By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The city of Victoria is moving forward with a plan that aims
to beautify the community and spur growth while saving taxpayers money at the
same time.

After working on setting up a Neighborhood Revitalization
Plan for almost a year, the city of Victoria received the final approval
from the Ellis County Commission earlier this month. The city of Victoria and
the school district had already approved the plan.

The&nbsp;Neighborhood Revitalization Plan is a way to use economic incentives to spur economic
growth. 

James Robben, director of business development at Grow Hays,
has been working with the city of Victoria on putting together a plan and
recently told the county commission, “the [Neighborhood Revitalization Plan] is an economic incentive that
helps develop personal property, industrial property or commercial property. So,
it's a rebate on property taxes, if you improve your property.”

Robben said residents can apply for a project they
want to complete that will increase the value of their home, commercial or
historical property and they will get a percentage of the property taxes back
as a refund.

Residential properties would qualify for a 70 percent rebate, while commercial property would have a 90 percent rebate and properties on the Kansas Historical Registry would have a 100 percent reabte. The county will access a 5-percent administration fee.

Robben gave an example. A homeowner has a $10,000 house and pays
$1,000 worth of taxes. The value of the property increases by $10,000, to $20,000. The owner now pays $1,000 more in taxes. The homeowner would get $700
back.

The refund amount is locked in for the 10 years even though the
taxes on the property may fluctuate.

“It's a way to help beautify a small, rural
community,” Robben said.

Robben said the project must first be approved by
the city. A property owner cannot just complete the work on the project and
expect to take advantage of the program.

The project has to be approved, completed and then the valuation
by the county appraiser’s office must show an increase in valuation of more than
$10,000 to be awarded the tax rebate, he said.

“It is a do-the-work and then get-their-reward-on-the-backside (program),” Robben said, “which I think is very important to
note that you're not just giving up anything, you have to do the work and then
get the refund.”

Applicant will still pay
their taxes in full and will receive a refund through the program.

Ellis County Commissioner Michael Berges said it is also not
the amount of money that a property owner spends, it is the amount that the
property valuation increases.

“There are probably cases where you could put paint on
something and spruce it up and make it look a lot better,” Robben said. “And it
might only cost you $6,000, you might appraise for $10,000 ...

&nbsp;“Or it could be an
empty lot with nothing on there and you put a building on and could increase
the valuation quite a bit,” Robben said. 

Victoria Mayor John Schulte said the city has already had
residents show interest in the program.

The program, just like the city of Hays’&nbsp;Neighborhood Revitalization Plan, will be
administered through the local city office. Robben said the city of Victoria is working
with city employees to make sure staff understands how to implement the
program.

Because everything hinges on property valuation at the end
of the project, Robben said it will take a lot of education at first. He said
he will serve as a resource and suggests interested parties work with the Ellis County appraiser’s office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584581352381.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe city of Victoria is moving forward with a plan that aims
to beautify the community and spur growth while saving taxpayers money at the
same time.After working on setting up a Neighborhood Revitalization
Plan for almost a year, the city of Victoria received the final approval
from the Ellis County Commission earlier this month. The city of Victoria and
the school district had already approved the plan.The&nbsp;Neighborhood Revitalization Plan is a way to use economic incentives to spur economic
growth. James Robben, director of business development at Grow Hays,
has been working with the city of Victoria on putting together a plan and
recently told the county commission, “the [Neighborhood Revitalization Plan] is an economic incentive that
helps develop personal property, industrial property or commercial property. So,
it's a rebate on property taxes, if you improve your property.”Robben said residents can apply for a project they
want to complete that will increase the value of their home, commercial or
historical property and they will get a percentage of the property taxes back
as a refund.Residential properties would qualify for a 70 percent rebate, while commercial property would have a 90 percent rebate and properties on the Kansas Historical Registry would have a 100 percent reabte. The county will access a 5-percent administration fee.Robben gave an example. A homeowner has a $10,000 house and pays
$1,000 worth of taxes. The value of the property increases by $10,000, to $20,000. The owner now pays $1,000 more in taxes. The homeowner would get $700
back.The refund amount is locked in for the 10 years even though the
taxes on the property may fluctuate.“It's a way to help beautify a small, rural
community,” Robben said.Robben said the project must first be approved by
the city. A property owner cannot just complete the work on the project and
expect to take advantage of the program.The project has to be approved, completed and then the valuation
by the county appraiser’s office must show an increase in valuation of more than
$10,000 to be awarded the tax rebate, he said.“It is a do-the-work and then get-their-reward-on-the-backside (program),” Robben said, “which I think is very important to
note that you're not just giving up anything, you have to do the work and then
get the refund.”Applicant will still pay
their taxes in full and will receive a refund through the program.Ellis County Commissioner Michael Berges said it is also not
the amount of money that a property owner spends, it is the amount that the
property valuation increases.“There are probably cases where you could put paint on
something and spruce it up and make it look a lot better,” Robben said. “And it
might only cost you $6,000, you might appraise for $10,000 ...&nbsp;“Or it could be an
empty lot with nothing on there and you put a building on and could increase
the valuation quite a bit,” Robben said. Victoria Mayor John Schulte said the city has already had
residents show interest in the program.The program, just like the city of Hays’&nbsp;Neighborhood Revitalization Plan, will be
administered through the local city office. Robben said the city of Victoria is working
with city employees to make sure staff understands how to implement the
program.Because everything hinges on property valuation at the end
of the project, Robben said it will take a lot of education at first. He said
he will serve as a resource and suggests interested parties work with the Ellis County appraiser’s office.

Victoria offers tax refunds for property upgrades

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas will be acquiring some much-needed fire and safety equipment thanks to the generosity of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. DSNWK announced it has received a grant award of $100,000, which will go toward enhancing fire safety measures in four DSNWK locations.

With the grant funds, DSNWK will install essential fire safety equipment such as sprinkler systems, fire alarm panels, and dialers in locations in Hays, Hill City, Norton and Victoria. By investing in these measures, DSNWK will enhance the safety for both the people it serves, as well as its employees. These enhancements will also protect community assets, quicken emergency response, and include employee education and awareness.

“This project not only strengthens DSNWK resilience against fire-related disasters but also fosters a healthier and safer environment for the individuals we serve and the employees who provide care,” said Jerry Michaud, DSNWK president and CEO. “By investing in comprehensive fire safety measures, DSNWK will experience a significant improvement in safety, infrastructure protection, emergency response capabilities, and overall quality of life.”

DSNWK is a 501(c)(3) non-profit serving those with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the 18 most northwestern Kansas counties. Visit <a href="http://www.dsnwk.org">www.dsnwk.org</a> or <a href="http://dsnwk.giftlegacy.com">dsnwk.giftlegacy.com</a> to learn more about services and ways to support DSNWK’s work with individuals with developmental disabilities throughout northwest Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602261714960.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedDevelopmental Services of Northwest Kansas will be acquiring some much-needed fire and safety equipment thanks to the generosity of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. DSNWK announced it has received a grant award of $100,000, which will go toward enhancing fire safety measures in four DSNWK locations.With the grant funds, DSNWK will install essential fire safety equipment such as sprinkler systems, fire alarm panels, and dialers in locations in Hays, Hill City, Norton and Victoria. By investing in these measures, DSNWK will enhance the safety for both the people it serves, as well as its employees. These enhancements will also protect community assets, quicken emergency response, and include employee education and awareness.“This project not only strengthens DSNWK resilience against fire-related disasters but also fosters a healthier and safer environment for the individuals we serve and the employees who provide care,” said Jerry Michaud, DSNWK president and CEO. “By investing in comprehensive fire safety measures, DSNWK will experience a significant improvement in safety, infrastructure protection, emergency response capabilities, and overall quality of life.”DSNWK is a 501(c)(3) non-profit serving those with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the 18 most northwestern Kansas counties. Visit <a href="http://www.dsnwk.org">www.dsnwk.org</a> or <a href="http://dsnwk.giftlegacy.com">dsnwk.giftlegacy.com</a> to learn more about services and ways to support DSNWK’s work with individuals with developmental disabilities throughout northwest Kansas.

DSNWK receives Dane G. Hansen Foundation grant

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Snow is expected to begin in northwest Kansas overnight and spread eastward, according to the National Weather Service.

The Hays area is forecast for about 2 inches of snow. The National Weather Service was forecasting as of 7 a.m. Thursday that snow should begin in Hays at about 6 p.m.

The precipitation may start as rain and change quickly to snow.

The snow should come to an end on Friday.

A winter weather alert has been issued for the area starting at 8 p.m. Thursday through noon Friday.

Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous
  conditions could impact the morning commute.&nbsp;

Trego-Ellis-Lane-Ness-Rush-Hodgeman-Pawnee-Stafford-Gray-Ford-Edwards-Kiowa-Pratt-Meade-Clark-Comanche-Barber-

Including the cities of Wakeeney, Pfeifer, Hays, Dighton, Ness City, La Crosse, Jetmore, Hanston, Larned, St. John, Stafford, Macksville, Cimarron, Montezuma, Dodge City, Kinsley, Lewis, Greensburg, Haviland, Pratt, Meade, Plains City, Fowler, Ashland, Minneola, Coldwater, Lake Coldwater, Protection, Medicine Lodge, and Kiowa

You can find updated road conditions at <a href="http://Kandrive.org">Kandrive.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704381172925.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostSnow is expected to begin in northwest Kansas overnight and spread eastward, according to the National Weather Service.The Hays area is forecast for about 2 inches of snow. The National Weather Service was forecasting as of 7 a.m. Thursday that snow should begin in Hays at about 6 p.m.The precipitation may start as rain and change quickly to snow.The snow should come to an end on Friday.A winter weather alert has been issued for the area starting at 8 p.m. Thursday through noon Friday.Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous
 conditions could impact the morning commute.&nbsp;Affected counties include:Trego-Ellis-Lane-Ness-Rush-Hodgeman-Pawnee-Stafford-Gray-Ford-Edwards-Kiowa-Pratt-Meade-Clark-Comanche-Barber-Including the cities of Wakeeney, Pfeifer, Hays, Dighton, Ness City, La Crosse, Jetmore, Hanston, Larned, St. John, Stafford, Macksville, Cimarron, Montezuma, Dodge City, Kinsley, Lewis, Greensburg, Haviland, Pratt, Meade, Plains City, Fowler, Ashland, Minneola, Coldwater, Lake Coldwater, Protection, Medicine Lodge, and KiowaYou can find updated road conditions at <a href="http://Kandrive.org">Kandrive.org</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704381449574.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Forecast for 2 inches of snow or more in Hays

Victoria resident, Jacqueline Babcock, passed away peacefully at home, on January 1, 2024 at the age of 76.

Jacqueline was born on July 30, 1947, in Phillipsburg, Kansas, to her parents Warren and Ida (Bickett) Rogers.

She married Dennis Babcock in 1967 and was later divorced.

Jacqueline is preceded in death by her parents Warren and Ida Rogers, sister Ardith Horn, and brother Larry Rogers, as well as an infant brother Terrance Rogers.

Survivors include son Darin Babcock and wife Jessica of Littlefield, Texas, daughter Dedra Karlin and partner Mike Lindsay of Victoria, Kansas, brother Mike Rogers of Salina, Kansas, and sister Diane Portenier of McPherson, Kansas, as well as 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

A celebration of life service, officiated by Pastor Jay Brandon, will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, in Phillipsburg, with a visitation to follow until Noon.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Jacqueline Babcock Memorial Fund.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704309302206.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Victoria resident, Jacqueline Babcock, passed away peacefully at home, on January 1, 2024 at the age of 76.Jacqueline was born on July 30, 1947, in Phillipsburg, Kansas, to her parents Warren and Ida (Bickett) Rogers.She married Dennis Babcock in 1967 and was later divorced.Jacqueline is preceded in death by her parents Warren and Ida Rogers, sister Ardith Horn, and brother Larry Rogers, as well as an infant brother Terrance Rogers.Survivors include son Darin Babcock and wife Jessica of Littlefield, Texas, daughter Dedra Karlin and partner Mike Lindsay of Victoria, Kansas, brother Mike Rogers of Salina, Kansas, and sister Diane Portenier of McPherson, Kansas, as well as 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.Cremation was planned.A celebration of life service, officiated by Pastor Jay Brandon, will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, in Phillipsburg, with a visitation to follow until Noon.Memorial contributions may be made to the Jacqueline Babcock Memorial Fund.

Jacqueline Andrea Babcock

By NANCY PIATT Special to the Hays Post

VICTORIA — For Victoria residents, a long-awaited day has arrived. Officially on Tuesday at 5 p.m. the new Dollar General store opened its doors to the public.

The store’s grand opening will be on Friday. Hours for the new business are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. The only day the store is closed is Christmas Day.

Mike Rome, store manager, and some of his staff were ready to greet their customers and process their purchases. Rome left his prior position with FedEx explaining that this was a job opportunity he couldn’t pass up.

For the first few days, Zkhurran Asghar, the Dollar General regional manager from Oklahoma City, will be on-site to continue overseeing the details inherent to opening a new facility.

Also on hand to celebrate the occasion was community organizer Rose Anne Dreiling, who has been very instrumental in bringing Dollar General to Victoria.

“It has been my dream and passion to bring Dollar General to Victoria for over 20 years, but I failed the first time. So when the Victoria Community Coalition met in 2022 and 2023 and discussed ways to help our community grow, it lit a spark — rekindling that passion,” Dreiling said.

“After those meetings, it was full speed ahead. I made it my goal to see the project to completion.”

Dreiling said she was excited to be customer No. 1 for the staff to check out with her purchases.

Rome kept smiling as he discussed how he was hired for his position and proceeded through the process from number of interviews to on-the-job training. The store has hired an assistant manager and five sales associates, some full-time and others part-time. Rome said he expects to hire at least two more employees in the near future.

In discussing some of what he sees as priorities with his operation, Rome said his staff will be greeting customers and ensuring good service. The store has one cashier for those who want that personal service and two self-checkout stations as well: one for cards only and one for either cash or cards.

Keeping merchandise well stocked, maintaining clear aisles, and ensuring the store will be clean are some of Rome’s other goals.

Talking about the process from the beginning, Dreilng said, "Throughout the many stages, I have been checking on the progress of the store and want to commend the hard work and efforts of all involved, from digging the foundation, laying concrete, building and completing the structure inside and out, to stocking the shelves. 

"Under the guidance of our local store manager, in addition to the other Dollar General district, corporate and surrounding area stores’ staff, the store went up in record time. Thanks also go to all those who made it possible to get water, gas and plumbing to the store in record time.

“There are some individuals who deserve special acknowledgment. First is Mr. Al Pfeifer, owner of Pfeifer’s Inc. who has always had a vision for the growth of Victoria and stepped forward when we needed him most by providing the land for Dollar General to build. Second is Mary Beth (Leiker) Fisher, a Victoria native, who wanted to see our community grow and succeed also. She attended meetings with me and provided her and advice when I needed it. Last but not least, the community of Victoria!”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703094104470.jpeg" alt="Sales associate Trevor LaBarge and assistant manager Megan Lang helped Rose Anne Dreiling with her credit card processing as their first customer. Submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>Sales associate Trevor LaBarge and assistant manager Megan Lang helped Rose Anne Dreiling with her credit card processing as their first customer. Submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By NANCY PIATT Special to the Hays PostVICTORIA — For Victoria residents, a long-awaited day has arrived. Officially on Tuesday at 5 p.m. the new Dollar General store opened its doors to the public.The store’s grand opening will be on Friday. Hours for the new business are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. The only day the store is closed is Christmas Day.Mike Rome, store manager, and some of his staff were ready to greet their customers and process their purchases. Rome left his prior position with FedEx explaining that this was a job opportunity he couldn’t pass up.For the first few days, Zkhurran Asghar, the Dollar General regional manager from Oklahoma City, will be on-site to continue overseeing the details inherent to opening a new facility.Also on hand to celebrate the occasion was community organizer Rose Anne Dreiling, who has been very instrumental in bringing Dollar General to Victoria.“It has been my dream and passion to bring Dollar General to Victoria for over 20 years, but I failed the first time. So when the Victoria Community Coalition met in 2022 and 2023 and discussed ways to help our community grow, it lit a spark — rekindling that passion,” Dreiling said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703094209482.jpeg" alt="Dollar General Regional Manager Khurram Asghar from Oklahoma City credits Victoria community organizer Rose Anne Dreiling for being a big help in the months of construction. Submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>Dollar General Regional Manager Khurram Asghar from Oklahoma City credits Victoria community organizer Rose Anne Dreiling for being a big help in the months of construction. Submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure>“After those meetings, it was full speed ahead. I made it my goal to see the project to completion.”Dreiling said she was excited to be customer No. 1 for the staff to check out with her purchases.Rome kept smiling as he discussed how he was hired for his position and proceeded through the process from number of interviews to on-the-job training. The store has hired an assistant manager and five sales associates, some full-time and others part-time. Rome said he expects to hire at least two more employees in the near future.In discussing some of what he sees as priorities with his operation, Rome said his staff will be greeting customers and ensuring good service. The store has one cashier for those who want that personal service and two self-checkout stations as well: one for cards only and one for either cash or cards.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703094258666.jpeg" alt="Dreiling and Manager Mike Rome discuss some of the process of opening the store. Rome’s wife, Desiree, was present to share in the excitement. Submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>Dreiling and Manager Mike Rome discuss some of the process of opening the store. Rome’s wife, Desiree, was present to share in the excitement. Submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Keeping merchandise well stocked, maintaining clear aisles, and ensuring the store will be clean are some of Rome’s other goals.Talking about the process from the beginning, Dreilng said, "Throughout the many stages, I have been checking on the progress of the store and want to commend the hard work and efforts of all involved, from digging the foundation, laying concrete, building and completing the structure inside and out, to stocking the shelves. "Under the guidance of our local store manager, in addition to the other Dollar General district, corporate and surrounding area stores’ staff, the store went up in record time. Thanks also go to all those who made it possible to get water, gas and plumbing to the store in record time.“There are some individuals who deserve special acknowledgment. First is Mr. Al Pfeifer, owner of Pfeifer’s Inc. who has always had a vision for the growth of Victoria and stepped forward when we needed him most by providing the land for Dollar General to build. Second is Mary Beth (Leiker) Fisher, a Victoria native, who wanted to see our community grow and succeed also. She attended meetings with me and provided her and advice when I needed it. Last but not least, the community of Victoria!”

Dollar General opens in Victoria

By BENJAMIN DOME Kansas vice president of individual programs for FCCLA

The Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) Family Career and Community Leaders of America, also known as FCCLA, is thriving and strong in Ellis County and the surrounding areas. FCCLA is the only CTSO with family as its core value.

FCCLA has a chapter at every high school in Ellis County with a Family and Consumer Science class. The chapters at Victoria High School, Ellis High School, and the newly formed Hays High School Chapter have been representing Western Kansas extraordinarily on the state and national&nbsp;level.

Victoria High School has over 78 percent of students affiliated with their FCCLA chapter. Nine of those members serve as officers on the local officer team. Victoria FCCLA also hosts District B secretary Kennidy Amrien and the state vice president of individual programs Benjamin Dome.

Both serve on higher executive councils for the area FCCLA district and the state of Kansas.

Additionally, Victoria had six competitive STAR Events compete on the national level at the National Leadership Conference last summer in Denver. Three of these members, Sienna Schmeidler, Jillian Schmidt, and Averi Whindholz, took fifth in the nation with a gold in the Interior Design category. Victoria FCCLA has also been hard at work in the Victoria community.

Their members planned a welcome-back event for every Victoria Jr./Sr. High School student, hosted an American Red Cross blood drive, collected 200 canned goods for the local food pantry, 15 bags of shoes for poorer individuals, planned and threw a holiday bash for elementary students and their parents, and awarded local heroes for their hard work in the community.

Victoria FCCLA also played a vital role at the District B Fall Leadership Conference in Hoisington. Members Sienna Schmeidler and Sage Moos got on stage in front of members from schools ranging from Phillips and Smith County to Barton County to congratulate members on their completion of the Power of One units.

Kennedy Amerin, a senior at Victoria High School and currently serving as the District B secretary, attended two planning meetings to smoothly plan and execute the District B Fall Leadership Conference. Victoria FCCLA has many plans to close out the 1st semester and kick off the 2nd semester positively.

Victoria FCCLA adviser and FCS teacher Connie Braun stated, “Victoria FCCLA has five members interested in running for various higher office positions, and 18 members working on STAR Events.”

Both elections of officers and STAR Events take place in the second semester. Victoria is also poised to host the 2024 District B Star Event Competitions. 

USD 432 Superintendant and Victoria Jr. Sr. High School Principal Kimberley Woolf stated, “We are so excited to host the STAR Events this year on Valentine’s Day for District B FCCLA. Our teachers will be here to help facilitate the rooms and judge. Some of my standout moments as a principal at Victoria are getting to attend some of these events with students and watching them compete.

"It is amazing to see all their months of work come to fruition when they present to their team of judges. Connie Braun is an essential part of all of this! The kids love her for her dedication and commitment.”

Ellis High School FCCLA is also enjoying The Ultimate Journey. Ellis FCCLA boasts a roster of 40 members. One of which, Taegen Shannon, serves as the current District B president.

Part of Shannon’s role is serving on the State Advisory Council and heading the planning of the District B Fall Leadership Conference, which was hosted in Hoisington in early October.

Additionally, Railers in the FCCLA Chapter have been hard at work preparing for the STAR Event competitions. Ellis FCCLA adviser and FCS teacher Mrs. Nihlas stated, “We have a group hard at work preparing for their competition. We also have a member gearing up to run for a higher office as well.” District elections will be hosted in late January at Smith Center High School.

Hays High School is also getting into the action this year. This will be the first year for Hays High to offer FCCLA in it’s school history. District B FCCLA is happy to have them become a part of the FCCLA family. The entire state association is excited to welcome them into the FCCLA community.

Many Ellis County businesses support FCCLA at various levels. Leon’s Welding and Fabrication, LLC, and Great Plains Dermatology are both sponsors of Kansas FCCLA. Leon’s Welding and Fabrication, LLC is a bronze sponsor, and Great Plains Dermatology is a silver sponsor. Kansas FCCLA is extremely thankful for their support.

The state of FCCLA in Ellis County is strong and hopeful. The entirety of the State Executive Council is proud of District B FCCLA and excited to see what Ellis County FCCLA Chapters produce in the coming semester.

By BENJAMIN DOME Kansas vice president of individual programs for FCCLA The Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) Family Career and Community Leaders of America, also known as FCCLA, is thriving and strong in Ellis County and the surrounding areas. FCCLA is the only CTSO with family as its core value.FCCLA has a chapter at every high school in Ellis County with a Family and Consumer Science class. The chapters at Victoria High School, Ellis High School, and the newly formed Hays High School Chapter have been representing Western Kansas extraordinarily on the state and national&nbsp;level.Victoria High School has over 78 percent of students affiliated with their FCCLA chapter. Nine of those members serve as officers on the local officer team. Victoria FCCLA also hosts District B secretary Kennidy Amrien and the state vice president of individual programs Benjamin Dome.Both serve on higher executive councils for the area FCCLA district and the state of Kansas.Additionally, Victoria had six competitive STAR Events compete on the national level at the National Leadership Conference last summer in Denver. Three of these members, Sienna Schmeidler, Jillian Schmidt, and Averi Whindholz, took fifth in the nation with a gold in the Interior Design category. Victoria FCCLA has also been hard at work in the Victoria community.Their members planned a welcome-back event for every Victoria Jr./Sr. High School student, hosted an American Red Cross blood drive, collected 200 canned goods for the local food pantry, 15 bags of shoes for poorer individuals, planned and threw a holiday bash for elementary students and their parents, and awarded local heroes for their hard work in the community.Victoria FCCLA also played a vital role at the District B Fall Leadership Conference in Hoisington. Members Sienna Schmeidler and Sage Moos got on stage in front of members from schools ranging from Phillips and Smith County to Barton County to congratulate members on their completion of the Power of One units.Kennedy Amerin, a senior at Victoria High School and currently serving as the District B secretary, attended two planning meetings to smoothly plan and execute the District B Fall Leadership Conference. Victoria FCCLA has many plans to close out the 1st semester and kick off the 2nd semester positively.Victoria FCCLA adviser and FCS teacher Connie Braun stated, “Victoria FCCLA has five members interested in running for various higher office positions, and 18 members working on STAR Events.”Both elections of officers and STAR Events take place in the second semester. Victoria is also poised to host the 2024 District B Star Event Competitions. USD 432 Superintendant and Victoria Jr. Sr. High School Principal Kimberley Woolf stated, “We are so excited to host the STAR Events this year on Valentine’s Day for District B FCCLA. Our teachers will be here to help facilitate the rooms and judge. Some of my standout moments as a principal at Victoria are getting to attend some of these events with students and watching them compete."It is amazing to see all their months of work come to fruition when they present to their team of judges. Connie Braun is an essential part of all of this! The kids love her for her dedication and commitment.”Ellis High School FCCLA is also enjoying The Ultimate Journey. Ellis FCCLA boasts a roster of 40 members. One of which, Taegen Shannon, serves as the current District B president.Part of Shannon’s role is serving on the State Advisory Council and heading the planning of the District B Fall Leadership Conference, which was hosted in Hoisington in early October.Additionally, Railers in the FCCLA Chapter have been hard at work preparing for the STAR Event competitions. Ellis FCCLA adviser and FCS teacher Mrs. Nihlas stated, “We have a group hard at work preparing for their competition. We also have a member gearing up to run for a higher office as well.” District elections will be hosted in late January at Smith Center High School.Hays High School is also getting into the action this year. This will be the first year for Hays High to offer FCCLA in it’s school history. District B FCCLA is happy to have them become a part of the FCCLA family. The entire state association is excited to welcome them into the FCCLA community.Many Ellis County businesses support FCCLA at various levels. Leon’s Welding and Fabrication, LLC, and Great Plains Dermatology are both sponsors of Kansas FCCLA. Leon’s Welding and Fabrication, LLC is a bronze sponsor, and Great Plains Dermatology is a silver sponsor. Kansas FCCLA is extremely thankful for their support.The state of FCCLA in Ellis County is strong and hopeful. The entirety of the State Executive Council is proud of District B FCCLA and excited to see what Ellis County FCCLA Chapters produce in the coming semester.

LETTER: FCCLA strong in Ellis County, surrounding areas

WICHITA – Smith County rancher Philip Weltmer is the new president of the Kansas Livestock Association (KLA). He began his one-year term in the volunteer position during the group’s annual membership meeting on Dec. 1 in Wichita. Members chose Victoria-native Troy Sander, a cattle feeder now based in Oklahoma City, as the new KLA president-elect. Weltmer and Sander will lead the 5,700-member organization during the next year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Weltmer represents the third generation of his family in the ranching business. His grandparents founded what is now W &amp; S Ranch near Smith Center in the 1950s. Weltmer and his wife, Jessica, joined his granddad, dad and uncle on the ranch full time almost 20 years ago. Over the years, the family operation has grown to encompass a commercial cow-calf herd, small registered Angus herd, feedyard and farming business.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Weltmer has been extensively involved in leadership in both KLA and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA). He served as vice chair of the KLA Animal Health &amp; ID Committee and is a member of the Kansas Beef Council (KBC) executive committee. Nationally, Weltmer currently serves on the Federation of State Beef Councils board of directors and is co-chair of the Checkoff Nutrition &amp; Health Committee. He also is the Region 7 Federation representative on the NCBA Nominating Committee. Weltmer is a past chair of KBC and served on the KLA board of directors from 2016 to 2018. He was a member of the 2008 KLA Young Stockmen’s Academy, serving as class chair, and participated in the NCBA Young Cattlemen’s Conference in 2013. He also is a graduate of the King Ranch Leadership Studies Program and serves as president of the Smith County Fair Board.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Weltmer graduated from K-State in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences and industry. He and Jessica have three children, Kaden, Korey and Kaylee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sander is the chief operations manager for Heritage Beef, which operates feedyards in Haskell and Labette counties. His interest in the cattle feeding industry began early in life as he worked alongside his father, Vernon, who was the assistant manager at the former Hays Land and Cattle near Hays. Sander graduated from Fort Hays State University with a degree in animal science in 1991 and took a job as a management trainee with Continental Grain Company’s XIT Feeders near Dalhart, TX.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After completing the training program, he continued gaining experience, first as the animal health manager at Grant County Feeders in 1995, then as assistant manager at Colorado Beef in 1999. After 12 years with Continental Grain Company, he moved to Heritage Beef, where he served as general manager at Heritage Feeders in Wheeler, TX, and eventually was promoted to his current role as operations manager. For nearly 20 years, he has been responsible for buying feeder cattle and overseeing marketing, operations and commodity procurement.&nbsp;

Sander has been a KLA member for 25 years and has served the organization in varying capacities. He currently is a member of the board of directors and has served on the KLA Executive Committee and Policy &amp; Resolutions Committee. Sander was chairman of the KLA Cattle Feeders Council in 2020. He also is active on the national level, serving on the NCBA board of directors and as chairman of the NCBA Live Cattle Marketing Committee from 2022-2023. Sander was a member of the NCBA Live Cattle Marketing Working Group as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

He and his wife, Lisa, have four sons. Travis and his wife, Carli, have two children, Rory and Kasen. Colten and wife Hayley have one son, Owen. Caden and his wife, Mikayla, just welcomed a new son, Shepherd. Kyle and wife Becca have a son, Jennings.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KLA is a 5,700-member trade organization representing the state’s livestock business on legislative, regulatory and industry issues at both the state and federal levels. The association’s work is funded through voluntary dues dollars paid by its members.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596485688217.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedWICHITA – Smith County rancher Philip Weltmer is the new president of the Kansas Livestock Association (KLA). He began his one-year term in the volunteer position during the group’s annual membership meeting on Dec. 1 in Wichita. Members chose Victoria-native Troy Sander, a cattle feeder now based in Oklahoma City, as the new KLA president-elect. Weltmer and Sander will lead the 5,700-member organization during the next year.&nbsp;&nbsp;Weltmer represents the third generation of his family in the ranching business. His grandparents founded what is now W &amp; S Ranch near Smith Center in the 1950s. Weltmer and his wife, Jessica, joined his granddad, dad and uncle on the ranch full time almost 20 years ago. Over the years, the family operation has grown to encompass a commercial cow-calf herd, small registered Angus herd, feedyard and farming business.&nbsp;&nbsp;Weltmer has been extensively involved in leadership in both KLA and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA). He served as vice chair of the KLA Animal Health &amp; ID Committee and is a member of the Kansas Beef Council (KBC) executive committee. Nationally, Weltmer currently serves on the Federation of State Beef Councils board of directors and is co-chair of the Checkoff Nutrition &amp; Health Committee. He also is the Region 7 Federation representative on the NCBA Nominating Committee. Weltmer is a past chair of KBC and served on the KLA board of directors from 2016 to 2018. He was a member of the 2008 KLA Young Stockmen’s Academy, serving as class chair, and participated in the NCBA Young Cattlemen’s Conference in 2013. He also is a graduate of the King Ranch Leadership Studies Program and serves as president of the Smith County Fair Board.&nbsp;&nbsp;Weltmer graduated from K-State in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences and industry. He and Jessica have three children, Kaden, Korey and Kaylee.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sander is the chief operations manager for Heritage Beef, which operates feedyards in Haskell and Labette counties. His interest in the cattle feeding industry began early in life as he worked alongside his father, Vernon, who was the assistant manager at the former Hays Land and Cattle near Hays. Sander graduated from Fort Hays State University with a degree in animal science in 1991 and took a job as a management trainee with Continental Grain Company’s XIT Feeders near Dalhart, TX.&nbsp;&nbsp;After completing the training program, he continued gaining experience, first as the animal health manager at Grant County Feeders in 1995, then as assistant manager at Colorado Beef in 1999. After 12 years with Continental Grain Company, he moved to Heritage Beef, where he served as general manager at Heritage Feeders in Wheeler, TX, and eventually was promoted to his current role as operations manager. For nearly 20 years, he has been responsible for buying feeder cattle and overseeing marketing, operations and commodity procurement.&nbsp;Sander has been a KLA member for 25 years and has served the organization in varying capacities. He currently is a member of the board of directors and has served on the KLA Executive Committee and Policy &amp; Resolutions Committee. Sander was chairman of the KLA Cattle Feeders Council in 2020. He also is active on the national level, serving on the NCBA board of directors and as chairman of the NCBA Live Cattle Marketing Committee from 2022-2023. Sander was a member of the NCBA Live Cattle Marketing Working Group as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He and his wife, Lisa, have four sons. Travis and his wife, Carli, have two children, Rory and Kasen. Colten and wife Hayley have one son, Owen. Caden and his wife, Mikayla, just welcomed a new son, Shepherd. Kyle and wife Becca have a son, Jennings.&nbsp;&nbsp;KLA is a 5,700-member trade organization representing the state’s livestock business on legislative, regulatory and industry issues at both the state and federal levels. The association’s work is funded through voluntary dues dollars paid by its members.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Weltmer, Victoria-native Sander elected to lead Kansas Livestock Association

The United Way of Ellis County’s application for funding deadline is quickly approaching.

Any 501(c)(3) that provides services in Ellis County is eligible to apply. The services must meet one of the three criteria of education, health, and financial stability. Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday.

The online application for funding can be found at <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/2024-application-funding">https://www.liveunited.us/2024-application-funding</a>.

For more information, contact Erica Berges, executive director, at 785-628-8281 or email <a href="http://info@liveunited.us">info@liveunited.us</a>.

SubmittedThe United Way of Ellis County’s application for funding deadline is quickly approaching.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664816528759.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Any 501(c)(3) that provides services in Ellis County is eligible to apply. The services must meet one of the three criteria of education, health, and financial stability. Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday.The online application for funding can be found at <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/2024-application-funding">https://www.liveunited.us/2024-application-funding</a>.For more information, contact Erica Berges, executive director, at 785-628-8281 or email <a href="http://info@liveunited.us">info@liveunited.us</a>.

Funding application approaching for United Way of Ellis County

Victoria Coalition sets holiday tours for Dec. 9, 10

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Despite test assessment scores below state averages at Victoria High School, the teaching staff said they are putting in considerable effort to address and improve the situation.

Victoria Superintendent Kimberly Woolf, alongside various students and school staff, addressed issues pertaining to the Kansas State Department of Education report card, highlighting the academic performance of students at Victoria Junior-Senior High during an interview on Nov. 9.

This was following a story published by the Hays Post on Nov. 4 that outlined Victoria state test scores that fell below state averages. Woolf did not respond to Hays Post attempts to reach her for comment before the Nov. 4 story was published.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3e7f3933-c241-4b2b-9882-25ed12d4d298">RELATED STORY: Victoria High falls short of state test score averages; junior high fares better</a>

At the superintendent's request, she included&nbsp;Elementary Principal Deena Clark and&nbsp;Interventionist Erin Braun.

Woolf said she recognizes the low academic performance between ninth and 12th grade, attributing the schools' assessment results to insufficient resources.

“At the time when I got here, we didn’t have any English curriculum at the high school,” Woolf said. “The same for math. We had a teacher that brought a curriculum that she used in another school district so we were piggybacking off of that, but we realized that our scores are not where they're supposed to be.”

Additionally, Woolf said the on-hand textbooks for social studies are outdated, resulting in instructors pulling material from online.&nbsp;

The number of teachers in the community is limited as several instructors have left Victoria High in recent years — a story that the staff said is familiar across the state.

Braun said the student-to-teacher ratio is not well balanced in the school as fewer people are pursuing a career in education.

"We have a lot fewer people going into teacher prep programs while we have a gaining need and a declining supply, which is a huge problem," Braun said.

Multiple faculty members are said to have a variety of roles due to the small school size, Woolf said.

Upon becoming the superintendent in 2021, Woolf, along with Clark, prioritized the curriculum followed by growing their school faculty to include more teachers.

The State Department of Education measures student assessments for math, English and science across four levels for all of Kansas.

Level one stipulates that a student possesses limited ability to understand and utilize the skills necessary for success after graduation. Level two represents a basic understanding. Level three signifies an effective understanding, and level four indicates an excellent comprehension of the subject, according to the Kansas Department of Education.

Woolf, Clark and Braun underscored the significance of small class sizes at Victoria High, where 120 students are enrolled from ninth to 12th grades, according to the State Department of Education.

In the 2022-2023 school year for math, 52.63 percent of students between ninth and 12th grade fell under having limited ability to understand. According to the test scores, 36.84 percent of students have a basic understanding, 10.52 percent show an effective ability to understand, and .01 percent demonstrate an excellent understanding of math.

“The middle of the two category or above is on grade level,” Woolf said.

For more information on performance level reports at Victoria High in math, English and science, as well as information on the measurement methods employed, <a href="https://ksreportcard.ksde.org/assessment_results.aspx?org_no=D0432&amp;bldg_no=6403&amp;rptType=1">click here</a>.

Woolf, Clark and Braun also delved into the enrollment at Victoria and across the state, highlighting a significant shift and decline when comparing the periods before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The faculty said the class size of the 2022-2023 school year consisted of 19 students, emphasizing the impact a single student's performance can have on reported percentages.

The Kansas Department of Education considers postsecondary success based on a student meeting one of four criteria within two years of high school graduation.

• Earned an approved certification during high school • Attained a postsecondary certificate • Obtained a postsecondary degree • Enrolled in postsecondary education in both the first and second years after high school graduation

The graduation rate average across five years is 95 percent and the average success rate is 61 percent between 2017 and 2021.&nbsp;

Woolf, Clark and Braun said they thought the chosen measurement for recording the success rate was not a fair representation of student performance.

Braun said her son is in the Navy but wouldn't be considered successful by the standards of the State Department of Education.&nbsp;

“Kansas would consider my son not successful because he's in his sixth year in the Navy and now a second-class petty officer,” Braun said. “He’s in a supervisory in his shop and has multiple certificates.”

Clark’s son graduated in Kansas and is currently a doctor in physical therapy and working in sports medicine but doesn’t meet any of these requirements.&nbsp;

“He is not considered two years successful because they didn't track out of state, and he was in college on a full-ride scholarship,” Clark said.

Woolf said from 2021 to 2023, 57 percent of students opt for a two or four-year college, 32.33 percent choose a trade school, 1.67 percent enlist in the military and 9.3 percent directly enter the workforce.

"Our community is focused on helping kids graduate with the skills they need by increasing the opportunities available at Victoria USD 432," Woolf said.

For more information on postsecondary and graduation data at Victoria High, as well as information on the measurement methods employed, <a href="https://ksreportcard.ksde.org/home.aspx?org_no=D0432&amp;bldg_no=6403&amp;rptType=1">click here</a>.

Students at Victoria High discussed the challenges they face in class like comprehension, focusing and motivation. However, there has been a noticeable improvement in recent times following the introduction of a no-phone policy, the students said.

Student Sienna Schmeidler said in-class engagement has increased between now and last year, crediting the new phone policy as a contributing factor.

"You can comprehend something better without having that distraction or that need to pick up your phone and look at the time," she said.

Expanding on that, student Brody Nowak said he now dedicates more time in class to staying focused rather than scrolling through social media.

"There's a lot more connection with teachers," he said, "but if we were to have our phones, we would have been using that time to scroll through TikTok or answering Snapchats."

The no-phone policy carries over to the lunchroom as the district recently applied for a grant for coloring books and board games.&nbsp;

"It's very engaging for us to be there and looking at each other rather than texting something to each other," Schmeidler said.

Student Quincy Pickering credited English and speech instructor Meritt Hammeke, as a captivating and efficient tutor at the high school.

"Right off the bat he was open with us, laughing and joking, and it just set the tone for the rest of the year," Pickering said. "He wasn't scared to teach, and he wasn't scared to be open."

Nowak highlights the advantage of being in a close-knit community, providing a freeway for instructors to get in touch with parents if needed.

"Your teachers know pretty much everybody's parents so if you're struggling, they could shoot your parents an e-mail and say, 'Hey, so and so isn't doing too well,'" he said. "You wouldn't be able to find that in a big school."

Additionally, members of the community, including teachers, parents and alumni were previously invited to engage in conversations regarding student performance both in school and postgraduation.

Woolf said the school's vision is centered on leading, achieving and succeeding to uplift Victoria as a whole.

"We want our students to achieve on those tests and post secondarily to go forward and do great things before ultimately coming back to Victoria and having that same impact on kids in the community," Woolf said.

Student Kennidy Amrein said having caring teachers encourages her to do better in class so in return, instructors can have a sense of accomplishment.

"When you have a relationship with them, then you just feel better to see that they're doing a good job," Amrein said.

Students demonstrate excellence in areas beyond the academic classroom, such as projects and community engagement, Woolf said.

Amrein and Nowak are two members of the Family Career and Community Leaders of America chapter at Victoria High, which organizes a variety of community events. 

The two are currently preparing for a Students Taking Action and Recognition event, where they will showcase a presentation on mental health among students.&nbsp;

The Students Taking Action and Recognition events are held at the district level, and students can progress to state and national in a competitive environment. The program tests their proficiency, leadership skills and career preparation through projects.

Schmeidler and her group earned fifth place last year at the National FCCLA Convention for her interior design, which included her customizing a studio office environment intended to help students succeed.

Woolf said the school uses a hands-on initiative to help students become successful after graduation.

"To keep kids engaged in school, we want them to be doing things that they enjoy doing and one of the programs that's been really successful is our vinyl graphics program," she said.

Items created within the initiative include accessories, clothing, stickers, blankets and banners for both the school and community businesses.

In addition, the high school includes interventionist teachers dedicated to assisting students with specific issues in the classroom before reintegrating them with their peers.

The district has recently been awarded a $150,000 grant that is intended to support the certification of teachers in additional subjects and provides incentives to paraprofessionals to stay in the field of education.

"Whether our test scores currently show it or not, I know that our little 1A school district has the courage and power to blow next year's state assessment scores out of the water," Woolf said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700028057797.jpeg" alt="Victoria High School graphics crew led by teacher Kaylene Gabel next to the school's banner. Courtesy Photo." />
 <figcaption>Victoria High School graphics crew led by teacher Kaylene Gabel next to the school's banner. Courtesy Photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostDespite test assessment scores below state averages at Victoria High School, the teaching staff said they are putting in considerable effort to address and improve the situation.Victoria Superintendent Kimberly Woolf, alongside various students and school staff, addressed issues pertaining to the Kansas State Department of Education report card, highlighting the academic performance of students at Victoria Junior-Senior High during an interview on Nov. 9.This was following a story published by the Hays Post on Nov. 4 that outlined Victoria state test scores that fell below state averages. Woolf did not respond to Hays Post attempts to reach her for comment before the Nov. 4 story was published.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3e7f3933-c241-4b2b-9882-25ed12d4d298">RELATED STORY: Victoria High falls short of state test score averages; junior high fares better</a>At the superintendent's request, she included&nbsp;Elementary Principal Deena Clark and&nbsp;Interventionist Erin Braun.Woolf said she recognizes the low academic performance between ninth and 12th grade, attributing the schools' assessment results to insufficient resources.“At the time when I got here, we didn’t have any English curriculum at the high school,” Woolf said. “The same for math. We had a teacher that brought a curriculum that she used in another school district so we were piggybacking off of that, but we realized that our scores are not where they're supposed to be.”Additionally, Woolf said the on-hand textbooks for social studies are outdated, resulting in instructors pulling material from online.&nbsp;The number of teachers in the community is limited as several instructors have left Victoria High in recent years — a story that the staff said is familiar across the state.Braun said the student-to-teacher ratio is not well balanced in the school as fewer people are pursuing a career in education."We have a lot fewer people going into teacher prep programs while we have a gaining need and a declining supply, which is a huge problem," Braun said.Multiple faculty members are said to have a variety of roles due to the small school size, Woolf said.Upon becoming the superintendent in 2021, Woolf, along with Clark, prioritized the curriculum followed by growing their school faculty to include more teachers.The State Department of Education measures student assessments for math, English and science across four levels for all of Kansas.Level one stipulates that a student possesses limited ability to understand and utilize the skills necessary for success after graduation. Level two represents a basic understanding. Level three signifies an effective understanding, and level four indicates an excellent comprehension of the subject, according to the Kansas Department of Education.Woolf, Clark and Braun underscored the significance of small class sizes at Victoria High, where 120 students are enrolled from ninth to 12th grades, according to the State Department of Education.In the 2022-2023 school year for math, 52.63 percent of students between ninth and 12th grade fell under having limited ability to understand. According to the test scores, 36.84 percent of students have a basic understanding, 10.52 percent show an effective ability to understand, and .01 percent demonstrate an excellent understanding of math.“The middle of the two category or above is on grade level,” Woolf said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699995003465.png" alt="High school Performance Level Report for math from USD 432 and state level." />
 <figcaption>High school Performance Level Report for math from USD 432 and state level.</figcaption>
 </figure>For more information on performance level reports at Victoria High in math, English and science, as well as information on the measurement methods employed, <a href="https://ksreportcard.ksde.org/assessment_results.aspx?org_no=D0432&amp;bldg_no=6403&amp;rptType=1">click here</a>.Woolf, Clark and Braun also delved into the enrollment at Victoria and across the state, highlighting a significant shift and decline when comparing the periods before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.The faculty said the class size of the 2022-2023 school year consisted of 19 students, emphasizing the impact a single student's performance can have on reported percentages.The Kansas Department of Education considers postsecondary success based on a student meeting one of four criteria within two years of high school graduation.• Earned an approved certification during high school • Attained a postsecondary certificate • Obtained a postsecondary degree • Enrolled in postsecondary education in both the first and second years after high school graduationThe graduation rate average across five years is 95 percent and the average success rate is 61 percent between 2017 and 2021.&nbsp;Woolf, Clark and Braun said they thought the chosen measurement for recording the success rate was not a fair representation of student performance.Braun said her son is in the Navy but wouldn't be considered successful by the standards of the State Department of Education.&nbsp;“Kansas would consider my son not successful because he's in his sixth year in the Navy and now a second-class petty officer,” Braun said. “He’s in a supervisory in his shop and has multiple certificates.”Clark’s son graduated in Kansas and is currently a doctor in physical therapy and working in sports medicine but doesn’t meet any of these requirements.&nbsp;“He is not considered two years successful because they didn't track out of state, and he was in college on a full-ride scholarship,” Clark said.Woolf said from 2021 to 2023, 57 percent of students opt for a two or four-year college, 32.33 percent choose a trade school, 1.67 percent enlist in the military and 9.3 percent directly enter the workforce."Our community is focused on helping kids graduate with the skills they need by increasing the opportunities available at Victoria USD 432," Woolf said.For more information on postsecondary and graduation data at Victoria High, as well as information on the measurement methods employed, <a href="https://ksreportcard.ksde.org/home.aspx?org_no=D0432&amp;bldg_no=6403&amp;rptType=1">click here</a>.Students at Victoria High discussed the challenges they face in class like comprehension, focusing and motivation. However, there has been a noticeable improvement in recent times following the introduction of a no-phone policy, the students said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700029696834.jpeg" alt="Student Lindsey Scheck, Sienna Schmeidler, Kennidy Amrein and Brody Nowak from left to right in the vinyl media classroom. Courtesy Photo." />
 <figcaption>Student Lindsey Scheck, Sienna Schmeidler, Kennidy Amrein and Brody Nowak from left to right in the vinyl media classroom. Courtesy Photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>Student Sienna Schmeidler said in-class engagement has increased between now and last year, crediting the new phone policy as a contributing factor."You can comprehend something better without having that distraction or that need to pick up your phone and look at the time," she said.Expanding on that, student Brody Nowak said he now dedicates more time in class to staying focused rather than scrolling through social media."There's a lot more connection with teachers," he said, "but if we were to have our phones, we would have been using that time to scroll through TikTok or answering Snapchats."The no-phone policy carries over to the lunchroom as the district recently applied for a grant for coloring books and board games.&nbsp;"It's very engaging for us to be there and looking at each other rather than texting something to each other," Schmeidler said.Student Quincy Pickering credited English and speech instructor Meritt Hammeke, as a captivating and efficient tutor at the high school."Right off the bat he was open with us, laughing and joking, and it just set the tone for the rest of the year," Pickering said. "He wasn't scared to teach, and he wasn't scared to be open."Nowak highlights the advantage of being in a close-knit community, providing a freeway for instructors to get in touch with parents if needed."Your teachers know pretty much everybody's parents so if you're struggling, they could shoot your parents an e-mail and say, 'Hey, so and so isn't doing too well,'" he said. "You wouldn't be able to find that in a big school."Additionally, members of the community, including teachers, parents and alumni were previously invited to engage in conversations regarding student performance both in school and postgraduation.Woolf said the school's vision is centered on leading, achieving and succeeding to uplift Victoria as a whole."We want our students to achieve on those tests and post secondarily to go forward and do great things before ultimately coming back to Victoria and having that same impact on kids in the community," Woolf said.Student Kennidy Amrein said having caring teachers encourages her to do better in class so in return, instructors can have a sense of accomplishment."When you have a relationship with them, then you just feel better to see that they're doing a good job," Amrein said.Students demonstrate excellence in areas beyond the academic classroom, such as projects and community engagement, Woolf said.Amrein and Nowak are two members of the Family Career and Community Leaders of America chapter at Victoria High, which organizes a variety of community events. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700029034598.jpeg" alt="Student members of the&nbsp;Family Career and Community Leaders of America chapter at Victoria High. Courtesy Photo." />
 <figcaption>Student members of the&nbsp;Family Career and Community Leaders of America chapter at Victoria High. Courtesy Photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>The two are currently preparing for a Students Taking Action and Recognition event, where they will showcase a presentation on mental health among students.&nbsp;The Students Taking Action and Recognition events are held at the district level, and students can progress to state and national in a competitive environment. The program tests their proficiency, leadership skills and career preparation through projects.Schmeidler and her group earned fifth place last year at the National FCCLA Convention for her interior design, which included her customizing a studio office environment intended to help students succeed.Woolf said the school uses a hands-on initiative to help students become successful after graduation."To keep kids engaged in school, we want them to be doing things that they enjoy doing and one of the programs that's been really successful is our vinyl graphics program," she said.Items created within the initiative include accessories, clothing, stickers, blankets and banners for both the school and community businesses.In addition, the high school includes interventionist teachers dedicated to assisting students with specific issues in the classroom before reintegrating them with their peers.The district has recently been awarded a $150,000 grant that is intended to support the certification of teachers in additional subjects and provides incentives to paraprofessionals to stay in the field of education."Whether our test scores currently show it or not, I know that our little 1A school district has the courage and power to blow next year's state assessment scores out of the water," Woolf said.

Victoria High addresses state test score; student engagement

Early planning is underway for the Victoria Community Coalition, Inc. second annual Holiday Home Tours on Dec. 9 and 10.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/savetheresthome">Follow the Victoria Community Coalition Facebook page for future details.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699901204576.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Early planning is underway for the Victoria Community Coalition, Inc. second annual Holiday Home Tours on Dec. 9 and 10.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/savetheresthome">Follow the Victoria Community Coalition Facebook page for future details.</a>

Victoria Community Coalition plans annual Holiday Home Tours

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays Post

The city of Victoria in the coastal plains of Texas is home to a beautiful Catholic cathedral and tradition-rich football.

It’s hard to compare that Texas city with Victoria, Kan., whose “Cathedral of the Plains” actually was raised to the status of a minor basilica in 2014.

But when it comes to spinning tales of their town’s success in high school football, Victoria, Kan. (population 1,150) can definitely share bragging rights with cities as large as Victoria, Texas, a city of 65,000-plus just 50 miles from the Gulf of Mexico.

In fact, “our” Victoria – smack dab in the midst of land-locked rural Kansas – more represents the small town on which the book and movie “Friday Night Lights” were based than does the metro area of Victoria County, Texas.

That popular sports film was based on a true story from the 1980s. When the film was released in October 2004, Victoria High School (the Kansas version) was well on its way to winning its first eight-man state football title.

The Knights went on to claim three more state championships during the next 11 years and are currently enjoying a season that has taken them deep into the 2023 playoffs, cementing their legacy in Kansas eight-man football.

But ask anyone associated with the Knights in the 1980s, and they will tell you that the tradition of winning football state championships began long before the calendar turned over to 2000.

Victoria rode the momentum of its first state football title in 1981 – when it won the Class 2A, 11-man division – to two more championships in 1985 and ’88.

Several players and coaches from the teams of the ‘80s still live in the area and remain supporters of the Knights today. Some will take to the road to Dighton for Friday’s sectional game or tune in to the radio broadcast on KFIX Eagle Radio 96.9 FM.

Numerous players from the ’80s showed up for a reunion in their hometown last month to watch some outstanding high school football – and reminisce.

Members of those first three state championship teams were honored at halftime of the Friday night game, then gathered at one of the former players’ garage afterward. They were back together again Saturday night at the local VFW building for a supper and more storytelling.

Chris Windholz had the distinction of playing on a state championship team (1988) and serving as the head coach for the first eight-man title team (2004).

Some made the trip from all across Kansas – and even several other states – for the reunion. And Doug Moeckel, head coach of the 1985 and ’88 teams, came in from Topeka.

“We just felt so much support and didn’t want to let our school or our city down,” David Younger said of the Knight squads that followed the 1981 team.

Younger, who now lives in Windsor, Colo., was a fifth-grader that year and was a freshman on the 1985 title team before starting as a senior on the 1988 squad.

“I’ll always remember the camaraderie among us,” Younger said. “It was special.”

Rod Goetz (1981 team), who still lives in the Victoria area, agreed. He told how he and his classmates decided to trade partying for working out the summer before their senior season.

“We got a lot closer that summer, and I think it really made a difference in the fall,” he said. “After working out, we would go out to eat out together and all got along really well.”

Two players from that team even roomed together growing up.

Twin brothers Stan and Stuart Dome both stayed around Ellis County after graduation and still support the Knights.

Some players and coaches gave talks at the Saturday dinner. They and others in the crowd got emotional as they relived their glory days.

“You guys taught us the things that make us the men we are today,” Stan Dome told the coaches present.

Bob Leikam, who scouted opponents for the 1981 team and was a long-time teacher in Victoria, said the feeling of appreciation was mutual.

“People ask me what’s so special about Victoria,” Leikam said. “It’s hard to put into words, but it is special. I spent 33 years here, because I wanted our children to grow up with you kids. I’m thankful to have been a part of it.”

Each team had something different to talk about.

The 1981 team will always be remembered for a fake-punt play in the championship game that ultimately gave the Knights the momentum en route to upending previously unbeaten Frontenac to finish with a 12-1 mark.

The 1985 team started the season 2-4 before reeling off seven-straight wins – the last two by 8-6 scores, outlasting Centralia on a snowy field in the title game.

And the 1988 squad went undefeated to finish 13-0 (including four shutouts) while outscoring its opponents 394-107.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699492824744.jpeg" alt="Players and coaches from Victoria’s three state championship football teams from the 1980s gather for a photo at halftime of a game this season. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Players and coaches from Victoria’s three state championship football teams from the 1980s gather for a photo at halftime of a game this season. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696618498114.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays PostThe city of Victoria in the coastal plains of Texas is home to a beautiful Catholic cathedral and tradition-rich football.It’s hard to compare that Texas city with Victoria, Kan., whose “Cathedral of the Plains” actually was raised to the status of a minor basilica in 2014.But when it comes to spinning tales of their town’s success in high school football, Victoria, Kan. (population 1,150) can definitely share bragging rights with cities as large as Victoria, Texas, a city of 65,000-plus just 50 miles from the Gulf of Mexico.In fact, “our” Victoria – smack dab in the midst of land-locked rural Kansas – more represents the small town on which the book and movie “Friday Night Lights” were based than does the metro area of Victoria County, Texas.That popular sports film was based on a true story from the 1980s. When the film was released in October 2004, Victoria High School (the Kansas version) was well on its way to winning its first eight-man state football title.The Knights went on to claim three more state championships during the next 11 years and are currently enjoying a season that has taken them deep into the 2023 playoffs, cementing their legacy in Kansas eight-man football.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699492939357.jpeg" alt="The 1985 Knights survived a cold, snowy day in Manhattan to win the school’s second state football title. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The 1985 Knights survived a cold, snowy day in Manhattan to win the school’s second state football title. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>But ask anyone associated with the Knights in the 1980s, and they will tell you that the tradition of winning football state championships began long before the calendar turned over to 2000.Victoria rode the momentum of its first state football title in 1981 – when it won the Class 2A, 11-man division – to two more championships in 1985 and ’88.Several players and coaches from the teams of the ‘80s still live in the area and remain supporters of the Knights today. Some will take to the road to Dighton for Friday’s sectional game or tune in to the radio broadcast on KFIX Eagle Radio 96.9 FM.Numerous players from the ’80s showed up for a reunion in their hometown last month to watch some outstanding high school football – and reminisce.Members of those first three state championship teams were honored at halftime of the Friday night game, then gathered at one of the former players’ garage afterward. They were back together again Saturday night at the local VFW building for a supper and more storytelling.Chris Windholz had the distinction of playing on a state championship team (1988) and serving as the head coach for the first eight-man title team (2004).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699493027954.jpeg" alt="The shirt of Jeff Kisner, Victoria, says it all as he visits with Carl Dinkel, Fredonia, at the reunion. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The shirt of Jeff Kisner, Victoria, says it all as he visits with Carl Dinkel, Fredonia, at the reunion. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Some made the trip from all across Kansas – and even several other states – for the reunion. And Doug Moeckel, head coach of the 1985 and ’88 teams, came in from Topeka.“We just felt so much support and didn’t want to let our school or our city down,” David Younger said of the Knight squads that followed the 1981 team.Younger, who now lives in Windsor, Colo., was a fifth-grader that year and was a freshman on the 1985 title team before starting as a senior on the 1988 squad.“I’ll always remember the camaraderie among us,” Younger said. “It was special.”Rod Goetz (1981 team), who still lives in the Victoria area, agreed. He told how he and his classmates decided to trade partying for working out the summer before their senior season.“We got a lot closer that summer, and I think it really made a difference in the fall,” he said. “After working out, we would go out to eat out together and all got along really well.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699493250134.jpeg" alt="Jerry Brungardt, an assistant coach for all three of Victoria’s three state championship football teams in the 1980s, proudly wears a shirt from the undefeated 1988 team. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Jerry Brungardt, an assistant coach for all three of Victoria’s three state championship football teams in the 1980s, proudly wears a shirt from the undefeated 1988 team. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Two players from that team even roomed together growing up.Twin brothers Stan and Stuart Dome both stayed around Ellis County after graduation and still support the Knights.Some players and coaches gave talks at the Saturday dinner. They and others in the crowd got emotional as they relived their glory days.“You guys taught us the things that make us the men we are today,” Stan Dome told the coaches present.Bob Leikam, who scouted opponents for the 1981 team and was a long-time teacher in Victoria, said the feeling of appreciation was mutual.“People ask me what’s so special about Victoria,” Leikam said. “It’s hard to put into words, but it is special. I spent 33 years here, because I wanted our children to grow up with you kids. I’m thankful to have been a part of it.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699493334785.jpeg" alt="Twin brothers Stan and Stuart Dome each own a clock honoring Victoria’s first state championship football team. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Twin brothers Stan and Stuart Dome each own a clock honoring Victoria’s first state championship football team. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Each team had something different to talk about.The 1981 team will always be remembered for a fake-punt play in the championship game that ultimately gave the Knights the momentum en route to upending previously unbeaten Frontenac to finish with a 12-1 mark.The 1985 team started the season 2-4 before reeling off seven-straight wins – the last two by 8-6 scores, outlasting Centralia on a snowy field in the title game.And the 1988 squad went undefeated to finish 13-0 (including four shutouts) while outscoring its opponents 394-107.“It takes a lot of luck to win it all, but that’s not the main thing,” added Jerry Brungardt, an assistant coach for all three of the state championship teams in the ’80s. “It’s the character of people that floats the boat.”An online description of the heart of Texas high school football is “a celebration of unity and community pride, where towns and cities come alive on game days, rallying behind their local teams. The fervor and passion surround each matchup of Texas high school football are unparalleled.”Stan Dome, for one, would beg to differ on that last sentence.“I remember back then, we often had a larger crowd for our away games than the home team,” he said. “It was something we’ll never forget.”That senior season meant so much to the Dome brothers that they later had clocks made with a photo of them standing by the state championship trophy.“That clock is still hanging, too,” Stan Dome said, “and it still keeps good time.”Good times continued long after that special 1981 season. Several players from that first state title team had relatives later win state championships in either 11-man or eight-man.One of those was Dave Kisner, whose younger brother, Jeff, was a member of the 1985 team. Jeff’s two sons also get to experience the joy of winning it all, too, during the Knights’ eight-man state championship runs.“It was such a wonderful ride,” said Jeff’s wife, Janine, who also grew up in Victoria. “… great memories.”The Knights of the 2020s hope to make more good memories.If Victoria (8-1) beats Dighton (6-4) Friday night, it will advance to the sub-state championship round. Because of the east-west formula for the playoffs, the sub-state site won’t be determined until the conclusion of the Minneola-Coldwater sectional game. The state championship game is set for Nov. 25 in Newton.Stay tuned. If all goes as planned, the Knights will be making a road trip on Thanksgiving weekend.