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10-14-22 — October 2022 Awards

Oct. 14, 2022

California Trail Student Named Broadcom MASTERS Finalist

The Society for Science named California Trail Middle School eighth grader Mahi Kohli one of 30 finalists in the 2022 Broadcom MASTERS. Kohli was one of over thousands of nominees in science fair competitions nationwide and over 1,800 students who completed and submitted an online application.

“Mahi is a great kid that pours her heart into everything she does,” California Trail Middle School principal Mike Wiley said. “She’s a gifted scientist and mathematician. I am proud of her accomplishments and look forward to seeing the impact she makes in the community.” 

Broadcom MASTERS is the nation’s premiere middle school STEM competition. As a finalist, Kohli will represent California Trail Middle School in a trip to Washington, D.C. to participate in the Broadcom MASTERS Finals Week, from October 28-November 2, 2022. Once there, she will present last year’s science fair project to judges and will participate in team science and engineering challenges. The competition will culminate with an awards ceremony where she can earn awards for her work.

Olathe Public Schools Earns Kansans Can Star Recognition

Olathe Public Schools received four awards of distinction in the 2022 Kansans Can Star Recognition Award program from the Kansas State Department of Education.

The district received Silver in the categories of Social-Emotional Growth and Postsecondary Effectiveness, as well as Copper in the Academically Prepared for Graduation category and Bronze in Graduation category.

This program highlights the exceptional work Kansas districts are doing to reach the state’s vision for education – Kansas leads the world in the success of each student.

Migrant Advocate Named Citizen of the Year

Maria Isabel Gutierrez-Flores, Olathe Public Schools Migrant Advocate, was recognized with the 2022 United Community Services (UCS) of Johnson County Citizen of the Year Award.

The UCS Citizen of the Year Award recognizes an individual who has provided lasting contributions that enhance the well-being of Johnson County residents. 

“UCS and its Board of Directors is pleased to recognize the more than thirty years of your service to our community,” Julie Brewer, UCS executive director, said. “Through your work in Parents as Teachers, migrant education and advocacy, and mentorship, you have been a vital source of support and built bridges of connection foundational to creating stability for some of our newest community members.”

Gutierrez-Flores will be awarded at the UCS’ annual meeting in December.

Olathe East Athletic Trainer Named Trainer of the Year

Erin Washington, Olathe East High School athletic trainer, was given the Kansas Athletic Trainers’ Society Athletic Trainer of the Year Award.

“Erin is incredible. We are so fortunate to have her working with our Hawks,” principal Kerry Lane said. “She is professional, kind and so knowledgeable. She’s the best in the business.”

Winners of this award have had a large impact on the athletic training profession in Kansas in the last year. Examples of this impact may be through legislative efforts, advocacy, or other significant contributions to the organization.

Club Honored with Excellence in Community Service Award

Olathe Public Schools and the Olathe Police Department, two of the collaborative partners behind the Olathe Lowrider Leadership Bike Club, were given the UCS Excellence in Community Service Award.

The UCS Excellence in Community Service Award recognizes an organization or partnership that has significantly improved the lives of Johnson County residents.

“Characteristics of this award include demonstration of positive outcomes, accessibility and inclusivity, partnership with other entities and the adhering to high ethical and accountability standards – among other things,” Brewer said. “Olathe Leadership Lowrider Bike Club and its impact on participating youth certainly exemplifies those characteristics.”

Representatives from Olathe Public Schools and the Olathe Police Department will be awarded at the UCS’ annual meeting in December.

Olathe North Football Coach Named Chiefs Coach of the Week

Chris McCartney, Olathe North High School football coach, was named the Kansas City Chiefs' High School Coach of the Week in the sixth week of the season.

“Thank you to the Kansas City Chiefs and PrepsKC for their support of high school football in the Metro area,” McCartney said. “Receiving this award is a huge honor for our players, coaching staff and community. It is also a direct reflection of the hard work that is put in by our entire team and confirming that our effort is paying off.”

The High School Coach of the Week program is in junction with the National Football League. It is implemented to honor Kansas City area high school coaches for their excellence on the field while helping shape the youth of today and the leaders of tomorrow.

McCartney received a $500 player health and safety grant for Olathe North, a football autographed by Coach Andy Reid, and the potential to win the Eric Driskell Coach of the Year Award.