6 takeaways from Topeka USD 501 school board meeting

Topeka Public Schools graduation rate climbs to 87.3 percent

Ross elementary PTO raises over $16,000 for music garden

Jardine elementary school presents $8,687 check for ALS research

Topeka West senior honored as student of the month

Orchestra and choir performances showcase student talent

District rallies support amid food pantry shortages

Topeka Public Schools graduation rate climbs to 87.3 percent

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Topeka Public Schools district graduation rate has risen to 87.3 percent, a significant increase from last year’s 81.6 percent, according to a report presented to the Board of Education on Tuesday. For the first time, all five of the district’s high schools have graduation rates above both the state and national averages. The report highlighted several historic achievements, including the highest graduation rate ever for special education students at 83.8 percent and a record-high 93.2 percent rate for Hope Street Academy. District officials also noted that Topeka West High School achieved a 100 percent graduation rate for its Black and multi-racial students, while Topeka High saw a 100 percent rate for its multi-racial demographic. Board members discussed strategies to close the remaining gender gap and address challenges faced by male students, particularly Hispanic males who may leave school to support their families.

Ross elementary PTO raises over $16,000 for music garden

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Ross Elementary Parent Teacher Organization has successfully raised more than $16,000 to construct a one-of-a-kind music garden on the school’s playground. The Board of Education officially accepted the donation Tuesday. The project, in development for four years, will feature a bespoke musical sculpture led by local metal artist Baker Medlock and partners from Topeka’s NOTO Arts & Entertainment District. Organizers said the goal is to provide a unique, inspiring experience for students at Ross, the district’s signature music school. Board Vice President Lisa Schmitt praised the effort, calling it a phenomenal and unique opportunity for students on the east side of town.

Jardine elementary school presents $8,687 check for ALS research

TOPEKA, Kan. — Staff and students from Jardine Elementary School presented a check for $8,687.42 to the Mid-America Chapter of the ALS Association during the school board meeting. The funds, representing a two-year total, were raised through the annual “Steps for Stegman” 5K event, held in honor of Dr. Bridget Stegman, a beloved staff member diagnosed with ALS. The fundraiser has now generated nearly $20,000 for the cause over its four-year history.

Topeka West senior Lily Bowen honored as Senior of the Month

TOPEKA, Kan. — Topeka West High School senior Lily Bowen was recognized as Topeka Public Schools’ November 2025 Senior of the Month. A four-year member of the dance team, Bowen was celebrated for leadership, kindness and positive energy.  During a question-and-answer session with the school board, Bowen shared plans to pursue mechanical engineering with the dream of designing cars for a Formula One team, and credited teachers from elementary, middle and high school for inspiring a love of learning and problem-solving.

Orchestra and choir performances showcase student talent

TOPEKA, Kan. — Board members celebrated recent musical achievements by students across the district. Highlights included the “Stringposium” all-district orchestra concert held at Washburn University’s White Concert Hall, which brought together musicians from all high schools for a combined performance. Additionally, an elementary school choir was praised for singing the national anthem at the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce’s State of the Community event.

District rallies support amid food pantry shortages

TOPEKA, Kan. — Topeka Public Schools is working to address growing food insecurity in the community after Harvesters—The Community Food Network recently canceled some food pantry distributions, including one scheduled at the district’s Capital City High School. Superintendent Dr. Tiffany Anderson announced a donation drive to help restock the pantry at Quinton Heights Education Center, which the district operates for Topeka Public Schools families. Board members highlighted the district’s role in providing wraparound services to families, noting that students cannot learn effectively if their basic needs are not met.

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