​Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, our community's hospitals, nursing homes, fire departments, and police stations are experiencing a major shortage of medical supplies. To help these frontline responders stay safe as they protect our community, a group of ON students and I are putting together a group called the ON QuaranTEENS, and have started a GoFundMe page to raise money for N95 masks, gloves, and hand sanitizers. 
 
We would greatly appreciate if you could share the link below with friends and consider donating to help our frontline responders. Every penny makes a difference--we are thankful for any contribution towards the goal of $500! 
 
Thank you for your consideration, and stay healthy!
gf.me/u/xtf8n7 

For all Seniors who have enrolled at JCCC for Fall 2020, JCCC Orientation is now available online and must be completed before you are able to enroll in classes. Orientation videos can be accessed at this link: https://www.jccc.edu/admissions/orientation/core-videos.html Once are done watching you will complete the Mastery test. After it has been graded, a Success Advocate will contact you (through your JCCC email address) to let you know next steps. Enrollment in courses for Fall 2020 has been pushed back to May.
​

​Olathe North Community,

I know many of you have questions about what our new Continuous Learning looks like at the high school level and how this will impact student grades. Additional information will be coming from the district in the next few days about specifics related to coursework. The focus for the remaining eight weeks will be for students to concentrate on the key learning pieces and standards that we want our students to understand. Teachers and district staff are working on daily lessons and opportunities  in each grade level and subject area to help achieve these learning goals. Again, more information will be coming on this.

In the meantime, I wanted to help answer questions that many of our parents are asking related to grades.
On March 30, third quarter grades will be posted for all students. Students will essentially freeze their third quarter grade, making their third quarter grade the semester grade for that class. The work that will be sent home will be important for students to take part in, but will not directly impact their grade at this time.  However, if the student with a D or above wishes to improve the grade by up to 10%, the student will contact the teacher by email by April 17. We ask that students copy a parent on the email.  If the student has an IEP, the student will also copy the case manager for the IEP. The teacher will determine through assessing the student’s ability against priority standards what the student will do to improve the grade.  A contract will be created for each individual student based on the individual situation with activities specific to the student’s current situation to provide grade improvement possibility. These activities may include some of the learning opportunities provided by the district in fourth quarter, or personalized assignments for the individual student in question.

If a student has an F in a course, the student and parent will be contacted by the teacher via email. If the student is a senior and the course is ELA or Government, the teacher will copy the counselor and the assistant principal. Counselors will play an active role in communicating with teachers of seniors who need a class other than ELA or Government for graduation.  If the student has an IEP, the teacher will also copy the case manager on the email.

Teachers will respond to all emails from students or parents within one normal school day (Monday through Friday) to confirm receipt. All student work must be completed and submitted to teachers by May 15. Second semester grades will be submitted for each student on May 22.

I know that this is a unique situation that has caused many questions. Please know we are working through each question as we are able and will be communicating as we have more information. Thank you for your patience as we work through this unprecedented time. It is our focus at this time that our students continue to learn and grow through the educational opportunities we will be providing.

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Jason Herman

Dear students,

With the recent news that KS schools would close for the remainder of the school year, we are sure that you are feeling a mixture of emotions: sadness, anxiety, fear, and anger. Sometimes these emotions become overwhelming, and we want to encourage you to reach out to a trusted adult if you need help (see resources below). As your counselors, we are still here to support you as this ever-changing situation develops.

The district is currently in the process of making decisions regarding what the remainder of the school year will look like. They are still considering how to deal with graduation, AP tests, dual credit classes, eAcademy, credit recovery classes, and more. Unfortunately, we don’t have the answers to many of our questions, but we expect to know much more next week will update you accordingly via the ON Counseling website and Twitter.

As we wait to learn what the next steps will be, please do your best to take things day by day and enjoy your time off of school. We understand that each of you handles stressful situations a little differently, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We may not be in the same building for a while, but we are always here to help. As we know more, we will update you. Take care of yourselves!

ON Counselors

Angie Wartick (Last Names A-D) – mawartick@olatheschools.org
Nicole Etherton (Last Names E-K) – nmetherton@olatheschools.org
Tammie Milke (Last Names L-Q) – tmilkeon@olatheschools.org
Carrie Parazin (Last Names R-Z) – cnparazin@olatheschools.org
Rachel Gunderson (IEP, KSD, International Students) – rmgunderson@olatheschools.org
Molly Askew (Student Wellness Advocate) – msaskew@olatheschools.org



Johnson County Mental Health Center Crisis Line: 913-268-0156
Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255; Text: 741741
Johnson County Resource Connection: https://ims.jocogov.org/rc/

​

​Olathe Schools Parents and Staff,
 
We wanted to provide more information about the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) and steps the district is taking to ensure the safety of staff and students. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) are actively monitoring this situation and communicate collaborative guidance to school districts. Olathe Public Schools collaborates with JCDHE in measures necessary to contain communicable diseases, including COVID-19. Additionally, we have created a website with additional information about COVID-19, including resources from CDC, KDHE and JCDHE at www.olatheschools.org/COVID19.
 
The management of COVID-19 is, as expected, evolving with time and research. There is a global response to contain this virus and we will receive specific guidance from public health organizations. If there is any information that relates to Olathe Public Schools, staff and parents will be informed.
 
The CDC recommends the following prevention actions:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

 
District custodial staff continue to focus on cleaning with disinfecting cleaners and decontamination cleaning systems that sanitize both hard and soft surfaces killing viruses and bacteria. Our staff is prepared to follow all directions provided by public health agencies to prevent and limit the spread of the virus, up to and including potential cancellations of activities, events or even the potential shut down of schools for a period of time. We will take direction on the latter from public health officials and we will communicate accordingly.
 
We know that many families have questions regarding travel this spring. We encourage our families to review the latest notices and travel recommendations from the CDC, KDHE and JCDHE. As of today, we have not canceled any district-sponsored student travel, but will notify parents if that changes. Parents are encouraged to make the best decision for their students and family on whether their child participates.
 
The support and assistance of our school community when working to contain communicable disease is vital. Teaching the foundations of healthy habits in the home, self-reporting illness, and keeping sick individuals home are important elements in the success of containing communicable diseases within a community. The diligence of our family partners in this effort is greatly appreciated.
 
John Allison, Superintendent 

ALL OLATHE GRADUATION CEREMONIES WILL BE HELD AT ONE LOCATION. *COLLEGE BOULEVARD ACTIVITY CENTER, (CBAC)* 
 
When:   Saturday, May 16, 2019 Time:   2:00 pm Where: College Boulevard District Activity Center (CBAC) 11031 S. Valley Pkwy., Olathe, KS 66061 **In case of inclement weather** Olathe Northwest High School 21300 College Blvd., Olathe, KS  66061 
 
Approx. time of event:  2 hours 
 
How can I be sure I will graduate at the end of the term?
In order to graduate from Olathe North High School, the student must complete the requirements set forth by the Olathe School District and the State of Kansas.  
 
How do I get information about the graduation ceremony?
All senior announcements are listed on the Olathe North website and through Mr. Herman’s blog.  They are also available on the daily announcements that are read during school hours and posted daily. 
 
Is my grade point average high enough to receive recognition at commencement?
Please contact your counselor. 
 
When will my diploma be posted on my transcript?
Please contact your counselor. 
 
Where can I purchase Commencement Announcements?
The senior class meets with the Jostens representatives early in the Fall semester.  During this meeting they are given a packet with ordering options for various products, including the official Olathe North announcement.  
 
 
How do I make sure my name is correct in the commencement program?
The names for the program are collected through the Synergy computer program (Parentvue/Studentvue).  Each student, upon enrollment, is added into this system based on the information given by the parent/guardian.  If there is an issue with the spelling of your name, please contact Mrs. Stanley in the office as soon as possible. 
 
Will my name be included in the graduation program?
All students who have fulfilled the graduation requirements for the Olathe School District and the state of Kansas will be included in the graduation program.  This includes those students who fulfilled the requirements in December and/or through alternative education in the Olathe School District. 
 
Where do I order my cap and gown?
Cap and gown orders are done early in the Fall semester through Jostens.  The information has been available on the Olathe North website.  The Jostens website is thegraduationcenter.com or you may call them at 816-628-6157. 
 
Where and when do I get my cap and gown?
Caps and gowns will be distributed in the Auxiliary Gym immediately following the graduation practice. 
 
When and where do I pick up my stole and/or honor cords?
All graduates will be given a red stole to wear during the ceremony.  These will be distributed before the ceremony at ONW.  The red stoles will need to be returned after the ceremony and exchanged for their diploma.   For those receiving honor cords, they will also be distributed before the ceremony. Cords may be taken as keepsakes. 
 
Graduates:  What time should I arrive?
Graduates should report to ONW gymnasium no later than 12:00pm. Graduates will park in the ONW parking lot. 
 
Guests:  What time should I arrive?
Guests should arrive at least 30 minutes before the ceremony at CBAC.  (For better seats and parking, arrive 1 hour before the ceremony.) **Arrive 1 ½ hours before the ceremony, if moved inside ONW gymnasium. 
 
Graduate: Where do I report for line-up?
Graduates will meet in the ONW gymnasium to the row/seat assigned. 
 
 
If I am unable to attend the graduation practice, can I still walk at the graduation ceremony?
The graduation practice is a required event.  You must attend the practice in order to be allowed to participate in the commencement activities. If you cannot attend practice, you will need to meet with Mr. Herman immediately. 
 
Do we need to purchase tickets for the ceremony?
The graduation ceremony will be held at the College Boulevard Activity Center, 11031 S. Valley Pkwy. Olathe, KS  66061. There are no limits to the number of guests at this venue.  
 
If we have inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved to the gymnasium at Olathe Northwest High School. The district office will make that call by  Friday, May 15, 2020. Each senior will receive (4) tickets per family. You must have a ticket to enter. Tickets will be available the week of graduation. We will make announcements when tickets are available to pick up during Eagle Halftime. 
 
How much does the cap and gown cost?
Cost varies from year to year but can be found on the Jostens website:  thegraduationcenter.com or you may call them at 816-628-6157.   
 
What side does my tassel go on?
Initially, the tassel is on the right. Tassels will be moved to the left as a group at the end of the ceremony. 
 
Is there someplace for me to store my valuables during the ceremony?
Please do not bring valuables to the ceremony as there will not be a place to store them.  Please lock any valuables in your car or leave it at home. 
 
Can I have my cell phone during the ceremony?
Graduates will not be allowed to use their cell phones during the ceremony. Guests are asked to be respectful of those around them if they need to use their cell phone during the ceremony. 
 
Is there a dress code?
A cap and gown must be worn by all graduates; however, while there is no dress code for what must be worn under the gown, the Code of Conduct is expected to be followed.  Most graduates choose to wear semi-formal attire, but it is not required. Dress for parents, family, and friends who will be attending the ceremony is casual to semi-formal. When deciding what to wear, keep in mind that both graduates and attendees will likely be sitting in the sunlight during the Spring Commencement Ceremony.   
 
What kind of weather should I expect to dress for?
You can look at the local weather forecast a day or so in advance for the most accurate information regarding weather.    
 
Generally speaking, the ceremonies are cooler in the evening and quite warm in the afternoon, so bringing light layers is usually a good idea.  In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved to the main gym at ONW.  Should this happen, there will be signs and staff to guide both graduates and attendees to the correct location.   
 
Can we decorate our caps?
The decoration of caps is not allowed as that is a privilege reserved for post-secondary institutions. 
 
Can I leave after I receive my diploma?
No.  All graduates are required to stay for the entire ceremony. 
 
When will I receive my diploma?
After the ceremony is complete, graduates will report to Olathe Northwest's commons to for diploma distribution. Graduates will receive their diploma upon returning their red stole.  
 
Guests:  Where do I park?
The parking at CBAC is open parking. All guests are to park on the west side of the stadium.
 
Where do I park if I have a handicap family member?
There are handicap parking spaces available in the parking lot at CBAC. 
 
Is flash photography allowed during the ceremony?
Yes. 
 
I want to know where my son/daughter is sitting so I can see them when they walk. The students sit in alpha order, beginning with the second row.  As attendees will be sitting in bleachers, giving them an elevated view of the graduates are seated on the field/floor.  Check with your student after graduation practice.  They will know where they are sitting. 
 
When will my son/daughter be walking across the stage?
The students sit in alpha order and will be announced in the same order. 
 
 How can I order a picture of my graduate receiving their diploma on stage?
Pictures of graduates will be taken by Grad Images.  To order, please visit their website at www.gradimages.com. 
 
Do I receive my diploma at graduation ceremonies?
No.  All graduates will be given a red stole to wear during the ceremony.  These will be distributed in the gymnasium before the ceremony.  The red stoles will need to be returned after the ceremony and exchanged for the graduate’s diploma.   
 
I am disabled or hearing impaired and need accommodations, who is the contact or what information do you need from me?
​Those needing accommodations should contact Mrs. Stanley in the office at Olathe North as soon as possible. 
 
Where is the handicap seating for the public/attendees located?
Handicap seating will be clearly marked close to the stage at CBAC.   **You must exchange a ticket for handicap seating if held indoors at ONW. 
 
My grandfather needs to sit in the handicap seating section. Can my family sit with him?
One person may be seated with the person in the handicap seat. 
 
Are reservations required to sit in the handicap or interpreters for the deaf seating?
Anyone needing accommodations should contact Mrs. Stanley in the office at Olathe North as soon as possible. 

Where can the hearing-impaired sit and is there interpretation provided for them?
Two ASL interpreters will be set up close to the band (left of them), near the handicap seating. 
 
Will there be restrooms available?
Public restrooms are available. 
 
How do I ensure I am included in alumni news and events?
All graduates of the Olathe schools are encouraged to contact the Olathe Public Schools Alumni Association: E-mail: alumniassociation@olatheschools.org Alumni Web page:  www.olatheschools.org/alumni Phone:  913-780-8182 Fax:  913-780-8225 

Good afternoon! The Feminist Club and Latina Leadership Club have an event planned for Monday, March 9th, that we wanted to inform the staff about. Any young ladies who would like to participate will be released the last 5 minutes of 4th hour and will head to the North gym for a display of Female Empowerment and to also bring awareness to what is happening to the women of Mexico. The following is a message from students in the Feminist Club:
 
Today we recognize a day without women, inspired by the movement in Mexico that is happening as we speak. The Feminist and Latina Leadership Clubs want to honor and support these women in solidarity as they protest the national “femicide,” or killing of females, that has been occurring in Mexico. Girls from Olathe North are encouraged to meet in the North Gym at 11:24 to demonstrate the importance of women in society, and for us, the importance of girls at Olathe North. Mr. Herman has approved this event for your teachers to excuse you from the last 5 minutes of your classes. Please join us to hear about female empowerment, femicide, and Feminist and Latina Leadership Club presentations.
 
During the presentation there will be:

• Moment of silence
• Talk about events in Mexico and Latin American countries
• Global femicide stats
• Read a famous female poem or speech 

 
Let me know if you have any questions, thanks!
 
Also, here is a link to an article pertaining to the event: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/02/26/world/americas/mexico-un-dia-sin-nosotras.html
​

​Hello!  
 
We are writing to invite you to join us for a special event on Saturday, May 2nd, 2020.  The 10th Annual Maguire Gilner Angel Day 5K Run/Walk is an event that honors Maguire Gilner and his brother Titus as well as all babies/children who left this world way too early.  This will be a family event with music, food, activities for the kids, shopping, a Tot Trot, bake sale, silent auction, and much more.  Proceeds from the day will go to the Maguire Davis Gilner Foundation, which helps local families purchase headstones for babies and children.   
 
To add a bit of excitement to this year’s race we are renewing our School Challenge!  We feel it is so important for kids to get moving and stay active, and this is how we would like to support this initiative:  We have a beautiful trophy that has lived, the past three years, at Brougham Elementary: the school with the most student participation in each year’s race. The trophy will move from school to school, year after year, to recognize the school with the highest participation.  We are hoping this will motivate children and their families to participate and Get Moving!!  What an honor to outshine the other schools for spirit and participation!!  
 
To make this race more cost friendly, we want to extend our special, discounted Running Club price of $17 to all students and their family members.  Please have all monies and forms collected by April 10th to take advantage of this discount. A representative from the race committee can collect forms from your school office and return racers’ packets to your school if requested by Apr 24th. 
 
Please join our family to celebrate the lives of all the little angels.  We would love to see many familiar and many NEW faces on our special day remembering Maguire and Titus. The kids really get excited to see their friends, fellow classmates and staff at the race.  It sure means a lot to us to have your support on race day! 
 
Sincerely,     T he Gilner Family 
 
 
*Maguire would be a 9th Grader at Olathe South this year if he were still alive. His older sister and brother, Jaxon and Truman, attend Olathe South currently. His sisters, Makinley & Jorjette attend Frontier Trail and Brougham Elementary. 
 
Want to get involved?  We are looking for vendors, volunteers, sponsors, and runners/walkers.  Please find our page on Facebook or visit our website at www.AngelDayRunWalk.com  for more information. 
 

Students Recognized at State German Competition 
German language students from Olathe East High School and Olathe North High School recently attended the State German Contest, held at the University of Kansas. Students competed in a variety of events including poetry and prose recitation, culture and various other competitions. 
Kathleen Chia and Myles Benefield, from Olathe East, won first place for their poster entry. The following Olathe East students won medals for their poetry and/or prose performances: Megan Li, Hali Liu, Myles Benefield, Kathleen Chia, Alli Stanton, Alethea Miller, Skyler Hutton and Ciara Person.  
Taylor Martin, Olathe East, received first place for Breakout Room Level 1 while Calista Stegner, Olathe North, placed second.  
 
Olathe West Earns State Honors 
Olathe West High School and the Green Tech Academy were recognized by the Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education (KACEE) and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and named Kansas Green School of the Year.  
This award is presented to a school that demonstrates achievement in both environmental stewardship and environmental education. In order to be considered, a school must first earn a nomination explaining why they deserve to win the award and what characteristics they exhibit making them worth the consideration. A panel of judges from KACEE and KDHE then selects a winning school from the pool of nominated schools. 
 
“We are thrilled that Olathe West High School and the Green Tech Academy have been selected to receive the Kansas Green School of Year Award for Excellence in Conservation and Environmental Education,” Cody Janousek, Green Tech Academy facilitator said. “This award is due to the hard work and passion for conservation from students and staff in our building.” 
The Green Tech Academy and Olathe West will be recognized at an awards celebration April 3 in Manhattan, Kansas.  
 
Olathe Wrestlers Earn State Titles 
Olathe North High School wrestler Keegan Slyter earned the Kansas 6A state title in the 126-pound weight class. Slyter is now a three-time champion winning in three consecutive years. 
Olathe South High School wrestler Gavin Brown earned the Kansas 6A state title in the 160-pound weight class.