impact + innovation award

MEF created the Impact Award in 2011 to support innovative projects that enhance educational opportunities in the Montrose and Olathe School District.

2024 – Jeff Mitchell – Graphic Design to Manufacturing Program

Olathe High School graphic design class to become a manufacturing class

2023 – Kathy Gaber, Heidi Voehringer, John Steele – Career and Technical Education (CTE) program

Provide a four-year course sequence, including nationally recognized Teacher Cadet program 

2020 – John Steele, Kathy Gaber, Heidi Voehringer, Brian Simpson – Certify for Success Program

This program provides students opportunities take industry certification exams at no cost.  Enabling them to acquire a life-long career with a higher-paying wage. 

2019 - Jeff Mitchell – Olathe’s Wings

An aerial drone program at OMHS allows for the integration of STEM, and robotics into coursework 

2018 – Chris Thompson – Fantastic Plastic Project

The “Fantastic Plastic” Project is a 3D filament and cafeteria plastic recycling program 

2017 – Brian Simpson – Engineering Design & Development Course

MHS Engineering students have the opportunity to visit 3rd grade classrooms to inspire and empower their education

2016 – Meghan Waschbusch – Creation Center

The Centennial Creation Center project converted unused classroom to create a state-of-the-art STEM Lab

2015 – Teresa Brown – STEM Center

Partnering with Local Businesses to Offer Community Based STEM Opportunities for CMS Students

2014 - Greg Whitsell - Purchased Chromebooks at Centennial Middle School to promote digital literacy

2013 - Kathleen Pirani, Heidi Voehringer, and Kathy Gaber – The PoWeR Center

The PoWeR Center will provide expertise, resources, and technology to help students plan for after high school

2012 – Crystal Sabatke-Smith & Chris Thompson – RISC Project (Re-Inventing Schools Coalition)

A project committed to re-inventing schooling so that all students are successful in school and life

2011 – Jamie Simo – The Helm

The Helm provided a safe place for parents to go to feel like they were true partners in the education of the children

2024 – John Steele, Kathy Gaber, Heidi Voehringer – $5000 Superintendent Innovation Award

The Law and Public Safety Career Pathway at Montrose High School

2024 – Jamie Gann, Eve Donohoe – $3000 Superintendent Innovation Award

Peak Academy Literacy Center

2023 – Lisa Thyre – $8000 Superintendent Innovation Award

Cottonwood Elementary to build a greenhouse and garden area for the students

2023 – Kimberly Martin – $5000 Superintendent Innovation Award

Johnson Elementary students to attend the Ron Clark Leadership Academy