News
![Graphic with the text “Arkansas City Public Schools – Help Shape Our Future.” A line of elementary-age students with backpacks walks down a school hallway. Text reads, “Parents and community members are invited to share feedback.” A purple button at the bottom says, “Take Our Superintendent Survey,” with a clipboard icon nearby.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768945297/usd470com/uowpfzmgkdigw8dgnjxd/SuptSurveyWebPhoto.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1768945297/usd470com/uowpfzmgkdigw8dgnjxd/SuptSurveyWebPhoto.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768945297/usd470com/uowpfzmgkdigw8dgnjxd/SuptSurveyWebPhoto.png","width":800}])
Arkansas City Public Schools (USD 470) has launched the search for its next superintendent and is inviting parents, students, staff, and community members to share input.
The Board of Education is partnering with ESSDACK to guide the process. Community feedback will help shape the leadership profile used to screen and interview candidates.
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![Graphic announcing Arkansas City Public Schools superintendent search. Text reads “Apply by February 18, 2026” with link essdack.org/470supsearch. Photo collage shows students learning, performing, and working together.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768251699/usd470com/mtff1jtjojdixevignwn/WebNewsStoryImage800x867px.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1768251699/usd470com/mtff1jtjojdixevignwn/WebNewsStoryImage800x867px.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768251699/usd470com/mtff1jtjojdixevignwn/WebNewsStoryImage800x867px.png","width":800}])
Arkansas City Public Schools (USD 470) is seeking its next superintendent. The district serves about 3,000 students across eight schools and is supported by a strong community and dedicated staff. With recent bond projects approved for safety, facilities, and early learning, USD 470 is well-positioned for the future. Applications are due February 18, 2026.
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![Arkansas City High School Band Director Chris VanGilder stands at the front of a band classroom holding a plaque as Superintendent Dr. Ron Ballard congratulates him. Students seated with their instruments face the two men. A whiteboard, classroom posters, and an Arkansas City Marching Band banner are visible in the background.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1764601489/usd470com/pgwrbvpd8sstog7ffhw3/VanGilder.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1764601489/usd470com/pgwrbvpd8sstog7ffhw3/VanGilder.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1764601489/usd470com/pgwrbvpd8sstog7ffhw3/VanGilder.png","width":800}])
We could not be prouder of Mr. VanGilder! 
Congratulations on being named the SCKMEA Outstanding High School Music Educator for 2025–2026!
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![Arkansas City High School student intern assists medical staff during a patient care activity at South Central Kansas Medical Center. The student, dressed in black scrubs, observes as a nurse wraps a patient’s arm while another staff member smiles and provides support. The scene shows hands-on learning in a hospital setting.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1762536536/usd470com/o7takcuumgubzzfxbsfj/NewsStoryImage_3.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1762536536/usd470com/o7takcuumgubzzfxbsfj/NewsStoryImage_3.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1762536536/usd470com/o7takcuumgubzzfxbsfj/NewsStoryImage_3.png","width":800}])
Arkansas City High School’s internship program is helping students connect classroom lessons with real-world experience. The growing program lets upperclassmen explore careers, build professional skills, and discover their passions. Our students are gaining valuable insight and confidence as they prepare for life after graduation.
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![Graphic reading “THANK YOU! For passing both bond propositions!” in bold gold and white text on a purple background with subtle wave patterns. Below the text is a collage of Arkansas City Public Schools students engaged in various classroom activities — including art, music, science, and group projects — showing joy and collaboration. The bottom banner displays “Arkansas City Public Schools” and “usd470.com/district/bond” in gold text on a purple background.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1762371817/usd470com/iuirsudakwlwmv0rdwlb/NewsStoryImage_1.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1762371817/usd470com/iuirsudakwlwmv0rdwlb/NewsStoryImage_1.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1762371817/usd470com/iuirsudakwlwmv0rdwlb/NewsStoryImage_1.png","width":800}])
Voters have approved both Proposition 1 and Proposition 2 in the USD 470 bond election, paving the way for safer, more modern, and more inspiring learning environments across the district.
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![A smiling Arkansas City High School drum major in a purple and gold marching band uniform performs under the stadium lights during a nighttime show.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1761049697/usd470com/srztduucmfrlecsnf186/Ophelia.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1761049697/usd470com/srztduucmfrlecsnf186/Ophelia.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1761049697/usd470com/srztduucmfrlecsnf186/Ophelia.png","width":800}])
This year’s ACHS Bulldog Marching Band show brings local history to life through music inspired by the ancient Etzanoa settlement near Arkansas City. The band will perform during the Arkalalah Band Festival at 7:30 p.m., followed by the light show.
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![man in suit jacket holds up school door while reaching out to high-five a student.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1759368758/usd470com/baftmf13pmrmowpjzxwx/Entrance.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1759368758/usd470com/baftmf13pmrmowpjzxwx/Entrance.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1759368758/usd470com/baftmf13pmrmowpjzxwx/Entrance.png","width":800}])
USD 470 is prioritizing student safety in the upcoming bond election. On Nov. 4, 2025, voters will decide on Proposition 1, a $52.7 million proposal to add secure entrances at ACMS, Roosevelt, and Adams, plus a storm shelter at ACMS. The bond would also update heating, cooling, and roofing at older schools.
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![A group of young children plays together on a classroom floor with a large wooden dollhouse, toy figurines, and a yellow toy school bus.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1758891515/usd470com/vnznzxtvjpaerbefmtux/NewsStoryImage.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1758891515/usd470com/vnznzxtvjpaerbefmtux/NewsStoryImage.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1758891515/usd470com/vnznzxtvjpaerbefmtux/NewsStoryImage.png","width":800}])
Arkansas City Public Schools is asking voters to consider two bond propositions on Nov. 4, 2025, that would improve safety, modernize facilities, and expand early learning opportunities. Proposition 1 funds districtwide safety and infrastructure upgrades, including renovations to the middle school. Proposition 2 funds a centralized Pre-K center — but it can only pass if Proposition 1 is approved.
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![A student smiles as she places her secured phone pouch onto a round unlocking device on a purple cart in a school hallway. A staff member stands nearby holding a key, overseeing the process. Other students are visible in the background near lockers.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1758808933/usd470com/u9jxwx4f8kdgkvv2y1kz/cellphoneunlock.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1758808933/usd470com/u9jxwx4f8kdgkvv2y1kz/cellphoneunlock.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1758808933/usd470com/u9jxwx4f8kdgkvv2y1kz/cellphoneunlock.png","width":800}])
Ark City schools are seeing early success with their “Disconnect to Reconnect” phone policy. Since August, students have been putting phones away during the school day, creating calmer classrooms, stronger connections, and more focused learning. Teachers and students alike report fewer distractions, better engagement, and a stronger sense of community.
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