From the desk of Larry Schmidt:

10/18/2007

    Abilene Public Schools, USD 435, is focused on student achievement. With a strong teaching and support staff, students excel both in and out of the classroom. USD 435 schools foster an environment that supports the needs of all students. A wide range of activities are available to students including academic and athletic teams, after school programs for K-8 students, summer school for 6-12 students and credit recovery for high school students. All schools are accredited through the state of Kansas QPA process. All schools have met Adequate Yearly Progress standards met by state and federal legislation. USD 435 and the city collaborated to form a Recreation Commission that provides seasonal recreational activities for both children and adults.  USD 435 Schools offer parents access to their student’s grades, attendance, lunch counts, etc. using Power School. Students have access to services from school counselors, school nurses, special education and food service. 

    The community of Abilene has a colorful history that dates from the pioneer cattle days when great herds of longhorns were driven overland from Texas to Abilene, the western terminus of the first railroad through Kansas. Abilene has grown from a small cow town community to a thriving town of 6,800 with a diverse economic base. Thousands of visitors from around the world travel to Abilene each year to tour museums, attractions, and mansions in the hometown of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Abilene, today, is a city of prospering businesses, expanding housing developments, good schools, churches and excellent recreational facilities with activities for both adults and children.