Huge congratulations to Eileen Vlamis on completing the in-person T³™ Teacher Leader Cadre (TLC) in Dallas this past July! 🌟
Eileen spent three intensive days collaborating with top math, science, and STEM educators from across the country. As part of this exclusive Texas Instruments professional learning program, she is taking major steps toward becoming a certified T³™ Instructor.
We are so proud of Eileen's dedication to continuous learning and her commitment to bringing the absolute best educational practices back to her students and colleagues.
#T3TLC #TeacherLeader #STEMEducation #TexasInstruments #MathEd #ScienceEd #ProfessionalDevelopment #440PROUD
Eileen spent three intensive days collaborating with top math, science, and STEM educators from across the country. As part of this exclusive Texas Instruments professional learning program, she is taking major steps toward becoming a certified T³™ Instructor.
We are so proud of Eileen's dedication to continuous learning and her commitment to bringing the absolute best educational practices back to her students and colleagues.
#T3TLC #TeacherLeader #STEMEducation #TexasInstruments #MathEd #ScienceEd #ProfessionalDevelopment #440PROUD
As we prepare for another great school year, the staff of Halstead-Bentley USD #440 came together today for a day of professional learning, collaboration, and planning.
Professional development is more than training—it's an investment in our students and our community. We are grateful for the dedication of our incredible staff who continue to learn, grow, and innovate for the benefit of every Dragon.
Here's to a fantastic school year filled with learning, growth, and success. We can't wait to welcome our students back soon!
We didn't have a "Best T-shirt contest" but it we did, Susan Jacobs would be our winner!
Pictured; left, Susan Jacobs, 7th/8th Special Education Teacher, right, Marcie Carr, Director of Student Learning.
💙🐉 #USD440 #HalsteadBentley #DragonPride #BackToSchool #ProfessionalLearning #GrowingTogether #StudentSuccess #440PROUD
Professional development is more than training—it's an investment in our students and our community. We are grateful for the dedication of our incredible staff who continue to learn, grow, and innovate for the benefit of every Dragon.
Here's to a fantastic school year filled with learning, growth, and success. We can't wait to welcome our students back soon!
We didn't have a "Best T-shirt contest" but it we did, Susan Jacobs would be our winner!
Pictured; left, Susan Jacobs, 7th/8th Special Education Teacher, right, Marcie Carr, Director of Student Learning.
💙🐉 #USD440 #HalsteadBentley #DragonPride #BackToSchool #ProfessionalLearning #GrowingTogether #StudentSuccess #440PROUD
Introducing the new USD #440 staff members!
Back row: Kayla Morris-K-3rd PE/Health, Dalton Luce-4th-6th PE , Ashley Sharbutt-7th-8th PE/Weights, Jared Kirkpatrick-Jr/Sr High School Principal, Kale Schroeder-8th English
Front row: Joyce Sliter-309 Nutrition Owner, Claire Hamlett-Kindergarten, Jordan Soward-5th English, Quinn Torgerson-Intermediate School Counselor, Brenna Wilson-FACS, Macey Mueller-Halstead Chamber of Commerce President.
HUGE thank you to Tessa Wendling & Daphne Mae for hosting the staff and The Halstead Chamber of Commerce for sponsoring breakfast and 309 drinks!
#440PROUD
Back row: Kayla Morris-K-3rd PE/Health, Dalton Luce-4th-6th PE , Ashley Sharbutt-7th-8th PE/Weights, Jared Kirkpatrick-Jr/Sr High School Principal, Kale Schroeder-8th English
Front row: Joyce Sliter-309 Nutrition Owner, Claire Hamlett-Kindergarten, Jordan Soward-5th English, Quinn Torgerson-Intermediate School Counselor, Brenna Wilson-FACS, Macey Mueller-Halstead Chamber of Commerce President.
HUGE thank you to Tessa Wendling & Daphne Mae for hosting the staff and The Halstead Chamber of Commerce for sponsoring breakfast and 309 drinks!
#440PROUD
August Menus!
Join the new USD #440 staff members next Monday at Daphne Mae Cafe for a meet and greet session. The group of new staff will be stopping at Main Street businesses to say hi and introduce themselves.
Skyward has updated the mobile app. If you are still having issues logging in on the app, please check to see if you are on version 3 or higher. If you are not on version 3 or higher, please uninstall and reinstall the app. This will get your app updated and working on the highest version.
Back to School Blast - Thursday, July 30th from Noon-8 pm in the Halstead Junior/Senior High School Auxiliary Gym. Be sure to stop in and get your free school supplies & Dragon drawstring bag! Must be present on Thursday to receive backpack & supplies.
📚 BACK TO SCHOOL BLAST! 🎒
Get Ready for the New School Year!
🗓 Thursday, July 30
🕛 Noon – 8:00 PM
📍HHS Auxiliary Gym
✅ WHAT TO EXPECT
👕 School Information
Get important updates and resources for the upcoming school year.
📋 Enrollment Assistance
Staff will be available to answer questions and help families prepare.
🎒 THOSE THAT ATTEND GET A FREE DRAGON DRAWSTRING BAG FULL OF SCHOOL SUPPLIES!!
✨ DON'T MISS IT!
Be prepared, get connected, and start the school year strong!
Thursday, July 30 | Noon–8:00 PM
📞 QUESTIONS?
316-835-2641
🌐 www.usd440.com
Get Ready for the New School Year!
🗓 Thursday, July 30
🕛 Noon – 8:00 PM
📍HHS Auxiliary Gym
✅ WHAT TO EXPECT
👕 School Information
Get important updates and resources for the upcoming school year.
📋 Enrollment Assistance
Staff will be available to answer questions and help families prepare.
🎒 THOSE THAT ATTEND GET A FREE DRAGON DRAWSTRING BAG FULL OF SCHOOL SUPPLIES!!
✨ DON'T MISS IT!
Be prepared, get connected, and start the school year strong!
Thursday, July 30 | Noon–8:00 PM
📞 QUESTIONS?
316-835-2641
🌐 www.usd440.com
As we prepare to start the school year, we all know that consistent attendance helps students stay on track academically and ensures they can take advantage of every opportunity the school year has to offer.
To help families plan ahead, we have created a 2026-27 Vacation and Long Weekend Planner that highlights school breaks, three-day weekends, and other no-school days throughout the year.
When possible, we encourage families to schedule vacations, appointments, and other events during these planned breaks to minimize missed instructional time.
Thank you for partnering with us to ensure that every day counts and that our students have the opportunity to be present, engaged, and successful throughout the school year.
To help families plan ahead, we have created a 2026-27 Vacation and Long Weekend Planner that highlights school breaks, three-day weekends, and other no-school days throughout the year.
When possible, we encourage families to schedule vacations, appointments, and other events during these planned breaks to minimize missed instructional time.
Thank you for partnering with us to ensure that every day counts and that our students have the opportunity to be present, engaged, and successful throughout the school year.
July Menus
July Menus.
USD 440 is excited to announce the hiring of Mr. Jared Kirkpatrick as the next Principal of Halstead High School for the 2026–2027 school year.
Mr. Kirkpatrick currently serves as the Athletic Director and Middle School Principal in the Haven School District. He has served as an administrator in Haven for the past seven years, which includes valuable experience as a High School Principal. His background provides a strong foundation in instructional leadership, student achievement, and school operations.
Please join us in congratulating and welcoming Mr. Kirkpatrick to the Dragon Family. We look forward to the leadership, experience, and dedication he will bring to Halstead High School and the USD 440 community.
Welcome to Halstead, Mr. Kirkpatrick! Go Dragons!
Mr. Kirkpatrick currently serves as the Athletic Director and Middle School Principal in the Haven School District. He has served as an administrator in Haven for the past seven years, which includes valuable experience as a High School Principal. His background provides a strong foundation in instructional leadership, student achievement, and school operations.
Please join us in congratulating and welcoming Mr. Kirkpatrick to the Dragon Family. We look forward to the leadership, experience, and dedication he will bring to Halstead High School and the USD 440 community.
Welcome to Halstead, Mr. Kirkpatrick! Go Dragons!
Please join us in a come and go reception thanking Dr. Barry for his service to the USD 440 community.
Summer Meals begin June 1. Due to construction, meals will be served from Sacred Heart Center, 414 Locust St, Halstead.
PRESS RELEASE
HALSTEAD, KS — The USD 440 Board of Education is elated to announce the appointment of Mr. Chad Baalman as next Superintendent of Schools of Halstead-Bentley School District, effective July 1, 2026.
Dr. Ron Barry, current Superintendent, will continue in his role through June 30, 2026, ensuring a smooth and stable leadership transition.
Mr. Baalman currently serves as the Halstead High School Principal since 2021. Prior to his role in Halstead, Mr. Baalman served as the Assistant Principal at Liberal High School and a Science teacher at Valley Center High School. Mr. Baalman is married to Holly Baalman who serves as a kindergarten teacher at Bentley Primary School. They have three children in the district.
“USD 440 is a special district and community, and I am excited to continue serving in a new capacity as superintendent. I look forward to working alongside our staff, students, families and Board of Education to provide stability, strengthen relationships, and continue moving the district forward.”
“A proud member of our community and a dedicated leader at Halstead High School for 5 years,” stated Board President Zachary Mabry. “Mr. Baalman has earned the admiration of students, families and staff alike for his guidance, passionate commitment to excellence, and unwavering belief in every child’s potential. This announcement fills us with immense pride and excitement – we know his motivation and proven leadership will inspire even greater success across our district. Welcome to the next chapter, Mr. Baalman!”
The Board of Education extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. Ron Barry for his leadership and dedication to USD 440 Halstead-Bentley Schools and for his support in ensuring a smooth transition.
USD 440 Halstead-Bentley Schools
521 W. 6th St. | Halstead, KS 67056 | (316) 835-2641 | www.usd440.com
HALSTEAD, KS — The USD 440 Board of Education is elated to announce the appointment of Mr. Chad Baalman as next Superintendent of Schools of Halstead-Bentley School District, effective July 1, 2026.
Dr. Ron Barry, current Superintendent, will continue in his role through June 30, 2026, ensuring a smooth and stable leadership transition.
Mr. Baalman currently serves as the Halstead High School Principal since 2021. Prior to his role in Halstead, Mr. Baalman served as the Assistant Principal at Liberal High School and a Science teacher at Valley Center High School. Mr. Baalman is married to Holly Baalman who serves as a kindergarten teacher at Bentley Primary School. They have three children in the district.
“USD 440 is a special district and community, and I am excited to continue serving in a new capacity as superintendent. I look forward to working alongside our staff, students, families and Board of Education to provide stability, strengthen relationships, and continue moving the district forward.”
“A proud member of our community and a dedicated leader at Halstead High School for 5 years,” stated Board President Zachary Mabry. “Mr. Baalman has earned the admiration of students, families and staff alike for his guidance, passionate commitment to excellence, and unwavering belief in every child’s potential. This announcement fills us with immense pride and excitement – we know his motivation and proven leadership will inspire even greater success across our district. Welcome to the next chapter, Mr. Baalman!”
The Board of Education extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. Ron Barry for his leadership and dedication to USD 440 Halstead-Bentley Schools and for his support in ensuring a smooth transition.
USD 440 Halstead-Bentley Schools
521 W. 6th St. | Halstead, KS 67056 | (316) 835-2641 | www.usd440.com
Board to Interview Fourth Superintendent Candidate
Dr. Janet Doud will be interviewing for the position of Superintendent of Schools with the Board of Education on Friday May 8, 2026. Doud is the fourth of four candidate that USD 440 Halstead/Bentley Board of Education will be interviewing. Candidates were selected for interviews based on their fit with desired characteristics that were developed with input from focus groups and an online community survey utilized during the search process.
Janet Doud currently serves as an Assistant Superintendent of Augusta Public Schools. She is in her 4th year in that position. Previously, Doud served as a Building Principal for 2 years.
Dr. Janet Doud will be interviewing for the position of Superintendent of Schools with the Board of Education on Friday May 8, 2026. Doud is the fourth of four candidate that USD 440 Halstead/Bentley Board of Education will be interviewing. Candidates were selected for interviews based on their fit with desired characteristics that were developed with input from focus groups and an online community survey utilized during the search process.
Janet Doud currently serves as an Assistant Superintendent of Augusta Public Schools. She is in her 4th year in that position. Previously, Doud served as a Building Principal for 2 years.
May Menus!
Board to Interview Third Superintendent Candidate
Chad Baalman will be interviewing for the position of Superintendent of Schools with the Board of Education on Thursday May 7, 2026. Baalman is the third of four candidates that USD 440 Halstead/Bentley Board of Education will be interviewing. Candidates were selected for interviews based on their fit with desired characteristics that were developed with input from focus groups and an online community survey utilized during the search process.
Chad Baalman currently serves as a Halstead High School Principal. He is in his 5th year in that position. Previously, Baalman served as an Associate Principal for 3 years.
Chad Baalman will be interviewing for the position of Superintendent of Schools with the Board of Education on Thursday May 7, 2026. Baalman is the third of four candidates that USD 440 Halstead/Bentley Board of Education will be interviewing. Candidates were selected for interviews based on their fit with desired characteristics that were developed with input from focus groups and an online community survey utilized during the search process.
Chad Baalman currently serves as a Halstead High School Principal. He is in his 5th year in that position. Previously, Baalman served as an Associate Principal for 3 years.
🍕🎉 Happy Education Appreciation Week! 🎉🍕
This week, we’re serving up a slice of gratitude for the amazing people who make our schools so special! 💛
Just like a great pizza, it takes everyone to make it perfect:
🍎 Teachers who bring the flavor of learning
🚌 Bus Drivers who keep everything running smoothly
🧹 Custodians who create a clean, welcoming space
📋 Office teams who hold it all together
🍳 Kitchen staff who keep our students fueled and ready to learn
🔧 Maintenance teams who keep everything safe, working, and running strong
🤝 Paraprofessionals who provide extra support, encouragement, and care—helping every student succeed one slice at a time
Each of you is an essential topping—and together, you create something truly incredible! 🙌
Thank you for going the extra mile, day after day. Your hard work, care, and dedication do not go unnoticed—you’re the perfect recipe for student success! 🍕
👏 Let’s give a big, “cheesy” thank you to our education staff this week!
#StaffAppreciation #EducationHeroes #SliceOfSuccess #SchoolFamily #ThankYou #AllHandsOnDeck
This week, we’re serving up a slice of gratitude for the amazing people who make our schools so special! 💛
Just like a great pizza, it takes everyone to make it perfect:
🍎 Teachers who bring the flavor of learning
🚌 Bus Drivers who keep everything running smoothly
🧹 Custodians who create a clean, welcoming space
📋 Office teams who hold it all together
🍳 Kitchen staff who keep our students fueled and ready to learn
🔧 Maintenance teams who keep everything safe, working, and running strong
🤝 Paraprofessionals who provide extra support, encouragement, and care—helping every student succeed one slice at a time
Each of you is an essential topping—and together, you create something truly incredible! 🙌
Thank you for going the extra mile, day after day. Your hard work, care, and dedication do not go unnoticed—you’re the perfect recipe for student success! 🍕
👏 Let’s give a big, “cheesy” thank you to our education staff this week!
#StaffAppreciation #EducationHeroes #SliceOfSuccess #SchoolFamily #ThankYou #AllHandsOnDeck
Board to Interview Second Superintendent Candidate
Brandon Simmelink will be interviewing for the position of Superintendent of Schools with the Board of Education on Tuesday May 5, 2026. Simmelink is the second of four candidates that USD 440 Halstead/Bentley Board of Education will be interviewing. Candidates were selected for interviews based on their fit with desired characteristics that were developed with input from focus groups and an online community survey utilized during the search process.
Brandon Simmelink currently serves as a Principal in USD 373 Newton. He is in his 4th year in that position. Previously, Simmelink served as a McPherson Middle School Principal for 6 years.
Brandon Simmelink will be interviewing for the position of Superintendent of Schools with the Board of Education on Tuesday May 5, 2026. Simmelink is the second of four candidates that USD 440 Halstead/Bentley Board of Education will be interviewing. Candidates were selected for interviews based on their fit with desired characteristics that were developed with input from focus groups and an online community survey utilized during the search process.
Brandon Simmelink currently serves as a Principal in USD 373 Newton. He is in his 4th year in that position. Previously, Simmelink served as a McPherson Middle School Principal for 6 years.
