News Release May 2, 2025

Emporia Public Schools Celebrates Seven Schools Named 2024-25 Capturing Kids' Hearts® National Showcase Schools

Emporia, KS –  Emporia Public Schools was recently announced as a recipient of the 2024-25 Capturing Kids' Hearts National Showcase School District Award. This prestigious recognition highlights the district’s outstanding commitment to fostering a positive, supportive environment for students and staff.

The Capturing Kids' Hearts National Showcase School District Award honors school districts that demonstrate exceptional implementation of the Capturing Kids’ Hearts® Process, a nationally acclaimed program focused on building strong, trusting relationships within schools. Through this process, Emporia Public Schools has shown a steadfast dedication to ensuring that students and educators feel safe, connected, and valued across all campuses.

Remarkably, Emporia Public Schools achieved this district-wide accomplishment in just two years, a testament to the district’s strong leadership, focused professional development, and unwavering commitment to student and staff well-being.

In order to receive the distinction as a Capturing Kids Hearts National Showcase School District,  75 percent of the schools in the district had to have been nominated and then awarded the distinction as National Showcase Schools. On Monday, April 28th, seven schools in Emporia Public Schools were individually honored as Capturing Kids' Hearts National Showcase Schools.  Those schools are:

• Emporia Middle School
• Jones Early Childhood Development Center (Jones won the Rising Star award last year)
• Logan Avenue Elementary
• Riverside Elementary
• Timmerman Elementary
• Village Elementary (this is the 8th consecutive year for Village)
• Walnut Elementary
   

Out of over 10,000 school campuses served by Capturing Kids' Hearts nationwide, only 867 schools were selected as 2024-2025 National Showcase Schools, making Emporia Public Schools' achievement even more distinguished. Nominations and awards occur on an annual basis.

Emporia Public Schools extends its deepest gratitude and congratulations to all educators, administrators, staff, students, and parents whose dedication and passion made this recognition possible. Their commitment to building meaningful relationships and creating a culture of trust and respect continues to transform the educational experience for every student.

For more information about Capturing Kids' Hearts® and the National Showcase Schools® Award, visit www.capturingkidshearts.org.