiffany Watt. Ann Walter told us all about Pioneer Fashion.
Waterville Elementary students celebrated Kansas Day. Kathi Menzel sang songs with kids and taught them to square dance. Marlene Tryon helped children with a craft. Rhonda Joseph from the K-State Extension office taught the children all about wheat.
Public is invited to greet the third of three Superintendent Candidates, Michael Couch, today from 4:00 - 4:30 at the Jr./Sr. High School.
Dr. Nicole Porter visited the Waterville Grade School to tell the children about her job as a Veterinarian.
Game schedule for today at Solomon (gyms are in the same location)
Game Times and Gyms:
High School Gym
6:00 – Girls Varsity Game
7:30 – Boys Varsity Game
Middle School
5:00. -- Boys C-Team Game
6:00 -- Boys JV Game
7:15. -- 1/2 Girls JV Game
Public is invited to greet the second of three Superintendent Candidates, Rhonda Trimble, today from 4:00 - 4:30 at the Jr./Sr. High School.
Congratulations Preston Smerchek for completing your 30 Book Challenge!
Congratulations Riley Skalla for completing your 30 Book Challenge!
Public is invited to greet the first of three Superintendent Candidates, Melissa Kennedy, today from 4:00 - 4:30 at the Jr./Sr. High School.
Valley Heights Elementary Super Bowl Spirit Week Schedule
Back-To-Back....Boys follow up the girls championship with a TVL championship of their own with a win over Hanover!
TVL Champions! Valley Heights girls beat Centralia 53-38 to claim the title!
Robotics Final Update: Sam and Chase ended the tournament in the 5th Alliance place. Freedom and Kris were selected to compete with the 8th Alliance and ended the tournament in 8th Place. This will be our final tournament for the season. All teams showed improvement, learned so much and had lots of fun in the process.
Robotics Update: Sam and Chase are entering quarterfinals in 5th place out of 32 teams. The second photo shows the teams and schools at the competition. Valley Heights has been up against some pretty good competitors today.
VH Robotics is competing at Seaman High School in Topeka today. Last week Chase, Sam and John came in 7th and Freedom and Kris came in 8th. Today they need to come in 1st or 2nd to qualify for State.
To The Championship! With a 48-35 win over Washington, the VH girls move on to the championship game versus Centralia. Girls game will be 6:00 p.m. Saturday in Washington!
To The Championship! With a 47-45 win over Frankfort, the VH boys move on to the championship game versus Hanover. Boys game will be 7:30 p.m. Saturday in Washington!
TVL BB time changes for Thursday, January 23rd in Washington:
3:15 West Gym Onaga (Home) vs. Linn
4:45 West Gym Blue Valley (Home) vs. Clifton Clyde
4:45 High School Gym Valley Heights (Home) vs. Frankfort
6:15 West Gym Washington Co. (Home) vs. Centralia
6:15 High School Gym Axtell (Home) vs. Hanover
Valley Heights schools are cancelled today January 22nd. All activities cancelled
The advanced art class participated in “The Memory Project.” Students were sent pictures of Nigerian children to create beautiful portraits in the media of their choice. Portraits will be delivered to each child with a photo and hand print of each student artist.
Valley Heights would like to thank Keith Salmans, retired biologist with the Kansas Fish and Game, for visiting about his profession with a couple students who are interested in that area of work!
Due to road conditions there will be no door to door bussing tomorrow, January 21st. Please see the photo for one of the 3 pick up and drop off locations and note the times. Shuttles will run between buildings as normal.
Regular board meeting scheduled for tonight, 5:30 at the District Office.
Schedule for Junior High games tomorrow night.
HS Gym:
5:45 A team girls followed by B team girls then 2 quarters of C team girls
BR Gym:
5:45 B team boys followed by A team boys
Freedoms and Chris are going into semifinals in the 7th place alliance position!
Robotics Update: Sam, Chase and John are going into semifinals as the second place Alliance!!!
Robotics Update: team 498V, Sam, Chase and John have qualified for semi final rounds. Alliance selection begins at 1:00!
It’s a robotics kind of day. We are at TCALC in Topeka. This is the school district’s facility for students who want to explore careers through pathways in Law, Engineering, Culinary Arts, and more! Today Valley Heights students Freedom Williams, Chase Morris, Sam Caswell, Kris Jamieson and John Heafke are competing.
Valley Heights Community Recycling scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday, January 18th in Blue Rapids is canceled.
Parents - Do you have a child interested in attending the Highland Western Center or would you as a parent like to know more about their offerings in technical education? On Monday, January 27th the Valley Heights sophomore class will be taking a tour of the HWC. Valley Heights would welcome parents to visit the Western Center that day also. If you are interested (not just sophomore parents), please contact Mrs. Buck at the high school for more information. Valley Heights will need to know by Thursday, January 23rd if you plan on attending.
Areas of technical education that the HWC offers include: Allied Health, Construction Technology, Diesel Technology, Early Childhood Education, Engineering Graphics, Industrial Welding, Manufacturing Technology, Medical Office Assistant, and Precision Agriculture.
Valley Heights schools will be closed Friday January 17 due to inclement weather predicted for early morning.
We're half way through January! Scholarship applications due February 1 include Noxious Weed Directors, DAR, Jackie Robinson, and ESA. Two new ones were added today. Check them out!
The TVL Basketball Brackets are available.
Boys: https://5il.co/cbmy
Girls: https://5il.co/cbmz
Last Friday's High School Basketball games at Onaga have been re-scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 16.
Valley Heights School will be closed Monday, January 13th. All activities are also canceled.
Valley Heights schools will dismiss at 1:00 p.m. today January 10th, 2020. All activities postponed
The JH B-team tournament scheduled for tomorrow (Saturday 1/11) has been cancelled.
All Valley Heights activities are postponed for Friday January 10th. 2020
Valley Heights School will be closing today, Friday January 10th at 1:00 p.m.
Schedule for Junior High B Team basketball on Saturday at Washington.
9:00 AM VH girls vs Linn (West Gym)
Wash. Girls vs CC (HS gym)
10:15 VH boys vs CC (West gym)
Wash. Boys vs Centralia (HS gym)
11:30 Girl Winners play (HS Gym)
Girl Losers play (West Gym)
12:45 Boy winners play (HS gym)
Boy Losers play West gym)
Pay attention to any weather updates on this page.
Congratulations Kendyl Seleska on completing her 30 Book Challenge!
Scholarship Application deadlines next week include Sara Eddy, Kiwanis, Ross Fritz (local), and KSDE AEOP. Due February 1 are DAR, Jackie Robinson, and ESA. There are also four new scholarships this week. Check them all out on the VH web page.
Congratulations Ellie Parker for completing her 30 Book Challenge!
Congratulations Brady for completing his 30 Book Challenge!
Off the sheets, on your feets, time to get back to school after Christmas break!
Blue Rapids students celebrated the end of the quarter with a building celebration. These students were recognized throughout the quarter for their outstanding behavior.
Drama Alumni and All-School Play Cast - it would be great if you could attend the watch party for this year’s play. Potluck will be tasty and other theatre games will also be fun!
Waterville students celebrated the end of the nine weeks with some awards!
Some of Valley Heights’ Christmas Spirit shining through. Merry Christmas Everyone!
The Kindergarten classes enjoyed Mr. Bergkamp reading the Polar Express.
Kiddie Clinic Reminder
Practice will be on Friday at 1:00-2:30 at the high school. Performance will be that evening during the boys halftime.
Congratulations Sophia Parker for completing your 30 Book Challenge!
Congratulations Lydia for completing your 30 Book Challenge!
Mr. Smith’s 1st hour American History: 6x VHHS Christmas Trivia Champs!
Mrs. Crowther and Mrs. Koehler’s 5th graders spent Tuesday afternoon at the Blue Valley Senior Center making Christmas crafts.
Congratulations Brielle for completing your 30 Book Challenge!
Congratulations Mia Lundberg for completing your 30 Book Challenge!
Congratulations Klara for completing your 30 Book Challenge!
The newest scholarship on the Valley Heights scholarship page is the Kansas Junior Golf Scholarship. A reminder that the upcoming break is a good time for seniors to work on applications - especially those requiring an essay.
The sixth grade students helped the Kindergarten students make gifts for their families. The Kindergarten students appreciated the help and had fun making some new friends.
Regular board meeting scheduled for tonight, 5:30 at the District Office.
USD 498 will be on a two hour delay for Monday, December 16th. There will be no morning pre-school and no breakfast served at the schools.
C-team tournament champs!
VH KAYs will be hosting Christmas Story hour and a craft with Mrs. Clause on Sat., Dec. 14th from 10:30-11:30 am at the Blue Rapids Public Library for preschool through 6th grade. We will also be serving hot cocoa and cider out of the little cabin on the square during horse/carriage rides from 10 am- 4 pm. Hope to see a lot of you there!!
VHHS and the Schools That Care Program are looking to help replenish stock items for future needs & continue serving families in need. We will give FREE admission to the game on Dec. 20th with a donation of children's socks or underwear. See attached image for more details.
This is a reminder to parents that Colts Round-up will dismiss at 5pm today.
Did you miss out on ordering your fruit from the FFA. Here is your chance to still get a box. Check out the picture, call the high school at 363- 2508 and ask for Mr. Obermeyer to see what is available.
Reminder: COLTS Booster Club meeting today at 3:00pm for all K-6 parents at the Waterville Grade School Library!
VH Robotics update: team 498S, Logan Sprague and John Haefke are in 14th place out of 44 teams. We are now heading into the afternoon qualifying rounds so stay tuned for the final placings in a few hours.
Congratulations Jace Wieters on getting his 30 Book Challenge!
American History learns about maldistribution of wealth leading to the Great Depression.
One of the best days of the year is Santa's Gift Shop! We had over 30 volunteers and staff members helping teach our K-6 students the joy and importance of giving!
"Two Towns, One Community!"
GREAT DAY TO BE A MUSTANG!!
The junior high Intro to Human Services class made this yummy Chicken Alfredo today!
Valley Heights COLTS Booster Club Meeting Sunday, December 8th, 2019 @ 3:00pm at the Waterville Grade School Library. Everyone is Welcome!
Congratulation Seth Swearingen on completing his 30 Book Challenge!
Congratulations Molly Umscheid on completing her 30 Book Challenge!
Congratulations Dayton Turner on completing his 30 Book Challenge!
There are new scholarships available as of December 1. One, which is only awarded to Valley Heights seniors, is the Ross Fritz Memorial. Check it out. The deadline to apply is January 15th.
Please join our fundraising efforts on Giving Tuesday, Dec. 3 to help stock our Mobile Resource Center that will serve students and families in our area. Click this link to see the flyer: https://5il.co/bl55 Click for our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolsthatcare/
Kindergarten made a yummy instant pumpkin pie snack.
Valley Heights art students paint windows on the Blue Rapids square for the holiday season.
The 6th Grade Leadership Team organized a Food Drive Competition at the Blue Rapids grade school. In 4 days, the school collected over 700 food items for the local Food Bank. The winning team was Mrs. Williams’ 3rd grade class.
Nemaha-Marshall Electric Coop is offering two free trips this summer for two area juniors. One is to Washington DC and the other to Steamboat Springs, CO. For more information, please call the school by December 6th.
Mustang Magic Drill Team is hosting a Kiddie Clinic for K-6th grade. Practice and the performance will be December 20th. The cost is $20 per child which includes a shirt! For more details and to sign up email kasmith@valleyheights.org
Colts Round-Up had a special guest today! Thanks for the great program Sluggerrr! It was a Home Run!
Thanks to the apps ‘shopkick’ and ‘Givling’, they have awarded FACS teacher Mrs. Pacha a check for $10,000 that can go towards student loans! Seth from Givling presented the check in front of the student body this morning! Randomly drawn out of thousands of users, Mrs. Pacha is very lucky!
Blue Rapids students had the honor of listening to Veteran and Alumni Tommy Tryon present about his time in the Kansas Army National Guard.
Valley Heights Colts Booster Club will have its first meeting tonight at 6pm in the Waterville Grade School library. Any parent of a Pre-K thru 6th grade student is welcome and encouraged to attend. Hope to see you there!
The start time for the Junior High basketball games in Linn on Thursday has changed due to gym issues in Linn. the games will start at 4:00pm. The games will be in the following order: B girls / B boys / A girls / A boys all in one gym.
Congratulations Connor Gleason for completing his 30 Book Challenge!
Regular board meeting scheduled for tonight, 5:30 at the District Office.
Congratulation Kalen Martin a 2nd Grader for completing his 30 Book Challenge!
Thanks to all the elementary staff and families for making the Fall literacy family engagement night a success!
Reminder: Fall Family Literacy Night tonight at 6:00PM at the Blue Rapids Gym for Preschool-6th Grade!
This morning valley Heights celebrated Grandma Linda for her 11 years of service working in the preschool building! Thank you Grandma Linda for spending your days caring for our students!
Tommy Tryon shared about his experiences in the Army National Guard with Waterville Elementary students today for our Career Wednesday Program.
Elementary students were able to have a sneak peek at the high school play today. Gone with the Breeze will be performed at the Waterville Opera House Nov. 15 & 16 at 7:30 PM and Nov. 17 at 2 PM.
Thank you to all veterans and active members for your service to our country. Great speakers, music, and respect shown today at Valley Heights Jr-Sr High School.
Mrs. Crowther and Mrs. Koehler’s 5th Grade Classes visited Blue Rapids Senior Living to interview local Veterans and present them with acrostic poems we made. Several kids are bringing home acrostic poems for family members who are veterans. We send our sincere thanks to all Veterans for their service.
Thank you to all the Veterans that came out to Valley Heights this morning for the KAY Veteran’s Day program. Thank you to all Veterans and active military for your dedication to our wonderful country!
Robotics Finals: Gates and Kaitlyn placed 8th at the tournament along with choosing the second highest scoring Valley Heights team, Chase and Sam, to join them in their alliance! Congratulations to all the teams who competed today. They fought hard every round!
The bracket is set! This is the first time Gates, Kaitlyn, Chase and Sam have ever competed and they form the 8th place alliance going into semi finals out of 31 teams.
Valley Heights Robotics is competing at Hesston High School today. After all the qualifying rounds, Team 498Y Gates Carder and Kaitlyn Chilson made it into the semifinals in 11th place. They will select alliances and compete this afternoon.
Several scholarships have been added to the list - check them out. Upcoming deadlines are Hagen, Nov. 15; K-State and Washburn Leadership, Dec. 1; Rural Voices, Dec 2.
Book fair tonight at Waterville grade school from 5:30 until 8! Taco dinner don’t miss it! Free will donation!
Thanks to Highland Community College Western Center and Derrik Russell for taking time to work with our K - 6th grades today! The kids loved it! #Partnerships
Annual Art Club Trip 2019! This year we toured the K-State Art Department where we got to do a paint pour, laser cut key chains, and some photography. Followed by lunch in Aggieville and painting Christmas ornaments at the Straight Upp Studio.
National Honor Society braved the wind to serve the community.
Check out these spooktacular haunted houses students made during Colts Roundup last week!!
Look what arrived today!! Here is a preview of some of the awesome books that will be available at the Book Fair at the Waterville Grade School on Thursday evening from 6pm - 8pm. The free will donation Taco Dinner will be from 5:30pm - 7:30pm!!
7th grade English students read “War on the Wall,” then created their wall based on the description in the story and their visualization. The classes then voted on the projects. There was a three-way tie for 1st place in 4th hour and a tie for 3rd in 3rd hour. Good work kids!
Valley Heights KAYs, students, and staff will be hosting our annual Veteran's Day celebration, Monday, November 11th at 7:45 a.m. in the VHHS commons area. We would like to invite all veterans and their spouses/families to join us in the celebration.
Coffee, roll, and juice will be served, followed by a short program. Thank you for your service and allowing us to honor you in this day! Hope to see all of you November 11th!
Notice - Calendar Change: The All School Play will be November 15th, 16th & 17th!
Congratulations Kaine Seleska a 3rd grader for being the first to get his 30 Book Challenge!!
The 2019 All-State Tournament Team has been announced and VH is well represented!
Very proud of the fight and effort from this team! 4th place finish at the state volleyball tournament! Great job ladies!
Allen Yungeberg is the winner of the pink laces football. Thank you to all who contributed!! #VHstrong
Happy Halloween from Kindergarten!
More than 30 post-secondary schools and six high schools at today's CPC at Valley Heights.
Trunk or treat at the high school before the football game Thursday night. If you wish to participate, please set up in the west parking lot at 4:45 pm.
No Colt's Round-Up Thursday!
Take a look at Valley Height’s Scholars Bowl team. If you see them make sure to congratulate them on taking home second place medals from Blue Valley’s tournament Tuesday night
As October winds down, scholarship deadlines are approaching. November 1 - Masonic Lodge Essay Contest, Wichita State, KU, November 5th - Elks, November 15th - Hagen. Keep checking with schools and organizations for other deadlines.
For planning purposes, if you are going to excuse your child to attend the state volleyball tournament, please let your child's school know ASAP.
Order your State Volleyball Shirts today!!! Order forms available at high school or online through Stateline Promotions. Orders due Oct 29th.
Please click on the link to see information pertaining to the state volleyball tournament. Just scroll down to the class 2A section. Also, there is a 'Live Feed' link on the website for those that can not attend. KNDY will also be covering the contest on the local radio channel.
http://www.kshsaa.org/Public/Volleyball/State.cfm
The football game versus Jeff County North has been moved from Friday, November 1 to Thursday, October 31. Game time for Thursday will also be moved up an hour to 6:00 pm start.
State VB Tournament Day 1 Bracket
Volleyball fans - still waiting on the other semifinal game to finish before the finals will start.......
1A State Football Bracket
Sub-State VB in Brookville this Saturday. Be aware that there is road construction to deal with. K-140: road crew is currently paving through Brookville; there will be a pilot car east and west of town for the rest of the week, including Saturday. Plan accordingly.
There will be a JH/HS student pep bus going to sub-state VB Saturday. Leave time is 10:15 am. Students must sign up in the office by Thursday at 3:00 pm. Maximum number taking is 50. Students will have to pay their way in and any food or drink.
Have a look at what the Valley Heights art students are creating!
Have a look at what the Valley Heights art students are creating!
The Sub-State Volleyball Bracket has been released. Click on the following link: https://5il.co/ayf2
October 23 is 2019 National Transportation Appreciation Day! Be sure to thank a bus driver tomorrow!
Junior high at Reality U
Freshmen and sophomores at Reality U
Only in rural Kansas would find the set design team gathering supplies from our backyard! #AllSchoolPlay #GoneWithTheBreeze
Reality U at Valley Heights today. First, juniors and seniors.
BVL Champions!!! So proud of these girls and the whole team. Thank you to our student section!! You guys are the best! It’s a great day to be a Mustang!!
Wear Your Orange Wednesday!
Mrs. Tryon’s class is learning about place value in math using place value mats and disks.
Regular board meeting scheduled for tonight, 5:30 at the District Office.
BVL Volleyball Bracket
Junior high volleyball team will leave after school tomorrow for the BVL tournament.
1st graders in Mrs. deBoer’s class are showing their knowledge of landforms by painting each landform they’ve learned about!
The Waterville Fire Department came to the Waterville Grade School this morning to teach us about fire safety!
Thanks for coming and all you do for our community!
Junior volleyball plays tonight at Blue Valley. A team plays at 4:30 and 5:30. B team plays at 4:30 and C team plays at 5:30.
Don't forget the flu shot clinic tomorrow October 17th. VHHS 7:30-8:45 AM
Blue Rapids 9:45-11:00 AM
Waterville 1:30-2:30 PM
So parents please check your childs bookbag for the forms. If you need a form go to www.marshallcohealth.org/forms
Blue Rapids Students cheered on those going on the Honor Flight as they passed through town.
Waterville students cheered on the Honor Flight as they left town today.
Valley Heights FFA members assisted the Farmers Cooperative in serving meals to local farmers as they delivered their grain to the elevator in Blue Rapids today. They also learned how grain was weighed and tested.
In case you missed it, here is the 2019-2020 Homecoming King and Queen crowning! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbjCMOOKAY8
Check out our new video of the Valley Heights Homecoming Parade! ----> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_ZO7jkSaAE
Blue Rapids celebrates the end of the first quarter with their celebration assembly. Students were recognized for outstanding behavior.
The link below is the online store for TVL Volleyball shirts. Orders will be accepted through Tuesday.
https://stores.inksoft.com/twinvalleyvb
We had a great trip to The Eisenhower museum, and of course you can’t pass up a stop at Russell Stovers!
For all that will be traveling to Doniphan West tonight for volleyball, there is road construction between Marysville and Home City. Alternate route may save time.
Reminder - Several scholarship deadlines are nearing. Keep checking the website. Also, December 1 is the priority deadline for many Kansas schools for the FAFSA.