City outlines tax incentive impacts on school district funding

Downtown revitalization and housing projects highlighted

Outsourced firm aims to double substitute teacher pool

Topeka West High School celebrates 98 percent graduation rate

Topeka West senior makes history, named senior of the month

Board mourns loss of Highland Park High School senior

Parents as Teachers program prepares 230 children for school

Sheldon Head Start grant renewed, praised as national model

City outlines tax incentive impacts on school district funding

TOPEKA, Kan. — The city of Topeka presented an overview of Tax Increment Financing and Reinvestment Housing Incentive Districts (RHID) and their impact on Topeka Public Schools' funding. The district recently lost an estimated $1.4 million in property taxes due to tax amendments diverting revenue to developers.

While standard statewide school finance and educational building levies remain untouched, RHIDs divert the district's capital levy. The diversion of these funds sparked concern among board members regarding the long-term financial strain on the district's budget when residential developments do not yield traditional tax revenues.

Downtown revitalization and housing projects highlighted

TOPEKA, Kan. — Several major economic development and downtown revitalization projects utilizing tax incentives were highlighted during the city's presentation.

Notable developments include the $16 million Sunflower Crossing commercial project, the $53 million Johnson-Betts Meadows affordable housing development and the $67 million Union at Tower District housing project, which will bring 250 affordable housing units to downtown Topeka. Officials also pointed to successful Neighborhood Revitalization Program projects, such as the conversion of an old warehouse at 101 Kansas Ave. into 33 apartments, which significantly increased the property's assessed value.

Outsourced firm aims to double substitute teacher pool

TOPEKA, Kan. — The district is partnering with EduStaff to double its pool of substitute teachers and improve daily classroom coverage. EduStaff representatives reported that the current pool of roughly 200 substitutes is insufficient for the district's needs, often leaving 50 to 80 daily absences uncovered.

By offering benefits and removing the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System penalty for retired educators returning to work, the firm has already hired 14 new substitutes in its first two weeks. The organization aims to eventually reach a 90 percent fill rate for the district.

Topeka West High School celebrates 98 percent graduation rate

TOPEKA, Kan. — Topeka West High School achieved a 98 percent graduation rate for the previous school year, a milestone announced during Tuesday's meeting. Superintendent Tiffany Anderson praised Principal John Buckendorff and the school's staff for the remarkable achievement.

District officials planned to visit the campus the following day to present a banner celebrating the high success rate, with a formal graduation rate report scheduled for the next board meeting.

Topeka West senior makes history, named senior of the month

TOPEKA, Kan. — Topeka West High School senior Elijah Franklin was honored as the district's Senior of the Month. Elijah, who serves as the school's 2024 Homecoming King and is the first male member in the history of the Westsiders dance team, was recognized for his leadership, high academic standing and positive influence on campus.

Elijah plans to pursue a degree in education and dance on a college team after graduation.

Board mourns loss of Highland Park High School senior

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Topeka Board of Education held a moment of silence to honor the memory of Highland Park High School senior J'Lanette Harrison, who recently passed away.

District officials formally released her name with the permission of her family, acknowledging the difficult grieving process for students, staff and relatives following the tragic loss. Board members expressed their condolences and ongoing support for the Highland Park community.

Parents as Teachers program prepares 230 children for school

TOPEKA, Kan. — The district's Parents as Teachers program is currently supporting more than 230 children, focusing on early childhood school readiness for families facing multiple stress factors. Program Coordinator Nichole Fairley noted that 20 percent of participating families experience four or more severe stressors, such as low income or disabilities.

The 12-person team provides home visits, developmental screenings and resource connections from prenatal stages through early childhood to ensure students are prepared to enter the district.

Sheldon Head Start grant renewed, praised as national model

TOPEKA, Kan. — Sheldon Head Start recently secured its federal grant renewal, with its application now serving as a national model for other programs.

Board members praised the staff's hard work in assembling the successful grant proposal, which will ensure continued funding and support for the early childhood education center.

Click here for local obituaries

Click here for local jail logs

Found a mistake? Have a news tip or feedback to share? Contact our newsroom using the button below:

Contact Us