Lansing Middle School
Parent Newsletter - June 2024
A Note From Mr. Jenkins
The 2023-2024 school year at Lansing Middle School was a period of significant achievement and growth. The following information outlines our key accomplishments, challenges, and areas for future development.
- August PD – All staff professional development (K-8) with Marty Huitt, Director of the Behavior Intervention Support Team (BIST) at Cornerstones of Care.
- Implemented Daily Independent Reading Time (DIRT) for all students and staff participation during mid-day study halls.
- Kendall Bankston won the 8th grade girls’ Kaw Valley League cross-country meet.
- Mr. Aaron Edwards, LMS Band Instructor, was honored as the Northeast Kansas Music Educator’s Association (NEKMEA) Outstanding Middle Level Band Director of the Year.
- Lansing Middle School had five students selected to the NEKMEA honor band for 7th and 8th grade. The following students were recipients of this honor – Caroline Bromell (Clarinet), Piper Wagner (Clarinet), Declan Blacketer (Bass Clarinet), David-Michael Bonds (Horn), and Tobias Yoakam (Percussion).
- Lansing Middle School also had several students recognized for NEKMEA honor choir. Students selected for honor choir from LMS included – Avery Baragary, Laney Chastain, Madeline Huhn, Machlin Marshall, Eliana Silva, and Ethan Valverde.
- Lansing Middle School students raised $2667 as part of the “Pennies for Playgrounds” fundraiser to benefit the all-inclusive playground at LES.
- Formalized Student Improvement Team (SIT) protocols for Lansing Middle School. Professional Development was provided for staff in this area and SIT meetings took place every two weeks during the spring semester.
- Student-Led Conferences were held for the fifth time in February. Over 500 families attended and took part in Student-Led Conferences.
- Lansing Middle School Science Club was awarded as a “state winner” in the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Competition. As a state winner, the science club received a prize package of $12,000 worth of Samsung technology.
- Lansing Middle School had three students selected for Middle Level All-State Choir. Students chosen for this honor included – Carson Ellington (8th Grade), Machlin Marshall (8th Grade) (2nd year of acceptance), and Hayden Reynolds (7th Grade).
- The 8th grade girls track team won the Kaw Valley League Meet.
- There were several school records broken during track season. Baylee Baragary, set the girls’ 100-meter hurdle record at 17.74 seconds. Caleb Njoku broke the boys’ 100-meter hurdle record with a time of 15.86 seconds. Finally, Kyndal Schneider broke the school record for the girls’ high jump at 5’1”.
- Lansing Middle School presented the musical, “Shrek, Jr.” on April 19th and April 20th. It was an amazing performance and close to 60 students participated in the performance as a cast and/or crew member.
- Under the direction of Miles Azzeh, Director of Teaching and Learning, LMS staff continued towards full completion of a Guaranteed, Viable Curriculum (GVC) in all content areas. Core subject areas made changes and updated their completed GVCs during the year. Exploratory teachers finished their GVCs during the school year.
- We continued to individualize professional development by again offering a “Build Your Own PD Day” on November 1st. Additionally, we continued to make efforts to allow implementation time after new learning.
- A few specific academic accomplishments include –
- Statistically significant growth (+9%) in aReading at 6th grade.
- Statistically significant growth (+9%) in advanced category for aMath at 7th grade.
- Statistically significant decline (-5%) in the “high risk” category for aMath at 6th grade and (-3%) decline in the same category for 7th grade.
- Statistically significant growth in CBM Math Cap (+4%, +11%, +8%) at all grade levels – 6th, 7th, and 8th grade.
- Median state assessment scores at or above the state average in 6 out of 7 tested areas.
- Percent of students scoring at a Level 3 or Level 4 was above the state average in 6 out of 7 tested areas.
- Honor Roll Recipients – Lion Honor Roll (4.0 GPA/All A’s) --- 20% of 6th grade students, 22% of 7th grade students, and 18% of 8th grade students. Overall honor roll recipients (3.0 GPA or higher) --- 379 total students --- 68% of 6th grade students, 68% of 7th grade students, and 56% of 8th grade students.
- We are extremely pleased to report that our efforts produced positive results as we saw a 21% overall drop in discipline referrals during the 2023-2024 school year.
- Additionally, in terms of chronic behavior, we saw a 42% drop in out-of-school suspensions (OSS).
- We also saw our attendance rate increase 1% - from 92.45% to 93.5%.
Looking ahead to next year, we aim to build upon our successes and address areas for improvement. Our academic goals for the upcoming school year include consistent utilization of the GVC and continuing to look closely at our instructional strategies and practices. We have had multiple discussions about refocusing our efforts with Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). Although LMS has utilized PLCs since 2007, it is important to renew our attention in this area with new staff and changes to teams. This will start during professional development in August before students arrive. We will also put in a dedicated math spiraling time school-wide in hopes of increasing math skills. We have also had multiple discussions about our assessment practices for Fastbridge and state assessments and we will make changes in protocols. LMS will also have four teachers attend the Math Teacher Cadre and four teachers attend the Literacy Learners Cadre. These cadres meet monthly and are through Greenbush.
Although we gained a lot of traction with behavior, we want to see that trend continue. In addition to our current practices, we plan to use a Positive Behavior Intervention System (PBIS) rewards program that will integrate with a school store.
To end, I would like to recognize the dedicated teachers, staff, parents, and students for their hard work, collaboration, and commitment. Together, we will continue to strive for continued improvement and excellence at Lansing Middle School. I hope all of you have a great summer!
LMS School Supply Lists - 2024-2025
Please use the following link to see grade level supply lists for the 2024-2025 school year ---
Substitute Teachers and Paraeducators Needed at LMS
Additionally, Lansing Middle School has several paraeducator vacancies. Paraeducators work with students that receive special education services.
Lansing Middle School is a great place to work. These positions are an integral part of LMS. We are looking for dedicated individuals that would like to make a difference in the lives of adolescents.
The link below has information about employment, including how to apply.
https://usd469.socs.net/vnews/display.v/ART/5c24f6d07feae?in_archive=1
LMS Theater Performance - Shrek, Jr.
Lansing Middle School presented the musical, “Shrek, Jr.” on April 19th and April 20th. The LMS student body was given a chance to preview the show with a 20-minute segment on Friday, April 19th. The performances on the 19th and 20th were incredible. The amount of talent at Lansing Middle School was truly amazing to see. Additionally, the set, costumes, and choreography were outstanding. Jonnie Brice was the director and Josiah Ketterman served as the assistant director. Additionally, Rachel Szmed oversaw the choreography and Blake Vignery managed the lights and sound system for the show.
Student Accolades and Classroom Spotlights
- The Lansing Junior Guard (JROTC) team did well at the 2024 Junior Guard Drill Meet hosted at Leavenworth High School. The team took 2nd place in the following Armed Regulation category. Individually, LMS had two students place in the competition – Brennen Hicks took 5th place in the boy’s competition and Ali Swanson-Kolb took 8th place in the girl’s. Cadets from Lansing/Leavenworth High School JROTC oversee the middle school team – Paul Curtis is the Commander and Ayden Flannigan assists.
- In honor of Arbor Day on Friday, April 26th, the Leavenworth Garden and Civics Club again donated trees and shrubs to 7th grade students at Lansing Middle School. As part of their Life Science class, students again spent a day researching the trees and shrubs that were donated and then learned how to plant the seedlings. Students then got to take one home to plant in their own yard. The varieties they donated are good for pollinators, birds or other wildlife – Shortleaf Pine (Pinus Echinata), Ohio Buckeye (Aesculus Glabra), Silky Dogwood (Cornus Amomum), and Smooth Sumac (Rhus Glabra).
Lansing Middle School recognizes students for improvement throughout the year as well as academic and behavioral success through our Student of the Month program. Lansing teachers nominate students by team periodically throughout the year for this honor. Students receive a certificate and pizza at lunch. Our final two groups of students were recognized in April and May. The February/March Awardees included the following students – 6th Grade – Matthew Bone, Brooks Burns, Jordan Houston, Ellie Lourentzos, Dominick McNeal, Gael Mondragon, Eliana Sanford, Ali Swanson-Kolb, and Sofia Vazquez. 7th Grade – EJ Brouillete, Addy Fisher, Reyna Fraijo, Michaela Gerety, Quinn Goss, Bradley Grimm, Kayliana Kannaday, Jacob VanHassel, and Connor Walsh. 8th Grade – Cora Alexander, Robert (Mac) Alexander, Dayton Bolin, Jenna Doyle, Aaron Ford, Charlotte Kuhn, Danny Lawrence, Laila Lemke, Gabe Njoku, and Katherine Wangsgaard. The April/May Awardees included the following students - 6th Grade – Hayley Hilt, Ben Lohman, Sandra Luebbert, Dellaney Manning, Amelia Presslor, Timothy Royal, Sophie Schneider, Domonique Smith, and Matthew Weaver. 7th Grade – Devin Dominick, Dio Garrett, Drew Malm, Bryce McGaan, Madison McGaughey, Drake Tavis, Grace Thompson, Piper Wagner, and Noah Wooten. 8th Grade – Robert (Mac) Alexander, Lily August, Jack Dunlap, Quentin Fitzhugh, Conner Garza, Isaac Lagunas, Rory Nelson, Addison Pittman, Elisa St. John, and Mila Warner.
- Lansing Middle School is pleased to announce honor roll recipients for second semester. There are three honor rolls at LMS -- Lion's Honor Roll recognizes students with a 4.0 GPA (all A's), Red Honor Roll recognizes students with a GPA between 3.50 to 3.99, White Honor Roll recognizes students with a GPA between 3.0 and 3.49. Congratulations to these students!
LION'S HONOR ROLL
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TzJvKgZw3NJF5JfBVJuOWMdmoADfN1ci/view?usp=drive_link
RED HONOR ROLL
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1X8RDpboFu0PsUdTP5VS0a4rVzehoenOF/view?usp=drive_link
WHITE HONOR ROLL
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eIrozeDOAFHi_ni1-Ov7BlSDE1YK-Tfi/view?usp=sharing
- 8th Grade Peer Leaders for 2024-2025 were announced the last week of school. We are excited to have these students taking on the peer leadership role with Mrs. Bishop as Peer Leadership Sponsor - Brenna Bargary, Caleb Njoku, Breanna Banker, Anthony Wahlberg, Drew Malm, Berkley Meyers, Avery Dessert, Aeslynn Dodd, Ellie Welsh, Hayden Reynolds, Roy Foster, EJ Brouillette, Sophie Hileman, Jeremiah Foster, Brooklyn Patton, Ella Zayas, Danni Hayslett, and Jared Wansgaard.
- Ava Shelley, 8th Grade student and Peer Leader, gave a video tour of Lansing Middle School for the school website. She did this for her project as part of Peer Leadership. She recognized a need for a student perspective and took the initiative to also field "frequently asked questions" for students coming into LMS. Great job, Ava! The video is linked below -https://youtu.be/lipldGdMoh0
- The Lansing Middle School track teams did really well this spring. They competed in six meets total and the season finished on April 30th. The 7th Grade girls won one meet and the 8th grade girls won three meets, including the Kaw Valley League Meet. There were several school records broken during the season. At the start of the season, Ava Shelley, 8th grade, broke her own school record in the 100-meter hurdles with a time of 18.64 seconds. Her record was later broken by Baylee Baragary, who then broke her own school record. The time now stands at 17.74 seconds. Caleb Njoku broke the boys’ 100-meter hurdle record multiple times and it now stands at a time of 15.86 seconds. Finally, Kyndal Schneider, 8th grade, broke the school record for the girls’ high jump at 5’1”. Congratulations to all athletes on a great season.
“Congratulations to our middle school students who competed in the Kaw Valley League (KVL) Math Relays on Monday, April 22nd, hosted by Monticello Trails. Eighth-grade math teachers Penny Wagner and Miranda Cote took twelve students to the event, where they completed four rounds of math competitions.
"Rounds 1, 2, and 3 were relay-style, and the fourth round was a team round where students worked together," said Ms. Cote. "Our eighth-graders took 3rd place in Round 4!"
Congratulations to all of our students who competed:
6th graders: Clayton Marsh, Nick Barba, Liam Scherer, Josh Njoku
7th graders: Nichole Mack, Jacob Scharnhorst, Josh Crawford, Maddie Huhn
8th graders: Ethan Valverde, Dayton Bollin, Poppy Muzzy, Scarlett Bergman”
6th Grade Career Fair and 8th Grade Math Career Fair - May 2024
- On Monday, May 6th, and Tuesday, May 7th, sixth-grade students in Kathy Baughman and Rachel Szmed's classes held career fairs. This event was the culmination of a project that started three weeks earlier, where students answered a series of questions in Xello, an online platform that helps students discover their career paths. Students received a list of their best career choices based on their interests, skills, and values. They selected their preferred career option and began their research. Through this process, they learned how to evaluate and cite sources correctly, an essential skill for any future career path. The next step was to create a paper based on their research, including a work cited page. Once their piece was complete, they made a trifold board with pictures explaining their career choice.
- On Wednesday, May 15th, a math career fair was held at Lansing Middle School. Mrs. Miranda Cote and Mrs. Penny Wagner, 8th grade math teachers organized the project as a culminating event. This was the first year for it; both teachers wanted to emphasize the importance of math as a needed skill in the work force. People from across the United States filled out a survey indicating how they use math in their current job position. Students then interviewed and asked elaborative questions so they could put together a specific presentation about the person and the field of work. These were displayed in the library during the school day and all grade levels were able to see the displays; 8th grade students were also able to talk about what they learned. After school, all displays were in the commons area and community members were invited in to see the displays. Mrs. Cote and Mrs. Wagner are already thinking about ways to modify and improve the project for next school year.
6th Grade Career Fair
6th Grade Career Fair
6th Grade Career Fair
8th Grade Math Career Fair - Mrs. Wagner and Mrs. Cote
8th Grade Math Career Fair
8th Grade Girls Win Kaw Valley League (KVL) Track Meet
"Lansing USD469 is incredibly proud to announce that our 8th grade girls track team went undefeated this season and finished as KVL Champions!
Congratulations to Coach Hamilton and Coach Bishop and the following students: Carmen McLilly, Amia Perez, Scarlett Bergman, Claire Rhoads, Khaniya Walker, Aubriana Williamson, Piper Kobs, Ainslee Frederick, Lily August, Ava Diaz, Ava Shelley, Kyndal Schneider, Maggie Ervin, Hillary Ward, Lexi Dometriz, Rylan Ronnebaum, Loeghan McTeague, Isabel Sholey, Payton Bergman, Lilli Montgomery, Elisa St. John, Baylee Baragary, Ashlyn Turner, Brooklyn Wahl, Kendall Bankston, and Rachel Dowty."
Lansing Middle School Sound FX Shines in the Festival of Music at Worlds of Fun
"After a fun-filled day at the Worlds of Fun amusement park, Lansing Middle School's Sound FX took the stage to perform two contrasting pieces: Amy Bernon's lyrical "Oceans and Stars" and Marcus Leite's upbeat foreign language piece, "Tres Cantos Dos Indios Krao." Many chaperones helped make the day possible, and we are very thankful for our parent and community volunteers!
Click here to view their performances:
The students performed for three judges for a rating on a scale of 1 to 5. Sound FX received a rating of 1, considered "Superior" and the highest rating possible at the Festival of Music. This rating reflects the finest conceivable performance for the event and class of participants being evaluated. Their performance is worthy of being recognized as among the very best.
In addition to receiving a 1 rating, Sound FX also placed 2nd overall in their division at the Festival of Music competition. Middle schools from across Kansas, Nebraska, and Missouri attend the Festival of Music at Worlds of Fun, and to place is a high honor.
"While the rating and placement is a wonderful thing, the experience and memories these students made will last them a long time," said LMS Choir Director Josiah Ketterman. "This is truly a special group of students."
Excellent job, Mr. Ketterman and Sound FX singers!"
Junior Duck Stamp Art Competition
“Lansing Middle School (LMS) is proud to announce its achievements in the Kansas State Federal Junior Duck Stamp art competition. This year, nearly 150 seventh and eighth-grade art students from Lansing Middle School participated in the competition, with 34 students earning recognition from the state representative of the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS).
The honored students received certificates and select prizes during an awards ceremony on Friday, May 10th, in the LMS Library. Notably, Eliana Silva won the Kansas Wildlife Conservation Message competition, and her winning message has advanced to the National level!
Lansing Middle School has consistently had the highest number of participants in Kansas, and numerous students are recognized each year.
This success is largely attributed to the guidance from LMS Art Teacher Emily Bucher. Ms. Bucher, who participated in the Junior Duck Stamp competition at the National level during her youth, has been an inspirational figure in promoting conservation education. Her dedication to teaching about the Fish and Wildlife Service and environmental preservation has left a lasting impact on her students.
Ms. Bucher has been collaborating remotely with substitute art teacher Teena Barber this school year to make sure her students still had the opportunity to participate. Ms. Barber has been instrumental in facilitating this year's participation and ensuring the program's success during Ms. Bucher's absence.
" I have been working with my sub, Teena Barber remotely on putting this together," said Ms. Bucher. "She has really stepped up and helped me more than I could ever imagine."
The Federal Junior Duck Stamp Program is an educational initiative that encourages students to explore the natural world and express their appreciation through art. The program aims to teach young people about the importance of wetlands and waterfowl conservation. More information about the program and the competition can be found on the FWS website: Junior Duck Stamp Contest Information.
Lansing USD469 eagerly anticipates the national results and looks forward to celebrating the students' continued success in promoting wildlife conservation!
Great work, Ms. Barber, Ms. Bucher, and our art students who participated!”
https://www.usd469.net/vnews/display.v/ART/66461f7f2ea81?in_archive=1
LMS Partners with Early Childhood
Pre-K students from Crystal Alexander and Jess Garner's classrooms were recently paired with 7th graders from Stacey Jenkins's classroom for a special outdoor learning experience focused on studying plants and enjoying the beautiful weather. Thank you to Alaine Hudlin, a paraprofessional at the Early Childhood Center who retired from Kansas Wildlife and Parks, who organized the event for the students.
During the event, students examined a variety of plants, exploring their unique shapes, scents, textures, and colors. They also engaged in a creative art project, using flowers found in the playground area to decorate cardboard planter pictures. Mrs. Jenkins commented on the success of the day, stating, "It was a fun way for both mentoring 7th graders and pre-K students to create new connections as the school year winds down." The event was a success and fostered a love for nature and strengthened the bonds between students of different age groups!”
https://www.usd469.net/vnews/display.v/ART/664ce0c65521b?in_archive=1
Fine Arts Fair - May 14, 2024
Lansing Middle School hosted the Fine Arts Fair on Tuesday, May 14th. This is an excellent event that showcases student artwork and all LMS instrumental and vocal groups. This year, the weather was perfect for the event and we were able to hold all musical pieces outdoors on the north side of LMS. Our student performances were outstanding and it was very well-attended. Mr. Jenkins and Mr. Wixon grilled brats, burgers, and hot dogs before the musical events took place. It was evident that students were well-prepared by Emily Bucher, LMS Art Teacher, Aaron Edwards, LMS Band Teacher, Blake Vignery, Percussion Aide, and Josiah Ketterman, LMS Choir Teacher. A special “thank you” to Teena Barber, long-term substitute teacher for Art, for her preparation of the artwork for the Fine Arts Fair. Also, a big thank you to LMS Site Council members Celeste Hoins and Jessica Schroeder for co-chairing the Fine Arts Fair.
Student Artwork Display - Fine Arts Fair
Student Artwork Display - Fine Arts Fair
Student Artwork Display - Fine Arts Fair
8th Grade Celebration - May 20, 2024
Another culminating event that our Site Council sponsors is 8th Grade Celebration. This took place on Monday, May 20th. We were concerned about weather forcing the event indoors but it cooperated and we were able to hold the event outdoors, as planned. 8th grade students were given a dinner consisting of pizza, chips, and a drink at the start of the event. After that, they moved to the LMS football field where they were able to take part in flag football, inflatable games, and yard games. Students were also able to get refreshments and Kona Ice was available on site. Students again enjoyed the different activities and it was nice to see them spending time with their classmates before their transition to high school. This event would not be possible without staff and parent volunteers – we appreciate all of their help. Additionally, a big thank you to Stephanie Hixson, Lisa Hope, and Rachel Sheeley for chairing this event. Thank you to Tom Cretors for volunteering their time to oversee the flag football portion.
Pizza for 8th Grade Celebration
Student Artwork - 8th Grade Celebration
Yard Games - 8th Grade Celebration
Amazing Race - 6th Grade - May 21, 2024
Again this year, all 6th grade students and classes participated in The Amazing Race on Tuesday, May 21st. Teachers organized different themed activities that centered around students answering questions or solving puzzles to earn stamps and ultimately place in the top three among all groups. Students were organized into teams for this project and it took place throughout the entire 6th grade wing. There were different activities in each classroom and a main station for keeping track of earnings in the 6th grade team area. I was able to observe all classrooms and the commons area to see the full picture of the event. It was highly organized, and students gained a lot of valuable learning from it. Again, this was open to parents to come into Lansing Middle School to be able to observe but most importantly to help with it by volunteering at different stations. I would like to commend our 6th grade teachers for their continued efforts to engage families and have them in for various events during the year.
Cup Stack Challenge - Amazing Race
1st Place - Amazing Race
Amazing Race Academic Challenge
LMS Staff Recognition
- We are honored that Martina Crisp, Lansing Middle School Registrar, was chosen as the USD 469 Employee Support Personnel of the Year. Mrs. Crisp is extremely deserving of this award. Her efforts go above and beyond in helping students, parents, and staff. She was recognized at the Lansing Education Foundation (LEF) Breakfast on Friday, May 3rd. https://www.usd469.net/vnews/display.v/ART/6627e00011b4f?in_archive=1
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Several Lansing Middle School staff members were recognized for the Employee Spotlight on the district website during the month of May –
* Emerald Peters, LMS Math Interventionist
https://www.usd469.net/vnews/display.v/ART/66337aedccaaf?in_archive=1
* Katie Larson, LMS Interrelated Special Education Teacher
https://www.usd469.net/vnews/display.v/ART/663dfe8ae5301?in_archive=1
* Blake Vignery, Director of Percussion/Asst. Director of Bands
https://www.usd469.net/vnews/display.v/ART/664765a52bc2d?in_archive=1
LMS Honors Retirees - Mrs. Andrews, Mrs. Evans, Miss Sheeley
Lansing Middle School honored three teachers that retired at the end of the school year –
- Ann Andrews, 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher (32 years – all at LMS)
- Connie Evans, 6th Grade Literature/S. Studies Teacher (36 years – 7 at LMS)
- Rachel Sheeley, Reading Interventionist (36 years – 10 at LMS)
The social committee set up a retirement event to include students and all staff by having a parade of honor. The three retirees each got escorted in a decorated wheelchair while the staff and student body cheered them on in the commons area. After school, we had a staff retirement celebration for the group. Their combined 104 years of experience leaves a large void at Lansing Middle School. All three were dedicated educators and will be greatly missed!
Upcoming Events for LMS
August 5th and 6th – New Teacher Orientation
August 6th - New Parent Orientation; 6:30 PM @ Lansing Middle School Auditorium - intended for incoming 6th grade parents and parents of students that are new to Lansing Middle School.
- August 7th – All Teachers Report
- August 14th – School Begins for All 6th Grade Students and New Students to LMS
- August 15th – School Begins for All Returning Students to LMS
- August 20th - LMS Open House @ 6:30 PM
Lansing USD 469 Strategic Plan for 2023-2028
"Lansing USD469 is thrilled to announce that our 2023-2028 Strategic Plan was passed unanimously during the April 10th (2023) board meeting. Thank you to our volunteers made of community members, staff, and students who served on this important committee and provided feedback to form this plan. Thank you also to our Lansing USD469 board members who served on the committee and voted to make it a reality. The Strategic Plan aims to achieve action steps that ensure our district can meet the needs of its students, staff, and community for years to come.
Our administrators and district leadership staff are excited to start on action items this plan sets forth. We will provide monthly updates about our progress and look forward to embarking on this journey together to make Lansing the best district in Kansas."
https://www.usd469.net/vnews/display.v/SEC/2023-2028%20Strategic%20Plan
About Lansing Middle School
Kerry Wixon, Vice Principal
Becky Lowery, Counselor
Emerald Peters, Counselor
Website: https://www.usd469.net/vnews/display.v/SEC/Lansing%20Middle%20School%20%28Grades%206-8%29
Location: 220 Lion Lane, Lansing, KS, USA
Phone: (913) 727-1197