Severe Weather Update
Out of an abundance of caution, Central Heights will have an early dismissal today at 2:30 PM due to the forecasted severe weather.
Our goal is to ensure that all students and staff can return home safely before conditions worsen.
If you need to pick up your student earlier than 2:30 PM, please contact the school office to make arrangements.
Thank you for your flexibility and support as we prioritize student safety.
Out of an abundance of caution, Central Heights will have an early dismissal today at 2:30 PM due to the forecasted severe weather.
Our goal is to ensure that all students and staff can return home safely before conditions worsen.
If you need to pick up your student earlier than 2:30 PM, please contact the school office to make arrangements.
Thank you for your flexibility and support as we prioritize student safety.
Central Heights Inducts Two into Ring of Honor
The Central Heights Ring of Honor welcomed two new members during a ceremony held Saturday, April 11, celebrating individuals whose impact on the school and community continues to be felt for generations.
This year’s inductees, Kevin Tooley and Paul Haney, represent a tradition of service, dedication, and lasting influence. The honor is awarded every other year to community members who have made meaningful contributions to Central Heights.
Tooley dedicated 16 years to Central Heights as a social studies teacher and coach, leading both football and track while building strong relationships with students and athletes. His service to the school continued long after his time in the classroom, as he served on the Board of Education for 14 years. Today, Tooley remains active in the community as a member of the Richmond City Council and as a spotter for Ottawa University athletics. His connection to Central Heights also runs through his family, as his children are graduates of the school.
Haney, a 1975 graduate and lifelong community member, has spent decades supporting Central Heights programs. He has kept the high school basketball scorebook since 1991, a role that reflects both commitment and consistency. Beyond the gym, Haney has made a significant impact on student opportunities. He donated pasture land for the cross-country team to use for training and competition, and has provided hands-on learning experiences for FFA students by opening his farm for livestock-judging practice. In addition to his involvement with the school, Haney serves the community as a farmer, tax preparer, member of Ruhamah Baptist Church, and a member of the Pottawatomie Township board.
Together, Tooley and Haney exemplify the spirit of the Ring of Honor through their continued support, leadership, and commitment to Central Heights. Their contributions have shaped programs, supported students, and strengthened the community.
More than anything, their stories reflect a commitment to giving back and making Central Heights a better place for the next generation.
Photo credit: Kinzie Matile
The Central Heights Ring of Honor welcomed two new members during a ceremony held Saturday, April 11, celebrating individuals whose impact on the school and community continues to be felt for generations.
This year’s inductees, Kevin Tooley and Paul Haney, represent a tradition of service, dedication, and lasting influence. The honor is awarded every other year to community members who have made meaningful contributions to Central Heights.
Tooley dedicated 16 years to Central Heights as a social studies teacher and coach, leading both football and track while building strong relationships with students and athletes. His service to the school continued long after his time in the classroom, as he served on the Board of Education for 14 years. Today, Tooley remains active in the community as a member of the Richmond City Council and as a spotter for Ottawa University athletics. His connection to Central Heights also runs through his family, as his children are graduates of the school.
Haney, a 1975 graduate and lifelong community member, has spent decades supporting Central Heights programs. He has kept the high school basketball scorebook since 1991, a role that reflects both commitment and consistency. Beyond the gym, Haney has made a significant impact on student opportunities. He donated pasture land for the cross-country team to use for training and competition, and has provided hands-on learning experiences for FFA students by opening his farm for livestock-judging practice. In addition to his involvement with the school, Haney serves the community as a farmer, tax preparer, member of Ruhamah Baptist Church, and a member of the Pottawatomie Township board.
Together, Tooley and Haney exemplify the spirit of the Ring of Honor through their continued support, leadership, and commitment to Central Heights. Their contributions have shaped programs, supported students, and strengthened the community.
More than anything, their stories reflect a commitment to giving back and making Central Heights a better place for the next generation.
Photo credit: Kinzie Matile
MEET DAY
Central Heights MS Track and Field is headed to Jayhawk Linn!
2:00 PM – Field Events
4:00 PM – 3200m
4:45 PM – Running Events
Let’s go, Vikings!
Central Heights MS Track and Field is headed to Jayhawk Linn!
2:00 PM – Field Events
4:00 PM – 3200m
4:45 PM – Running Events
Let’s go, Vikings!
Greater KC Science Fair Success!
On April 8, Mrs. Degraaf took seven Central Heights students to compete at the Greater Kansas City Science Fair, joining students from across Kansas and Missouri.
After setting up their projects, the group explored Union Station and enjoyed a fun lunch at Fritz's Railroad Restaurant before heading back for judging. During the judging session, each student presented their project and shared their hard work with the judges.
We are proud to share that every Central Heights student earned a silver ribbon, an incredible accomplishment in a highly competitive field!
Congratulations to:
Ella Stinson
Emma Baker
Kelsie Wilson
Mya Jumet
Gabriel Carmack-Roberts
Timothy Carmack-Roberts
Aryanna Smith
A big thank you to Mrs. Degraaf for creating opportunities like this and continuing to inspire a love of science in our students.
Way to represent, Vikings!
CH4 Broadcast story and Photos by Timothy Carmack-Roberts
On April 8, Mrs. Degraaf took seven Central Heights students to compete at the Greater Kansas City Science Fair, joining students from across Kansas and Missouri.
After setting up their projects, the group explored Union Station and enjoyed a fun lunch at Fritz's Railroad Restaurant before heading back for judging. During the judging session, each student presented their project and shared their hard work with the judges.
We are proud to share that every Central Heights student earned a silver ribbon, an incredible accomplishment in a highly competitive field!
Congratulations to:
Ella Stinson
Emma Baker
Kelsie Wilson
Mya Jumet
Gabriel Carmack-Roberts
Timothy Carmack-Roberts
Aryanna Smith
A big thank you to Mrs. Degraaf for creating opportunities like this and continuing to inspire a love of science in our students.
Way to represent, Vikings!
CH4 Broadcast story and Photos by Timothy Carmack-Roberts
Senior Spotlight Class of 2026: Graham Higbie
Graham made the most of his time at Central Heights through Football, Basketball, Track & Field, FFA, Band, and Drama. After graduation, he plans to attend Kansas State University for Sports and Media. Graham's favorite memories came from FFA trips and announcing at basketball games. Graham encourages underclassmen, “Whatever you do, give all glory to your God.” Congrats, Graham, your future is just getting started!
Graham made the most of his time at Central Heights through Football, Basketball, Track & Field, FFA, Band, and Drama. After graduation, he plans to attend Kansas State University for Sports and Media. Graham's favorite memories came from FFA trips and announcing at basketball games. Graham encourages underclassmen, “Whatever you do, give all glory to your God.” Congrats, Graham, your future is just getting started!
Join our counseling staff for the final "Coffee with the Counselors" event of the year - this Friday. Enjoy coffee on us while we share resource ideas for parents and kids to carry us all through summer and set everyone up for a smooth transition back in the fall!
Senior Spotlight Class of 2026: Mitchell Snow
Mitchell has been involved in FFA, Football, Scholars´ Bowl, and Drama during his time at Central Heights. After graduating, he plans to go straight into the workforce. Mitchell’s favorite memory was his 4 years of FFA and the people he experienced it with. Mitchell’s advice to younger classmates is “Stay in school as much as possible.”
Fantastic job, Mitchell. Wishing you the best!
Mitchell has been involved in FFA, Football, Scholars´ Bowl, and Drama during his time at Central Heights. After graduating, he plans to go straight into the workforce. Mitchell’s favorite memory was his 4 years of FFA and the people he experienced it with. Mitchell’s advice to younger classmates is “Stay in school as much as possible.”
Fantastic job, Mitchell. Wishing you the best!
The Vikings are back on the field!
Central Heights heads to Pleasanton for a Monday doubleheader with a 2:00 p.m. start. Looking forward to a great day of baseball!
Central Heights heads to Pleasanton for a Monday doubleheader with a 2:00 p.m. start. Looking forward to a great day of baseball!
📣 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!
