📣 Calendar Update for Our CHMS Viking Families! 📣
Thanks to our amazing Board of Education adjusting the last day of school to Friday, May 15th (1:00 PM dismissal), we’ve made a few small changes to some of our end-of-the-year events so that everything fits perfectly into the final weeks of school.
🗓️ Please take a moment to check the updated dates and mark your calendars!
We know the end of the year is packed with celebrations, awards, and exciting moments for our students, and we can’t wait to finish the year strong with all of you. 🎉
*We were notified that some of our emails are going to your Spam Folders, so please check those periodically for updates while we troubleshoot what's going on. Thank you!
Thanks to our amazing Board of Education adjusting the last day of school to Friday, May 15th (1:00 PM dismissal), we’ve made a few small changes to some of our end-of-the-year events so that everything fits perfectly into the final weeks of school.
🗓️ Please take a moment to check the updated dates and mark your calendars!
We know the end of the year is packed with celebrations, awards, and exciting moments for our students, and we can’t wait to finish the year strong with all of you. 🎉
*We were notified that some of our emails are going to your Spam Folders, so please check those periodically for updates while we troubleshoot what's going on. Thank you!
Calendar Update: Good news for our Central Heights families.
Because we did not need all of our built-in snow days this year, the Board of Education approved an adjustment to the school calendar at the April meeting. This allows us to return two days to our students and families.
The last day of school is now Friday, May 15, with an early release at 1:00 PM.
Building principals will share any updated information regarding end-of-year activities in the coming days.
We appreciate your continued support and partnership as we work to make the most of our school year!
Because we did not need all of our built-in snow days this year, the Board of Education approved an adjustment to the school calendar at the April meeting. This allows us to return two days to our students and families.
The last day of school is now Friday, May 15, with an early release at 1:00 PM.
Building principals will share any updated information regarding end-of-year activities in the coming days.
We appreciate your continued support and partnership as we work to make the most of our school year!
Senior Spotlight Class of 2026: Brynleigh Morrow
Meet Brynleigh Morrow! Brynleigh has been an active member of Central Heights High School, participating in Dance, Volleyball, Softball, Track, and FFA. Her favorite memory was scoring the winning point in a volleyball match without realizing it. Brynleigh plans to attend Neosho County Community College to study nursing. Her advice to underclassmen is to “Manage your time wisely between social activities and academic activities.” Congratulations Brynleigh! Fantastic job!
Meet Brynleigh Morrow! Brynleigh has been an active member of Central Heights High School, participating in Dance, Volleyball, Softball, Track, and FFA. Her favorite memory was scoring the winning point in a volleyball match without realizing it. Brynleigh plans to attend Neosho County Community College to study nursing. Her advice to underclassmen is to “Manage your time wisely between social activities and academic activities.” Congratulations Brynleigh! Fantastic job!
Just a quick reminder, Daddy Daughter Dance forms are due tomorrow.
We’re looking forward to a fun afternoon on April 19 and hope to see lots of our Vikings there!
Senior Spotlight Class of 2026: Alaina Wade
Alaina has spent her time at Central Heights involved in Volleyball, Basketball, Cheer, Track, Softball, Powerlifting, FFA, Choir, and has created great memories playing sports with her friends. After high school, Alaina plans to attend the University of Saint Mary. Alaina’s advice to younger classmen is: “Don’t give any attention to the haters.” We are so proud of you, Alaina! Fabulous job!
Alaina has spent her time at Central Heights involved in Volleyball, Basketball, Cheer, Track, Softball, Powerlifting, FFA, Choir, and has created great memories playing sports with her friends. After high school, Alaina plans to attend the University of Saint Mary. Alaina’s advice to younger classmen is: “Don’t give any attention to the haters.” We are so proud of you, Alaina! Fabulous job!
Yesterday we got to celebrate senior Alaina Wade, and her commitment to continue her cheer career at the University of St. Mary while she pursues Psychology. Congratulations!
Central Heights has again been named as a Class 2A - All Star High School for 2026!
Students at these high schools receive dedicated support in completing college and/or job applications, seeking financial aid, and celebrating all postsecondary pathways.
This annual initiative fosters a lasting college-going culture, empowering the entire school community to champion students' futures!
Students at these high schools receive dedicated support in completing college and/or job applications, seeking financial aid, and celebrating all postsecondary pathways.
This annual initiative fosters a lasting college-going culture, empowering the entire school community to champion students' futures!
We are excited to share that we are exploring the possibility of offering a full-day 4-year-old PreKindergarten program beginning in the 2026–2027 school year!
Following our PreKindergarten Round-Up on April 2nd, we are asking families who plan to enroll their child in PreK next year to please take a moment to complete a short survey. Your feedback will help us better understand interest and guide our planning. If you have already taken this survey, please do not do it again.
Attached, you will find a sample of what a full day could look like for your student.
With construction on our new Early Learning Center beginning soon, this is an exciting step toward the future of early learning at CHES. Thank you for helping us shape this opportunity for our youngest learners!
https://forms.gle/md6qM7cg9bXJ4FQY9 - Survey
Following our PreKindergarten Round-Up on April 2nd, we are asking families who plan to enroll their child in PreK next year to please take a moment to complete a short survey. Your feedback will help us better understand interest and guide our planning. If you have already taken this survey, please do not do it again.
Attached, you will find a sample of what a full day could look like for your student.
With construction on our new Early Learning Center beginning soon, this is an exciting step toward the future of early learning at CHES. Thank you for helping us shape this opportunity for our youngest learners!
https://forms.gle/md6qM7cg9bXJ4FQY9 - Survey
Senior Spotlight Class of 2026: Lyla Hamblin.
Lyla has been a big part of Central Heights through Volleyball, Softball, Yearbook, FCCLA, Student Council (secretary 11th grade/ president 12th grade), Student Lighthouse, Cheer, Drama, FFA, Class Vice President, and Prom Committee.
She has also achieved in the top 10% in English, Social Studies, Anatomy, Physiology, American History, Algebra 2, and Geometry. After graduating, Lyla plans on attending the University of Saint Mary.
One of Lyla’s favorite memories was winning 3 regional championships in softball. She leaves underclassmen with this advice: “Surround yourself with the best people possible.”
Let’s hear it for Lyla Hamblin! Congratulations!
Lyla has been a big part of Central Heights through Volleyball, Softball, Yearbook, FCCLA, Student Council (secretary 11th grade/ president 12th grade), Student Lighthouse, Cheer, Drama, FFA, Class Vice President, and Prom Committee.
She has also achieved in the top 10% in English, Social Studies, Anatomy, Physiology, American History, Algebra 2, and Geometry. After graduating, Lyla plans on attending the University of Saint Mary.
One of Lyla’s favorite memories was winning 3 regional championships in softball. She leaves underclassmen with this advice: “Surround yourself with the best people possible.”
Let’s hear it for Lyla Hamblin! Congratulations!
🎶🏆 2026 KSHSAA Regional Solo & Small Ensemble Festival Recap 🏆🎶
This past Saturday, March 28, was an incredible day for our Central Heights Music students at the 2026 KSHSAA Regional Solo & Small Ensemble Festival!
We had 27 students participate in 29 total performances throughout the day, including 19 solos and 10 small ensembles. It was a full day of outstanding musicianship, dedication, and truly AMAZING performances from all of our students.
We are incredibly proud to announce that 20 of our 27 students punched their ticket to State by earning First Division I Ratings!
⭐ 14 Solos received Outstanding I Ratings and qualified for State
⭐ 6 Small Ensembles received Outstanding I Ratings and qualified for State
⭐ 5 Solos earned Excellent II Ratings
⭐ 4 Small Ensembles earned Excellent II Ratings
🥇 State Qualifiers – First Division I Ratings
Benjamin Wuertz – Trumpet Solo
Arlen Underwood – Euphonium Solo
Tate Smith – Tuba Solo
Kinsley Shaffer – Tuba Solo
Avery Coble – Horn Solo
Rhyana Coble – Trumpet Solo
Central Heights Brass Quintet – Knox Cannady, Mathew Dunbar, Jenna Jumet, Kinsley Shaffer, Benjamin Wuertz
Swing Group – Dalainy Coble, Arabella Dunbar, Liley Elsasser, Jenna Jumet, Mya Jumet, Alyson Roll, Kelsie Wilson
Treble Quartet – Arabella Dunbar, Liley Elsasser, Jenna Jumet, Kelsie Wilson
Central Heights Saxophone Trio – Aydan Dunbar, Brooks Hamilton, Tristen McRoberts
Brooks Hamilton – Alto Saxophone Solo
Mya Jumet – Clarinet Solo
Arabella Dunbar – Vocal Solo
Jenna Jumet – Vocal Solo
Liley Elsasser – Vocal Solo
Mya Jumet – Vocal Solo
Central Heights Saxophone Quartet – Aydan Dunbar, Brooks Hamilton, Tristen McRoberts, Willis Miller
Arabella Dunbar – Flute Solo
Brooks Hamilton – Tenor Sax Solo
Central Heights Flute Trio – Arabella Dunbar, Alyssa Powell, Alyssa Powell
⭐ Performances Receiving Excellent II Ratings
Leah Masters – Vocal Solo
Ian Fox – Vocal Solo
Elska Trio – Dalainy Coble, Mya Jumet, Alyson Roll
Knox Cannady – Horn Solo
Willis Miller – Marimba Solo
Josiah Meyer – Xylophone Solo
Central Heights Trumpet Trio – Mathew Dunbar, Ebony Hughes, Benjamin Wuertz
Central Heights Mallet Duet – Josiah Meyer & Willis Miller
Central Heights Brass Trio – Emma Baker, Rhyana Coble, Ella Stinson
Kaylyn Lee – Vocal Solo
These students have put in countless hours of practice over the past three months—some even since the beginning of the school year. Their dedication truly showed in their performances. These kids set high goals for themselves and absolutely knocked it out of the park! They came, they conquered, and they left their mark. One judge was so impressed with the talent from Central Heights that she even asked what we put in the water at our school!
We love that our students have built a reputation for high-quality musicianship and that the Central Heights music program is known and respected across the state. We could not be prouder of them!
🎶 State Festival:
All State qualifiers will compete at the KSHSAA 3A State Solo & Small Ensemble Festival on April 25 at Southeast of Saline High School in Gypsum, KS. We cannot wait to hear these amazing musicians perform on the state stage!
🙌 Special Thank You
A huge thank you to Kristy Hamilton for serving as our third director/driver for the day. Having an extra set of hands with this many students was incredibly helpful. Our phenomenal accompanist Carol Cooper, who played beautifully for 22 of our performances—the maximum number allowed by KSHSAA for one accompanist! We truly could not have done it without her. And to all of the parents and families who traveled to Independence to support our AMAZING music students.
It was truly a great day to be a Viking! 🎶💙💛
This past Saturday, March 28, was an incredible day for our Central Heights Music students at the 2026 KSHSAA Regional Solo & Small Ensemble Festival!
We had 27 students participate in 29 total performances throughout the day, including 19 solos and 10 small ensembles. It was a full day of outstanding musicianship, dedication, and truly AMAZING performances from all of our students.
We are incredibly proud to announce that 20 of our 27 students punched their ticket to State by earning First Division I Ratings!
⭐ 14 Solos received Outstanding I Ratings and qualified for State
⭐ 6 Small Ensembles received Outstanding I Ratings and qualified for State
⭐ 5 Solos earned Excellent II Ratings
⭐ 4 Small Ensembles earned Excellent II Ratings
🥇 State Qualifiers – First Division I Ratings
Benjamin Wuertz – Trumpet Solo
Arlen Underwood – Euphonium Solo
Tate Smith – Tuba Solo
Kinsley Shaffer – Tuba Solo
Avery Coble – Horn Solo
Rhyana Coble – Trumpet Solo
Central Heights Brass Quintet – Knox Cannady, Mathew Dunbar, Jenna Jumet, Kinsley Shaffer, Benjamin Wuertz
Swing Group – Dalainy Coble, Arabella Dunbar, Liley Elsasser, Jenna Jumet, Mya Jumet, Alyson Roll, Kelsie Wilson
Treble Quartet – Arabella Dunbar, Liley Elsasser, Jenna Jumet, Kelsie Wilson
Central Heights Saxophone Trio – Aydan Dunbar, Brooks Hamilton, Tristen McRoberts
Brooks Hamilton – Alto Saxophone Solo
Mya Jumet – Clarinet Solo
Arabella Dunbar – Vocal Solo
Jenna Jumet – Vocal Solo
Liley Elsasser – Vocal Solo
Mya Jumet – Vocal Solo
Central Heights Saxophone Quartet – Aydan Dunbar, Brooks Hamilton, Tristen McRoberts, Willis Miller
Arabella Dunbar – Flute Solo
Brooks Hamilton – Tenor Sax Solo
Central Heights Flute Trio – Arabella Dunbar, Alyssa Powell, Alyssa Powell
⭐ Performances Receiving Excellent II Ratings
Leah Masters – Vocal Solo
Ian Fox – Vocal Solo
Elska Trio – Dalainy Coble, Mya Jumet, Alyson Roll
Knox Cannady – Horn Solo
Willis Miller – Marimba Solo
Josiah Meyer – Xylophone Solo
Central Heights Trumpet Trio – Mathew Dunbar, Ebony Hughes, Benjamin Wuertz
Central Heights Mallet Duet – Josiah Meyer & Willis Miller
Central Heights Brass Trio – Emma Baker, Rhyana Coble, Ella Stinson
Kaylyn Lee – Vocal Solo
These students have put in countless hours of practice over the past three months—some even since the beginning of the school year. Their dedication truly showed in their performances. These kids set high goals for themselves and absolutely knocked it out of the park! They came, they conquered, and they left their mark. One judge was so impressed with the talent from Central Heights that she even asked what we put in the water at our school!
We love that our students have built a reputation for high-quality musicianship and that the Central Heights music program is known and respected across the state. We could not be prouder of them!
🎶 State Festival:
All State qualifiers will compete at the KSHSAA 3A State Solo & Small Ensemble Festival on April 25 at Southeast of Saline High School in Gypsum, KS. We cannot wait to hear these amazing musicians perform on the state stage!
🙌 Special Thank You
A huge thank you to Kristy Hamilton for serving as our third director/driver for the day. Having an extra set of hands with this many students was incredibly helpful. Our phenomenal accompanist Carol Cooper, who played beautifully for 22 of our performances—the maximum number allowed by KSHSAA for one accompanist! We truly could not have done it without her. And to all of the parents and families who traveled to Independence to support our AMAZING music students.
It was truly a great day to be a Viking! 🎶💙💛
High school finished their spring group at New Horizon Ranch today, after six weeks of challenging work approaching topics including respect, communication, trust, teamwork, and leadership. These students experienced several "firsts" and eye opening experiences. In the words of one participant it was the "highlight of every week." Who says learning can't be both challenging and fun!?
This week we got to celebrate Lyla Hamblin and her commitment to continue her volleyball career at the University of St. Mary while she pursues Pre-Physical Therapy after graduation. Congratulations and best wishes on your journey, Lyla!
Senior Spotlight Class of 2026: Kaiden Reeder
While attending Central Heights throughout high school, Kaiden Reeder participated in Baseball, Basketball, Band, FFA, and Trapshooting. After Kaiden graduates, he plans on attending Flint Hills Technical College for Automotive Technology. Kaiden’s favorite memory from Central Heights was winning a lip-sync battle in front of the entire school during his senior year. If he had any advice for underclassmen, it would be to always maintain a positive attitude.
Congratulations, Kaiden! We are incredibly proud of you!
While attending Central Heights throughout high school, Kaiden Reeder participated in Baseball, Basketball, Band, FFA, and Trapshooting. After Kaiden graduates, he plans on attending Flint Hills Technical College for Automotive Technology. Kaiden’s favorite memory from Central Heights was winning a lip-sync battle in front of the entire school during his senior year. If he had any advice for underclassmen, it would be to always maintain a positive attitude.
Congratulations, Kaiden! We are incredibly proud of you!
Senior Spotlight Class of 2026: Adam Mell-Tomberlin.
During Adam’s time at Central Heights, he has participated in Cross Country, Track, Yearbook, and Graphic Design. After Adam graduates from high school, he plans on going straight into the workforce. Adam’s favorite memory from Central Heights was witnessing Jesse draw a dinosaur on his earth and space assignment paper and getting an A just for the drawing, his freshman year. Adam’s advice to underclassmen is: “Whatever you do, do it with 100% effort.” Another great senior to celebrate and congratulate. We’d love to see your well-wishes! We are incredibly proud of you, Adam!
During Adam’s time at Central Heights, he has participated in Cross Country, Track, Yearbook, and Graphic Design. After Adam graduates from high school, he plans on going straight into the workforce. Adam’s favorite memory from Central Heights was witnessing Jesse draw a dinosaur on his earth and space assignment paper and getting an A just for the drawing, his freshman year. Adam’s advice to underclassmen is: “Whatever you do, do it with 100% effort.” Another great senior to celebrate and congratulate. We’d love to see your well-wishes! We are incredibly proud of you, Adam!
Elementary Face Painting Dates
Game day at home!
Central Heights baseball hosts Jayhawk Linn with games starting at 4:30 pm.
Hope to see you at the field!
Central Heights baseball hosts Jayhawk Linn with games starting at 4:30 pm.
Hope to see you at the field!
Back at home tonight!
Central Heights softball takes on Jayhawk Linn with a 4:30 pm doubleheader.
Come out and support the Vikings!
Central Heights softball takes on Jayhawk Linn with a 4:30 pm doubleheader.
Come out and support the Vikings!
On Friday, Central Heights students interested in the Automotive Technology program offered through Flint Hills Technical College in Garnett were given the opportunity to tour and learn more about the two-year hands on program that leads to ASE certification.
We’re excited to announce the Central Heights High School Cheer Team for the 2026–27 school year!
We're excited to see them in action on the sidelines, at pep rallies, and across school events next year!
Congratulations to each of these athletes on being selected.
Go Vikings!
It’s time to start shining a light on the Class of 2026!
We’re excited to highlight this group of seniors and all they’ve brought to Central Heights. No particular order, just a chance to celebrate them one by one. Every school day leading up to graduation, we’ll feature a different senior.
First up, Kreig Garrett!
Senior Spotlight Class of 2026: Kreig Garrett.
During his time at Central Heights High School, Kreig participated in Baseball, Basketball, Trapshooting, and FFA. Kreig plans to join the workforce after graduation. Kreig explains his most meaningful experience at Central Heights would have to be his freshman year in baseball, when we swept Lebo in a walk-off fashion, then afterwards the baseball team all jumped in the school pond. The advice Kreig would give to the underclassmen would be to live life to its absolute fullest. Fabulous job, Kreig! We are so proud of you!
This year’s senior spotlights are being created by seniors Adam Mell-Tomberlin and Aidan Howland, with Adam designing the graphics and Aidan writing each feature.
We’re excited to highlight this group of seniors and all they’ve brought to Central Heights. No particular order, just a chance to celebrate them one by one. Every school day leading up to graduation, we’ll feature a different senior.
First up, Kreig Garrett!
Senior Spotlight Class of 2026: Kreig Garrett.
During his time at Central Heights High School, Kreig participated in Baseball, Basketball, Trapshooting, and FFA. Kreig plans to join the workforce after graduation. Kreig explains his most meaningful experience at Central Heights would have to be his freshman year in baseball, when we swept Lebo in a walk-off fashion, then afterwards the baseball team all jumped in the school pond. The advice Kreig would give to the underclassmen would be to live life to its absolute fullest. Fabulous job, Kreig! We are so proud of you!
This year’s senior spotlights are being created by seniors Adam Mell-Tomberlin and Aidan Howland, with Adam designing the graphics and Aidan writing each feature.
