The Schools That Care Family Advocate and Care Bus will be in WV and BR during parent/teacher conferences on Wednesday, Sept 29, to offer families supplies and resources that help their children succeed in school! Services based on need, not income. #servingUSD380andUSD498
Schedule for tonight:
Lady Mustangs on the road @ Blue Valley tonight.
Some secrets are NOT worth keeping. SHATTER the SILENCE-talk to a trusted adult if you or someone you know is thinking about suicide or suffering from mental illness. Use your ears and your mouth to learn more and speak up. #listentolearn #beafriend #seekhelp #youarenotalone
Mustang Cheer Kiddie Clinic for grades K-6 will be held on October 15! Order forms will need to be turned in no later than Oct. 4 in order to receive our shirt order in time! Forms will go home with students today and tomorrow!
JV football at home tonight!
Reminder to K-6 families, Monday, September 27th and Wednesday the 29th there will not be Colt’s Round-Up because of student success meetings. We will have programming Tuesday and Thursday.
Have a great week!
Perfect night for some Friday night lights! #mustangproud
Perfect night for some Friday night lights! #mustangproud
GAMEDAY!
Our local Food Pantry at the United Methodist Church will be open Saturday, September 25, serving families in the VH communities. First come first served. Open 9am-10am. #food4U
Congratulations to the cross country team on a good showing at Nemaha Central tonight. Results are as follows: Payton Woodyard 11th and Kloee Martin 12th in the JV girls race. Hudson Nemechek was 22nd in the varsity boys race. All runners ran a personal best for the season.
Attached you will find information regarding the Axtell Invitational on Saturday, September 25th. VH will be in the Red Pool - #2 - please look for the 2 on the schedule for approximate game times and opponents.
Mustang Athletics - 9/23/21
Results from tonight’s contest at Troy:
C Team beat Troy 25-22, 25-13
JV beat Linn 25-18, 25-23
JV beat Troy 25-11, 25-21
Varsity beat Linn 25-8, 25-20
Varsity beat Troy 25–9, 25-14
Kindergarten had a fun visit from some of the high school FFA students and Mr. O to learn about taking care of pets!
Kindergarten had a fun visit from some of the high school FFA students and Mr. O to learn about taking care of pets!
Schedule for tonight @ Troy:
Court A (Varsity)
6:00 - VH vs. Linn
7:00 - VH vs. Troy
Court B (JV)
4:00 - VH (C) vs. Troy
6:00 - VH vs. Linn
7:00 - VH vs. Troy
4 more resources to share to keep you aware...talking can help, make a call, share a number, advocate for resources, contribute to helpful resources. #bekind #everyoneisdifferent #everyonecanhelpsomeone #resourcesmatter #suicidepreventionandawareness
Lady Mustangs in action today at Troy.
Congratulations to Lindsay Gray on her FIRST PLACE finish at the Washington County junior high cross country meet tonight! Lindsay was the only VH runner.
This week at VH!
End of the 3rd and Valley Heights leads 56-7
Your 2021 Homecoming King and Queen!
Halftime score:
Valley Heights - 28
Horton - 7
Attached is the link to tonight's game via NFHS:
https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/valley-heights-high-school-blue-rapids-ks/gamabcf2aa889?utm_source=braze_automation&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Daily%20Member%20Event%20Alert
Schedule for today:
HoCo Bonfire 2021!
The Valley Heights cross country team competed at the Onaga invitational cross country meet today. Results were as follows: Payton Woodyard 37th and Kloee Martin 38th in the high school girls race. In the high school boys race Hudson Nemechek placed 43rd.
Bonfire tonight at 8:00! Come out and enjoy the band, candidate games, and s’mores!
Kindergarten had a tasty science experiment this week and taste tested three different apple varieties!
Kindergarten had a tasty science experiment this week and taste tested three different apple varieties!
Kindergarten had a tasty science experiment this week and taste tested three different apple varieties!
Schedule for tonight's Junior High Volleyball and Football games is as follows:
Volleyball:
5:00 A Team
6:00 B Team
7:00 C Team
Football:
11 man @ 6:30
Community Recycling collection will be Saturday, September 18 at the RV park on East Commercial Street in Waterville. We're looking for Community support.
First of all, if you would be willing to help with the collection please show up before 9:30 am. If we do not have enough volunteers we may have to cancel on certain months.
Second, if you are bringing items to recycle they must be sorted and PLEASE wait for the volunteers to be there to unload.
Schools That Care and USD498 Parents As Teachers are CHAMPION partners!!! Wave at us in the VH Homecoming parade Friday at 2:30pm and get fired up for the Mustangs to POP the Chargers! #mustangproud
Homecoming Friday!
This survey was sent out to all of our parents, staff and students via email, but we are seeking input from our community patrons, as well. If you have not filled out this survey, would you please take a moment or two to provide us with your feedback?
Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief III (ESSER III) funds are being provided under the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act of 2021, Public Law 117-2, enacted on March 11, 2021. The purpose of ESSER III is to address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on students by mitigating learning losses, supporting social-emotional needs, and ensuring safe in-person learning for students. We will submit an application for ESSER III funds to the Kansas Department of Education which must include input from a variety of stakeholders on how best to use these funds. Your input will impact how ESSER III funds are spent across the school district. Please take a few minutes to provide your feedback. You can access the survey form here:
Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief III (ESSER III) funds are being provided under the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act of 2021, Public Law 117-2, enacted on March 11, 2021. The purpose of ESSER III is to address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on students by mitigating learning losses, supporting social-emotional needs, and ensuring safe in-person learning for students. We will submit an application for ESSER III funds to the Kansas Department of Education which must include input from a variety of stakeholders on how best to use these funds. Your input will impact how ESSER III funds are spent across the school district. Please take a few minutes to provide your feedback. You can access the survey form here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdo0LjXZ91akAQgnCukhBHh6QTegp0pSaVHc4njiPl7MDG9tQ/viewform?usp=sf_link
Thank you in advance for your input and participation.
Melissa Kennedy
Superintendent
HoCo Parade Information attached! Please email cmgreen@valleyheights.org if you have a script. Cones with your number will be set-up the day of! We look forward to an awesome day tomorrow!
2021 Powderpuff Champs!
2021 Spikefest Champs!
Spikefest…. Another homecoming tradition! 🐴
Powderpuff football …. A homecoming tradition!
SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19:
If you child is experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 PLEASE KEEP THEM HOME. Symptoms can be mild and may include, but are not limited to, fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, (allergy like symptoms) nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea.
If your child has any of the above symptoms please contact your building secretary or school nurse.
Thanks,
Jenna Vathauer, LPN
School Nurse-Valley Heights #498
Tonight at 6:30 PM:
FCA - Meal in the commons for students
Immediately after will be Spikefest in the gym, followed by Powderpuff out on the football field!
Tomorrow, Thursday Sept. 16th:
Homecoming Bonfire - 8:30 pm. *If the JH football game goes later, we will wait to start! We will have S'mores!
If you are wanting to put a float in the parade, today will be your last opportunity. Please email cmgreen@valleyheights.org to enter, or if you have a script that you would like the announcers to read. We look forward to a great parade!
If you are having a float in the Homecoming parade this Friday and have a script that you would like to have announced, please email Mr. Green.
Parade route and information will be shared no later than Wednesday.
From the Valley Heights Booster Club!
USD 498 Board of Education is accepting applications for a Blue Rapids Elementary Library Para for school year 2021-2022. Application deadline is noon on Friday, September 24, 2021. Applications may be obtained at the https://www.applitrack.com/valleyheights/onlineapp/ or by contacting the Superintendent’s Office at 785-363-2398. USD #498 is an equal opportunity employer.
Varsity Volleyball Tri @ Linn:
5:00 JV Old Gym vs Blue Valley
6:00 Varsity new gym vs Blue Valley
6:00 JV Old Gym vs Linn
7:00 Varsity New Gym vs Linn
*No C-team games
Recognizing the warning signs of suicide can save a life. #BeaLIFESAVER! #SpeakUp #getHelp #TalkToATrustedAdult #suicideprevention #1800273Talk #textMHFAto741741
USD 498 COVID Update - 9/13/21
It's Homecoming Week!
Lady Mustangs finish up the day as runner ups in a tough Riley County tournament!
Lady mustangs beat Jeff County North in 2 exciting games! Advance to the championship match versus Clay Center!
VH volleyball goes 3-0 in pool play with 2-0 win over Riley County. Championship bracket starts soon.
Lady Mustangs Volleyball @Riley win in 3 against Chapman!! Way to go ladies!🐴
Lady Mustangs win first match against Holton in 2!!
Remembering those lost on 9-11 and those that have sacrificed, allowing our Mustangs to play volleyball in Axtell today.
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day!
Speak up and reach out! "To anyone struggling, it's not a sign of weakness to ask for help. It's a sign of strength." Be there for someone in need of help!
USD 498 COVID Update: Friday, September 10, 2021
Saturday action!
JH Volleyball will play in the Axtell A team tournament tomorrow. First match against D West will start approximately at 10. Following games will be first available court.
Congratulations to the Cross Country team on their performance at the Washington cross country meet tonight. Results are as follows, Payton Woodyard 42nd, Kloee Martin 43rd. Elliot Bachura finished 14th in the JH race and Hudson Nemechek finished 20th in the HS boys race.
Congratulations to this years Homecoming Candidates!
Boys:
Trenton L'Ecuyer
Trayton Claycamp
Tanner Meadows
Girls:
Catherine Toerber
Claire Nolte
Emma Yungeberg
*picture will be taken Monday*
SAVE THESE #s IN YOUR PHONE: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or text MHA to 741741 to the Crisis Text Line and speak to a counselor. To use today, later, or share with a friend. Support and help is available 24/7, 365. You are not alone.
Riley County Invitational Volleyball Tournament Information:
-Valley Heights will be in Pool A - Pool play starts at 9:00 AM (schedule below)
-There are three courts West/East and South Gym all at HS
-Valley Heights vs. Holton - Match 4 - first available court
-Valley Heights vs. Chapman - Match 8 - First available court
-Valley Heights vs. Riley County - Match 11 - First available court
Bracket play will begin after pool play has concluded.
Semi-finals will start 10 minutes after the last preliminary match.
Finals will start 10 minutes following the semi-finals.
First warm-up will be 20 minutes for the first two matches on each court, 10 minutes thereafter.
Information on Saturday's (9-11-21) football game @ JCN:
Location:
JCNHS
302 5 TH St
Winchester, KS 66097
There will be a tailgate from 12:30-2:00 if you are looking for lunch.
Live feed:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEdlSacSe7cAuutSSIfoEsg
Schedule for Junior High Volleyball vs Luckey and Blue Valley on Thursday, September 9th.
USD 498 COVID Update September 8, 2021
Volleyball schedule for tonight's contest at Onaga:
Match Schedule:
North Gym- North North Gym-South South
3:45 C- VH vs Linn
5:00 V-Onaga vs VH JV-Linn vs Clifton-Clyde JV-Onaga vs VH
6:00 V-Onaga vs Linn V-VH vs Clifton-Clyde JV-Onaga vs Linn
7:00 JV-VH vs Linn V-Linn vs Clifton-Clyde JV-Onaga vs C-C
8:00 V-Onaga vs C-C V-VH vs Linn JV-VH vs C-C
Games in the North Gym will be livestreamed on NFHS Network
Saturday is busy!
It is Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month. Everyone can do something. Learn to identify warning signs. Listen to a friend. #Speak up #getHelp #tellaTrustedAdult #shareaHotlinenumber
Just a quick reminder that Waterville’s Picture Day is Tomorrow!!!!!
The Jefferson County North game scheduled for September 10th has been moved to Saturday, September 11th @ 2:00. The game will still be played at JCN.
USD 498 is currently recommending, but not mandating, masks within our facilities. However, it may be useful for our students, parents and patrons to be informed of the protocols in place when quarantine of close contacts is required. Please see the following summary of guidelines utilized by the Marshall County Health Department for contact tracing:
Quarantine:
If your child is placed into quarantine that means they will be quarantined at school if possible and this ALSO means they need to quarantine at home as well. Avoid contact with the public anyone who is not immediate family. For questions on quarantine contact Jenna at jvathauer@valleyheights.org or 785-466-0106 or the Marshall County Health Dept. 785-562-3485
Symptoms:
If you child is experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 PLEASE KEEP THEM HOME. Symptoms have been very mild and include, but not limited to, fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose,(allergy like symptoms) nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea
If you child has any of the above symptoms contact your building secretary or school nurse.
Thanks,
Jenna Vathauer, LPN
School Nurse-Valley Heights #498
USD 498 COVID Update for 9.2.21
The Cross Country meet scheduled for today has been cancelled.
The football game against Marysville on Friday, September 3rd is now cancelled due to COVID.
JV Football Update:
The JV game scheduled for Monday, September 6th is now canceled due to numbers.
The JV game against Jeff County North 9/13/21 is also canceled due to numbers.
Lady Mustangs win again!
Valley Heights - 25 / 25
Frankfort - 14 / 10
Mustang Volleyball:
Valley Heights - 25 / 25
Wetmore - 13 / 15
Schedule of events: (Court A - Varsity - East) (Court B - JV/C - West) *All Games at the High School*
Court B
4:00 PM
Valley Heights JV vs. Wetmore JV
Court B
5:00 PM
Valley Heights C-team vs. Frankfort
Court A
5:00 PM
Valley Heights vs. Wetmore
Court A
6:00 PM
Frankfort vs. Wetmore
Court B
6:00 PM
Valley Heights JV vs. Frankfort JV
Court B
7:00 PM
Frankfort JV vs. Wetmore JV
Court A
7:00 PM
Valley Heights vs. Frankfort
Games will be streamed via NFHS Network.
Setting guidelines to get homework completed can be tough on families. Using these tips and set ground rules to get homework done will help create lifelong habits for students of all ages.
#homeworkhabits #followaschedule #makeitroutine #SchoolsThatCare
Mustangs win!
Valley Heights - 25 / 25
Chapman - 21 / 23
Mustangs fall to Marysville:
Valley Heights - 19 / 21
Marysville - 25 / 25
Next round against Chapman.
Ladies win in 3!
Valley Heights - 27 / 12 / 25
Shawnee Mission West - 25 / 25 / 14
Nemaha Central - 25 / 25
Valley Heights - 15 / 19
Next pool play vs. Shawnee Mission West
"What goes around comes around..." Last school year, kids at Valley Heights Schools helped stock this Food Pantry at the United Methodist Church in BR. They host a Food Pantry for families in the VH communities each last Saturday of the month. Open Sat. Aug 28, 9am-10am. #food4U
Valley Heights football is back!
Marysville Invitational Volleyball Tournament live stream link:
www.facebook.com/MarysvilleBulldogs
Play starts at 9:00 - Valley Heights will be in the new gym.
The American Legion Riders stopped by the Blue Rapids Grade School to give the students information on "The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall". The Blue Rapids students will be visiting the wall in Marysville ,on Thursday, August 26th, from 9:30 to 11:30 .
The track is being repainted this evening in lanes 2 & 3. We ask you to please stay off until Thursday morning!
Saturday, August 28th - Volleyball Tournament in Marysville
Schedule: all games will be in the New Gym
9:00 Nemaha Central vs. Valley Heights
10:00 Valley Heights vs. Shawnee Mission West
12:00 Valley Heights vs. Marysville
1:00 Chapman vs. Valley Heights
Bracket Play starts at 2:00
We are needing to provide an adult line judge (one) and a libero tracker. Please contact Susan Steinfort at ssteinfort@valleyheights.org if you would be interested.
School lunch is provided at no cost this school year, but if your child wants to pack a lunch or snack, remember that good nutrition is important for kids to grow, function and learn. Pack it with protein! Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot for food safety. #SchoolsThatCare
Football Jamboree UPDATE:
The Jamboree has been pushed back to a 7:00 PM start time.
Stadium location:
Unruh Stadium- West HWY 24 (next to Sonic) - Clay Center, Kansas
Thank you to all who came to enjoy the Back to School night at Valley Heights Schools last evening. Our sponsors, planning committee, teachers, coaches, staff, students, fall sports teams, cheer and dance teams truly made it a night to remember! #MustangProud!
SUNDAY August 22 at 5pm-VH Back to School Night. Fun for all students and families. FREE outdoor event-see map of activities! The public is invited to our PEP RALLY at 7pm in the Grandstands. Thanks to our sponsors for supporting this kick off event. #WearPurple #MustangProud
Sixth Grade STEM Challenge: Build the tallest free standing tower using spaghetti, tape, yarn, and a marshmallow!!
Football Jamboree UPDATE:
The football Jamboree scheduled for Friday, August 27th in Riley County has been MOVED to Clay Center. The scrimmage will still begin at 6:00 PM.
Stadium location:
Unruh Stadium- West HWY 24 (next to Sonic) - Clay Center, Kansas
Sixth Graders absolutely ROCKED it today!! Gonna be a fantastic school year!! #MUSTANGPROUD
All VH Students & Families please come CELEBRATE going BACK TO SCHOOL at VH on August 22 starting at 5pm.
FREE! GAMES! Food! FRIENDS! Fun!
The public is invited to the PEP RALLY at 7pm #MeetMeInTheGrandstands #WearPurple #MustangProud
It was an amazing first day at VHHS! THANK YOU parents/guardians for raising students that had lots of smiles, hand shakes, pleases and thank yous! I was impressed with their positive attitudes and gratitude!
Michele Palmgren-Principal #GreatFirstDayAsAMustang
5th graders are excited for the first day!!
Welcome Back to School! #SchoolsThatCare and the #MobileFamilyResourceCenter is here every week, every month (and everyday by appointment). Our Family Advocate, Jayne Whitson is working with our counselors and administrators to meet the needs of students and families. #USD498
It's the night before school starts and all through the house--if your kids are screaming and making you a grouch, relieve anxiety of going back to school TONIGHT! Meet teachers, see classrooms, school supplies are available at the "care bus". "Sweet Dreams" tonight!
Great start to the 2021 - 2022 school year with teachers exploring the history of Waterville and Blue Rapids!
Blue Rapids staff can’t wait to see you tonight at the open house. Our rooms will be open from 6-7 to drop off supplies and meet your teacher.
The Waterville staff is excited to see all the students and parents for Back to School night this evening from 5-6! Come say hello, see the classrooms, and drop off supplies!
Friday, August 20th there will be a Gatorade Scrimmage for Volleyball @ 5:15 PM, in the high school gym. Please bring a sports drink as admission to help our athletes throughout the season.
Football is also looking for Gatorade donations. Due to the Jamboree in Riley County, they are unable to have a Gatorade scrimmage to receive donations. You can drop any type of sports/recovery drink off at the high school office. We appreciate your support!
#MustangProud
Talk to your kids about school bus safety even if they don't ride a route to school everyday, they need to know the bus rules when they have a fieldtrip, game, or event to go on this school year!
#schoolbusrulesmatter #safetyfirst #backtoschool2021 #usd380 #usd498
There will be a parent meeting tomorrow, August 17th at 6:15 PM for High School Fall sports. The initial meeting will be held in the commons followed by sport specific meetings.
Thank you to our community sponsors and volunteers! The VH BACK to SCHOOL night will be an event you and your students at VH won't want to miss! FOOD.FUN.FRIENDS.MEET.GREET.EAT.CHEER!
SUNDAY, AUGUST 22, 5pm-student and family activities.
PEP RALLY, 7pm- the public is invited.
Reminder: Physical and concussion forms must be turned in before you practice!
Fall sports practice starts on Monday, August 16th.
High School Football Players.....There will be a player meeting and equipment checkout tonight at 6:00 PM @ the High School.
Valley Heights back to school mask update. Please read!
SAVE THIS DATE! Aug. 22 @5pm
All students & families-Preschool thru Highschool at VH. Let's CELEBRATE the start of a new school year!
FREE ADMISSION-food, fun & games.
The whole community is invited to attend a PEP RALLY-7pm at the stadium. Watch for more details!
School starts next week! Every child is experiencing different and possibly mixed feelings about going back to school ragain. Follow these tips to help make it a bit easier on them, yourself and the whole family!
#backtoschool2021 #tipstoWIN #usd498 #usd380 #SchoolsThatCare
Due to the incoming storm, conditioning camp will be canceled this morning. We will now go tomorrow, Wednesday at 6:30 AM. See you all then!
Just a reminder that conditioning camp will begin tomorrow at 6:30 AM at the high school.
Need Back to School School supplies in#usd380 or #USD498? Our #SchoolsThatCare Family Advocate, Jayne Whitson. is here to help! Complete the form below and return it to school by August 13. Your supplies will be delivered to your classroom before school starts! Easy Peezy!
Summer weights is officially over. Looking at the numbers, our athletes made great progress this summer. While squat, bench, and clean are great to look at, the attendance piece is even better! We thank all athletes for their hard work this summer!
The athletes listed below hit the 80% mark for summer weights attendance:
Trayton Claycamp
Kaison Bigham
Jayden Dewalt
Abigail Steinfort
Audra Steinfort
Anne Toerber
Tessa Bigham
Big congratulations to these 7 athletes!
Upcoming: Conditioning camp will be next week 6:30-7:30AM (open to all athletes grades 7-12) at the high school!
Valley Heights, we are having district wide open enrollment again today, at the high school, from 8am to 7 pm. Please come enroll your students for the 21-22 school year!! Also-all Valley Heights offices will be closed Friday August 6th. We will be back Monday August 9th for any additional enrollment needs!
As summer comes to a close, consider starting your child(ren) on their school sleep schedule now so that bed time change is not a factor on their first couple of days at school. These tips make bedtime easier for the whole family! #sleepmatters #backtoschool2021 #sweetdreams
The USD498 School Supplies distribution schedule has been updated. Contact Jayne Whitson, Family Advocate if you need to make an appointment outside these dates and times to pick up supplies.
It is time!!!! Valley Heights District Wide Enrollment will be Wednesday, August 4th and Thursday, August 5th. We will be open from 8am to 7pm both days. Location will be at the high school building. Just come in the front door and follow the steps! See you soon!!!
#MustangPROUD
Getting ready for students! Open enrollment starts at high school August 4th. #MustangProud #CantWait2MeetU
Thank you to the Waterville Public Library for inviting us to the KSDS Assistance Dogs, Inc program today! Our campers loved it! What a great organization! #WeLoveIt #KeepKidsLearning #WeHaveFun
With only a couple of days left in this years 21st CCLC Camp Exploration we're still learning and making everyday count! #WeLoveIt #KeepKidsLearning #WeHaveFun
Are you ready for Fall Sports?
Valley Heights Community Education is excited to bring fall gymnastics! Registration will be open now until August 9th! This class will be operated by Moore Gymnastics and Pacha Gymnastics. Click on the link to register:
https://forms.gle/4PtK3YoYe3tCpNcw9
21st CCLC Camp Exploration won't let a rainy day hold us back! We had dancers showing their talent, cooking in a mug and our older students setting a good example by reading to our younger ones! #WeLoveIt #KeepKidsLearning #WeHaveFun
A staff member said today "In the summer we get to develop relationships that span the years and have the ability to be a bright spot for both students and staff. In the summer they can really get to know us." Summer learning is so much more than activities! #RelationshipsMatter
21st CCLC Camp Exploration is celebrating Christmas in July with gingerbread houses! #WeLoveIt #KeepKidsLearning #WeHaveFun
21st CCLC Camp Exploration just keeps on keeping on! Pizza in a mug, laser maze, rock walls and mindfulness were just a few of the things that we conquered today. #WeLoveIt #KeepKidsLearning #WeHaveFun
21st CCLC Camp Exploration was digging into local history at the Blue Rapids Historical Museum, creating our stars and using science to create foaming sidewalk chalk. #WeLoveIt #KeepKidsLearning #WeHaveFun
21st CCLC Camp Exploration wrapped up another great week to kick off July! Today we dissected owl pellets(gross but so cool!), made some fake snow, and had a blast to say the least! #WeLoveIt #KeepKidsLearning
The VHHS Track is closed effective immediately and through Monday, July 12th for painting! Thank you for your understanding and have a great weekend!
Last Day!!!!!
Half price or better on the remaining items. Come see us at the high school. We are here till noon today.
21st CCLC Camp Exploration is going strong! Students and staff have a blast everyday! #WeLoveIt #KeepKidsLearning
Day Two!!! VHHS Garage Sale!!! Today from 8am to 7pm. Tomorrow from 8am to Noon. Located in the high school commons. Come see what we have. New things have been added. Still a couple file cabinets available. Cute table and chairs for your little ones. Come on out!!!!
21st CCLC Camp Exploration is rolling in July! From javelin throw to decorating bird houses and Entrepreneurs to cleaning our community, we're getting it done and having fun! #WeLoveIt #KeepKidsLearning
It’s Time!!!! VHHS Garage Sale is here!!! Wednesday July 7, Thursday July 8 from 8am to 7pm and Friday July 9 8am to noon. Located at the high school commons. All sales are final. Come out and see what we have.
Coach Steinfort will be at the BR gym from 6-7 tonight for any interested junior high volleyball player.
For weights today/tomorrow, please park/drop off your students in the overflow parking lot. They hope to have the parking lot done by the 6th. Thanks.
Just a reminder that weights will pick back up tomorrow, July 5th! (Normal times)
Reminder to families:
Camp Exploration starts back up Tuesday, July 6th! Have a safe and Happy 4th of July!
Just a reminder… Valley Heights Garage Sale. Wednesday July 7 and Thursday July 8 8am-7pm and Friday July 9 8am-12. Located at the commons at high school. Here’s a glimpse!!!
Emma Yungeberg prepares for the HS Outdoor Nationals track & field meet in Oregon at Hayward Field! Best of luck, Emma! She will throw at 5 pm Pacific Time.
Jut a reminder:
June 28-July 4
KSHSAA Summer Moratorium
No weights or team oriented activities.
See everyone back on July 5th!
Reminder to families:
There is no Camp Exploration this week. We'll be back in session beginning July 6th! Have a safe and Happy 4th of July!
Final day of cheer camp for these girls!! They worked hard both days and learned so much! We are extremely excited to get the season underway! #mustangproud
Our youth programs received a generous donation from the family of Jock Carlson. Jock was a huge supporter of anything and everything Valley Heights and we thought this would be a great way to remember him! We want to thank the family for their generosity and kindness!
Have you always wanted a corner office with a view?
How about getting paid to travel?
Not to mention you'll get to drive a $90,000 company vehicle!
Then bus driving is what you're looking for!
Your 2021-2022 cheer squad has put in work today! Ready for day two tomorrow!!
This week at Camp Exploration a group of Kindergarten-6th grade students learned the importance of supporting our troops. They wrote letters, made trial mix, colored pictures, made bracelets, and made care packages for local soldiers who are currently serving our country. They made 65 individual packages of treats and learned that giving back makes them feel proud!
USD 498 Garage Sale
Location: High School Commons
Date: July 7-8 from 8am to 7pm July 9th 8am-Noon
More information to follow.
Week 3, Day 3 of 21st CCLC Camp Exploration! Arts, games and Egyptian traditions! Another great day! #WeLoveIt #KeepKidsLearning
Week 3, Day 2 of 21st CCLC Camp Exploration! The kitchen isn't the only place to cook! In summer and afterschool we emphasize character and this is the recipe for success! #CharacterCreatesChampions #WeLoveIt #KeepKidsLearning
Coach Steinfort will be at the BR gym tonight at 6 for any interested junior high volleyball players. She will be there for an hour or so.
Week 3, Day 1 of 21st CCLC Camp Exploration! We're kicking off this week by saluting or troops, getting crafty, minute to win it and our students continue to find ways to show kindness. The building and outdoors are filled with laughter and smiles! #WeLoveIt #KeepKidsLearning
Week 2, Day 4 of 21st CCLC Camp Exploration! With tea parties and a little ranch life we still find time to relax and come back to center! Again we made this "A Great Day To Be a Mustang!" Huge THANKS to the Brungardts for loading up the farm to visit us! #KeepKidsLearning
Week 2, Day 3 of 21st CCLC Camp Exploration! More water games, cheer and some edible engineering helped us beat the heat today! Again we made this "A Great Day To Be a Mustang!" #KeepKidsLearning #SummerTimeIsFunTime
USD #498 is accepting applications for a custodian position. Please go to https://www.applitrack.com/valleyheights/onlineapp/
Week 2, Day 2 of 21st CCLC Camp Exploration! Ice cream and water games help us beat the heat this week! Again we made this "A Great Day To Be a Mustang!" #KeepKidsLearning
Week 2, Day 1 of 21st CCLC Camp Exploration! Mentos and Coke have things pretty explosive and the students are making connections with each other and circuitry! Again we made this "A Great Day To Be a Mustang!" #KeepKidsLearning
Coach Steinfort will be available this Tuesday night at 6:00 in the BR gym for any junior high volleyball player wanting to work on skills
CAMP EXPLORATION DATE CHANGE:
Our first week of July camp will run Tuesday, July 6 - Friday, July 9th!
This will be the only Friday that we will have camp this summer. The other 2 weeks in July will be the 12th - 15th and 19th - 22nd. Reminders will be sent out again.
Day 4 and week 1 of 21st CCLC Camp Exploration has flown by! It was a good day for a water balloon fight and a little dancing! Again we made this "A Great Day To Be a Mustang!" #KeepKidsLearning
Day 3 of 21st CCLC Camp Exploration has rolled! Our 5th & 6th grade room have turned their bulletin board into a motivational wall! Again we made this "A Great Day To Be a Mustang!" #KeepKidsLearning #LeadersOfTomorrow
Day 2 of 21st CCLC Camp Exploration is in the books! We had another great day and memories were made! Once again we made this "A Great Day To Be a Mustang!" #KeepKidsLearning
If you've got a student attending Camp Exploration please make sure they bring a water bottle to camp. It's getting HOT!!
1st day of Washington DC trip in the books!
Day 1 of 21st CCLC Camp Exploration is in the books! We had a great day and had lots of fun! From Spa Day to Mod Podge and Junior Chef to the Great Outdoors! We danced, we laughed and we made this "A Great Day To Be a Mustang!" #KeepKidsLearning
Weights Schedule for June 7th - 11th:
Mon/Tues/Thurs/Friday:
1st session: 6:30-7:30
Conditioning for both: 7:30-8:00
2nd session: 8:00-9:00
No evening sessions - these will start the week of June 14th
#MustangProud
Congratulations to Wes Denton for being name the Kansas FFA Star Farmer. This is the highest award a Kansas FFA memeber can receive. This is the first time in history a Valley Heights student has has been awarded this honor. Awesome job on this great honor.
21st CCLC Camp Exploration is ready to kick off on Monday, June 7th! Our staff has been busy planning a summer of activities that will entertain, enrich and educate! Some places shut down over the summer and everyone takes a break! Not us, "we get fired and ROCK the summer!!"
Virtual Kansas FFA Convention is starting off with a bang. Congrats to Valley Heights FFA memeber Wes Denton on winning the state Beef Production Entrepreneurship proficiency award. He will now represent Kansas during national competition.
Due to the resurfacing of the track at the High School, please stay off of it for the next two weeks!
Thanks for your understanding.
The convention.ksffa.org site is now live. Since we are registered for convention, every has access to the entire virtual convention. When you log in, you just need to put down Valley Heights FFA as the chapter. Please let Mr. Obermeyer know if you have any issues on the site.
CROSS COUNTRY SUMMER CONDITIONING will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays this summer, one session at 6:00 am and a second session at 6:30 am. Pick which works best for you! Student athletes need to meet at the HS track. Required materials include running clothes, a decent pair of shoes to run in and a water bottle. If the weather is bad we will run the halls in the HS. The reason for two sessions is there is a weight training session starting at 6:30 am, so the 6:00 am run time may work better for you if you want to lift weights at 6:30 am. Coming to summer cross country workouts does not mean you are obligated to join the team. Come out and try it and see if you like it
7-12 Summer Weights information for the rest of this week:
Wednesday: No weights
Thursday and Friday: (1st session) 6:30-7:30AM & (2nd session) 7:30-8:30AM
No Evening sessions this week.
Contact: cmgreen@valleyheights.org for questions
Camp Exploration starts in a week! We're ready for a great camp! Don't forget if you haven't signed up do so by tomorrow!
WE MAKE SUMMER ROCK!!
Register here: https://forms.gle/nc5BwVRsbsQ9x3Eg9
There will be no evening session of weights this week. We would like all athletes to attend the first two sessions for testing. (6:30-7:30 & 7:30-8:30)
Due to unforeseen circumstances the Valley Heights gym will be unavailable for use this summer. Therefore the junior high volleyball league scheduled for June will be cancelled. Any entrance fees will be returned.
Correction. The girls got 3rd not 4th in the 4x400
Girl took 3rd place as a team at the State Track Meet.
Girl took 3rd place as a team at the State Track Meet.
Girls 4x400 finished 4th at the State Meet. Congrats Brooke Porter, Maggie Toerber, Maddy Vermetten and Taya Smith.
Congrats to Taya Smith on a 5th place medal at the state meet.
Two more state medals. Maddy Vermetten 8th and Emma Yungeberg 2nd.
4x800 picture
Girls 4x800 fined forth in the State Meet today. Great job ladies. Maddy Vermetten, Cat Toerber, Abigail Steinfort and Taya Smith.
2nd Gold Medal of the day. Emma Yungeberg 2A STATE CHAMPION in shot put!
Congrats to two time STATE CHAMPION Emma Yungeberg in the javelin!
Best of luck to our State bound track team and their coaches In Wichita tomorrow!
You make us #MustangProud!
Please see the summer weights schedule. High School students are recommended to go to the first session. Junior High students are recommended to go to the second session, unless you have an older sibling attending the first session.
Conditioning will be for both first and second session.
PM session is open for any age.
Camp Exploration will be serving free meals again this summer!!
Just to clarify: Valley Heights USD 498 is celebrating the last day of school for the 2020-2021 school year, today, May 24th. Parents, we just want to clarify that the online calendar was not changed accordingly and we will be celebrating the last day with our students today.
Mrs. Tryon’s second grade class dissected owl pellets and sorted the contents!
2021 Graduation: There is reserved seating for up to 8 members of the graduates’ families on the floor of the gym. Additional friends and family will be able to sit in the bleachers. All graduates must be in the band room no later than 1:30pm on Saturday.
Thank you to the Valley Heights Class of 2021 for taking the time to walk the halls of the Blue Rapids Grade School. Good luck on your journey!
The Marshall County Health Department is offering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to kids 12 and older. The health department will be doing a clinic in Marysville on June 1. Call the Marshall County Health Department ASAP to schedule an appointment. 785-562-3485
Second grade had a great time at our indoor play day today!
Watch the Valley Heights High School class of 2021 graduation Satuday at 2:00pm https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/valley-heights-high-school-blue-rapids-ks/evt7e4afa3dac
Play Day at the Blue Rapids Grade School has been canceled.
Thank you to Landolls and Travalong for giving our 5th grade students an amazing field trip with an afternoon of bowling.
Due to the impending weather overnight and tomorrow morning, it has been decided that Play Day will be at each respective building and not at the high school. Waterville will still be in the morning hours and Blue Rapids in the afternoon. While we are not able to have play day as normal we will be having fun activities for the kids. With this in mind we will not be able to invite spectators in the Waterville building due to limited space however if you would like to spectate at the Blue Rapids Gym for those activities you may do so. Activities at the Blue Rapids building will start at 12:30! A sack lunch will still be provided.
Senior Awards Night tonight at 7 pm in the VHHS commons. Hope to see you all there for an evening honoring our seniors.
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/UyYoJfyuaRjWt1EH7
Valley Heights USD 498 is currently accepting applications for an elementary teacher at Blue Rapids Grade School. Valley Heights has a tradition of success in all areas of academics and activities. Through fidelity and rigor, our elementary was named a 2017 Blue Ribbon School for their transformation within the MTSS framework which ensures each individual student's social/emotional and academic needs are met. In 2018 they were named a National Title I Distinguished School for closing the achievement gap for all student groups, one of only two schools in the state of Kansas to be recognized. Most recently, the foundational work to become a Trauma Informed district has been initiated to address the mental health and Social Emotional Learning of our diverse student population. Another goal we are striving to achieve is in creating collaborative teams of community and school representatives to establish relationships and build connectivity between our district, parents and patrons. Valley Heights has an experienced and dedicated staff that is continually looking toward ways to improve and increase student achievement. We are proud of the rich, rural traditions that have created the family environment that ties our two small, but progressive, cities into one district.
We are #MustangProud and invite you to visit our website and see all the exciting things happening at Valley Heights! To apply, please follow the following link: https://www.applitrack.com/valleyheights/onlineapp/
USD 498 is in the process of evaluating Opaa!, our current food service program. We are asking for our PARENT community to complete the following survey. This is strictly for parents of our district students, as similar surveys are being completed by students and staff at school. We appreciate your feedback!
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=cBDtOEpXykaEUpmtdbtj_Shx8KCzc7dDhErrAnf11MFURTJZTVY5WkJVV1lDR0RLS1BSTE5UNlBFQi4u
Tonight is the night! K-6 Kick-off to Summer! Come for food, prizes, and kick-ball! See you at the Blue Rapids Ball fields from 6-8!
Valley Heights Senior Awards Night will be Tuesday, May 18th at 7:00pm. Location for this event will be at the VH High School Commons. All are welcome to attend and listen to the scholarships that will be shared with our students.
Biology students started the fetal pig dissections this week.
Correction to the earlier post: Jr High Awards will be moved to Thursday, May 20th at 2:30pm at the High School Gym. Again parents are welcome to attend. Sorry for any confusion this may have caused.
The USD 498 Board of Education voted last night at their regular monthly meeting to alter the school calendar to the following: Monday, May 24th will be the last day of school for students, and this will be a full day. Please note that there will be no school the morning of Tuesday, May 25th. Have a great summer!
Due to a schedule change for the end of this school year, the Junior High Awards will be moved up to Monday, the 24th at 2:30. Parents are welcome to attend.
Effective Tuesday, May 11 the USD 498 mask protocol will be updated to "Masks are recommended, but not required.".
If you received a letter from the Health Dept. regarding the updating of your child’s immunizations, please return those forms to your building secretaries as soon as possible as they will be here on Wednesday!
To all the Mustang mom's past and present....
Due to the incoming weather, we will be moving the Mother/son Night of Fun into the gym and commons tonight!! Lots of yard games, hot dog picnic and a movie! Bring a pillow and a blanket and get some snuggles from all your sweet boys tonight! Cannot wait to see you all there!
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.
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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 cont