Moundridge Schools Champion Community Service and Student Excellence

MOUNDRIDGE, KS — Moundridge USD 423 continues to strengthen its reputation as a district that prioritizes community involvement and student achievement, according to Superintendent Cody Rierson, who recently shared highlights from his five years leading the Wildcats.

The district has implemented several innovative programs that emphasize service learning and leadership development, with community volunteers playing a central role in student success.

At Moundridge Elementary School, the "Grand Readers" program brings approximately 15 grandparent volunteers into classrooms daily to read with students. "It's amazing," Rierson said of the program. "We also have volunteers that come help at lunch while hanging out with the kids. This is something we will definitely continue."

The district has also introduced Leadership Classes at both Moundridge Middle School and Moundridge High School to develop essential workplace skills. "This helps with those soft skills and leadership skills that are so important when entering the workforce today," Rierson explained. The program also builds student ownership by having participants help facilitate school and community events, including dances, pep assemblies, and data surveys.

One of the district's signature initiatives is Wildcat Week, held annually in March. The week-long service project culminates in a districtwide gathering and focuses on benefiting the community. Last year's efforts supported Maddie Kaufman, a third-grader at MES battling cancer. "This exemplifies what makes Moundridge great," Rierson noted.

The district recently celebrated a significant academic achievement with senior Lela Winsor earning recognition as a National Merit Scholar Semi-Finalist. "Lela is a great kid, great leader, great role model," Rierson said. "She's a highly involved Wildcat at USD 423."

Winsor played an important role on the district's Scholars Bowl State Championship team and has participated in cheerleading, dance, debate, forensics, theater, and softball throughout her high school career. "All our younger Wildcats admire her dearly, and we could not be more proud of her," the superintendent added.

When asked about his favorite aspect of the district, Rierson emphasized the collaborative spirit that defines the Moundridge community. "The work ethic of our students, staff, and parents. The collaboration of the community. The passion and excitement toward Moundridge USD 423 activities, arts, and athletics," he said.

The superintendent's enthusiasm for the district is evident as he continues to witness what he describes as the many things that make Moundridge great, building on a foundation of community service and student excellence that has defined USD 423 throughout his tenure.

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