Survey participants had the opportunity to provide feedback about district services, identify strengths and areas for improvement, share concerns and more. The community survey helped the district better understand community members’ perceptions of SPS.

“Salina&nbsp;Public&nbsp;Schools&nbsp;is a vital part of our community,” said Linn Exline, superintendent. “We use the community feedback to keep our district closely aligned with the expectations and values of those we serve.”

The results were shared at the December 10 Board of Education meeting. Jennifer Camien, SPS communications director, told board members that the Salina community regards SPS as an exemplary student resource and a source of pride for patrons.

Scoring highest on a grading scale were:

⦁ Quality of school facilities ⦁ Safety of students ⦁ Preparation of students for college, career/technical training or employment ⦁ Performance of teachers ⦁ District’s efforts to communicate with patrons

Additionally, a good curriculum and teachers topped the list of strengths based on an open-ended question

. “We are proud of our teachers’ dedication and commitment to our students,” said Exline. “Their work drives academic growth and creates a supportive environment where every student can thrive.”

Another open-ended question asked what needs improvement and the top answers were spending/budget, don’t know and communications. The survey results help the district refine its strategies and communication plans to better serve SPS students, families and the broader community.

Survey respondents were asked what the district’s priority should be.

⦁ Providing a good education. ⦁ Teaching life/practice skills. ⦁ Providing a safe environment for all

The survey revealed awareness of student opportunities such as CTE, clubs, athletics, fine arts and more. There was also good awareness of the special programs offered in elementary schools, such as libraries run by library media specialists and certified art teachers who teach art, PE and music classes.

“Being the largest district in the area, we offer a vast range of opportunities for students – there is something for everyone at SPS,” said Exline. “Our elementary students have art, physical education, science/social studies and library each week. The special programs are layered into our elementary curriculum.”&nbsp;

Other results included participants’ view of SPS as a workplace. Eighty-one percent indicated it was an excellent or good place to work. When asked what participants would like to hear more about from the school, the top answers were:

⦁ Career and technical education. ⦁ School safety measures. ⦁ Preparation for college, career, military, etc.

Survey results are being incorporated into district plans. The school safety information campaign continues, with a new video update planned for early 2025. Work on postsecondary success continues with the implementation of Visible Learning, an approach in which students see themselves as active learners eager to explore and grow.&nbsp;

“We appreciate everyone who took the time to participate,” said Exline. “Our&nbsp;schools&nbsp;reflect the power of community partnerships here in&nbsp;Salina. Together, we make SPS a great place to learn and work.”

*The community survey, administered by ExcellenceK12, a Kansas City-based market research firm. The community phone survey used a statistically reliable sample size, 300 randomly selected adults, who were head of household and balanced by geographic location.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694639848087.jpeg" alt="USD 305 Salina Public Schools District Office Building" />
 <figcaption>USD 305 Salina Public Schools District Office Building</figcaption>
 </figure>submittedSurvey participants had the opportunity to provide feedback about district services, identify strengths and areas for improvement, share concerns and more. The community survey helped the district better understand community members’ perceptions of SPS.“Salina&nbsp;Public&nbsp;Schools&nbsp;is a vital part of our community,” said Linn Exline, superintendent. “We use the community feedback to keep our district closely aligned with the expectations and values of those we serve.”The results were shared at the December 10 Board of Education meeting. Jennifer Camien, SPS communications director, told board members that the Salina community regards SPS as an exemplary student resource and a source of pride for patrons.Scoring highest on a grading scale were:⦁ Quality of school facilities ⦁ Safety of students ⦁ Preparation of students for college, career/technical training or employment ⦁ Performance of teachers ⦁ District’s efforts to communicate with patronsAdditionally, a good curriculum and teachers topped the list of strengths based on an open-ended question. “We are proud of our teachers’ dedication and commitment to our students,” said Exline. “Their work drives academic growth and creates a supportive environment where every student can thrive.”Another open-ended question asked what needs improvement and the top answers were spending/budget, don’t know and communications. The survey results help the district refine its strategies and communication plans to better serve SPS students, families and the broader community.Survey respondents were asked what the district’s priority should be. The top answers included:⦁ Providing a good education. ⦁ Teaching life/practice skills. ⦁ Providing a safe environment for allThe survey revealed awareness of student opportunities such as CTE, clubs, athletics, fine arts and more. There was also good awareness of the special programs offered in elementary schools, such as libraries run by library media specialists and certified art teachers who teach art, PE and music classes.“Being the largest district in the area, we offer a vast range of opportunities for students – there is something for everyone at SPS,” said Exline. “Our elementary students have art, physical education, science/social studies and library each week. The special programs are layered into our elementary curriculum.”&nbsp;Other results included participants’ view of SPS as a workplace. Eighty-one percent indicated it was an excellent or good place to work. When asked what participants would like to hear more about from the school, the top answers were:⦁ Career and technical education. ⦁ School safety measures. ⦁ Preparation for college, career, military, etc.Survey results are being incorporated into district plans. The school safety information campaign continues, with a new video update planned for early 2025. Work on postsecondary success continues with the implementation of Visible Learning, an approach in which students see themselves as active learners eager to explore and grow.&nbsp;“We appreciate everyone who took the time to participate,” said Exline. “Our&nbsp;schools&nbsp;reflect the power of community partnerships here in&nbsp;Salina. Together, we make SPS a great place to learn and work.”*The community survey, administered by ExcellenceK12, a Kansas City-based market research firm. The community phone survey used a statistically reliable sample size, 300 randomly selected adults, who were head of household and balanced by geographic location.

SPS survey identifies strengths, areas of improvement

Salina Police Department (SPD) officers are actively investigating the theft of a 2020 Hyundai Elantra reported stolen from an apartment complex parking lot at 730 Fairdale Road in Salina. According to SPD Captain James Feldman, the theft occurred between 9:30 p.m. on December 10 and 6:46 a.m. on December 11.

The victim, a 55-year-old Salina woman, discovered her vehicle missing early Wednesday morning. The stolen car is described as a white 2020 Hyundai Elantra with Kansas license plate 5413 AGU. No keys were left in the vehicle; at this time, SPD has no identified suspects.

The missing Hyundai Elantra is valued at approximately $24,000. SPD encourages residents to report any suspicious activity or potential sightings of the vehicle.

Anyone with information is urged to call the SPD non-emergency line at (785) 826-7210.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592416874210.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTSalina Police Department (SPD) officers are actively investigating the theft of a 2020 Hyundai Elantra reported stolen from an apartment complex parking lot at 730 Fairdale Road in Salina. According to SPD Captain James Feldman, the theft occurred between 9:30 p.m. on December 10 and 6:46 a.m. on December 11.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d1220.6492024068677!2d-97.57483223178745!3d38.826382686135126!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bcc5d60b07545f%3A0x105cf20f5b763f0f!2s730%20Fairdale%20Rd%2C%20Salina%2C%20KS%2067401!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1734022119045!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>The victim, a 55-year-old Salina woman, discovered her vehicle missing early Wednesday morning. The stolen car is described as a white 2020 Hyundai Elantra with Kansas license plate 5413 AGU. No keys were left in the vehicle; at this time, SPD has no identified suspects.The missing Hyundai Elantra is valued at approximately $24,000. SPD encourages residents to report any suspicious activity or potential sightings of the vehicle.Anyone with information is urged to call the SPD non-emergency line at (785) 826-7210.

SPD investigating theft of 2020 Hyundai Elantra

Salina Police Department (SPD) officers and firefighters with Salina Fire responded to a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Ninth Street and Magnolia Road at approximately 2:15 p.m. on December 10.

SPD Captain James Feldman said the crash involved a Toyota Camry traveling north on Ninth Street and a 2016 Nissan Rogue turning east onto Magnolia Road. The Toyota Camry had a green light, while the Nissan Rogue had a flashing yellow turn signal but failed to yield, resulting in a collision.

The Nissan Rogue rolled upon impact, and both vehicles were towed from the scene. The driver of the Rogue, identified as John Avalos, 24, of Salina, was cited for failure to yield. The driver of the Toyota Camry was transported to the hospital with neck pain, while Avalos later went to the hospital on his own for evaluation.

The northbound traffic lane was temporarily closed, and traffic was diverted east onto Magnolia during the emergency response.

Salina Police Department officers and firefighters with Salina Fire are on the scene of a vehicle crash at the intersection of Ninth and Magnolia in Salina.

The northbound traffic lane was temporarily closed. Traffic was diverted east onto Magnolia.&nbsp;

Salina Post has contacted the Salina Police Department for additional details regarding the vehicle crash and is awaiting their response.

Few additional details, including injuries, are currently available. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733864379517.png" alt="Photo by NATE KING" />
 <figcaption>Photo by NATE KING</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTSalina Police Department (SPD) officers and firefighters with Salina Fire responded to a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Ninth Street and Magnolia Road at approximately 2:15 p.m. on December 10.SPD Captain James Feldman said the crash involved a Toyota Camry traveling north on Ninth Street and a 2016 Nissan Rogue turning east onto Magnolia Road. The Toyota Camry had a green light, while the Nissan Rogue had a flashing yellow turn signal but failed to yield, resulting in a collision.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733864363060.png" alt="Photo by NATE KING" />
 <figcaption>Photo by NATE KING</figcaption>
 </figure>The Nissan Rogue rolled upon impact, and both vehicles were towed from the scene. The driver of the Rogue, identified as John Avalos, 24, of Salina, was cited for failure to yield. The driver of the Toyota Camry was transported to the hospital with neck pain, while Avalos later went to the hospital on his own for evaluation.The northbound traffic lane was temporarily closed, and traffic was diverted east onto Magnolia during the emergency response.By SALINA POSTSalina Police Department officers and firefighters with Salina Fire are on the scene of a vehicle crash at the intersection of Ninth and Magnolia in Salina.The northbound traffic lane was temporarily closed. Traffic was diverted east onto Magnolia.&nbsp;Salina Post has contacted the Salina Police Department for additional details regarding the vehicle crash and is awaiting their response.Few additional details, including injuries, are currently available. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

UPDATED: Driver cited for failure to yield in Ninth and Magnolia vehicle crash

By ARI LAZARUS Consumer Education Specialist, FTC&nbsp;&nbsp;

Scammers love a good disguise. One day they show up texting you about a&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/sites/www.consumer.ftc.gov/files/fedex_phishing_text_social_media_graphic_01142021.png">delivery you missed</a>, the next they say you need to sort an&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/sites/default/files/netflixscreenshot.jpg">issue with your Netflix account</a>. Here’s how to avoid these phishing scams.

<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams">Phishing emails and text messages</a>&nbsp;often tell a story to trick you into clicking on a link or opening an attachment. Maybe it’s an unexpected email or text message pretending to be from a company you know or trust, like a utility company asking you to make a payment. Or maybe it’s an unexpected party invitation that looks like it’s from a friend or family member.

Don’t click on links or download attachments in these messages. It might lead to a request for personal information, like your Social Security, credit card, or bank account number — and&nbsp;<a href="https://ftc.gov/idtheft">identity theft</a>. Or, the link or attachment could download harmful&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-remove-and-avoid-malware">malware</a>&nbsp;onto your device.

How can you spot these scams? If you get an email or text message that asks you to click on a link or open an attachment, ask yourself:&nbsp;Do I have an account with the company or know the person who contacted me?

If the answer is “No,”&nbsp;it’s likely a phishing scam. While real companies might communicate with you by email, legitimate companies won’t unexpectedly email or text with a link to update your payment or account information. For other signs of phishing, check out&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams#recognize">How to recognize phishing</a>.

If the answer is “Yes,”&nbsp;contact the company using a phone number or website you know is real —&nbsp;not&nbsp;the information in the email.&nbsp;Or contact your friend directly on a separate email or text string to confirm it’s really them. They’ll understand if you’re suspicious about that unexpected invitation to click a link.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733957299946.png" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>By ARI LAZARUS Consumer Education Specialist, FTC&nbsp;&nbsp;Scammers love a good disguise. One day they show up texting you about a&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/sites/www.consumer.ftc.gov/files/fedex_phishing_text_social_media_graphic_01142021.png">delivery you missed</a>, the next they say you need to sort an&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/sites/default/files/netflixscreenshot.jpg">issue with your Netflix account</a>. Here’s how to avoid these phishing scams.<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams">Phishing emails and text messages</a>&nbsp;often tell a story to trick you into clicking on a link or opening an attachment. Maybe it’s an unexpected email or text message pretending to be from a company you know or trust, like a utility company asking you to make a payment. Or maybe it’s an unexpected party invitation that looks like it’s from a friend or family member.Don’t click on links or download attachments in these messages. It might lead to a request for personal information, like your Social Security, credit card, or bank account number — and&nbsp;<a href="https://ftc.gov/idtheft">identity theft</a>. Or, the link or attachment could download harmful&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-remove-and-avoid-malware">malware</a>&nbsp;onto your device.How can you spot these scams? If you get an email or text message that asks you to click on a link or open an attachment, ask yourself:&nbsp;Do I have an account with the company or know the person who contacted me?If the answer is “No,”&nbsp;it’s likely a phishing scam. While real companies might communicate with you by email, legitimate companies won’t unexpectedly email or text with a link to update your payment or account information. For other signs of phishing, check out&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams#recognize">How to recognize phishing</a>.If the answer is “Yes,”&nbsp;contact the company using a phone number or website you know is real —&nbsp;not&nbsp;the information in the email.&nbsp;Or contact your friend directly on a separate email or text string to confirm it’s really them. They’ll understand if you’re suspicious about that unexpected invitation to click a link.&nbsp;

Phishing scams can be hard to spot

Salina residents and those passing through town can enjoy a meal while giving back to the community on Thursday, December 12. Applebee’s locations, including the one in Salina, will donate 25% of proceeds from orders to The Salvation Army of Salina when customers mention the fundraiser or present the official flyer to their server.

The fundraiser will run all day, making breakfast, lunch, or dinner plans convenient. Proceeds from the event will help The Salvation Army continue supporting local families and individuals in need.

Dine at Applebee’s this Thursday and help make a difference in the Salina community.

To learn more about the Salina Salvation Army, <a href="https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/salina/">click here.</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733840860510.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedSalina residents and those passing through town can enjoy a meal while giving back to the community on Thursday, December 12. Applebee’s locations, including the one in Salina, will donate 25% of proceeds from orders to The Salvation Army of Salina when customers mention the fundraiser or present the official flyer to their server.The fundraiser will run all day, making breakfast, lunch, or dinner plans convenient. Proceeds from the event will help The Salvation Army continue supporting local families and individuals in need.Dine at Applebee’s this Thursday and help make a difference in the Salina community.To learn more about the Salina Salvation Army, <a href="https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/salina/">click here.</a>&nbsp;

Dine at Applebee's today to support Salina Salvation Army

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

NAME:&nbsp;Jones,Tatyana Lynn REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;

Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

NAME:&nbsp;Pacheco,Tolen Shane REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

NAME:&nbsp;Rykiel,Joseph Jeffrey REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;

Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance

NAME:&nbsp;Troxel,Kayla Gene REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Probation Violation

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734011657242.jpeg" alt="Jones,Tatyana Lynn" />
 <figcaption>Jones,Tatyana Lynn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Jones,Tatyana Lynn REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734011690118.jpeg" alt="Pacheco,Tolen Shane" />
 <figcaption>Pacheco,Tolen Shane</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Pacheco,Tolen Shane REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734011719108.jpeg" alt="Rykiel,Joseph Jeffrey" />
 <figcaption>Rykiel,Joseph Jeffrey</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Rykiel,Joseph Jeffrey REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyPoss of marijuanaPoss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulantTaxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substanceVehicle registration<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734011761501.jpeg" alt="Troxel,Kayla Gene" />
 <figcaption>Troxel,Kayla Gene</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Troxel,Kayla Gene REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Probation Violation

Saline County Jail Bookings, Dec. 12

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Nov. 20, 2024, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

Marshall ‑&nbsp;36‑58 KA‑7566‑01 – U.S. 36, beginning at the Marshall/Osborne county line east to 4th Street in Marysville, milling and overlay, 8.2 miles, Hall Brothers Inc., Marysville, Kansas, $3,940,197.72.

Marshall ‑&nbsp;99‑58 KA‑7544‑01 ‑ K‑99, beginning at the K‑99/U.S. 36 junction north to the Kansas/Nebraska state line, milling and overlay, 14.5 miles, Hall Brothers Inc., Marysville, Kansas, $3,338,224.36.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;69‑105 KA‑4881‑02 ‑ Bridge #132 over Ruby Avenue; bridge #134 over Metropolitan Avenue; bridge #136 over 18th Street Expressway; bridge #138 over KCT Railway; bridge #140 over Osage Avenue, bridge replacement, 0.9 mile, Hawkins Construction Co., Omaha, Nebraska, $121,849,845.46.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;5‑105 KA‑7472‑01 ‑ K‑5, beginning at the I‑635/K‑5 junction east to the McCormick Road/Sunshine Road junction, milling and overlay, 2.1 miles, J M Fahey Construction Company, Grandview, Missouri, $1,615,655.75.

Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;14‑27 KA‑7535‑01 ‑ K‑14, beginning at the K‑14/K‑140 junction north to the I‑70/K‑14 junction, milling and overlay, 7.4 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,630,009.16.

Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;4‑27 KA‑7536‑01 ‑ K‑4, beginning at the Ellsworth/Rice county line east to the Ellsworth/McPherson county line, milling and overlay, 6.7 miles, 7.4 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,634,016.40

Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;111‑27 KA‑7573‑01 ‑ K‑111 beginning at the north city limits of Kanopolis to the K‑111/K‑156 junction, milling and overlay, 5.3 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $868,571.20.

McPherson ‑&nbsp;4‑59 KA‑7537‑01 ‑ K‑4, beginning at the Ellsworth/McPherson county line east and north to the McPherson/Saline county line (exclude the city of Lindsborg), milling and overlay, 15.7 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $3,310,335.50.

Saline ‑&nbsp;4‑85 KA‑7538‑01 ‑ K‑4, beginning at the McPherson/Saline county line east to the I‑135/K‑4 junction, milling and overlay, 1.2 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $238,538.20.

Ellis ‑&nbsp;183‑26 KA‑7520‑01 – U.S. 183, beginning at the end of portland cement concrete pavement (PCCP) north of 55th Street north to the Rooks/Ellis county line, milling and overlay, 15.1 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,303,459.94.

Gove ‑&nbsp;23‑32 KA‑7521‑01 ‑ K‑23, beginning at the Lane/Gove county line north to the south city limits of Gove City, milling and overlay, 17.8 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,273,602.96.

Rooks ‑&nbsp;183‑82 KA‑7517‑01 – U.S. 183, beginning at the U.S. 183/K‑18 junction north to the S Road/U.S. 183 junction, milling and overlay, 4.8 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $858,151.43.

Rooks ‑&nbsp;183‑82 KA‑7519‑01 – U.S. 183, beginning at the Rooks/Ellis county line north to the K‑18/U.S. 183 junction, milling and overlay, 7.2 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,649,957.90.

Rooks ‑&nbsp;18‑82 KA‑7518‑01 ‑ K‑18, beginning at the 5 Road/K‑18 junction east to 0.48 mile east of the east city limits of Plainville, ultra thin bonded asphalt surfacing, 12.8 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,412,383.80.

Allen ‑&nbsp;59‑1 KA‑7529‑01 – U.S. 59, beginning at the Neosho/Allen county line north to the Allen/Anderson county line, ultra thin bonded asphalt surfacing, 21.2 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $2,546,836.47.

Anderson ‑&nbsp;169‑2 KA‑7534‑01 – U.S. 169, beginning at the Allen/Anderson county line north to 0.59 mile north of the K‑58/U.S. 169 junction, milling and overlay, 4.3 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $759,965.64.

Anderson ‑&nbsp;59‑2 KA‑7530‑01 – U.S. 59, beginning at the Allen/Anderson county line north to the U.S. 169/U.S. 59 south junction, milling and overlay, 15.1 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,751,122.83

Cherokee ‑&nbsp;7‑11 KA‑1586‑02 ‑ K‑7, intersection of K‑7/Star Valley Road (along the north side of Star Valley Road), special, Heck &amp; Wicker Inc., Parsons, Kansas, $578,529.65.

Cherokee ‑&nbsp;166‑11 KA‑7453‑01 – U.S. 166, from the Labette/Cherokee county line east to the west city limits of Baxter Springs, milling and overlay, 18.2 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,002,160.44.

Crawford ‑&nbsp;47‑19 KA‑7452‑01 ‑ K‑47, from the east city limits of Girard east to the U.S. 69/K‑47 junction, milling and overlay, 7.0 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,154,458.48.

Elk ‑&nbsp;160‑25 KA‑7531‑01 – U.S. 160, beginning at the Elk/Cowley county line east to the U.S. 160/K‑99 west junction, milling and overlay, 13.6 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,697,425.00.

Elk ‑&nbsp;160‑25 KA‑7533‑01 – U.S. 160, beginning at the U.S. 160/K‑99 east junction east to the east city limits of Longton, milling and overlay, 11.5 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,615,577.90

Elk ‑&nbsp;160‑25 KA‑7532‑01 – U.S. 160, beginning at the east city limits of Longton east to the Elk/Montgomery county line, milling and overlay, 7.9 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,181,313.90.

Labette ‑&nbsp;166‑50 KA‑7461‑01 – U.S. 166, beginning at the Montgomery/Labette county line east to the U.S. 59/U.S. 166 north junction; then U.S. 59/U.S. 166 south junction east to the Labette/Cherokee county line, milling and overlay, 24.2 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $4,289,100.83

Rice ‑&nbsp;56‑80 KA‑6455‑01 – U.S. 56 at two locations - beginning 0.25 mile east of 10th Road, east to 0.14 mile east of 11th Road, guard fence, 1.0 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $568,091.25.

Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;42‑87 KA‑7457‑01 ‑ K‑42, 4-lane/2-lane transition (West MacArthur Road) northeast to South Hoover Road, overlay, 3.9 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $1,947,992.45.

Greeley ‑&nbsp;96‑36 KA‑7539‑01 ‑ K‑96, beginning at the Colorado/Kansas state line east to the K‑27/K‑96 junction, milling and overlay, 15.9 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $5,981,427.03.

Hamilton ‑&nbsp;27‑38 KA‑7540‑01 ‑ K‑27, beginning at the U.S. 50/K‑27 west junction north to the Greeley/Hamilton county line, milling and overlay, 19.4 miles Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $2,913,003.20.

Wichita ‑&nbsp;25‑102 KA‑7541‑01 ‑ K‑25, beginning at the Kearny/Wichita county line north to the K‑96/K‑25 junction, milling and overlay, 19.1 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $2,344,621.49.

Wichita ‑&nbsp;25‑102 KA‑7542‑01 ‑ K‑25, beginning at the K‑96/K‑25 junction north to the Wichita/Logan county line, milling and overlay, 15.2 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,987,573.70.

The following projects have been approved from the Oct. 16, 2024, letting.

Brown ‑&nbsp;36‑7 KA‑6450‑01 – U.S. 36, from west city limits in Fairview to east city limits, grading and surfacing, 0.6 mile, Ebert Construction Co Inc &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $2,297,375.52.

Leavenworth ‑&nbsp;52 N‑0773‑01 – Basehor, trail between 155th Street and 158th Street, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 1.0 mile, Kings Construction Co. Inc., Oskaloosa, Kansas, $1,379,597.35.

Riley ‑&nbsp;82‑81 KA‑7468‑01 – K‑82, from the U.S. 77/K‑82 north junction north to the U.S. 24/K‑82 junction, milling and overlay, 4.0 miles, Shilling Construction Co. Inc., Manhattan, Kansas, $1,417,916.43.

Riley ‑&nbsp;81 TE‑0525‑01 – Juliette Avenue, from Pierre Street to Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, surfacing, 0.1 mile, Bayer Construction Co. Inc., Manhattan, Kansas, $1,210,882.95.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;105 N‑0779‑01 – Kansas Avenue, located approximately 0.33 mile west of U.S. 69, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.1 mile, Gunter Construction Company, Kansas City, Kansas, $673,235.50.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;105 N‑0781‑01 – Trailhead on North James Street at Kansas City levee access point, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.1 mile, Multicon Inc., Park City, Kansas, $317,151.52.

Marion ‑&nbsp;77‑57 KA‑7490‑01 – U.S. 77, from 0.14 mile north of the U.S. 50/U.S. 77 junction north to 0.28 mile south of the U.S. 56/K‑150/U.S. 77 junction, milling and overlay, 8.3 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,598,626.62.

Marion ‑&nbsp;50‑57 KA‑7491‑01 – U.S. 50, from 0.32 mile east of the U.S. 50/U.S. 77 junction east to the Marion/Chase county line, overlay, 5.7 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,929,159.25.

Ellis ‑&nbsp;26 C‑5221‑01 – County bridge, over Big Creek located 6.0 miles south and 1.0 mile west of Walker, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $673,540.75.

Smith ‑&nbsp;281‑92 KA‑7481‑01 – U.S. 281 from the Smith/Osborne county Line north to the south city limits of Smith Center, milling and overlay, 13.0 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $2,841,723.91.

Harvey ‑&nbsp;50‑40 KA‑7460‑01 – U.S. 50, hot mix asphalt south of the I‑135/U.S. 50 junction east to the Harvey/Marion county line, milling and overlay, 11.7 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $2,705,193.91.

Seward ‑&nbsp;54‑88 KA‑7501‑01 – U.S. 54, from 0.48 mile northeast of Road R northeast to the Meade/Seward county line, milling and overlay, 8.4 miles, J &amp; R Sand Company Inc., Liberal, Kansas, $2,113,474.59.

Chase ‑&nbsp;9 C‑5219‑01 – County bridge, over Cottonwood River located 0.8 mile west of Cedar Point, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile, A M Cohron &amp; Son Inc., Atlantic, Iowa,&nbsp;$1,748,517.51.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑6712‑01 – I‑35, I‑635 and U.S. 69 in Kansas City Metro, intelligent transportation system, Capital Electric Line Builders Inc., Parkville, Missouri, $2,705,470.00.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698160100766.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Nov. 20, 2024, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.District One — NortheastMarshall ‑&nbsp;36‑58 KA‑7566‑01 – U.S. 36, beginning at the Marshall/Osborne county line east to 4th Street in Marysville, milling and overlay, 8.2 miles, Hall Brothers Inc., Marysville, Kansas, $3,940,197.72.Marshall ‑&nbsp;99‑58 KA‑7544‑01 ‑ K‑99, beginning at the K‑99/U.S. 36 junction north to the Kansas/Nebraska state line, milling and overlay, 14.5 miles, Hall Brothers Inc., Marysville, Kansas, $3,338,224.36.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;69‑105 KA‑4881‑02 ‑ Bridge #132 over Ruby Avenue; bridge #134 over Metropolitan Avenue; bridge #136 over 18th Street Expressway; bridge #138 over KCT Railway; bridge #140 over Osage Avenue, bridge replacement, 0.9 mile, Hawkins Construction Co., Omaha, Nebraska, $121,849,845.46.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;5‑105 KA‑7472‑01 ‑ K‑5, beginning at the I‑635/K‑5 junction east to the McCormick Road/Sunshine Road junction, milling and overlay, 2.1 miles, J M Fahey Construction Company, Grandview, Missouri, $1,615,655.75.District Two — North CentralEllsworth ‑&nbsp;14‑27 KA‑7535‑01 ‑ K‑14, beginning at the K‑14/K‑140 junction north to the I‑70/K‑14 junction, milling and overlay, 7.4 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,630,009.16.Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;4‑27 KA‑7536‑01 ‑ K‑4, beginning at the Ellsworth/Rice county line east to the Ellsworth/McPherson county line, milling and overlay, 6.7 miles, 7.4 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,634,016.40Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;111‑27 KA‑7573‑01 ‑ K‑111 beginning at the north city limits of Kanopolis to the K‑111/K‑156 junction, milling and overlay, 5.3 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $868,571.20.McPherson ‑&nbsp;4‑59 KA‑7537‑01 ‑ K‑4, beginning at the Ellsworth/McPherson county line east and north to the McPherson/Saline county line (exclude the city of Lindsborg), milling and overlay, 15.7 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $3,310,335.50.Saline ‑&nbsp;4‑85 KA‑7538‑01 ‑ K‑4, beginning at the McPherson/Saline county line east to the I‑135/K‑4 junction, milling and overlay, 1.2 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $238,538.20.District Three — NorthwestEllis ‑&nbsp;183‑26 KA‑7520‑01 – U.S. 183, beginning at the end of portland cement concrete pavement (PCCP) north of 55th Street north to the Rooks/Ellis county line, milling and overlay, 15.1 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,303,459.94.Gove ‑&nbsp;23‑32 KA‑7521‑01 ‑ K‑23, beginning at the Lane/Gove county line north to the south city limits of Gove City, milling and overlay, 17.8 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,273,602.96.Rooks ‑&nbsp;183‑82 KA‑7517‑01 – U.S. 183, beginning at the U.S. 183/K‑18 junction north to the S Road/U.S. 183 junction, milling and overlay, 4.8 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $858,151.43.Rooks ‑&nbsp;183‑82 KA‑7519‑01 – U.S. 183, beginning at the Rooks/Ellis county line north to the K‑18/U.S. 183 junction, milling and overlay, 7.2 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,649,957.90.Rooks ‑&nbsp;18‑82 KA‑7518‑01 ‑ K‑18, beginning at the 5 Road/K‑18 junction east to 0.48 mile east of the east city limits of Plainville, ultra thin bonded asphalt surfacing, 12.8 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,412,383.80.District Four — SoutheastAllen ‑&nbsp;59‑1 KA‑7529‑01 – U.S. 59, beginning at the Neosho/Allen county line north to the Allen/Anderson county line, ultra thin bonded asphalt surfacing, 21.2 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $2,546,836.47.Anderson ‑&nbsp;169‑2 KA‑7534‑01 – U.S. 169, beginning at the Allen/Anderson county line north to 0.59 mile north of the K‑58/U.S. 169 junction, milling and overlay, 4.3 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $759,965.64.Anderson ‑&nbsp;59‑2 KA‑7530‑01 – U.S. 59, beginning at the Allen/Anderson county line north to the U.S. 169/U.S. 59 south junction, milling and overlay, 15.1 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,751,122.83Cherokee ‑&nbsp;7‑11 KA‑1586‑02 ‑ K‑7, intersection of K‑7/Star Valley Road (along the north side of Star Valley Road), special, Heck &amp; Wicker Inc., Parsons, Kansas, $578,529.65.Cherokee ‑&nbsp;166‑11 KA‑7453‑01 – U.S. 166, from the Labette/Cherokee county line east to the west city limits of Baxter Springs, milling and overlay, 18.2 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,002,160.44.Crawford ‑&nbsp;47‑19 KA‑7452‑01 ‑ K‑47, from the east city limits of Girard east to the U.S. 69/K‑47 junction, milling and overlay, 7.0 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,154,458.48.Elk ‑&nbsp;160‑25 KA‑7531‑01 – U.S. 160, beginning at the Elk/Cowley county line east to the U.S. 160/K‑99 west junction, milling and overlay, 13.6 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,697,425.00.Elk ‑&nbsp;160‑25 KA‑7533‑01 – U.S. 160, beginning at the U.S. 160/K‑99 east junction east to the east city limits of Longton, milling and overlay, 11.5 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,615,577.90Elk ‑&nbsp;160‑25 KA‑7532‑01 – U.S. 160, beginning at the east city limits of Longton east to the Elk/Montgomery county line, milling and overlay, 7.9 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,181,313.90.Labette ‑&nbsp;166‑50 KA‑7461‑01 – U.S. 166, beginning at the Montgomery/Labette county line east to the U.S. 59/U.S. 166 north junction; then U.S. 59/U.S. 166 south junction east to the Labette/Cherokee county line, milling and overlay, 24.2 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $4,289,100.83District Five — South CentralRice ‑&nbsp;56‑80 KA‑6455‑01 – U.S. 56 at two locations - beginning 0.25 mile east of 10th Road, east to 0.14 mile east of 11th Road, guard fence, 1.0 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $568,091.25.Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;42‑87 KA‑7457‑01 ‑ K‑42, 4-lane/2-lane transition (West MacArthur Road) northeast to South Hoover Road, overlay, 3.9 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $1,947,992.45.District Six — SouthwestGreeley ‑&nbsp;96‑36 KA‑7539‑01 ‑ K‑96, beginning at the Colorado/Kansas state line east to the K‑27/K‑96 junction, milling and overlay, 15.9 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $5,981,427.03.Hamilton ‑&nbsp;27‑38 KA‑7540‑01 ‑ K‑27, beginning at the U.S. 50/K‑27 west junction north to the Greeley/Hamilton county line, milling and overlay, 19.4 miles Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $2,913,003.20.Wichita ‑&nbsp;25‑102 KA‑7541‑01 ‑ K‑25, beginning at the Kearny/Wichita county line north to the K‑96/K‑25 junction, milling and overlay, 19.1 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $2,344,621.49.Wichita ‑&nbsp;25‑102 KA‑7542‑01 ‑ K‑25, beginning at the K‑96/K‑25 junction north to the Wichita/Logan county line, milling and overlay, 15.2 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,987,573.70.The following projects have been approved from the Oct. 16, 2024, letting.Brown ‑&nbsp;36‑7 KA‑6450‑01 – U.S. 36, from west city limits in Fairview to east city limits, grading and surfacing, 0.6 mile, Ebert Construction Co Inc &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $2,297,375.52.Leavenworth ‑&nbsp;52 N‑0773‑01 – Basehor, trail between 155th Street and 158th Street, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 1.0 mile, Kings Construction Co. Inc., Oskaloosa, Kansas, $1,379,597.35.Riley ‑&nbsp;82‑81 KA‑7468‑01 – K‑82, from the U.S. 77/K‑82 north junction north to the U.S. 24/K‑82 junction, milling and overlay, 4.0 miles, Shilling Construction Co. Inc., Manhattan, Kansas, $1,417,916.43.Riley ‑&nbsp;81 TE‑0525‑01 – Juliette Avenue, from Pierre Street to Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, surfacing, 0.1 mile, Bayer Construction Co. Inc., Manhattan, Kansas, $1,210,882.95.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;105 N‑0779‑01 – Kansas Avenue, located approximately 0.33 mile west of U.S. 69, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.1 mile, Gunter Construction Company, Kansas City, Kansas, $673,235.50.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;105 N‑0781‑01 – Trailhead on North James Street at Kansas City levee access point, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.1 mile, Multicon Inc., Park City, Kansas, $317,151.52.Marion ‑&nbsp;77‑57 KA‑7490‑01 – U.S. 77, from 0.14 mile north of the U.S. 50/U.S. 77 junction north to 0.28 mile south of the U.S. 56/K‑150/U.S. 77 junction, milling and overlay, 8.3 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,598,626.62.Marion ‑&nbsp;50‑57 KA‑7491‑01 – U.S. 50, from 0.32 mile east of the U.S. 50/U.S. 77 junction east to the Marion/Chase county line, overlay, 5.7 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,929,159.25.Ellis ‑&nbsp;26 C‑5221‑01 – County bridge, over Big Creek located 6.0 miles south and 1.0 mile west of Walker, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $673,540.75.Smith ‑&nbsp;281‑92 KA‑7481‑01 – U.S. 281 from the Smith/Osborne county Line north to the south city limits of Smith Center, milling and overlay, 13.0 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $2,841,723.91.Harvey ‑&nbsp;50‑40 KA‑7460‑01 – U.S. 50, hot mix asphalt south of the I‑135/U.S. 50 junction east to the Harvey/Marion county line, milling and overlay, 11.7 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $2,705,193.91.Seward ‑&nbsp;54‑88 KA‑7501‑01 – U.S. 54, from 0.48 mile northeast of Road R northeast to the Meade/Seward county line, milling and overlay, 8.4 miles, J &amp; R Sand Company Inc., Liberal, Kansas, $2,113,474.59.Chase ‑&nbsp;9 C‑5219‑01 – County bridge, over Cottonwood River located 0.8 mile west of Cedar Point, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile, A M Cohron &amp; Son Inc., Atlantic, Iowa,&nbsp;$1,748,517.51.Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑6712‑01 – I‑35, I‑635 and U.S. 69 in Kansas City Metro, intelligent transportation system, Capital Electric Line Builders Inc., Parkville, Missouri, $2,705,470.00.

KDOT announces approved November bids

On Saturday, December 14, National NCAA Softball Player and Pitcher of the Year NiJaree Canady will be at Long McArthur in Salina from 10am to noon!

The Kansas Native will be signing autographs (1 per person), and free doughnuts and photos will be available.

Canady is a Kansas native, originally hailing from Topeka, where she attended Topeka High.

During her time in Topeka, Canady was twice named as the Kansas Gatorade Player of the Year, and led her Trojans to back-to-back state championships.

Canady was named Collegiate Player of the Year and a First Team All American in 2024, and her&nbsp;dominance in the circle showed to the tune of a nation-leading 337 strikeouts and otherworldly 0.73 ERA, which also led the nation

She was 24-7 overall in the circle last season and an impressive 41-10 with a 0.67 ERA over her two seasons at Stanford, where she helped push the Cardinal to the final four teams each year at the Women’s College World Series

Canady also represented the U.S. this summer in the 2024 Japan All-Star Series. This offseason she transferred to Texas Tech where she will compete for the Red Raiders in 2025.

BY SALINA POSTOn Saturday, December 14, National NCAA Softball Player and Pitcher of the Year NiJaree Canady will be at Long McArthur in Salina from 10am to noon!The Kansas Native will be signing autographs (1 per person), and free doughnuts and photos will be available.Canady is a Kansas native, originally hailing from Topeka, where she attended Topeka High.During her time in Topeka, Canady was twice named as the Kansas Gatorade Player of the Year, and led her Trojans to back-to-back state championships.Canady was named Collegiate Player of the Year and a First Team All American in 2024, and her&nbsp;dominance in the circle showed to the tune of a nation-leading 337 strikeouts and otherworldly 0.73 ERA, which also led the nationShe was 24-7 overall in the circle last season and an impressive 41-10 with a 0.67 ERA over her two seasons at Stanford, where she helped push the Cardinal to the final four teams each year at the Women’s College World SeriesCanady also represented the U.S. this summer in the 2024 Japan All-Star Series. This offseason she transferred to Texas Tech where she will compete for the Red Raiders in 2025.

National NCAA Softball Player of the Year NiJaree Canady to appear at Long McArthur on December 14

Salina Police Department (SPD) officers are investigating after a 57-year-old Salina man fell victim to a phone scam involving a caller falsely claiming to be with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

According to SPD Captain James Feldman, the incident occurred on December 10 when the victim received a call around 12:30 p.m. The caller alleged that the man’s Social Security number had been linked to a criminal scheme and that a warrant for his arrest had been issued. To avoid arrest, the caller demanded the victim send $13,700.

READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/51349e43-dc1b-45b1-8c7c-307081a3a669"> FTC: Avoid holiday charity scams — tips to give wisely</a>

The man complied, withdrawing $11,700 from his bank account and transferring it via an unspecified service. He then purchased $2,000 worth of gift cards from a Dillons grocery store and provided the gift card numbers to the scammer.

Captain Feldman reminds the public that SPD or any local, state or federal agency will never request money via gift cards or wire transfers. Anyone receiving such calls should hang up and contact SPD immediately.

SPD non-emergency phone number:&nbsp;(785) 826-7210

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732645350652.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy FTC" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy FTC</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POST Salina Police Department (SPD) officers are investigating after a 57-year-old Salina man fell victim to a phone scam involving a caller falsely claiming to be with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).According to SPD Captain James Feldman, the incident occurred on December 10 when the victim received a call around 12:30 p.m. The caller alleged that the man’s Social Security number had been linked to a criminal scheme and that a warrant for his arrest had been issued. To avoid arrest, the caller demanded the victim send $13,700.READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/51349e43-dc1b-45b1-8c7c-307081a3a669"> FTC: Avoid holiday charity scams — tips to give wisely</a>The man complied, withdrawing $11,700 from his bank account and transferring it via an unspecified service. He then purchased $2,000 worth of gift cards from a Dillons grocery store and provided the gift card numbers to the scammer.Captain Feldman reminds the public that SPD or any local, state or federal agency will never request money via gift cards or wire transfers. Anyone receiving such calls should hang up and contact SPD immediately.SPD non-emergency phone number:&nbsp;(785) 826-7210

Salina Man loses more than $10K in DEA scam

The calendar says the first day of winter is Dec. 21. Chip Redmond is not so sure you ought to get locked in on just that date.

“Winter conditions in Kansas can change rapidly,” said Redmond, a meteorologist and manager of the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/">Kansas Mesonet</a>, a network of weather monitoring stations that has its headquarters at Kansas State University.

In Kansas, he said, “we can have a cold front come through that drops temperatures 50 degrees (Fahrenheit) in just a couple hours. Or, we can go from clear skies to heavy snow very quickly.”

While Kansans can’t do anything about the weather, Redmond says they can prepare themselves to withstand brutal conditions – and keep themselves safe.

“The first thing that comes to my mind for winter weather safety is the cold, which brings different dangers – just as heat does in the summer,” Redmond said.

“Our bodies just aren’t prepared to take cold for long periods of time. The cold can quickly have negative effects, especially when we factor in wind.”

Redmond urges people to dress in layers and wear a stocking cap and mittens anytime they must face outdoor cold. He said frostbite or hypothermia can happen very quickly.

“It can be less than even a few minutes, when you get cold and add wind,” Redmond said. “That’s why we look at things like closing schools once temperatures drop below zero or negative-10 with the wind chill. Those conditions produce a much higher risk, so we have to take more proactive steps and try to avoid outdoor activity as much as possible.”

Stocking caps help to keep heat from releasing through the head and “keeps the overall ambient temperature of your body warmer,” according to Redmond. Mittens are preferred over gloves because it maintains warmth by keeping the fingers closely together.

The State of Kansas regularly updates road conditions on the website,&nbsp;<a href="https://kandrive.org/">https://kandrive.org</a>. Redmond encourages those planning travel to check the forecast along the path they will drive, including road conditions.

Redmond also suggests keeping an emergency kit in a car in case the vehicle gets stalled while traveling. In addition to warm clothing, he suggests such items as:

Water, or other liquid such as electrolyte drinks

Chains or other items to help in pulling a vehicle out of a ditch

“Some people have tire chains; that may be a bit extravagant,” Redmond said. “If you need tire chains in Kansas, you probably shouldn’t be out on the road to begin with. But sand is useful to help you get out of an area where you don’t have much traction.”

A car’s tires may need some extra air in the winter because they shrink when they get cold, Redmond said. “If you have underinflated tires,” he said, “you’re not going to optimize the grip of that rubber, so you’re going to slip and slide a lot more.”

It’s been a few years since Kansas has been hit by a widespread ice storm, but Redmond says despite current indications for near to slightly-above-normal temperatures this winter, “there is potential for January or February cold snaps this season that could provide some potential for ice storms.”

“Trees are probably the most likely to be damaged in an ice storm,” he said. “Be aware of weakened trees and that you’re going to lose branches. It takes about one-quarter inch of ice to see really big impacts.”

Roads don’t normally accumulate one-quarter inch of ice, “so it’s not as big of a problem for travelers,” Redmond said. “But anything that is standing and tall – such as power lines and trees and gutters – are at risk of falling.”

Redmond also urges homeowners to use caution when removing snow from driveways and sidewalks.

“It’s very demanding physically,” he said. “One of the leading causes of winter heart attacks is shoveling snow because of the stress of pushing that snow -- especially when it is heavy and wet, formed with temperatures near freezing or when it becomes packed.”

For those who own a snow blower, Redmond recommends making sure it has been serviced before first use, “and don’t wait until the last minute” to do so.

More information on Kansas weather conditions, including up-to-date forecasts, is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/">Kansas Mesonet.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733934423495.jpeg" alt="Winter conditions in Kansas can change rapidly. Pay attention to forecasts and prepare in advance to stay safe during the winter months. K-State meteorologist Chip Redmond shares tips on preparing in advance for winter conditions -- whether you're on the road or at home." />
 <figcaption>Winter conditions in Kansas can change rapidly. Pay attention to forecasts and prepare in advance to stay safe during the winter months. K-State meteorologist Chip Redmond shares tips on preparing in advance for winter conditions -- whether you're on the road or at home.</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Research and ExtensionThe calendar says the first day of winter is Dec. 21. Chip Redmond is not so sure you ought to get locked in on just that date.“Winter conditions in Kansas can change rapidly,” said Redmond, a meteorologist and manager of the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/">Kansas Mesonet</a>, a network of weather monitoring stations that has its headquarters at Kansas State University.In Kansas, he said, “we can have a cold front come through that drops temperatures 50 degrees (Fahrenheit) in just a couple hours. Or, we can go from clear skies to heavy snow very quickly.”While Kansans can’t do anything about the weather, Redmond says they can prepare themselves to withstand brutal conditions – and keep themselves safe.<h2>Cold temperatures</h2>“The first thing that comes to my mind for winter weather safety is the cold, which brings different dangers – just as heat does in the summer,” Redmond said.“Our bodies just aren’t prepared to take cold for long periods of time. The cold can quickly have negative effects, especially when we factor in wind.”Redmond urges people to dress in layers and wear a stocking cap and mittens anytime they must face outdoor cold. He said frostbite or hypothermia can happen very quickly.“It can be less than even a few minutes, when you get cold and add wind,” Redmond said. “That’s why we look at things like closing schools once temperatures drop below zero or negative-10 with the wind chill. Those conditions produce a much higher risk, so we have to take more proactive steps and try to avoid outdoor activity as much as possible.”Stocking caps help to keep heat from releasing through the head and “keeps the overall ambient temperature of your body warmer,” according to Redmond. Mittens are preferred over gloves because it maintains warmth by keeping the fingers closely together.<h2>Travel safety</h2>The State of Kansas regularly updates road conditions on the website,&nbsp;<a href="https://kandrive.org/">https://kandrive.org</a>. Redmond encourages those planning travel to check the forecast along the path they will drive, including road conditions.Redmond also suggests keeping an emergency kit in a car in case the vehicle gets stalled while traveling. In addition to warm clothing, he suggests such items as:Snow brush and ice scraper.Jumper cables or jumpstarterBlanketsCell phone charger Snack foodsWater, or other liquid such as electrolyte drinksFlashlightSand in a small containerChains or other items to help in pulling a vehicle out of a ditch“Some people have tire chains; that may be a bit extravagant,” Redmond said. “If you need tire chains in Kansas, you probably shouldn’t be out on the road to begin with. But sand is useful to help you get out of an area where you don’t have much traction.”A car’s tires may need some extra air in the winter because they shrink when they get cold, Redmond said. “If you have underinflated tires,” he said, “you’re not going to optimize the grip of that rubber, so you’re going to slip and slide a lot more.”<h2>Safety at home</h2>It’s been a few years since Kansas has been hit by a widespread ice storm, but Redmond says despite current indications for near to slightly-above-normal temperatures this winter, “there is potential for January or February cold snaps this season that could provide some potential for ice storms.”“Trees are probably the most likely to be damaged in an ice storm,” he said. “Be aware of weakened trees and that you’re going to lose branches. It takes about one-quarter inch of ice to see really big impacts.”Roads don’t normally accumulate one-quarter inch of ice, “so it’s not as big of a problem for travelers,” Redmond said. “But anything that is standing and tall – such as power lines and trees and gutters – are at risk of falling.”Redmond also urges homeowners to use caution when removing snow from driveways and sidewalks.“It’s very demanding physically,” he said. “One of the leading causes of winter heart attacks is shoveling snow because of the stress of pushing that snow -- especially when it is heavy and wet, formed with temperatures near freezing or when it becomes packed.”For those who own a snow blower, Redmond recommends making sure it has been serviced before first use, “and don’t wait until the last minute” to do so.More information on Kansas weather conditions, including up-to-date forecasts, is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/">Kansas Mesonet.</a>

Winter is coming: K-State meteorologist shares safety tips

Early Wednesday morning, December 11, the Salina Police Department (SPD) and Salina Fire Department responded to a vehicle fire in the Lowe's parking lot at approximately 1:20 a.m.

Upon arrival, first responders found a 2001 silver Buick LeSabre fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire. No other vehicles were damaged, and the car's owner, a 21-year-old Salina man, was not at the scene.

According to SPD Captain James Feldman, fire inspectors determined the cause of the fire to be arson, prompting an active investigation. Feldman said SPD officers are working to obtain and review surveillance footage from the area to gather additional evidence.

SPD did not release the name of the vehicle's owner.&nbsp;

Salina Post will update this story as new information becomes available.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592411101112.jpeg" alt="Salina Police SPD Stock 1 1024x683.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Salina Police SPD Stock 1 1024x683.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTEarly Wednesday morning, December 11, the Salina Police Department (SPD) and Salina Fire Department responded to a vehicle fire in the Lowe's parking lot at approximately 1:20 a.m.Upon arrival, first responders found a 2001 silver Buick LeSabre fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire. No other vehicles were damaged, and the car's owner, a 21-year-old Salina man, was not at the scene.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d1898.5693941310017!2d-97.60942699837986!3d38.78192175548078!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bcc62ad194518f%3A0xf960da360c574a88!2s3035%20S%209th%20St%2C%20Salina%2C%20KS%2067401!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1733934077935!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>According to SPD Captain James Feldman, fire inspectors determined the cause of the fire to be arson, prompting an active investigation. Feldman said SPD officers are working to obtain and review surveillance footage from the area to gather additional evidence.SPD did not release the name of the vehicle's owner.&nbsp;Salina Post will update this story as new information becomes available.&nbsp;

SPD investigating vehicle arson in Lowe's parking lot

Kansas State University's commencement ceremonies will feature several students as musicians and speakers during the fall 2024 commencement ceremonies on Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14.

• Kiran Elam, bachelor's candidate in agricultural economics, Beloit, will be the student commencement speaker for the College of Agriculture.

• Angela Cortes, bachelor's candidate in secondary education-English, Derby, will give the student commencement address for the College of Education.

• Brenton Wilden, bachelor's candidate in accounting and finance, Gardner, will present student remarks at the College of Business Administration's commencement ceremony.

• Devlyn Jochum, sophomore in music education, Hays, will sing the national anthem and the alma mater at commencement for the College of Education and the College of Business Administration.

• August Siefkes, sophomore in music business, Hudson, will be the organist at commencement for the College of Education and the College of Business Administration.

• Joseph Fortino, senior in computer engineering, Olathe, will be the organist for the College of Health and Human Sciences and the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering.

• Jade Ratterman, bachelor's candidate in human development and family science, Olathe, will sing the national anthem at commencement for the College of Health and Human Sciences.

• Morgan Woodsmall, bachelor's candidate in biomedical engineering, Olathe, will give the student address at commencement for the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering.

• Keenan Lippert, junior in aeronautical technology, Sabetha, will give the student address and serve as student marshal at commencement for K-State Salina.

• Amaya Dungan, a senior in music, Salina, will sing the national anthem at the commencement of graduate school.

• Kalin Rowley, bachelor's candidate in human development and family sciences, Sedgwick, will give the student address at commencement for the College of Health and Human Sciences.

• Josephine Benson, junior in English, Wamego, will be the organist at commencement for the Graduate School and the College of Agriculture.

• Anna Purvis, senior in vocal performance, Sand Springs, Oklahoma, will sing the national anthem and alma mater at the commencement ceremony for the College of Arts and Sciences.

• Kenadee Hubbard, bachelor's candidate in agricultural communications and journalism, Friendswood, Texas, will present reflections at the College of Agriculture's commencement ceremony.

The following is the schedule of K-State fall 2024 commencement ceremonies:

• Graduate School, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• Air Force ROTC Detachment 270 commissioning ceremony, 2 p.m., K-State Student Union Forum Hall.

• K-State Salina, 7 p.m., Student Life Center, Salina.

• College of Arts and Sciences, 8:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• Army ROTC Wildcat Battalion ceremony, 9 a.m., K-State Student Union Forum Hall.

• College of Education, 10 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• College of Business Administration, 11:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• College of Agriculture, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• College of Health and Human Sciences, 2:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• Carl R. Ice College of Engineering, 4 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

Additional information is available at <a href="http://k-state.edu/graduation">k-state.edu/graduation</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712248812294.jpeg" alt="Anderson Hall 2024" />
 <figcaption>Anderson Hall 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedKansas State University's commencement ceremonies will feature several students as musicians and speakers during the fall 2024 commencement ceremonies on Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14.• Kiran Elam, bachelor's candidate in agricultural economics, Beloit, will be the student commencement speaker for the College of Agriculture.• Angela Cortes, bachelor's candidate in secondary education-English, Derby, will give the student commencement address for the College of Education.• Brenton Wilden, bachelor's candidate in accounting and finance, Gardner, will present student remarks at the College of Business Administration's commencement ceremony.• Devlyn Jochum, sophomore in music education, Hays, will sing the national anthem and the alma mater at commencement for the College of Education and the College of Business Administration.• August Siefkes, sophomore in music business, Hudson, will be the organist at commencement for the College of Education and the College of Business Administration.• Joseph Fortino, senior in computer engineering, Olathe, will be the organist for the College of Health and Human Sciences and the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering.• Jade Ratterman, bachelor's candidate in human development and family science, Olathe, will sing the national anthem at commencement for the College of Health and Human Sciences.• Morgan Woodsmall, bachelor's candidate in biomedical engineering, Olathe, will give the student address at commencement for the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering.• Keenan Lippert, junior in aeronautical technology, Sabetha, will give the student address and serve as student marshal at commencement for K-State Salina.• Amaya Dungan, a senior in music, Salina, will sing the national anthem at the commencement of graduate school.• Kalin Rowley, bachelor's candidate in human development and family sciences, Sedgwick, will give the student address at commencement for the College of Health and Human Sciences.• Josephine Benson, junior in English, Wamego, will be the organist at commencement for the Graduate School and the College of Agriculture.• Anna Purvis, senior in vocal performance, Sand Springs, Oklahoma, will sing the national anthem and alma mater at the commencement ceremony for the College of Arts and Sciences.• Kenadee Hubbard, bachelor's candidate in agricultural communications and journalism, Friendswood, Texas, will present reflections at the College of Agriculture's commencement ceremony.The following is the schedule of K-State fall 2024 commencement ceremonies:Dec. 13• Graduate School, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• Air Force ROTC Detachment 270 commissioning ceremony, 2 p.m., K-State Student Union Forum Hall.• K-State Salina, 7 p.m., Student Life Center, Salina.Dec. 14• College of Arts and Sciences, 8:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• Army ROTC Wildcat Battalion ceremony, 9 a.m., K-State Student Union Forum Hall.• College of Education, 10 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• College of Business Administration, 11:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• College of Agriculture, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• College of Health and Human Sciences, 2:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• Carl R. Ice College of Engineering, 4 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.Additional information is available at <a href="http://k-state.edu/graduation">k-state.edu/graduation</a>.

Salinian to sing national anthem at K-State Graduate School commencement

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Arellano, Natalia Caridad

REQUESTED CHARGE(S)Probation Violation and Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Dimaplas, Matthew Joseph

REQUESTED CHARGE(S)&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGE(S)&nbsp;Probation Violation and Outside warrant/NCIC hit

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Hartfield, Ricco Deshawn

REQUESTED CHARGE(S)&nbsp;Distribute marijuana; 25 - &lt; 450 grams, Distribute certain stimulant; &lt; 3.5 grams, Distribute certain stimulant; Dose 10 - &lt; 100 units, Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant; 100 grams - &lt; 1 kilogram, Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant; 3.5 - &lt; 100 grams, Poss para w/intent to manuf/plant/cult and Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Robertson, Catherine Annmarie

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Suenram, Benjamin Stroda

REQUESTED CHARGE(S)&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant and Poss of substance in KSA 65-4105(h)

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Williams, Christine Nickole

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733924663952.png" alt="Arellano, Natalia Caridad" />
 <figcaption>Arellano, Natalia Caridad</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Arellano, Natalia CaridadREQUESTED CHARGE(S)Probation Violation and Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733924717432.png" alt="Baskins, Gregory Dustin" />
 <figcaption>Baskins, Gregory Dustin</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Baskins, Gregory DustinREQUESTED CHARGE(S) Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733924761699.png" alt="Dimaplas, Matthew Joseph" />
 <figcaption>Dimaplas, Matthew Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Dimaplas, Matthew JosephREQUESTED CHARGE(S)&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733924803516.png" alt=" Fenton, Tyrone Scott" />
 <figcaption> Fenton, Tyrone Scott</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Fenton, Tyrone ScottREQUESTED CHARGE(S)&nbsp;Probation Violation and Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733924875483.png" alt=" Hartfield, Ricco Deshawn" />
 <figcaption> Hartfield, Ricco Deshawn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Hartfield, Ricco DeshawnREQUESTED CHARGE(S)&nbsp;Distribute marijuana; 25 - &lt; 450 grams, Distribute certain stimulant; &lt; 3.5 grams, Distribute certain stimulant; Dose 10 - &lt; 100 units, Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant; 100 grams - &lt; 1 kilogram, Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant; 3.5 - &lt; 100 grams, Poss para w/intent to manuf/plant/cult and Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733924944346.png" alt=" Robertson, Catherine Annmarie" />
 <figcaption> Robertson, Catherine Annmarie</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Robertson, Catherine AnnmarieREQUESTED CHARGE(S) Failure to Appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733924984096.png" alt="Suenram, Benjamin Stroda" />
 <figcaption>Suenram, Benjamin Stroda</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Suenram, Benjamin StrodaREQUESTED CHARGE(S)&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant and Poss of substance in KSA 65-4105(h)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733925036596.png" alt="Williams, Christine Nickole" />
 <figcaption>Williams, Christine Nickole</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Williams, Christine NickoleREQUESTED CHARGE(S) Probation ViolationNAME:&nbsp;REQUESTED CHARGE(S)NAME:&nbsp;REQUESTED CHARGE(S)

Saline County Jail Bookings, Dec. 11

Salina Public Schools Salina Public Schools’ (SPS) Superintendent Linn Exline has announced she is retiring at the end of the 2024-25 school year. At its regular meeting on December 10, the board of education accepted her resignation and began to discuss how they will move forward with filling the superintendent position.

“On behalf of the Board of Education and as a former student, I thank Mrs. Exline for her dedicated service to Salina Public Schools and her community,” said Gabe Grant, board president. “In each post she has held in the district, it has been clear that Linn’s goal is to make Salina Public Schools the best place to learn and work. From leading a community-wide effort crafting a new, cohesive vision and mission at the start of her superintendency to introducing initiatives to increase student success and supporting teachers in the classroom, Mrs. Exline leaves us on a path of continuous improvement as we look to the future and begin the search for a new leader. I am so excited for Linn and her family as they embark on a new chapter of life.”

Exline was raised in Salina, graduated from SPS and committed her entire 33-year career in education to USD 305. Her leadership reached beyond managing the internal workings of the school district; she aligned the district with community expectations, always with a clear focus on what is best for the students. During 15 Strategic Plan Listening Sessions, she collected more than 3,000 comments from community members, staff and students. These insights formed the foundation for a new vision, mission statement, and strategic goals adopted by the SPS Board of Education in 2020.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691172321887.jpeg" alt="Linn Exline" />
 <figcaption>Linn Exline</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Public Schools Salina Public Schools’ (SPS) Superintendent Linn Exline has announced she is retiring at the end of the 2024-25 school year. At its regular meeting on December 10, the board of education accepted her resignation and began to discuss how they will move forward with filling the superintendent position.“On behalf of the Board of Education and as a former student, I thank Mrs. Exline for her dedicated service to Salina Public Schools and her community,” said Gabe Grant, board president. “In each post she has held in the district, it has been clear that Linn’s goal is to make Salina Public Schools the best place to learn and work. From leading a community-wide effort crafting a new, cohesive vision and mission at the start of her superintendency to introducing initiatives to increase student success and supporting teachers in the classroom, Mrs. Exline leaves us on a path of continuous improvement as we look to the future and begin the search for a new leader. I am so excited for Linn and her family as they embark on a new chapter of life.”Exline was raised in Salina, graduated from SPS and committed her entire 33-year career in education to USD 305. Her leadership reached beyond managing the internal workings of the school district; she aligned the district with community expectations, always with a clear focus on what is best for the students. During 15 Strategic Plan Listening Sessions, she collected more than 3,000 comments from community members, staff and students. These insights formed the foundation for a new vision, mission statement, and strategic goals adopted by the SPS Board of Education in 2020.&nbsp;After the listening sessions ended, Exline continued the face-to-face conversations through SPS Coffee Chats with staff, students and community members.&nbsp;Under her leadership, the district received a Gold Medallion award in 2023 and a Golden Achievement award in 2024 from the National School Public Relations Association. Exline is on the Saline County Health Advisory Council, is a board member of the Kansas/Missouri Superintendent Forum and is a member of the Kansas Commissioner of Education’s Superintendent Advisory Council. She delivered multiple community and state-level presentations and participated in Leadership for Tomorrow (2022-23) and Business Operations Leadership Development (2021-22) programs. Over the last two years she has collaborated with a small group of Kansas superintendents to lead a statewide Did You Know campaign to raise awareness about public schools in Kansas. The lawsuit filed against the federal government for remediation of contaminants left behind from Schilling Air Force Base was resolved during Exline’s tenure as superintendent.She received the Kansas Thespians Conference Administrators Award in 2013, was recognized for her educational leadership by the Kansas Association of Secondary School Principals Area III in 2012 and was selected as USD 305 Elementary Teacher of the Year in 1995. Her career with USD 305 included roles as executive director of school improvement (teaching and learning), high school principal, director of staff development and accreditation, elementary principal, math and science K-12 curriculum specialist and elementary teacher.Despite the increasing complexities of a school superintendent's role, Exline's decisions have always been guided by one principle - what is in the best interest of the students. Her vision and leadership have established positive momentum in the district that will ensure its continued success in years to come.“As the Board of Education maps out the search process for our next Superintendent, the Board and Mrs. Exline will continue our focus on our respective roles in leading the district,” said Grant. “What our faculty and staff do every school day in every classroom in Salina Public Schools has incredible energy behind it. I speak for my fellow board members when I say we look forward to naming our new leader and not missing a beat in our work, making our community’s vision for Salina Public Schools being the best place to learn and work a reality.”

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