Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County&nbsp;

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County works to improve the living conditions of individuals and families in Ellis County.

Funds given directly to the Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County stay in Ellis County.&nbsp;

Those funds are used to purchase and renovate homes that are sold to local income-qualified residents, making homeownership possible for some who would not otherwise be able to own a home.

The local group also assists with home repairs for qualifying individuals.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3c3938e5-940b-4e39-b0c4-3d7926ee5f98">In December 2023, one family was placed in a home in Ellis, and an individual was placed in a small home in Hays.</a>

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County is supported through donations and proceeds from the ReStore, 2707 Broadway, Hays. The store is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.

The group is raising funds now to purchase more homes for Ellis County residents.

"During the giving season, please consider making a donation to help us fund projects to help those in need of a nice place to live and flourish," the group said in a news release.

To make monetary donations: Please send a check to Habitat for Humanity, 2707 Broadway Ave., Hays, KS 67601 or to Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County, P.O. Box 444, Hays, KS 67601.

Online donations can be made at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hfhec.org/donate-to-hfhec.html">www.hfhec.org/</a>.

Learn more about <a href="https://www.hfhec.org/">Habitat on its website</a> or follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HFHEC">Habitat ReStore on Facebook.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593633275710.jpeg" alt="Local Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County home" />
 <figcaption>Local Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County home</figcaption>
 </figure>Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County&nbsp;Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County works to improve the living conditions of individuals and families in Ellis County.Funds given directly to the Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County stay in Ellis County.&nbsp;Those funds are used to purchase and renovate homes that are sold to local income-qualified residents, making homeownership possible for some who would not otherwise be able to own a home.The local group also assists with home repairs for qualifying individuals.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3c3938e5-940b-4e39-b0c4-3d7926ee5f98">In December 2023, one family was placed in a home in Ellis, and an individual was placed in a small home in Hays.</a>Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County is supported through donations and proceeds from the ReStore, 2707 Broadway, Hays. The store is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.The group is raising funds now to purchase more homes for Ellis County residents."During the giving season, please consider making a donation to help us fund projects to help those in need of a nice place to live and flourish," the group said in a news release.To make monetary donations: Please send a check to Habitat for Humanity, 2707 Broadway Ave., Hays, KS 67601 or to Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County, P.O. Box 444, Hays, KS 67601.Online donations can be made at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hfhec.org/donate-to-hfhec.html">www.hfhec.org/</a>.Learn more about <a href="https://www.hfhec.org/">Habitat on its website</a> or follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HFHEC">Habitat ReStore on Facebook.</a>

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County seek donations to house local families

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Ellis USD 388 board member Cindy Hertel resigned from her position on the board as of Monday.

Several board members thanked her for her service.

The board is in the process of seeking applications for a new board member.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The board will interview candidates at its February meeting. The person who is appointed will serve until the next board election.

An election will be held to fill the vacant seat. The person elected to that seat will fill the remaining two years in the term.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700661924756.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostEllis USD 388 board member Cindy Hertel resigned from her position on the board as of Monday.She is moving.Several board members thanked her for her service.The board is in the process of seeking applications for a new board member.&nbsp;&nbsp;The board will interview candidates at its February meeting. The person who is appointed will serve until the next board election.An election will be held to fill the vacant seat. The person elected to that seat will fill the remaining two years in the term.

Ellis USD 388 school board seeking new member

Ellis Police Chief Avery Smith said Wednesday morning that the student who made the threats had been referred for intake into the juvenile justice system. The case has been referred to the Ellis County Attorney.

Two angry parents appeared before the Ellis USD 388 school board meeting Monday after they said their son was targeted in a school threat on Thursday.

One of the parents, who is not being identified in this story to protect the identity of his children, said a junior high student threatened to shoot up the school and then specifically identified people he intended to target, including his son and another student.

The parent said the junior high student was temporarily removed from class but was sent back to class that day.

The parent said when his children informed him of the threats after they came home from school on Thursday, he called the police.

The parent said his children, including his son are afraid to go to school or school activities.

The parent said he kept his children home from school on Friday because of safety concerns.

The school released a statement on the incident on Monday night.&nbsp;

Last week, there was a threat made by a student at the Jr/Sr HS. We immediately began investigating. It was determined that this threat posed no danger to students or staff.

Keeping people safe requires that we follow emergency response procedures without fail, which includes quickly notifying the law enforcement agency and working with them to determine how to protect our students and staff.

As needed, we also must take proper disciplinary action for fair and consistent consequences.

Please understand that we cannot share any details about the student involved in this situation. This is the result of both confidentiality laws and our district’s commitment to respecting the privacy of students and their families.

We sincerely regret that our communication about the incident was delayed, falling short of informing and reassuring our staff and families about the safety measures that we followed. Please accept our apology for any additional worry or stress our omission may have caused you or your family.

Please take this opportunity to talk to your student about the importance of reporting anything unusual, even if it might be a joke or hoax. Remind them if they hear or see anything, they should tell you, share with a school employee or call the police.

The father whose son was threatened told the school board Monday he did not think the administration had done a good job in dealing with the student in question.

He said this student had been involved in multiple incidents since grade school.

The parent alleged the student had made a previous bomb threat against the school and had thrown chairs in the classroom at other students.

The parent also alleged the student had picked on other students.

"My kids are scared to go to school," the parent said. "They shouldn't be. You have not created a safe environment by letting one individual ruin it for 20 to 30 kids every day.&nbsp;

"I speak on behalf of a lot of people who are not here but who I talked to throughout the day. I can't say names, but we all feel the same way."

"We have been failed by every one of you," the parent said. "It's disturbing. There are warning signs there. If we don't do something about it now, we're going to be a statistic that makes nationwide news."

He said he did not want to change schools, adding that his children are the fourth generation to attend Ellis schools. However, he said he would send his children to another school unless the school district does something more to address this situation.

Board president Randy Honas told the parent he appreciated him expressing his thoughts.

"I just want you to understand that we will proceed as best we can as quickly as we can, following all the rules and regs we need to follow," Honas said.

The parent alleged that the student was receiving special treatment because he is in the special education program.

"I was told by two separate administrators that had it been a different kid who wasn't on a program, they would have been kicked out immediately. I find that to be very disturbing," the parent said.

The parent said the student in question showed up at the basketball game on Friday night. His son called and asked to be picked up from the game because he was scared of the student.

The parent said an administrator told him the student would be placed in out-of-school suspension. He later learned that the student had been placed in in-school suspension and was back at the school.

Honas said, "We will do our best to address some of the issues you brought up. Obviously, there are certain things we can and can't do. We will get there as quick as we can."

The school board held an executive session on Monday to discuss a student issue. The board president did not say if the session pertained to the student who made the threats, and the board did not take public action after the executive session.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724351835621.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE 9 a.m. Dec. 11:&nbsp;Ellis Police Chief Avery Smith said Wednesday morning that the student who made the threats had been referred for intake into the juvenile justice system. The case has been referred to the Ellis County Attorney.----By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTwo angry parents appeared before the Ellis USD 388 school board meeting Monday after they said their son was targeted in a school threat on Thursday.One of the parents, who is not being identified in this story to protect the identity of his children, said a junior high student threatened to shoot up the school and then specifically identified people he intended to target, including his son and another student.The parent said the junior high student was temporarily removed from class but was sent back to class that day.The parent said when his children informed him of the threats after they came home from school on Thursday, he called the police.The parent said his children, including his son are afraid to go to school or school activities.The parent said he kept his children home from school on Friday because of safety concerns.The school released a statement on the incident on Monday night.&nbsp;That statement is below:Last week, there was a threat made by a student at the Jr/Sr HS. We immediately began investigating. It was determined that this threat posed no danger to students or staff.Keeping people safe requires that we follow emergency response procedures without fail, which includes quickly notifying the law enforcement agency and working with them to determine how to protect our students and staff.As needed, we also must take proper disciplinary action for fair and consistent consequences.Please understand that we cannot share any details about the student involved in this situation. This is the result of both confidentiality laws and our district’s commitment to respecting the privacy of students and their families.We sincerely regret that our communication about the incident was delayed, falling short of informing and reassuring our staff and families about the safety measures that we followed. Please accept our apology for any additional worry or stress our omission may have caused you or your family.Please take this opportunity to talk to your student about the importance of reporting anything unusual, even if it might be a joke or hoax. Remind them if they hear or see anything, they should tell you, share with a school employee or call the police.— Janice Wilson, superintendentThe father whose son was threatened told the school board Monday he did not think the administration had done a good job in dealing with the student in question.He said this student had been involved in multiple incidents since grade school.The parent alleged the student had made a previous bomb threat against the school and had thrown chairs in the classroom at other students.The parent also alleged the student had picked on other students."My kids are scared to go to school," the parent said. "They shouldn't be. You have not created a safe environment by letting one individual ruin it for 20 to 30 kids every day.&nbsp;"I speak on behalf of a lot of people who are not here but who I talked to throughout the day. I can't say names, but we all feel the same way.""We have been failed by every one of you," the parent said. "It's disturbing. There are warning signs there. If we don't do something about it now, we're going to be a statistic that makes nationwide news."He said he did not want to change schools, adding that his children are the fourth generation to attend Ellis schools. However, he said he would send his children to another school unless the school district does something more to address this situation.Board president Randy Honas told the parent he appreciated him expressing his thoughts."I just want you to understand that we will proceed as best we can as quickly as we can, following all the rules and regs we need to follow," Honas said.The parent alleged that the student was receiving special treatment because he is in the special education program."I was told by two separate administrators that had it been a different kid who wasn't on a program, they would have been kicked out immediately. I find that to be very disturbing," the parent said.The parent said the student in question showed up at the basketball game on Friday night. His son called and asked to be picked up from the game because he was scared of the student.The parent said an administrator told him the student would be placed in out-of-school suspension. He later learned that the student had been placed in in-school suspension and was back at the school.Honas said, "We will do our best to address some of the issues you brought up. Obviously, there are certain things we can and can't do. We will get there as quick as we can."The school board held an executive session on Monday to discuss a student issue. The board president did not say if the session pertained to the student who made the threats, and the board did not take public action after the executive session.

UPDATE: Parents concerned after Ellis USD 388 junior high student makes threats

On Tuesday, November 26, 2024, Ellis High School inducted 13 juniors and 12 seniors into the local chapter of the National Honor Society. 

Requirements for NHS are a 3.5 GPA, leadership in seven organizations within the school or community, an accumulation of 40 hours of community service, and a positive character evaluation by teachers.

The following students were inducted into the National Honor Society:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733248192517.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedOn Tuesday, November 26, 2024, Ellis High School inducted 13 juniors and 12 seniors into the local chapter of the National Honor Society. Requirements for NHS are a 3.5 GPA, leadership in seven organizations within the school or community, an accumulation of 40 hours of community service, and a positive character evaluation by teachers.The following students were inducted into the National Honor Society:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733248256322.jpeg" alt="Back Row, 1st year members: Owen Richards (Jr.), son of Brady and Jamie Richards; Leah Reed (Jr.), daughter of Darin and April Reed; Carson Schartz (Jr.), son of Jake and Jennifer Schartz; Caleb Noble-Heit (Sr.), son of Coady and Kelsey Heit; Ethan Carroll (Jr.), son of Matt and Nicole Carroll; Payten Burd (Jr.), daughter of Shaun and Emily Burd; Avery Boydston (Jr.), daughter of Monte and Deidre Boydston; Jaren Frickey (Jr.), son of Brian and Michelle Frickey; Eliana Brull (Jr.), daughter of Steven and Sheresa Brull. Middle Row: Kia Mader (Jr.), daughter of Michael and Mindi Mader; Kinzie Sunley (Jr.), granddaughter of Allen and Kim Weber; Sienna Schmidt (Jr.), daughter of Dick and Shannon Schmidt; Raegan Jimenez (Jr.), daughter of Javi and Jessica Jimenez; Ashlyn Kroeger (Jr.), daughter of Matt and Rachael Kroeger; Morgan Armbrister (Sr.), daughter of Mark and Crystal Armbrister." />
 <figcaption>Back Row, 1st year members: Owen Richards (Jr.), son of Brady and Jamie Richards; Leah Reed (Jr.), daughter of Darin and April Reed; Carson Schartz (Jr.), son of Jake and Jennifer Schartz; Caleb Noble-Heit (Sr.), son of Coady and Kelsey Heit; Ethan Carroll (Jr.), son of Matt and Nicole Carroll; Payten Burd (Jr.), daughter of Shaun and Emily Burd; Avery Boydston (Jr.), daughter of Monte and Deidre Boydston; Jaren Frickey (Jr.), son of Brian and Michelle Frickey; Eliana Brull (Jr.), daughter of Steven and Sheresa Brull. Middle Row: Kia Mader (Jr.), daughter of Michael and Mindi Mader; Kinzie Sunley (Jr.), granddaughter of Allen and Kim Weber; Sienna Schmidt (Jr.), daughter of Dick and Shannon Schmidt; Raegan Jimenez (Jr.), daughter of Javi and Jessica Jimenez; Ashlyn Kroeger (Jr.), daughter of Matt and Rachael Kroeger; Morgan Armbrister (Sr.), daughter of Mark and Crystal Armbrister.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733248290368.jpeg" alt="Front Row, 2nd year members: Chance Jimenez (Sr.), son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez; Maleah Vine (Sr.), daughter of Dustin and Tanna Vine; Brooke Starns (Sr.), daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Natalee North (Sr.), daughter of Travis and Ava North; Isabella Eck (Sr.), daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck; MaKenzie Kohlrus (Sr.), daughter of Travis and Susie Kohlrus; Addison Kohl (Sr.), daughter of Jeff and Emily Kohl; Taegan Shannon (Sr.), daughter of Brian and Amanda Shannon; Alyssa Rome (Sr.), daughter of James and Sandra Rome; Toby Honas (Sr.), son of Randy and Wendy Honas." />
 <figcaption>Front Row, 2nd year members: Chance Jimenez (Sr.), son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez; Maleah Vine (Sr.), daughter of Dustin and Tanna Vine; Brooke Starns (Sr.), daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Natalee North (Sr.), daughter of Travis and Ava North; Isabella Eck (Sr.), daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck; MaKenzie Kohlrus (Sr.), daughter of Travis and Susie Kohlrus; Addison Kohl (Sr.), daughter of Jeff and Emily Kohl; Taegan Shannon (Sr.), daughter of Brian and Amanda Shannon; Alyssa Rome (Sr.), daughter of James and Sandra Rome; Toby Honas (Sr.), son of Randy and Wendy Honas.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis High School inducts 25 into National Honor Society

Ellis Knights of Columbus is having their annual Stag.

Doors open 5:30 with a social, Meal is at 6:30

There will be a raffle that has a gun, 50/50, and prizes

Meal is bull fries, gizzards, ham and beans.

Please call 785.259.2194 if you have any questions

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575317743028.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedEllis Knights of Columbus is having their annual Stag.Friday, Nov 8thDoors open 5:30 with a social, Meal is at 6:30There will be a raffle that has a gun, 50/50, and prizesDrinks will be served.Meal is bull fries, gizzards, ham and beans.Please call 785.259.2194 if you have any questions

Ellis Knights of Columbus stag scheduled for Nov. 8

DON’S ELECTRIC &amp; REWIND INC. an Electrical Contractor in Ellis since 1983 is seeking an Electrician. 

The position is full time Monday-Thursday 10 hours a day. 

We provide residential, commercial &amp; industrial electrical services varying from new construction to service work. 

Salary based on experience. Benefits include Health/Dental program, Vacation, Paid Holidays &amp; End of Year Bonus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729535554455.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedDON’S ELECTRIC &amp; REWIND INC. an Electrical Contractor in Ellis since 1983 is seeking an Electrician. The position is full time Monday-Thursday 10 hours a day. We provide residential, commercial &amp; industrial electrical services varying from new construction to service work. Salary based on experience. Benefits include Health/Dental program, Vacation, Paid Holidays &amp; End of Year Bonus. (785) 726-3455 or bobby@eaglecom.net.

Ellis High School Fall Senior Night set for Oct. 18

For the month of September 2024, the Ellis Police Department responded to 137 calls for service, conducted 35 traffic stops, and issued four traffic citations. Three of those citations were for speeding, with the average alleged speed being 16mph over the posted limit. 

The Ellis Police Department also conducted several felony and misdemeanor investigations, resulting in two adult arrests.

The following adults were arrested in September by the Ellis Police Department: On Sept. 20, Adrienne Gaschler was arrested on suspicion of domestic battery.

She was booked into the Ellis County Jail. On Sept. 20, Ryan Gaschler was arrested on suspicion of domestic battery. He was booked into the Ellis County Jail.

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.

In September, the Ellis Police Department added a new police officer to its ranks. The department hired Officer Jonathan Turner in September after he successfully completed his background investigation and attended interviews. This recent hire brings the ranks of the Ellis Police Department back to full staffing. Officer Turner comes to Ellis from the Woodson County Sheriff’s Office and is already a certified law enforcement officer in Kansas.

Officer Turner began his field training on Oct. 7 and will be under the supervision of a field training officer while he learns the department's records systems, policy and procedures, as well as the general outlay of our town.

If you see him while you are in town, please feel free to introduce yourself.

"We are excited to have him join our team," Chief Avery Smith said.

 The Ellis Police Department has once again partnered with the Ellis Baptist Church to host Trunk-or-Treat! 

From 6 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 31, come down to the parking lot at Ninth and Jefferson. All are welcome to attend and pass out candy to our local "Boos and Ghouls." 

The Ellis VFW is hosting a “Haunted VFW” during that same time frame. Don’t forget that many Ellis community members still hand out candy the good old-fashioned way and expect to see you on their doorsteps.

As always, the department is seeking photos to be used for these monthly reports.&nbsp;Please email them to asmith@cityofellisks.gov or message them on the department's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/EllisPoliceDepartment" target="_blank">Facebook&nbsp;</a>page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729011468501.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis Police DepartmentFor the month of September 2024, the Ellis Police Department responded to 137 calls for service, conducted 35 traffic stops, and issued four traffic citations. Three of those citations were for speeding, with the average alleged speed being 16mph over the posted limit. The Ellis Police Department also conducted several felony and misdemeanor investigations, resulting in two adult arrests.The following adults were arrested in September by the Ellis Police Department: On Sept. 20, Adrienne Gaschler was arrested on suspicion of domestic battery.She was booked into the Ellis County Jail. On Sept. 20, Ryan Gaschler was arrested on suspicion of domestic battery. He was booked into the Ellis County Jail.All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.In September, the Ellis Police Department added a new police officer to its ranks. The department hired Officer Jonathan Turner in September after he successfully completed his background investigation and attended interviews. This recent hire brings the ranks of the Ellis Police Department back to full staffing. Officer Turner comes to Ellis from the Woodson County Sheriff’s Office and is already a certified law enforcement officer in Kansas.Officer Turner began his field training on Oct. 7 and will be under the supervision of a field training officer while he learns the department's records systems, policy and procedures, as well as the general outlay of our town.If you see him while you are in town, please feel free to introduce yourself."We are excited to have him join our team," Chief Avery Smith said. The Ellis Police Department has once again partnered with the Ellis Baptist Church to host Trunk-or-Treat! From 6 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 31, come down to the parking lot at Ninth and Jefferson. All are welcome to attend and pass out candy to our local "Boos and Ghouls." The Ellis VFW is hosting a “Haunted VFW” during that same time frame. Don’t forget that many Ellis community members still hand out candy the good old-fashioned way and expect to see you on their doorsteps. As always, the department is seeking photos to be used for these monthly reports.&nbsp;Please email them to asmith@cityofellisks.gov or message them on the department's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/EllisPoliceDepartment" target="_blank">Facebook&nbsp;</a>page.

City of Ellis Police report, September 2024

Ellis Co. Fire Department plans fundraiser Oct. 19

ELLIS — Congratulations to King and Queen, Kamden Keller and Natalee North, who were crowned at our football game on Friday, September 20. 

  Ellis High School had a fabulous week celebrating homecoming!  The class of 2025, the senior class, were the overall spirit winners.  The junior class won best float featuring Candy Land. 

 The seniors and juniors continued their winning streak by defeating the faculty and staff in volleyball. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727276021018.jpeg" alt="2024 Ellis Homecoming Royalty Court. Pictured are (Back Row L to R): Candidate Toby Honas, son of Randy and Wendy Honas;&nbsp;King Kamden Keller, son of Todd and Amy Keller; Candidate Chance Jimenez, son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez.&nbsp;(Front Row L to R): Candidate Isabella Eck, daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck; Crown Bearer Lucas Gabel, son of Branden and Jordan Gabel;&nbsp;Queen Natalee North, daughter of Travis and Ava North; Flower Girl Paxton Maska, daughter of Brady and Courtney Maska; Candidate Brooke Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>2024 Ellis Homecoming Royalty Court. Pictured are (Back Row L to R): Candidate Toby Honas, son of Randy and Wendy Honas;&nbsp;King Kamden Keller, son of Todd and Amy Keller; Candidate Chance Jimenez, son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez.&nbsp;(Front Row L to R): Candidate Isabella Eck, daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck; Crown Bearer Lucas Gabel, son of Branden and Jordan Gabel;&nbsp;Queen Natalee North, daughter of Travis and Ava North; Flower Girl Paxton Maska, daughter of Brady and Courtney Maska; Candidate Brooke Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis High SchoolELLIS — Congratulations to King and Queen, Kamden Keller and Natalee North, who were crowned at our football game on Friday, September 20. Ellis High School had a fabulous week celebrating homecoming! The class of 2025, the senior class, were the overall spirit winners. The junior class won best float featuring Candy Land. The seniors and juniors continued their winning streak by defeating the faculty and staff in volleyball. It was a great week to be a Railer!

Ellis High School congratulates 2024 homecoming royalty 

ELLIS — Ellis High School Volleyball Senior Night is Thursday, September 26, at the home triangular against Colby-Heartland Christian and Northern Valley.&nbsp;Volleyball action begins at 4:30p.m.

Senior Recognition will take place prior to the last match with parents and athletes being recognized. &nbsp;

Ellis High School volleyball seniors are Morgan Armbrister, daughter of Mark and Crystal Armbrister; Addison Kohl, daughter of Jeff and Emily Kohl; Natalee North, daughter of Travis and Ava North; Isabella Eck, daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck; Brooke Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Alyssa Rome, daughter of James and Sandy Rome.

Congratulations to our seniors and good luck on Thursday!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727209400951.jpeg" alt="Ellis High School volleyball seniors are: (L to R) Morgan Armbrister, daughter of Mark and Crystal Armbrister; Addison Kohl, daughter of Jeff and Emily Kohl; Natalee North, daughter of Travis and Ava North; Isabella Eck, daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck; Brooke Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Alyssa Rome, daughter of James and Sandy Rome. Photo courtesy EHS" />
 <figcaption>Ellis High School volleyball seniors are: (L to R) Morgan Armbrister, daughter of Mark and Crystal Armbrister; Addison Kohl, daughter of Jeff and Emily Kohl; Natalee North, daughter of Travis and Ava North; Isabella Eck, daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck; Brooke Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Alyssa Rome, daughter of James and Sandy Rome. Photo courtesy EHS</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedELLIS — Ellis High School Volleyball Senior Night is Thursday, September 26, at the home triangular against Colby-Heartland Christian and Northern Valley.&nbsp;Volleyball action begins at 4:30p.m.Senior Recognition will take place prior to the last match with parents and athletes being recognized. &nbsp;Ellis High School volleyball seniors are Morgan Armbrister, daughter of Mark and Crystal Armbrister; Addison Kohl, daughter of Jeff and Emily Kohl; Natalee North, daughter of Travis and Ava North; Isabella Eck, daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck; Brooke Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Alyssa Rome, daughter of James and Sandy Rome.Congratulations to our seniors and good luck on Thursday!

Ellis High School volleyball Seniors Night is Thursday

The Community Foundation of Ellis proudly distributed $5,000 among five deserving local organizations in its 2024 Round 2 fall grant cycle.

The CFOE extends heartfelt gratitude to our entire community for its unwavering support. We recognize that the generous unrestricted contributions received each year form the backbone of our community's growth, enabling a wide range of beneficial organizations to thrive and enrich our lives. Thank you for your continued commitment to making a positive impact!

This year’s fall recipients each were awarded $1000:

Ellis Recreation Commission- Enhance Creekside Ballpark Project

Ellis High School Alumni-Sports Room Cool Down Project

USD 388 Educational Foundation- Play and Learn Playground Project

Polar Express- Lights, Lights and More Lights Project

The 2025 Round 1 Spring Grant Cycle will open on January 1, 2025 and closes March 31, 2025. Applications will be available at the Ellis Alliance Office at 820 Washington Street, Ellis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600957042260.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Community Foundation of Ellis proudly distributed $5,000 among five deserving local organizations in its 2024 Round 2 fall grant cycle.The CFOE extends heartfelt gratitude to our entire community for its unwavering support. We recognize that the generous unrestricted contributions received each year form the backbone of our community's growth, enabling a wide range of beneficial organizations to thrive and enrich our lives. Thank you for your continued commitment to making a positive impact!This year’s fall recipients each were awarded $1000:Ellis Recreation Commission- Enhance Creekside Ballpark ProjectEllis High School Alumni-Sports Room Cool Down ProjectEllis Alliance- Ellis Media ProjectUSD 388 Educational Foundation- Play and Learn Playground ProjectPolar Express- Lights, Lights and More Lights ProjectThe 2025 Round 1 Spring Grant Cycle will open on January 1, 2025 and closes March 31, 2025. Applications will be available at the Ellis Alliance Office at 820 Washington Street, Ellis.

Community Foundation of Ellis awards grants to support local organizations

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Ellis Alliance was presented a Kansas tourism marketing grant from the Kansas Tourism division of the Kansas Department of Commerce during a ceremony Monday afternoon in Ellis with state officials from Topeka.

The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ellisalliance/">Ellis Alliance</a> is a storefront and an umbrella organization that houses the Ellis Chamber of Commerce, the Community Foundation and the Ellis Development Corporation.&nbsp;

Alicia Flower, who was hired as the Alliance executive director in April, submitted the grant application in mid-summer.

Bridgette Jobe, Kansas Tourism director, presented the oversized cardboard check for $1,908.78 to Flower and Alliance board members&nbsp;Jolene Niernberger,&nbsp;Pauleen Edmonds and&nbsp;Travis Kohlrus, along with Mayor Dave McDaniel.

The grant dollars will be used to promote and market Ellis to the public, especially out-of-town visitors.

"We were so excited when we saw your application come in," Jobe said. "I think this is so smart. ... "You're trying to market your community, and you have to have good assets."&nbsp;

Those assets will soon include an Ellis Alliance website and a closed-circuit video monitor in the office, on which community events and Alliance information will be promoted.

The Alliance office is in the heart of downtown at 820 Washington St.

"The whole purpose of this tourism grant is to help first-time marketing projects get off the ground. That's really what these are for," Jobe said. "That's exactly what intrigued us, and we wanted to help you."

The Ellis promotional project will include updated photography and other media.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"My husband and I just recently moved to Ellis and we have fallen in love with it," Flower said. "It's just so pretty and charming, and there aren't current photographs of it.

"I also want to get a commercial made highlighting just what Ellis is, to promote it, that would play on the TV."

Jobe said once the assets of good photography, videography and art are acquired, they could be used in multiple ways.

"You could use them on social media, online, in printed publications, billboards. There's so many great ways to use them down the road, but you have to have great photos.

"It's something we invest in heavily each year, new assets, and you're really smart to do that," Jobe said. 

"We love being able to help these new projects. I don't know that we've done a whole lot in Ellis before."

Alliance board president Travis Kohlrus said Ellis differs from other communities because the Alliance combines several entities.

"We've been doing this for about 20 years. We're small enough that we can't have a chamber office, a foundation office, a [economic] development office. So the alliance represents all of us. ... We do lots of volunteering in a small town," Kohlrus said.

Flower hopes to see more local volunteers get involved in community projects and programs, especially young families. She and her husband have a 4-year-old and a 2-year-old, and they wanted to find out what activities were available as they grew their family.

"Once young families have more knowledge about what Ellis has to offer, I think they'll turn out," she said.

Flower also said she believes community events will attract a greater number of area visitors once they know what's happening in Ellis.

Ellis's summer art walk and the "Follow the Star" holiday retail promotion are two popular events.&nbsp;

The new Ellis Historic Walking Trail will debut on Sept. 27 with a ribbon cutting.&nbsp;The Community Foundation of Ellis sponsors and funds the trail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726591898376.jpeg" alt="From left to right: Jolene Niernberger, Ellis Alliance; Bridgette Jobe, Kansas Tourism; Pauleen Edmonds, Ellis Alliance; Travis Kohlrus, Ellis Alliance; Alicia Flower, Ellis Alliance executive director; and Ellis Mayor Dave McDaniel pose with the giant grant check awarded to the Ellis Alliance Monday for a tourism project. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>From left to right: Jolene Niernberger, Ellis Alliance; Bridgette Jobe, Kansas Tourism; Pauleen Edmonds, Ellis Alliance; Travis Kohlrus, Ellis Alliance; Alicia Flower, Ellis Alliance executive director; and Ellis Mayor Dave McDaniel pose with the giant grant check awarded to the Ellis Alliance Monday for a tourism project. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Ellis Alliance was presented a Kansas tourism marketing grant from the Kansas Tourism division of the Kansas Department of Commerce during a ceremony Monday afternoon in Ellis with state officials from Topeka.The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ellisalliance/">Ellis Alliance</a> is a storefront and an umbrella organization that houses the Ellis Chamber of Commerce, the Community Foundation and the Ellis Development Corporation.&nbsp;Alicia Flower, who was hired as the Alliance executive director in April, submitted the grant application in mid-summer.Bridgette Jobe, Kansas Tourism director, presented the oversized cardboard check for $1,908.78 to Flower and Alliance board members&nbsp;Jolene Niernberger,&nbsp;Pauleen Edmonds and&nbsp;Travis Kohlrus, along with Mayor Dave McDaniel.The grant dollars will be used to promote and market Ellis to the public, especially out-of-town visitors."We were so excited when we saw your application come in," Jobe said. "I think this is so smart. ... "You're trying to market your community, and you have to have good assets."&nbsp;Those assets will soon include an Ellis Alliance website and a closed-circuit video monitor in the office, on which community events and Alliance information will be promoted.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726607641670.jpeg" alt="The Ellis Alliance office houses the Ellis Chamber of Commerce, the Community Foundation of Ellis and the Ellis Development Corporation. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Ellis Alliance office houses the Ellis Chamber of Commerce, the Community Foundation of Ellis and the Ellis Development Corporation. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The Alliance office is in the heart of downtown at 820 Washington St."The whole purpose of this tourism grant is to help first-time marketing projects get off the ground. That's really what these are for," Jobe said. "That's exactly what intrigued us, and we wanted to help you."The Ellis promotional project will include updated photography and other media.&nbsp;&nbsp;"My husband and I just recently moved to Ellis and we have fallen in love with it," Flower said. "It's just so pretty and charming, and there aren't current photographs of it. "I also want to get a commercial made highlighting just what Ellis is, to promote it, that would play on the TV."Jobe said once the assets of good photography, videography and art are acquired, they could be used in multiple ways."You could use them on social media, online, in printed publications, billboards. There's so many great ways to use them down the road, but you have to have great photos."It's something we invest in heavily each year, new assets, and you're really smart to do that," Jobe said. "We love being able to help these new projects. I don't know that we've done a whole lot in Ellis before."Alliance board president Travis Kohlrus said Ellis differs from other communities because the Alliance combines several entities."We've been doing this for about 20 years. We're small enough that we can't have a chamber office, a foundation office, a [economic] development office. So the alliance represents all of us. ... We do lots of volunteering in a small town," Kohlrus said.Flower hopes to see more local volunteers get involved in community projects and programs, especially young families. She and her husband have a 4-year-old and a 2-year-old, and they wanted to find out what activities were available as they grew their family."Once young families have more knowledge about what Ellis has to offer, I think they'll turn out," she said.Flower also said she believes community events will attract a greater number of area visitors once they know what's happening in Ellis.Ellis's summer art walk and the "Follow the Star" holiday retail promotion are two popular events.&nbsp;The new Ellis Historic Walking Trail will debut on Sept. 27 with a ribbon cutting.&nbsp;The Community Foundation of Ellis sponsors and funds the trail.

Ellis Alliance receives state tourism marketing grant

Ellis USD 388 showed off the work for its completed $4.55 million bond projects during an open house on Tuesday night.

Work was completed on Washington Elementary School and Ellis Jr./Sr. High School.

Work at the high school included renovations to the junior high and high school science rooms.

The fixed tables were replaced by tables on wheels so the teachers could rearrange the space as needed for activities and experiments. Both rooms also have additional storage.

The main office at the junior high/high school was remodeled to include a secure entrance. Other exterior doors and part of the roof were replaced.&nbsp;

The flooring throughout Washington Elementary School was replaced. The new floors will not require waxing.

About $2.38 million of the bond was budgeted to replace the HVAC system at the elementary school.

The school was being cooled by window air-conditioning units, which Principal John Befort said were noisy.&nbsp;

He said the boiler system was more than 25 years old, well beyond its lifespan.

He anticipates the new system will be more energy efficient and provide a more comfortable climate for students and staff in the classrooms.

About 60 percent of Washington Elementary School's roof was replaced, but Befort said the district hopes to replace the rest of the roof within the next year through insurance funds from hail damage and capital outlay money.

Superintendent&nbsp;Janice Wilson said she was grateful to the Ellis community for supporting the bond.

&nbsp;"We want to thank the Ellis community for seeing the need. That's really the big thing. It's been a great process. I feel we got done what the community expected," Wilson said. "Hopefully, there's a bond in the future to address some more of the maintenance things."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8cb680b9-fc70-4c82-aef8-3bcdba44fd07">SEE RELATED STORY: Voters to decide Ellis USD 388 bond issue Thursday</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/27984c56-7fed-4153-931e-320c33ca5a32">SEE RELATED STORY: Ellis USD 388 bond issue proposal passes by wide margin</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725468500719.jpeg" alt="The flooring and HVAC system were replaced throughout Washington Elementary School as part of a $4.55 million bond project. The circle on the ceiling in this photo is the new vent in one of the elementary school classrooms. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The flooring and HVAC system were replaced throughout Washington Elementary School as part of a $4.55 million bond project. The circle on the ceiling in this photo is the new vent in one of the elementary school classrooms. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostEllis USD 388 showed off the work for its completed $4.55 million bond projects during an open house on Tuesday night.Work was completed on Washington Elementary School and Ellis Jr./Sr. High School.Work at the high school included renovations to the junior high and high school science rooms.The fixed tables were replaced by tables on wheels so the teachers could rearrange the space as needed for activities and experiments. Both rooms also have additional storage.The main office at the junior high/high school was remodeled to include a secure entrance. Other exterior doors and part of the roof were replaced.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725468827131.jpeg" alt="The remodeled Ellis Junior High science classroom. Both the junior high and high school classrooms now have tables on wheels so the seating can be reconfigured for activities and experiments. The classrooms also have additional storage. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The remodeled Ellis Junior High science classroom. Both the junior high and high school classrooms now have tables on wheels so the seating can be reconfigured for activities and experiments. The classrooms also have additional storage. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The flooring throughout Washington Elementary School was replaced. The new floors will not require waxing.About $2.38 million of the bond was budgeted to replace the HVAC system at the elementary school.The school was being cooled by window air-conditioning units, which Principal John Befort said were noisy.&nbsp;He said the boiler system was more than 25 years old, well beyond its lifespan.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725469107733.jpeg" alt="The Ellis Jr./Sr. High School office was renovated, and a new secure entrance was added. During the school day, office staff will buzz visitors into the building. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Ellis Jr./Sr. High School office was renovated, and a new secure entrance was added. During the school day, office staff will buzz visitors into the building. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>He anticipates the new system will be more energy efficient and provide a more comfortable climate for students and staff in the classrooms.About 60 percent of Washington Elementary School's roof was replaced, but Befort said the district hopes to replace the rest of the roof within the next year through insurance funds from hail damage and capital outlay money.Superintendent&nbsp;Janice Wilson said she was grateful to the Ellis community for supporting the bond.&nbsp;"We want to thank the Ellis community for seeing the need. That's really the big thing. It's been a great process. I feel we got done what the community expected," Wilson said. "Hopefully, there's a bond in the future to address some more of the maintenance things."<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8cb680b9-fc70-4c82-aef8-3bcdba44fd07">SEE RELATED STORY: Voters to decide Ellis USD 388 bond issue Thursday</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/27984c56-7fed-4153-931e-320c33ca5a32">SEE RELATED STORY: Ellis USD 388 bond issue proposal passes by wide margin</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725469710024.jpeg" alt="The new secure entrance at Ellis Jr./Sr. High School. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The new secure entrance at Ellis Jr./Sr. High School. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725469725305.jpeg" alt="New flooring in the hallways of Washington Elementary School in Ellis. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>New flooring in the hallways of Washington Elementary School in Ellis. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725469742106.jpeg" alt="The new power supply and HVAC units at Washington Elementary School. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The new power supply and HVAC units at Washington Elementary School. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis USD 388 shows off completed bond projects

The Ellis USD 388 school board voted during a special meeting on Aug. 16 to suspend implementation of a new random drug testing policy.

The policy was included in the 2024-25 school handbook and was set to take effect this fall. It would have required random drug testing of students participating in Kansas State High School Activities Association activities by an outside firm.

However, parents expressed concerns about a lack of communication about the policy with parents, a lack of a clear implementation plan and cost.

Board member Latisha Haag said the policy was created because of issues with drug use last school year.

"We started this process last January because we had coaches come to us because we have students coming to practices who were clearly under the influence of something," Haag said.

"It was not only hindering that student's participation. It was hindering other students' participation because practices had to stop. At one point, an ambulance had to be called and, on the ride over, that particular coach in the ambulance learned that person was under the influence," she said.

Haag added, “It’s happening in our schools. I don’t think we have a problem, but it’s present. I think that is something we need to make sure people understand.”

The committee that created the policy included administrators, a law enforcement officer, teachers, a coach and a school nurse.

The drug policy was approved during a special meeting on Aug. 5. Board members said the final vote was delayed because the district was waiting to hire a new high school/junior high principal.

However, the board wanted to approve the policy for inclusion in the student handbook for the 2024-25 school year.

Drug testing was set to apply only to students in KSHAA activities in grades nine through 12. High school parents were emailed to inform them of the new policy.

At the Aug. 16 meeting, some parents said they were not opposed to drug testing, but they wanted to know more about implementation and wished the communication with parents had been better.

Board members said they saw the testing as a deterrent and a way to get students who might have drug issues help.

"It is not meant to punish students. It is meant as a deterrent if there is a problem to identify it and to provide that student help," board member&nbsp;Brian Shannon said.

Parents expressed concerns about student privacy and cost.

According to the board, only a school administrator, the testing company, the student and the student's parents would have access to the test results.&nbsp;

The estimated test costs were $60 to $70 per student.

The board had not yet determined what substances it would test for. However, they said it would not include alcohol or nicotine.

Shannon said law enforcement would only be contacted if a student was found in possession of illegal substances on school property.

“If we have one student using drugs, it’s a problem. It’s not a pandemic. Do we wait until there are 10 students before we address it? Do we wait until there are 50 students before we address it?" he said.

Although Haag ultimately voted with the board to suspend the testing's implementation, she said she thought it should not be postponed until next year.

“We have been looking at this since last December. We did not do this willy-nilly. We started talking to people and asking questions clear back in January,” she said. “If you watch the board meetings, they’re on there.”

Board member Cindy Hertel said she thought the district should wait to start the testing.

&nbsp;“We have a small enough school that there are very few students this is not going to touch,” she said. “It’s not targeted toward athletes. It’s to keep people from doing it. I also understand that we need more answers.”

No timeline was given for when the policy would be implemented.

Below is the full Ellis public school substance abuse policy, including the section on random drug testing.

ATHLETIC AND ACTIVITY SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY:

*Possession or use of alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, and other controlled substances.

*Cheerleading is classified by KSHSAA as a sport during an athletic season and an organization when no cheering sports are in season.

** A cheering event is one night of cheering regardless of how many games are included.

During this period of ineligibility, the student will practice and participate in team activities/meetings. The student may attend competitions at the coach’s discretion but will not dress out.

Non-Athletic – the student will lose eligibility through the next major event sponsored or attended by the organization. During this time the student will attend organizational meetings and participate in fundraising events.

Students will also miss the next major social event i.e. Homecoming, Snoball, Prom or other school events as determined by administration.&nbsp; Officers of an organization violating this policy will be removed from office, but not the organization.

In the event that more than one organization is involved, the sponsors will meet to determine the consequences.

The organizations’ sponsors shall be responsible for determining “major events”.&nbsp;

Athletic – the student will be ineligible to participate in athletics for the remainder of the year (ALL SPORTS)

Non-Athletic – The student will be dismissed from ALL non-athletic student organizations for the remainder of the school year and not be allowed to attend all remaining social events. (i.e. Prom, Homecoming, etc.)

In addition to consequences from KSHSAA Activities, students will also be subject to the following academic consequences related to the school day;

The USD 388 Board of Education, in an effort to protect the health and safety of its students involved in KSHSAA sponsored extracurricular activities from illegal drug and alcohol use and abuse or injuries resulting from the use of illegal drugs and or alcohol has adopted a policy for drug testing of students participating in KSHSAA sponsored extracurricular activities.&nbsp;

KSHSAA Sponsored Extracurricular Activities – School-sponsored activities including:

The above list of KSHSAA sponsored extracurricular activities will be prepared by the building principal and may be modified as determined by the building principal.

The complete policy may be viewed at www.usd388.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579030633433.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Ellis USD 388 school board voted during a special meeting on Aug. 16 to suspend implementation of a new random drug testing policy.The policy was included in the 2024-25 school handbook and was set to take effect this fall. It would have required random drug testing of students participating in Kansas State High School Activities Association activities by an outside firm.However, parents expressed concerns about a lack of communication about the policy with parents, a lack of a clear implementation plan and cost.Board member Latisha Haag said the policy was created because of issues with drug use last school year."We started this process last January because we had coaches come to us because we have students coming to practices who were clearly under the influence of something," Haag said."It was not only hindering that student's participation. It was hindering other students' participation because practices had to stop. At one point, an ambulance had to be called and, on the ride over, that particular coach in the ambulance learned that person was under the influence," she said.Haag added, “It’s happening in our schools. I don’t think we have a problem, but it’s present. I think that is something we need to make sure people understand.”The committee that created the policy included administrators, a law enforcement officer, teachers, a coach and a school nurse.It did not include parents or students.The drug policy was approved during a special meeting on Aug. 5. Board members said the final vote was delayed because the district was waiting to hire a new high school/junior high principal.However, the board wanted to approve the policy for inclusion in the student handbook for the 2024-25 school year.Drug testing was set to apply only to students in KSHAA activities in grades nine through 12. High school parents were emailed to inform them of the new policy.At the Aug. 16 meeting, some parents said they were not opposed to drug testing, but they wanted to know more about implementation and wished the communication with parents had been better.Board members said they saw the testing as a deterrent and a way to get students who might have drug issues help."It is not meant to punish students. It is meant as a deterrent if there is a problem to identify it and to provide that student help," board member&nbsp;Brian Shannon said.Parents expressed concerns about student privacy and cost.According to the board, only a school administrator, the testing company, the student and the student's parents would have access to the test results.&nbsp;The estimated test costs were $60 to $70 per student.The board had not yet determined what substances it would test for. However, they said it would not include alcohol or nicotine.Shannon said law enforcement would only be contacted if a student was found in possession of illegal substances on school property.“If we have one student using drugs, it’s a problem. It’s not a pandemic. Do we wait until there are 10 students before we address it? Do we wait until there are 50 students before we address it?" he said.Although Haag ultimately voted with the board to suspend the testing's implementation, she said she thought it should not be postponed until next year.“We have been looking at this since last December. We did not do this willy-nilly. We started talking to people and asking questions clear back in January,” she said. “If you watch the board meetings, they’re on there.”Board member Cindy Hertel said she thought the district should wait to start the testing.&nbsp;“We have a small enough school that there are very few students this is not going to touch,” she said. “It’s not targeted toward athletes. It’s to keep people from doing it. I also understand that we need more answers.”No timeline was given for when the policy would be implemented.Below is the full Ellis public school substance abuse policy, including the section on random drug testing.----ATHLETIC AND ACTIVITY SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY:*Possession or use of alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, and other controlled substances.<ul>
 <li>Students involved in school sponsored athletic programs or non-athletic extracurricular student organizations are subject to this policy, which applies to those students 24 hours per day, any place, and between seasons. The consequences will apply to both athletic and all non-athletic organizations. This policy may not cover every possible scenario. Some interpretation will be left up to the coach/sponsor and administration.&nbsp;</li><li>Use and/or possession or promotion of any tobacco product or nicotine delivery device by students is prohibited in any district facility; in school vehicles; at school-sponsored activities, programs or events; and on school owned or operated property.</li><li>Violations are to be substantiated by law enforcement, faculty/staff member, school administration, social-networking sites or other sources deemed credible by the following 3 people, coach/sponsor of sport or organization, Principal/AD.</li><li>It is a violation of this policy to be under the influence of, in possession of, using, distributing, selling, or attempting to sell any of the substances or devices listed above. Violations are subject to disciplinary action and/or legal action as determined by the administration. It is not a violation for a student to be in possession of a drug specifically prescribed for a student’s own use by his or her own doctor.</li><li>Students who are concerned about their substance abuse and voluntarily notify faculty or staff will not be subject to disciplinary action. Confidentiality will be observed while seeking and finding support for such a student. Self-disclosure may be utilized once to avoid disciplinary action and must be made prior to determination they have violated this policy.</li><li>Consequence of offenses:</li><li>FIRST OFFENSE:</li><li>HS Football – 1 game			HS Volleyball – 3 matches</li><li>HS Basketball – 2 games		HS Track – 1 meet</li><li>HS Baseball/Softball – 2 games	Wrestling – 1 event			</li><li>Cross Country – 1 event	Golf – 1 Event			</li><li>	HS Cheerleading* -will coincide with the event in which the season currently is in, i.e Football – 1 game, HS Basketball – 2 games, etc.**</li>
 </ul>*Cheerleading is classified by KSHSAA as a sport during an athletic season and an organization when no cheering sports are in season.** A cheering event is one night of cheering regardless of how many games are included.During this period of ineligibility, the student will practice and participate in team activities/meetings. The student may attend competitions at the coach’s discretion but will not dress out.Non-Athletic – the student will lose eligibility through the next major event sponsored or attended by the organization. During this time the student will attend organizational meetings and participate in fundraising events.Students will also miss the next major social event i.e. Homecoming, Snoball, Prom or other school events as determined by administration.&nbsp; Officers of an organization violating this policy will be removed from office, but not the organization.In the event that more than one organization is involved, the sponsors will meet to determine the consequences.The organizations’ sponsors shall be responsible for determining “major events”.&nbsp;SECOND OFFENSEAthletic – the student will be ineligible to participate in athletics for the remainder of the year (ALL SPORTS)Non-Athletic – The student will be dismissed from ALL non-athletic student organizations for the remainder of the school year and not be allowed to attend all remaining social events. (i.e. Prom, Homecoming, etc.)SCHOOL DAY RELATED CONSEQUENCESIn addition to consequences from KSHSAA Activities, students will also be subject to the following academic consequences related to the school day;	1st Offense – 1 day ISS	2nd Offense – 2 days OSS	3rd Offense – Possible ExpulsionRANDOM DRUG TESTINGThe USD 388 Board of Education, in an effort to protect the health and safety of its students involved in KSHSAA sponsored extracurricular activities from illegal drug and alcohol use and abuse or injuries resulting from the use of illegal drugs and or alcohol has adopted a policy for drug testing of students participating in KSHSAA sponsored extracurricular activities.&nbsp;KSHSAA Sponsored Extracurricular Activities – School-sponsored activities including:<ul>
 <li>Grades 9-12 competitive athletic teams, including, but not limited to:&nbsp; boys/girls cross country, football, boys/girls basketball, wrestling, baseball, volleyball, softball, boys/girls track &amp; field, Powerlifting and other athletics as specified by the Board of Education.</li><li>Grades 9-12 noncompetitive extracurricular activities including, but not limited to, cheerleading, forensics, band, orchestra, vocal music, National Honor Society, Student Council, scholar’s bowl, FBLA, TSA and other activities as specified by the Board of Education.</li>
 </ul>The above list of KSHSAA sponsored extracurricular activities will be prepared by the building principal and may be modified as determined by the building principal.The complete policy may be viewed at www.usd388.com.

Ellis USD 388 suspends implementation of random drug testing policy

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724099158677.png" alt="Ellis Junior-Senior High School Principal Jesse Vincent. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Ellis Junior-Senior High School Principal Jesse Vincent. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostMeet Jesse Vincent, the new principal at Ellis Junior-Senior High School, focused on building strong connections and bringing fresh perspectives.After spending the last several years working in central Kansas, Vincent returns to western Kansas to lead future generations of students and be closer to his family."I've always felt that Ellis was a prestigious institution, educationally and athletically, and was excited to put my name in the hat," he said.Vincent graduated from Abilene High School in 1996 and earned his bachelor's degree in physical education and health from Sterling College.He continued his studies at Fort Hays State University, earning a master's degree in building leadership in 2017.Inspired by his physical education teacher, Tom Schwartz, Vincent served as his teacher's aide before stepping into Schwartz's role as the PE teacher, his first job in education.Schwartz currently serves as the principal of Abilene High School."That's where I got my start and desire," Vincent said. "Years down the road, I decided that I wanted to continue and move up into the administration role."Vincent returns to the area after teaching in the Grinnell School District and serving as the principal at Canton-Galva Junior-Senior High School.Vincent said Ellis High is in a pristine state and doesn't need significant changes, but is eager to work with staff and teachers."I'm excited about the veteran staff that I have," he said. "There's a couple of new teachers that I think are going to be strong and good for us as well."Vincent's daughter teaches fourth grade in Grinnell and is beginning a master's program to become a principal, with Vincent offering his guidance.Vincent also has two sons attending Colorado State University, both of whom are on the football team. With his sons out of state, Vincent decided to relocate closer to his parents when the opportunity to lead Ellis High arose."I look forward to bringing a fresh perspective to this role," Vincent said. "I'm anxious to build relationships with everyone, share my views for the district, and where we're going to go and how we're getting there."The Ellis USD 388 school district announced Vincent as the new principal in a <a href="https://www.usd388.com/o/ehs/article/1705509">post</a>.