April 10, 2026 News Release

Emporia Public Schools Named a Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase District for 2025–2026

Emporia, KS — Emporia Public Schools has been named a 2025–2026 Capturing Kids’ Hearts (CKH) National Showcase Schools District Award winner by CKH, recognizing the district’s strong commitment to building positive, relationship-driven school environments for students and staff.

This national recognition highlights the intentional work happening across Emporia Public Schools to create safe, supportive learning environments where students feel connected, valued, and ready to learn. Through consistent, relationship-focused practices, staff across the district prioritize trust, communication, and a sense of belonging in every school and classroom.

"Earning this recognition reflects a district-wide commitment to building a culture in which relationships, trust, and intentional practices shape daily experiences," said Ms. Sheryl Leeds, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching, Learning and Student Services,"This award is a testament to the hard work of our educators and staff who lead with their hearts every day to ensure our students thrive."

Emporia Public Schools has strengthened this work through its ongoing partnership with CKH, a framework that supports relationship-building and positive school culture. As part of the district’s ongoing efforts to be good stewards of resources, the structure of this partnership will be adjusted moving forward. Through collaboration with CKH leadership, district leadership has secured grant funding to support continued CKH practices. When combined with existing Title II federal funds, this will ensure that key components, particularly curricular materials and core practices, remain in place in the elementary schools and Emporia Middle School.

While some additional contracted services will be reduced, the district’s focus on relationship-driven practices will continue to be utilized in daily interactions across classrooms and schools.

In addition to the district recognition, seven Emporia schools have been named 2025–2026 CKH National Showcase Schools for their individual commitment to creating positive, relationship-centered environments:

• Jones Early Childhood Development Center
• Logan Avenue Elementary
• Riverside Elementary School
• Timmerman Elementary School
• Village Elementary School
• Walnut Elementary School
• William Allen White Elementary School

Schools receiving this designation demonstrate excellence in building strong connections with students, maintaining high expectations, and fostering environments where both students and staff can succeed.

Emporia Public Schools remains focused on supporting the whole child and ensuring every student has access to a welcoming and engaging learning environment. This recognition highlights the collective efforts of staff across the district to make that vision a reality each day.

For more information about Emporia Public Schools, visit www.usd253.org.