By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Two incumbents and a former school board member were elected to the Hays USD 489 school board on Tuesday.

Curt Vajnar, the current president of the board, was re-elected, receiving the most votes—2,531.

Vajnar is a former ag teacher at Hays High School. This will be his second four-year term.

Ken Brooks and Craig Pallister tied with 1,948 votes each.&nbsp;

Brooks, an incumbent and the current vice president of the board, will be serving his second four-year term. Brooks is a loss control safety specialist for Insurance Planning.

Pallister is a retired educator who served as principal of Hays Middle School for 21 years. He served four years on the school board, but narrowly lost re-election to the board two years ago behind Jayme Goetz.

Meagan Zampieir-Lillpopp lost her bid for re-election, receiving 1,294 votes. Kelly Ancar rounded out the slate of candidates, receiving 1,603 votes.

All three winning candidates focused their comments on completing the bond projects.&nbsp;

The district opened a new high school building in August. A renovation and addition have been completed at Roosevelt Elementary School.

Work is underway to renovate the former high school building into a middle school. Students will move into that space in January. Work is ongoing on a renovation and expansion of O'Loughlin Elementary School.

Once the current middle school is vacated, work will begin to renovate it into a four-section elementary school.

Vajnar said, "I just want to get the bond issue stuff completed and on budget. ... I just want to make sure we continue on doing a good job educating our youth. That's why I ran, making sure we have a good education system for kids who come through our school system."

Ken Brooks said, "I hope to keep us on track as we finish the bond project, and I am excited about what the next four years are going to bring. I hope I can continue serving as I have."

"I want to thank Curt and Craig, and I also want to thank Meagan [Zampieri-Lillpopp] for four great years of service," Brooks said.

Pallister said he looked forward to rejoining the board and also hoped to work toward finishing the bond projects.

The candidates will begin their new terms in January.

Results will not be final until canvassing at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12. The canvass will be in the county commission meeting room at the Ellis County Administration Building.

The canvass includes consideration of any provisional ballots, as well as any eligible mail-in ballots received within the next three days.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/27dd42ff-4f55-4a66-8957-7259a3e90c28">See the full election results here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762315425781.png" alt="From left: candidates Curt Vajnar, Craig Pallister and Ken Brooks at the Ellis County Administrative Center Tuesday night after learning they won seats on the Hays USD 489 school board. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>From left: candidates Curt Vajnar, Craig Pallister and Ken Brooks at the Ellis County Administrative Center Tuesday night after learning they won seats on the Hays USD 489 school board. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTwo incumbents and a former school board member were elected to the Hays USD 489 school board on Tuesday.Curt Vajnar, the current president of the board, was re-elected, receiving the most votes—2,531.Vajnar is a former ag teacher at Hays High School. This will be his second four-year term.Ken Brooks and Craig Pallister tied with 1,948 votes each.&nbsp;Brooks, an incumbent and the current vice president of the board, will be serving his second four-year term. Brooks is a loss control safety specialist for Insurance Planning.Pallister is a retired educator who served as principal of Hays Middle School for 21 years. He served four years on the school board, but narrowly lost re-election to the board two years ago behind Jayme Goetz.Meagan Zampieir-Lillpopp lost her bid for re-election, receiving 1,294 votes. Kelly Ancar rounded out the slate of candidates, receiving 1,603 votes.All three winning candidates focused their comments on completing the bond projects.&nbsp;The district opened a new high school building in August. A renovation and addition have been completed at Roosevelt Elementary School.Work is underway to renovate the former high school building into a middle school. Students will move into that space in January. Work is ongoing on a renovation and expansion of O'Loughlin Elementary School.Once the current middle school is vacated, work will begin to renovate it into a four-section elementary school.Vajnar said, "I just want to get the bond issue stuff completed and on budget. ... I just want to make sure we continue on doing a good job educating our youth. That's why I ran, making sure we have a good education system for kids who come through our school system."Ken Brooks said, "I hope to keep us on track as we finish the bond project, and I am excited about what the next four years are going to bring. I hope I can continue serving as I have.""I want to thank Curt and Craig, and I also want to thank Meagan [Zampieri-Lillpopp] for four great years of service," Brooks said.Pallister said he looked forward to rejoining the board and also hoped to work toward finishing the bond projects.The candidates will begin their new terms in January.Results will not be final until canvassing at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12. The canvass will be in the county commission meeting room at the Ellis County Administration Building.The canvass includes consideration of any provisional ballots, as well as any eligible mail-in ballots received within the next three days.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/27dd42ff-4f55-4a66-8957-7259a3e90c28">See the full election results here.</a>

3 veterans elected to Hays USD 489 school board

The women’s ministry at Hays First United Methodist Church, 305 W. Seventh St., will host its annual fall fundraiser from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8.

The United Women in Faith (UWF) Peddler’s Soup Luncheon and Bake Sale will feature homemade chili, hamburger vegetable soup, and chicken noodle soup; relishes; pie; and a beverage.

Tickets, which will be available at the door, will be $10 for adults and $5 for children younger than 10 years of age.

Soup pre-sales in quart and pint jars will be available that morning. Soup pre-orders may be submitted to Debra at (785) 623-1554 or to the church office, (785) 625-3408.

Baked goods will also be sold at the luncheon. According to a news release, proceeds will go to UWF missions and local charities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760390952531.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe women’s ministry at Hays First United Methodist Church, 305 W. Seventh St., will host its annual fall fundraiser from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8.The United Women in Faith (UWF) Peddler’s Soup Luncheon and Bake Sale will feature homemade chili, hamburger vegetable soup, and chicken noodle soup; relishes; pie; and a beverage.Tickets, which will be available at the door, will be $10 for adults and $5 for children younger than 10 years of age.Soup pre-sales in quart and pint jars will be available that morning. Soup pre-orders may be submitted to Debra at (785) 623-1554 or to the church office, (785) 625-3408.Baked goods will also be sold at the luncheon. According to a news release, proceeds will go to UWF missions and local charities.

Hays Methodist women to host fall fundraiser Nov. 8

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

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 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

Nominate a deserving Kansas producer or landowner for the&nbsp;2025 Kansas Bankers Association Conservation Awards Program. This year, the Kansas Bankers Association, K-State Research and Extension, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have announced six award categories:&nbsp;&nbsp;

This program aims to stimulate a greater interest in conserving Kansas's agricultural and natural resources by recognizing farmers and landowners who have made outstanding progress in practicing conservation on their farms. 

In 2024, 110 Kansas producers and landowners were recognized through this program.

Submit your nomination to the Cottonwood Extension office in Great Bend for Barton County residents as soon as possible. 

A committee of conservation professionals will submit the names of the selected recipients to the K-State Agronomy Extension office (or KDWPT for Wildlife Award) by December 5, 2025.

For more information, see:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/extension/kansas-bankers-award/">https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/extension/kansas-bankers-award/</a>.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682229509.jpeg" alt="Alicia Boor&nbsp;is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor&nbsp;is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictNominate a deserving Kansas producer or landowner for the&nbsp;2025 Kansas Bankers Association Conservation Awards Program. This year, the Kansas Bankers Association, K-State Research and Extension, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have announced six award categories:&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762280357253.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>This program aims to stimulate a greater interest in conserving Kansas's agricultural and natural resources by recognizing farmers and landowners who have made outstanding progress in practicing conservation on their farms. In 2024, 110 Kansas producers and landowners were recognized through this program.Submit your nomination to the Cottonwood Extension office in Great Bend for Barton County residents as soon as possible. A committee of conservation professionals will submit the names of the selected recipients to the K-State Agronomy Extension office (or KDWPT for Wildlife Award) by December 5, 2025.For more information, see:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/extension/kansas-bankers-award/">https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/extension/kansas-bankers-award/</a>.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Nominations open for 2025 Conservation Awards Program

Election results 2025: Final results pending canvas

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Ellis County Jail bookings: Oct. 26-Nov. 1, 2025

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Ellis County Sheriff's activity log: Oct. 26-Nov. 1, 2025

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/522d9bc7-8664-49c5-aba6-3242dc805e2a">FIND FOOD PANTRIES IN ELLIS COUNTY HERE</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f164f668-bb65-4763-88e9-50c2e763d898">The White House announced on Monday that it will allow the USDA to use all of the SNAP contingency funds to pay part of food benefits for November.</a>

In October, the USDA announced a pause in benefits for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps, due to the government shutdown.

Both SNAP recipients and community food pantries have been preparing for a pause in benefits.

Theresa Hill, executive director of the Community Assistance Center in Hays, said the pantry is well-stocked at this time. The annual Trick-or-Treat So Others Can Eat in October is one of the pantry's largest donation drives of the year.

Hill said the center also receives more food donations during the holidays.

However, Hill and others said that pressure on local pantries has already been on the rise due to the increasing cost of food.

Macey Pfeifer, First Call for Help director, said she saw an increase in food, rent and utility requests in October ahead of the benefit lapse.

"I think there had been talk about pausing SNAP in early to mid-October, and I think that really scared people," Pfeifer said. "Our food was flying off the shelves at the beginning of he month and mid-month."

She said First Call restocked its food pantry three times in October.

"It's been a huge expense," she said. "Thankfully, we have had great donors and people bringing stuff in to us, too."

Pfeifer said First Call for Help has also received a couple of grants this year that have helped keep the pantry full.

As of last week, Pfeifer said the pantry was well-stocked, but the agency always welcomes donations. She said the pantry has had a high demand for canned vegetables, canned beans, soup and boxes of cereal.

The Hays Post asked Pfeifer what it means for a family to miss a month's worth of food assistance.

"I think they probably won't be eating unless they come to a food bank," she said. "We have a lot of families here who rely on SNAP benefits, and I think it's a very scary time for them because they really do count on that money.

"It's not that they don't work. There are a lot of people who receive SNAP who are employed. Maybe they are minimum wage [earners] or are single moms or single dads.

"It probably means that they are going to eat less or they'll have to miss a meal here or there," she said.

Pfeifer said a family came in a couple of weeks ago seeking rental assistance. She said the parents were missing meals to feed their kids. That family had discussed moving one of their children to live with a different family member because they couldn't afford to feed them.

To access resources through First Call for Help, you must live in Ellis County. You must present an ID on your first visit. You can use a driver's license or a government-issued ID card. No proof of income is required for assistance with food or hygiene items. You can access resources every 30 days.

Pfeifer said she thought the community as a whole would see more evictions and people needing more help with other bills, in addition to food, because people will be using that money for food.

Renee Michaud, director of the St. Joseph's Food Pantry in Hays, said she was unsure how the delays in SNAP benefits would affect the food pantry.

"It is hard to know how that impact will come, even if it will come at all," she said, "but we will do the best we can to meet the need that comes. Hopefully, the government shutdown won't last that much longer."

Michaud said she has seen a slight increase—about 10%—in food needs due to other factors, including inflation.

"We made it through COVID. I'm sure we'll find a way to make it through this, too," she said.

St. Joseph's Food Pantry is open from 9 a.m. to noon on the first and third Saturdays of the month. To qualify for assistance, you need to be a resident of Ellis County, but you do not need to show proof of income.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762203445904.jpeg" alt="Volunteers sort food in October at the Community Assistance Center in Hays during the Trick or Treat So Others Can Eat Food Drive. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Volunteers sort food in October at the Community Assistance Center in Hays during the Trick or Treat So Others Can Eat Food Drive. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/522d9bc7-8664-49c5-aba6-3242dc805e2a">FIND FOOD PANTRIES IN ELLIS COUNTY HERE</a>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f164f668-bb65-4763-88e9-50c2e763d898">The White House announced on Monday that it will allow the USDA to use all of the SNAP contingency funds to pay part of food benefits for November.</a>In October, the USDA announced a pause in benefits for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps, due to the government shutdown.Both SNAP recipients and community food pantries have been preparing for a pause in benefits.Theresa Hill, executive director of the Community Assistance Center in Hays, said the pantry is well-stocked at this time. The annual Trick-or-Treat So Others Can Eat in October is one of the pantry's largest donation drives of the year.Hill said the center also receives more food donations during the holidays.However, Hill and others said that pressure on local pantries has already been on the rise due to the increasing cost of food.Macey Pfeifer, First Call for Help director, said she saw an increase in food, rent and utility requests in October ahead of the benefit lapse."I think there had been talk about pausing SNAP in early to mid-October, and I think that really scared people," Pfeifer said. "Our food was flying off the shelves at the beginning of he month and mid-month."She said First Call restocked its food pantry three times in October."It's been a huge expense," she said. "Thankfully, we have had great donors and people bringing stuff in to us, too."Pfeifer said First Call for Help has also received a couple of grants this year that have helped keep the pantry full.As of last week, Pfeifer said the pantry was well-stocked, but the agency always welcomes donations. She said the pantry has had a high demand for canned vegetables, canned beans, soup and boxes of cereal.The Hays Post asked Pfeifer what it means for a family to miss a month's worth of food assistance."I think they probably won't be eating unless they come to a food bank," she said. "We have a lot of families here who rely on SNAP benefits, and I think it's a very scary time for them because they really do count on that money."It's not that they don't work. There are a lot of people who receive SNAP who are employed. Maybe they are minimum wage [earners] or are single moms or single dads."It probably means that they are going to eat less or they'll have to miss a meal here or there," she said.Pfeifer said a family came in a couple of weeks ago seeking rental assistance. She said the parents were missing meals to feed their kids. That family had discussed moving one of their children to live with a different family member because they couldn't afford to feed them.To access resources through First Call for Help, you must live in Ellis County. You must present an ID on your first visit. You can use a driver's license or a government-issued ID card. No proof of income is required for assistance with food or hygiene items. You can access resources every 30 days.Pfeifer said she thought the community as a whole would see more evictions and people needing more help with other bills, in addition to food, because people will be using that money for food.Renee Michaud, director of the St. Joseph's Food Pantry in Hays, said she was unsure how the delays in SNAP benefits would affect the food pantry."It is hard to know how that impact will come, even if it will come at all," she said, "but we will do the best we can to meet the need that comes. Hopefully, the government shutdown won't last that much longer."Michaud said she has seen a slight increase—about 10%—in food needs due to other factors, including inflation."We made it through COVID. I'm sure we'll find a way to make it through this, too," she said.St. Joseph's Food Pantry is open from 9 a.m. to noon on the first and third Saturdays of the month. To qualify for assistance, you need to be a resident of Ellis County, but you do not need to show proof of income.

Ellis County food pantries readying for food needs in light of SNAP delays

THOMAS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6p.m. Monday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2026 Freightliner driven by Robert J.&nbsp;Bellis, 60, Kansas City, Missouri, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of County Road 11. The vehicle drifted off the road and the driver overcorrected. This caused the hitch for the second trailer to break when it reentered the roadway. The load shifted and the vehicle fell on its passenger side.

EMS transported&nbsp;Bellis to Citizens Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

THOMAS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6p.m. Monday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2026 Freightliner driven by Robert J.&nbsp;Bellis, 60, Kansas City, Missouri, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of County Road 11. The vehicle drifted off the road and the driver overcorrected. This caused the hitch for the second trailer to break when it reentered the roadway. The load shifted and the vehicle fell on its passenger side.EMS transported&nbsp;Bellis to Citizens Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after I-70 semi accident

<a href="https://www.kscourts.gov/">Kansas Judicial Branch</a>

TOPEKA—The Kansas District Magistrate Judges Association presented its annual Lee Nusser Award for Outstanding Magistrate Judge to Judge Brendon Boone of Gove County during a recent statewide conference for judges.

Boone serves in the 23rd Judicial District, which is composed of Ellis, Gove, Rooks, and Trego counties. He has been a district magistrate judge since 2015.

Boone said he was honored and surprised to receive the award and credits the judges and court staff for their guidance and support.

“This award reflects the teamwork, mentorship, and community that surround me every day and create success in our district,” he said. “The chief judges I’ve worked under have kept me grounded in proper legal direction and professionalism, and the clerks in our four counties are, in my opinion, the best in the state.”

Boone also credits the leadership of his fellow magistrate judges in helping him become the judge he is today.

“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to learn from some of the best, including past Nusser Award recipients Judges Richard Flax and Douglas Bigge, whose wisdom, patience, and guidance have shaped how I approach this role every day.”

One of Boone’s roles is presiding over the assisted outpatient treatment court in Ellis County. Flax, who nominated Boone for the award, said Boone was instrumental in launching the specialty court program as one of five pilot sites in 2021.

The court is part of a community program to help people with mental health and substance use issues who have had frequent encounters with law enforcement. Rather than go to jail, program participants can enter a voluntary court-monitored treatment plan to aid in their recovery and independence.

"The program’s success is truly a reflection of the incredible team behind it,” Boone said. “Their dedication and compassion drive that court’s impact, and I’m grateful to be part of it. It has been one of my greatest joys as a judge.”

Boone graduated from Kansas State University and Fort Hays State University. He taught junior high school math and video production for 17 years before becoming a judge.

Boone served on the Supreme Court Language Access Committee. He also served on the governing board of Northwest Kansas Community Corrections and Northwest Kansas Juvenile Services. He is a past president of the Kansas District Magistrate Judges Association.

The award is named for Lee Nusser, who served as a district magistrate judge in Stafford County from 1976 to 1999. He died in 2003. The award is given to a judge who has exhibited support of the Kansas judiciary and the dignity and integrity of the magistrate judges association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762183951587.jpeg" alt="District Magistrate Judge Brendon Boone" />
 <figcaption>District Magistrate Judge Brendon Boone</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kscourts.gov/">Kansas Judicial Branch</a>TOPEKA—The Kansas District Magistrate Judges Association presented its annual Lee Nusser Award for Outstanding Magistrate Judge to Judge Brendon Boone of Gove County during a recent statewide conference for judges.Boone serves in the 23rd Judicial District, which is composed of Ellis, Gove, Rooks, and Trego counties. He has been a district magistrate judge since 2015.Boone said he was honored and surprised to receive the award and credits the judges and court staff for their guidance and support.“This award reflects the teamwork, mentorship, and community that surround me every day and create success in our district,” he said. “The chief judges I’ve worked under have kept me grounded in proper legal direction and professionalism, and the clerks in our four counties are, in my opinion, the best in the state.”Boone also credits the leadership of his fellow magistrate judges in helping him become the judge he is today.“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to learn from some of the best, including past Nusser Award recipients Judges Richard Flax and Douglas Bigge, whose wisdom, patience, and guidance have shaped how I approach this role every day.”One of Boone’s roles is presiding over the assisted outpatient treatment court in Ellis County. Flax, who nominated Boone for the award, said Boone was instrumental in launching the specialty court program as one of five pilot sites in 2021.The court is part of a community program to help people with mental health and substance use issues who have had frequent encounters with law enforcement. Rather than go to jail, program participants can enter a voluntary court-monitored treatment plan to aid in their recovery and independence."The program’s success is truly a reflection of the incredible team behind it,” Boone said. “Their dedication and compassion drive that court’s impact, and I’m grateful to be part of it. It has been one of my greatest joys as a judge.”Boone graduated from Kansas State University and Fort Hays State University. He taught junior high school math and video production for 17 years before becoming a judge.Boone served on the Supreme Court Language Access Committee. He also served on the governing board of Northwest Kansas Community Corrections and Northwest Kansas Juvenile Services. He is a past president of the Kansas District Magistrate Judges Association.The award is named for Lee Nusser, who served as a district magistrate judge in Stafford County from 1976 to 1999. He died in 2003. The award is given to a judge who has exhibited support of the Kansas judiciary and the dignity and integrity of the magistrate judges association.

District Magistrate Judge Brendon Boone receives statewide award

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 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension District

Keeping track of financial records can make life easier and more efficient for you. If the event of an emergency, having family members who know how and where to access your records can be a huge help! Stop for a moment and think: Do you know where all your records are located? Would someone else know in case of your injury or death?

Records should be accessible when needed and stored in a safe place. Receipts, documentation, proofs of ownership and identification may be necessary to collect insurance, pension, or retirement benefits, to receive military compensation, and to solve tax or inheritance problems.

This can feel like an overwhelming task but K-State Extension has a great resource to help you collect and document the important information you may need. You can access the document at <a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/o">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/our-valuable-records_MF685.pdf </a>or stop by the office and we’ll print one off for you.

This document provides space to record everything from bank and investment accounts to health and life insurance information as well as property ownership and tax and legal advisors.

Gathering the information into one place can also be a great time to review ownership and beneficiaries as life can change and the time to change these is not in the midst of a medical emergency. While these discussions can be tough, the Our Valuable Records document can also be a great tool to hold that conversation.

No matter what tool that you use to document your financial records, keeping a copy in a safe or safety deposit box is an important step to protect your sensitive financial information.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is a Family and Community Wellness Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other K-State Extension resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668177490614.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is&nbsp;a Family and Community Wellness Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is&nbsp;a Family and Community Wellness Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension DistrictKeeping track of financial records can make life easier and more efficient for you. If the event of an emergency, having family members who know how and where to access your records can be a huge help! Stop for a moment and think: Do you know where all your records are located? Would someone else know in case of your injury or death?Records should be accessible when needed and stored in a safe place. Receipts, documentation, proofs of ownership and identification may be necessary to collect insurance, pension, or retirement benefits, to receive military compensation, and to solve tax or inheritance problems.This can feel like an overwhelming task but K-State Extension has a great resource to help you collect and document the important information you may need. You can access the document at <a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/o">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/our-valuable-records_MF685.pdf </a>or stop by the office and we’ll print one off for you.This document provides space to record everything from bank and investment accounts to health and life insurance information as well as property ownership and tax and legal advisors.Gathering the information into one place can also be a great time to review ownership and beneficiaries as life can change and the time to change these is not in the midst of a medical emergency. While these discussions can be tough, the Our Valuable Records document can also be a great tool to hold that conversation.No matter what tool that you use to document your financial records, keeping a copy in a safe or safety deposit box is an important step to protect your sensitive financial information.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is a Family and Community Wellness Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other K-State Extension resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Financial recordkeeping for an easier, more efficient life

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations.

Just before 3p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for violating a protection order and stalking in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 26-year-old woman was listed as the victim. 

Just after 4p.m. , police arrested Alfred Walls, 29, of Ellis, in Manhattan. Walls is being held on a $6,000 bond on requested charges of&nbsp; violating a protection order and stalking. Walls has two previous drug related convictions, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762191365948.png" alt="Walls photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Walls photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations.Just before 3p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for violating a protection order and stalking in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 26-year-old woman was listed as the victim. Just after 4p.m. , police arrested Alfred Walls, 29, of Ellis, in Manhattan. Walls is being held on a $6,000 bond on requested charges of&nbsp; violating a protection order and stalking. Walls has two previous drug related convictions, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Ellis man with history of crime jailed on new allegations 

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

US crude-oil production exceeded 13.6 million barrels a day in each of the four weekly government reports this month including a new all-time high this week.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration reports average crude production of 13,644,000 barrels per day, up 15,000 from a week ago, and 8,000 barrels a day higher than the previous record high set just two weeks ago.

Crude oil imports fell last week by nearly a million barrels a day to just over five million. The four-week average is down more than five percent from a year ago. Crude exports rose slightly from last week to top four-thousand barrels a day for the third straight week.

Strategic crude inventories now trail commercial inventories by just under seven million barrels. The Energy Information Administration reports the Strategic Petroleum Reserves rose half a million barrels to just over 409 million.

Commercial stockpiles are down 6.9 million barrels this week. EIA says commercial inventories are about six percent below the five year average for this time of year.

Crude prices cap off four straight daily gains with a cumulative weekly loss of nearly a dollar. Near-month NYMEX crude ends the week Friday two pennies shy of $61 a barrel, then shied away even further on Monday. Brent crude in London drops under $65 a barrel as of Monday midday.

Kansas prices end the month of October a few cents higher. Kansas Common starts the month of November at fifty-one twenty-five ($51.25) per barrel. The average price for October is a dollar less than that. Prices at CHS in McPherson are down from $52 at the first of the month and $62 at the first of the year.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is down four at 546 active rigs. Louisiana, New Mexico and North Dakota were each up one, while the tallies in Texas, Wyoming and Colorado were each down one. The breakout for oil rigs is down six, and the count for horizontal rigs is down seven rigs.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is down four active rigs in eastern Kansas and down three more West of Wichita for a total of 12 active rigs. The report shows an increase of five "cold-stacked rigs" from a week ago, a total that has held steady since March. Total active rigs are down 20 percent from a month ago and nearly 65 percent from a year ago. The number of active, licensed operators who have drilled a well in Kansas is now 169, down from 230 a year ago.

Kansas regulators okay eleven new drilling locations statewide, 563 so far this year, compared to 918 a year ago. Eight are west of Wichita including one in Finney County.

Operators completed 17 wells this week. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 952 well-completions so far this year, compared to nearly 11-hundred a year ago.

The Kansas Corporation Commission reports 51 new intent-to-drill notices in October, That's 647 so far this year, compared to over a thousand through October last year, and more than 11-hundred through the first ten months of 2023. A search of the KCC Web site returns two new intents in Ellis County, two in Finney County, and one in Russell County.New US sanctions are having a Big impact on Big Russian oil.&nbsp; Russia's second-largest crude-oil producer announced it would sell its international assets in response to sanctions imposed by US President Donald Trump. Lukoil accounts for around two percent of global oil output, and has stakes in oil and gas projects in 11 countries. It has refineries in Bulgaria and Romania and a 45 percent stake in a refinery in the Netherlands. The company said in a statement that it was already talking with potential buyers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685114004842.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle MediaUS crude-oil production exceeded 13.6 million barrels a day in each of the four weekly government reports this month including a new all-time high this week.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration reports average crude production of 13,644,000 barrels per day, up 15,000 from a week ago, and 8,000 barrels a day higher than the previous record high set just two weeks ago.Crude oil imports fell last week by nearly a million barrels a day to just over five million. The four-week average is down more than five percent from a year ago. Crude exports rose slightly from last week to top four-thousand barrels a day for the third straight week.Strategic crude inventories now trail commercial inventories by just under seven million barrels. The Energy Information Administration reports the Strategic Petroleum Reserves rose half a million barrels to just over 409 million.Commercial stockpiles are down 6.9 million barrels this week. EIA says commercial inventories are about six percent below the five year average for this time of year.Crude prices cap off four straight daily gains with a cumulative weekly loss of nearly a dollar. Near-month NYMEX crude ends the week Friday two pennies shy of $61 a barrel, then shied away even further on Monday. Brent crude in London drops under $65 a barrel as of Monday midday.Kansas prices end the month of October a few cents higher. Kansas Common starts the month of November at fifty-one twenty-five ($51.25) per barrel. The average price for October is a dollar less than that. Prices at CHS in McPherson are down from $52 at the first of the month and $62 at the first of the year.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is down four at 546 active rigs. Louisiana, New Mexico and North Dakota were each up one, while the tallies in Texas, Wyoming and Colorado were each down one. The breakout for oil rigs is down six, and the count for horizontal rigs is down seven rigs.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is down four active rigs in eastern Kansas and down three more West of Wichita for a total of 12 active rigs. The report shows an increase of five "cold-stacked rigs" from a week ago, a total that has held steady since March. Total active rigs are down 20 percent from a month ago and nearly 65 percent from a year ago. The number of active, licensed operators who have drilled a well in Kansas is now 169, down from 230 a year ago.Kansas regulators okay eleven new drilling locations statewide, 563 so far this year, compared to 918 a year ago. Eight are west of Wichita including one in Finney County.Operators completed 17 wells this week. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 952 well-completions so far this year, compared to nearly 11-hundred a year ago.The Kansas Corporation Commission reports 51 new intent-to-drill notices in October, That's 647 so far this year, compared to over a thousand through October last year, and more than 11-hundred through the first ten months of 2023. A search of the KCC Web site returns two new intents in Ellis County, two in Finney County, and one in Russell County.New US sanctions are having a Big impact on Big Russian oil.&nbsp; Russia's second-largest crude-oil producer announced it would sell its international assets in response to sanctions imposed by US President Donald Trump. Lukoil accounts for around two percent of global oil output, and has stakes in oil and gas projects in 11 countries. It has refineries in Bulgaria and Romania and a 45 percent stake in a refinery in the Netherlands. The company said in a statement that it was already talking with potential buyers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: U.S. sanctions prompt Russian asset sales

Election Day is today for local positions, including city and school boards.

Polls in Ellis County will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/432/Polling-Site-Locations">Find your polling location by clicking here.&nbsp;</a>

See the Hays Post tonight for full election results.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747092483078.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Election Day is today for local positions, including city and school boards.Polls in Ellis County will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/432/Polling-Site-Locations">Find your polling location by clicking here.&nbsp;</a>See the Hays Post tonight for full election results.

Election Day today; find your polling location

See the Hays Post tonight for full election results.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/449cf648-9979-4a89-afa4-5de716b9cce5">Reese Barrick</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2d626291-1371-4f36-941e-3895a7fe078e">Candace (CJ) Hathaway</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c0016433-275d-4af3-aabe-af7379f8c56f">Sandy Jacobs</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4def5769-8a0a-4860-ab53-557afac250b3">David Koshiol</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/49060a66-e8fc-4755-a296-382a14c00a3d"></a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/49060a66-e8fc-4755-a296-382a14c00a3d"> Shaun Musil</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e243ec1-847a-40f8-a7dd-665ffe2f85de">David Vilaysing</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/277408cf-68c3-4bb4-b3dc-7bba965651ef">Kelly Ancar</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8ce0d386-aba6-4c42-b880-1307752c8220">Ken Brooks</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/66f0b3ef-9525-40e2-a3f2-f74e9deebb43">Craig Pallister</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/199257e6-fc97-4089-8a4c-67a87d3422f8">Curt Vajnar</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c2ee48f5-7f38-411d-9ce5-39114ebdf54b">Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp</a>

See the Hays Post tonight for full election results.<h2>Hays City Commission</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760627617358.png" alt="Reese Barrick" />
 <figcaption>Reese Barrick</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/449cf648-9979-4a89-afa4-5de716b9cce5">Reese Barrick</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760626449657.png" alt="&nbsp;CJ Hathaway" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;CJ Hathaway</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2d626291-1371-4f36-941e-3895a7fe078e">Candace (CJ) Hathaway</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761846282688.jpeg" alt="Sandy Jacobs" />
 <figcaption>Sandy Jacobs</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c0016433-275d-4af3-aabe-af7379f8c56f">Sandy Jacobs</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760627494655.jpeg" alt="David Koshiol" />
 <figcaption>David Koshiol</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4def5769-8a0a-4860-ab53-557afac250b3">David Koshiol</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/49060a66-e8fc-4755-a296-382a14c00a3d"></a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760632422362.jpeg" alt="Shaun Musil" />
 <figcaption>Shaun Musil</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/49060a66-e8fc-4755-a296-382a14c00a3d"> Shaun Musil</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760720774206.jpeg" alt="David Vilaysing" />
 <figcaption>David Vilaysing</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e243ec1-847a-40f8-a7dd-665ffe2f85de">David Vilaysing</a><h2>Hays USD 489</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761846455101.jpeg" alt="Kelly Ancar" />
 <figcaption>Kelly Ancar</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/277408cf-68c3-4bb4-b3dc-7bba965651ef">Kelly Ancar</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761846505080.jpeg" alt="Ken Brooks" />
 <figcaption>Ken Brooks</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8ce0d386-aba6-4c42-b880-1307752c8220">Ken Brooks</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760474185858.png" alt="Craig Pallister" />
 <figcaption>Craig Pallister</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/66f0b3ef-9525-40e2-a3f2-f74e9deebb43">Craig Pallister</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761846584574.png" alt="Curt Vajnar" />
 <figcaption>Curt Vajnar</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/199257e6-fc97-4089-8a4c-67a87d3422f8">Curt Vajnar</a> <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633100159398.jpeg" alt="Meagan&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c2ee48f5-7f38-411d-9ce5-39114ebdf54b">Zampieri-</a>Lillpopp" />
 <figcaption>Meagan&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c2ee48f5-7f38-411d-9ce5-39114ebdf54b">Zampieri-</a>Lillpopp</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c2ee48f5-7f38-411d-9ce5-39114ebdf54b">Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp</a>

Q&A's for Hays City Commission, Hays USD 489 candidates; Election Day today

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Thomas More Prep-Marian outperformed statewide averages in graduation rates and state assessments for the 2024-25 school year.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16dJMkcHHA/">TMP-Marian highlighted its strong academic achievement</a>, with students scoring above Kansas state averages in the top two performance levels for the following subjects:

• Math: 58% (TMP-Marian) vs. 38% (state average) • English Language Arts: 58% (TMP-Marian) vs. 42% (state average) • Science: 59% (TMP-Marian) vs. 39% (state average)

TMP-Marian Principal Chad Meitner said teachers are intentional about aligning lessons with state standards and about teaching the material they will be tested on.

"We've got some small class sizes, so we're able to really work with kids individually. I think that definitely goes into one of the secrets of our success," he said.

The Kansas State Department of Education recognized the Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Salina through the Kansans Can STAR Recognition Program for their outstanding student achievement.

TMP-Marian and Holy Family Elementary operate under the auspices of the Diocese of Salina.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17EqxyzwN7/" target="_blank">According to Salina Diocese Catholic Schools</a>, they received a gold star for their high school graduation rate, a gold star for their postsecondary success rate, and a silver star for the number of students they academically prepared for college or other postsecondary pathways.

The latest report on postsecondary success for the Salina Catholic Diocese is from 2019 to 2023. In 2023, the graduation rate was 90.5%, the success rate was 79.1% and the effective rate was 71.6%.

The state department of education considers post-secondary success based on a student meeting one of the following criteria:

1.&nbsp;Earned an approved certification during high school 2.&nbsp;Attained a postsecondary certificate 3.&nbsp;Obtained a postsecondary degree 4.&nbsp;Enrolled in postsecondary education in both the first and second years after high school graduation 5.&nbsp;Student with disabilities who met the district graduation requirements for a diploma but remained in school to receive transitional services

The 2024 graduation rate for TMP-Marian is 97.2%, above the state's average of 89.5% for the same year.

The state department of education also issued its 2024-2025 school-year performance report card for students at TMP-Marian and statewide. The report shows test scores for math, English language arts and science.

The Kansas assessment results are reported across four levels.

Level one indicates a student shows a limited ability to demonstrate their knowledge and skills of the grade-level subject standards. Level two shows a basic ability to demonstrate their knowledge of the subject, level three shows a proficient ability, and level four shows an advanced ability, according to the state department of education.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/be1ecb7f-dc52-4c44-aff4-c1ad39716611">The Kansas Department of Education has announced these levels will be changed in the coming years to reflect student achievement better.</a>

In math, 11.32% of TMP-Marian students in sixth through 12th grades have a limited ability to understand. According to the test scores, 31.44% of students have a basic understanding, 50.94% show an effective ability to understand and 6.28% have demonstrated an excellent understanding of math.

The statewide performance for math in the same grade levels consists of 28.71% of students showing limited ability, 32.54% having a basic understanding, 27.82% having an effective ability to understand and 10.91% having an excellent understanding.

7.54% of students show limited ability to understand English, 34.59% have a basic understanding, 45.28% show an effective ability to understand and 12.57% demonstrated an excellent understanding of English.

The statewide performance for English in the same grade levels consists of 28.36% of students showing limited ability, 27.15% having a basic understanding, 34.79% having an effective ability to understand and 9.68% having an excellent understanding.

15.9% of students show limited ability to understand science, 25% having a basic understanding, 27.27% show an effective ability to understand and 31.81% have demonstrated an excellent understanding of science.

The statewide performance for science in the same grade levels consists of 29.52% of students showing limited ability, 29.02% having a basic understanding, 25.98% having an effective ability to understand and 15.46% having an excellent understanding.

Meitner said the school’s Catholic faith helps shape a culture of discipline, respect and resilience,&nbsp;which he attributes to student performance.

"It starts with the early grades. A lot of our students come from Holy Family Elementary. ... I think there's some consistency in that curriculum," he said.

Holy Family Elementary’s academic performance also ranks above the state average in math, English language arts and science. Holy Family Principal Megan Meagher said teachers and curriculum are credited for meeting students' needs.

"We help prepare our students all the way from the time they're at Holy Family through TMP to be academically successful in postsecondary education," Meagher said.

1.72% of students between pre-kingergarten to fifth grade fall under having limited ability to understand, 23.27% of students have a basic understanding, 48.27% show an effective ability to understand and 26.72% have demonstrated an excellent understanding of math.

6.89% of students in the same grade fall under having limited ability to understand English language arts, 13.79% of students have a basic understanding, 60.34% show an effective ability to understand and 18.96% have demonstrated an excellent understanding.

4.76% of students fall under having limited ability to understand science, 28.57% of students have a basic understanding, 40.47% show an effective ability to understand and 26.19% have demonstrated an excellent understanding.

Despite the strong performance, Meagher said the school continues to look for ways to improve student education through academics and faith.

"There's always room for growth. We always hope to continue to strengthen those scores," she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594990751128.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThomas More Prep-Marian outperformed statewide averages in graduation rates and state assessments for the 2024-25 school year.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16dJMkcHHA/">TMP-Marian highlighted its strong academic achievement</a>, with students scoring above Kansas state averages in the top two performance levels for the following subjects:• Math: 58% (TMP-Marian) vs. 38% (state average) • English Language Arts: 58% (TMP-Marian) vs. 42% (state average) • Science: 59% (TMP-Marian) vs. 39% (state average)TMP-Marian Principal Chad Meitner said teachers are intentional about aligning lessons with state standards and about teaching the material they will be tested on."We've got some small class sizes, so we're able to really work with kids individually. I think that definitely goes into one of the secrets of our success," he said.The Kansas State Department of Education recognized the Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Salina through the Kansans Can STAR Recognition Program for their outstanding student achievement.TMP-Marian and Holy Family Elementary operate under the auspices of the Diocese of Salina.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17EqxyzwN7/" target="_blank">According to Salina Diocese Catholic Schools</a>, they received a gold star for their high school graduation rate, a gold star for their postsecondary success rate, and a silver star for the number of students they academically prepared for college or other postsecondary pathways.The latest report on postsecondary success for the Salina Catholic Diocese is from 2019 to 2023. In 2023, the graduation rate was 90.5%, the success rate was 79.1% and the effective rate was 71.6%.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761741980174.png" alt="Five-year postsecondary progress for&nbsp;the Salina Catholic Diocese" />
 <figcaption>Five-year postsecondary progress for&nbsp;the Salina Catholic Diocese</figcaption>
 </figure>The state department of education considers post-secondary success based on a student meeting one of the following criteria:1.&nbsp;Earned an approved certification during high school 2.&nbsp;Attained a postsecondary certificate 3.&nbsp;Obtained a postsecondary degree 4.&nbsp;Enrolled in postsecondary education in both the first and second years after high school graduation 5.&nbsp;Student with disabilities who met the district graduation requirements for a diploma but remained in school to receive transitional servicesThe 2024 graduation rate for TMP-Marian is 97.2%, above the state's average of 89.5% for the same year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761762544723.jpeg" alt="2023, 2024 graduation rates of Thomas More Prep-Marian and the state" />
 <figcaption>2023, 2024 graduation rates of Thomas More Prep-Marian and the state</figcaption>
 </figure>The state department of education also issued its 2024-2025 school-year performance report card for students at TMP-Marian and statewide. The report shows test scores for math, English language arts and science.The Kansas assessment results are reported across four levels.Level one indicates a student shows a limited ability to demonstrate their knowledge and skills of the grade-level subject standards. Level two shows a basic ability to demonstrate their knowledge of the subject, level three shows a proficient ability, and level four shows an advanced ability, according to the state department of education.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/be1ecb7f-dc52-4c44-aff4-c1ad39716611">The Kansas Department of Education has announced these levels will be changed in the coming years to reflect student achievement better.</a>MathIn math, 11.32% of TMP-Marian students in sixth through 12th grades have a limited ability to understand. According to the test scores, 31.44% of students have a basic understanding, 50.94% show an effective ability to understand and 6.28% have demonstrated an excellent understanding of math.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761078133089.jpeg" alt="Thomas More Prep-Marian and state performance level report for math&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Thomas More Prep-Marian and state performance level report for math&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The statewide performance for math in the same grade levels consists of 28.71% of students showing limited ability, 32.54% having a basic understanding, 27.82% having an effective ability to understand and 10.91% having an excellent understanding.English language arts7.54% of students show limited ability to understand English, 34.59% have a basic understanding, 45.28% show an effective ability to understand and 12.57% demonstrated an excellent understanding of English.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761078663194.jpeg" alt="Thomas More Prep-Marian and state performance level report for English language arts" />
 <figcaption>Thomas More Prep-Marian and state performance level report for English language arts</figcaption>
 </figure>The statewide performance for English in the same grade levels consists of 28.36% of students showing limited ability, 27.15% having a basic understanding, 34.79% having an effective ability to understand and 9.68% having an excellent understanding.Science15.9% of students show limited ability to understand science, 25% having a basic understanding, 27.27% show an effective ability to understand and 31.81% have demonstrated an excellent understanding of science.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761079020355.jpeg" alt="Thomas More Prep-Marian and state performance level report for science" />
 <figcaption>Thomas More Prep-Marian and state performance level report for science</figcaption>
 </figure>The statewide performance for science in the same grade levels consists of 29.52% of students showing limited ability, 29.02% having a basic understanding, 25.98% having an effective ability to understand and 15.46% having an excellent understanding.Meitner said the school’s Catholic faith helps shape a culture of discipline, respect and resilience,&nbsp;which he attributes to student performance."It starts with the early grades. A lot of our students come from Holy Family Elementary. ... I think there's some consistency in that curriculum," he said.<h2>Holy Family Elementary</h2>Holy Family Elementary’s academic performance also ranks above the state average in math, English language arts and science. Holy Family Principal Megan Meagher said teachers and curriculum are credited for meeting students' needs."We help prepare our students all the way from the time they're at Holy Family through TMP to be academically successful in postsecondary education," Meagher said.Math1.72% of students between pre-kingergarten to fifth grade fall under having limited ability to understand, 23.27% of students have a basic understanding, 48.27% show an effective ability to understand and 26.72% have demonstrated an excellent understanding of math.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761666643617.jpeg" alt="Holy Family Elementary and state performance level report for math" />
 <figcaption>Holy Family Elementary and state performance level report for math</figcaption>
 </figure>English language arts6.89% of students in the same grade fall under having limited ability to understand English language arts, 13.79% of students have a basic understanding, 60.34% show an effective ability to understand and 18.96% have demonstrated an excellent understanding.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761666803761.jpeg" alt="Holy Family Elementary and state performance level report for English language arts" />
 <figcaption>Holy Family Elementary and state performance level report for English language arts</figcaption>
 </figure>Science4.76% of students fall under having limited ability to understand science, 28.57% of students have a basic understanding, 40.47% show an effective ability to understand and 26.19% have demonstrated an excellent understanding.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761667012459.jpeg" alt="Holy Family Elementary and state performance level report for science" />
 <figcaption>Holy Family Elementary and state performance level report for science</figcaption>
 </figure>Despite the strong performance, Meagher said the school continues to look for ways to improve student education through academics and faith."There's always room for growth. We always hope to continue to strengthen those scores," she said.

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