University Partnerships

Student Teaching and Field Experiences

Experience student teaching in one of the most dynamic, supportive, and innovative school districts in Kansas! Olathe Public School blends small-town community warmth with big-city professional opportunities. With award-winning schools, diverse students, and a culture of excellence, Olathe is the perfect place to launch your teaching career.

Requests for field experience placements are accepted only through a sponsoring university or college. Please do not contact individual teachers or administrators for placements. For more information, email Christy Wichtendahl, Administrative Assistant or call913-780-8171.

Student Teaching/Practicum Guidelines

Student or university must:

Complete and submit security clearance through Validity Screening Solutions
Complete and submit a TB test
Demonstrate professional behavior consistent with Olathe Personnel Policies
Submit the following materials (in addition to any required by your university):
Introductory statement
Unofficial or Official Transcript
Resume including current phone number & email

Observation Opportunities

Requests to observe must come from a sponsoring university or college.
Email your request and class syllabus to Christy Wichtendahl, Administrative Assistant.

Pathways to Teaching

Olathe Public Schools maintains partnerships with many universities to support potential candidates in their pursuit of teaching licensure, employment and continuing education. For more information, clarification or assistance in pursuing opportunities with our school district contact Amy Hillman, Teacher Recruitment Liaison or Jenna Kuder, Director of Professional Learning.

KSDE Pathways to the Classroom Federal Application for Student Aid

Scholarships
Colleges & Universities

Scholarships

Olathe Retired Employees Association

Are you a current classified employee of the Olathe Public Schools who is headed back to school to become a certified educator? If so, the Olathe Public Schools Retired Employees Association (OPS/REA) wants to support you. Apply today for the Mary Cochran Classified Staff Scholarship, designed to assist Olathe classified staff who are pursuing a career in education. The OPS/REA will award one $1,000 scholarship annually to a current Olathe classified staff member. To be eligible, you must already be enrolled in classes, and plan to take additional classes next fall.

Applicants must complete the online application by Monday, March 24, 2025 at 8 a.m. If you have any questions, e-mail us at foundation@olatheschools.org.

Kansas Ethnic Minority Scholarship

The Career Technical Workforce Grant is available to students enrolled in an eligible career technical education program operated by a designated Kansas educational institution that has been identified as offering a technical certificate or associate of applied science degree program in a high cost, high demand, or critical industry field. (Education) Designated Kansas educational institutions include technical colleges, community colleges, and public four-year colleges that award associate of applied science degrees; and Washburn Institute of Technology. Only technical certificate and associate of applied science degree programs are included among the eligible programs. Preference in awarding goes to applicants with financial need.