MAY 2023

Leawood Elementary School

Principal: Marcy Hoefner

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

May 2023

Without reflection, we go blindly on our way, creating more unintended consequences, and failing to achieve anything useful. Margaret Wheatley

At the end of everyday, I stop and reflect...what went well and what do I need to adjust to keep moving our school in a positive direction. Today's question...do we know every student's name, strength and need? As Mr. Kolasa, next year's principal, and I partner, we will review the work that has taken place at Leawood to grow our students and reflect , plus plan with our staff on how to continue to grow to be the best school for our community.

Our students, staff, teachers, and the incredible group of volunteers make this school so special. We had a great turnout at our Parent Volunteer Breakfast as well as our Spring Fling! There are many events planned over the next month as we close out our school year and look forward to August. We are very proud of the experiences and life lessons that we bring to each and every child that walks through our doors. I’m especially thankful for our Parents in Education and PTSA. Please watch for communication from both groups to see how we can grow and partner together!

In addition, I'd like to thank a few staff members for their dedication as they have decided to retire after serving students and Jeffco for many years.

Fred Gonzales - Physical Education
Helen Noakes - AM/PM Preschool
Lynn Story - 5th grade

Some of our staff members are continuing on another journey. Lisa Pepper, Cheri Kenison, Michael Webster, Samantha Shall, Shannon McCormick, Zachary Barrera, Paige Powers, and Kristy Givens. Thank you for your service to Leawood!

Mr. Kolasa has been leading our interview committees for Leawood this year and below are a few new staff members joining our team for the 2023-24 school year.

Joe Mulready - Physical Education
Olivia Nelson - AM/PM Preschool
Katiana Brenner - Digital Teacher Librarian
Tanya Rodgers - First Grade
Lynn Morgan - First Grade
Laura Gumke - Learning Specialist

We will send out more information as we draw closer to the end of May with classroom teachers and final staffing for the 23-24 school year.

Even though the year is drawing to a close, it’s important that our students stay focused on learning until the very last day. Our teachers are working hard to plan fun activities, while engaging every student with the final stretch of learning.

My interim (yes, I am retired) year at Leawood has been incredible as it has been great to lead an amazing group of staff and students plus partner with wonderful parents. This year has been so rewarding, filled with lots of new learning and community events. Thank you for the strong partnerships we’ve developed and I personally thank the entire community of Leawood Elementary.

Fondly,

Mrs. Hoefner