Nov. 7, 2018
Olathe East Wins State Title
The Olathe East High School gymnastics team earned the 6A Kansas state title in gymnastics at the state meet held at Shawnee Mission South High School.
Liz Wasinger, Olathe East junior, earned first place and won an individual state title in the balance beam.
“Our focus this season has been on routine execution and beam consistency,” Olathe East gymnastics coach Mallory West said. “Our goal for state was for every team member to perform the very best routine they possibly could, and every girl rose to the occasion. We are proud and honored to be state champions.”
Olathe Counselor Named Kansas School Counselor of the Year
Alicia Jackson, counselor at Olathe West High School, was named Kansas School Counselor of the Year by the Kansas School Counselor Association and will be elligible for the National Counselor of the Year award.
“She cares for each of them like they are her own kids and has a heart of gold,” Olathe West Principal Jay Novacek said. “It does not surprise me that the Kansas School Counselor Association selected Alicia for this award, she has earned it! I am happy that everyone across the state gets to see what we see every day.”
Nicole Becker, counselor at Northview Elementary, was also a finalist for the Kansas School Counselor of the Year award.
Olathe Principal Named Counselor Principal Advocate of the Year
Manchester Park Elementary Principal Sean Bohon was named the 2018 Kansas School Counselor Principal Advocate of the Year by the Kansas School Counselor Association.
“Sean represents the high level of support and collaboration our principals provide to building counselors as the support the many needs of students and families in our schools,” Olathe Public Schools Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education Tim Reves said. “We are proud of Sean and to have him represent Olathe Public Schools.”
Olathe North Cross Country Team Wins State Title
The Olathe North High School boys cross country team successfully defended their Kansas 6A state title at Rim Rock Farm in Lawrence, Kansas. This is their second state title in as many years.
“These men are a talented group but something like this doesn’t just happen with talent,” Olathe North cross country coach Levi Huseman said. “It was really awesome to watch them become champions all season long and then for them to get to show everyone else. We are so proud of them.”
Olathe East Student Receives Scholarship from Starlight Theatre
Olathe East High School junior Danielle Woods was awarded one of two $500 scholarships from the Starlight Theatre’s STARS scholarship program. Recipients are students who exemplify outstanding participation and leadership in the Starlight STARS performance troupe.
“Danielle did a phenomenal job on a directing project in acting class last year,” Olathe East Principal Kerry Lane said. “She did a short film that was well thought out, entertaining, with strong attention to detail. She is a diligent student and we are very proud of her.”
Olathe East Soccer Team Wins State Title
Olathe East High School boys soccer team earned the Kansas 6A state title in front of the hometown crowd at the College Boulevard Activities Center in Olathe.
“I am both grateful and thankful; grateful for special players that allow me to be part of this wonderful journey,” Olathe East head soccer coach Terry Hair said. “Thankful for the East soccer family past, present and future that support our program. These memories will last a lifetime. Congratulations 2018 Olathe East soccer for a job well done.”
Three Olathe East Students Named to National Honor Ensembles
Three Olathe East High School students have been named to the National Association for Music Education’s (NAfME) 2018 All-National Honor Ensemble. This ensemble selects performers from across the nation and represents collaboration and creativity in its highest musical form.
Nolan Ralph, senior, has been named to the All-National Honor Ensembles Concert Band. Cora Miller, senior, has been named to the All-National Honor Ensembles Mixed Choir. Evan Kappelman, senior, has been named to the All-National Ensembles Jazz Ensemble.
“We are so proud of our students,” Olathe East Principal Kerry Lane said. “This honor will allow our students to perform with some of the best high school musicians in America.”
