About Our District
USD #377 is located in rural Northeast Kansas with the district office being in Effingham. USD #377 serves all of Atchison County, excluding the Atchison City School District, and covers an area of 350 square miles. The district boundaries extend into small sections of Doniphan, Jackson and Jefferson counties. The district’s main sources of income are industry and agriculture.
The area is served by churches in each community and recreational and medical services are provided within close distance. The City of Effingham has a public library, tennis court, ball field, park and swimming pool. The nearness of Benedictine College, K-State, KU and Washburn University offer many opportunities for continuing education.
In addition, our short distance from St. Joseph, Kansas City, Lawrence and Topeka make many of the services, cultural opportunities and shopping centers within an hour's drive.
USD #377 is governed by a seven member Board. The majority of district funding comes from the State of Kansas. Other sources of funding are from local taxes and federal government sources. Board of Education members are elected by the public, have policy setting authority and have primary responsibility for fiscal matters. The Board of Education meets at 7:00 pm the second Monday of every month at the Board Office located in Effingham.
The school district operates two main attendance centers, located in Effingham:
Atchison County Community Junior/Senior High (7-12)
Atchison County Community Elementary School (PK-6) that includes two wood frame buildings that sit to the north and right behind the elementary school: Little Paws Pre-School (4-year olds)
Atchison County Community Kindergarten Center Enrollment for the entire district in the 2010-2011 school year was 651 students. The Junior/Senior High belongs to the Delaware Valley League and is a member of the Kansas State Activities Association and the high school is classified as 3A for competitive activities.
At USD #377, we are dedicated to meeting the educational needs of every child. Our beliefs, mission and vision represent the foundation for not only the way in which we approach our work, but also establishes a vision for where we want to go, and most importantly a plan for how we are going to get there.
VISION
The USD 377 schools and community will work in coordination to provide a quality education system designed to provide each student with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in post‐secondary education/or the workforce.
MISSION
Empowering Individuals to Dream, Achieve and Succeed
DISTRICT GOALS
Academic Excellence
To become a school system that inspires, challenges and supports the highest level of excellence for all our students. We believe an intellectually rigorous educational experience will develop graduates who will advance into the next phase of their lives prepared to function effectively in the world of the 21st Century, and who understand the importance of living as informed, responsible citizens.
Safe Learning Environment
The district and community will work together to provide a safe learning environment.
Community Schools
Establish public trust and confidence through open, honest communications and positive relationships.
High Quality Workforce
Recruit, retain and professionally develop a high quality work force.
Core Beliefs
We believe every child can learn and be successful.
We believe a high‐quality education is the fundamental right of every child.
We believe the pursuit of excellence is a fundamental and ongoing process.
We believe a high‐quality school system strives to be responsive and accountable.
We believe a constancy of purpose requires a commitment to continuous improvement.
We believe an ethical school system requires openness, honesty, integrity, respect and fairness.
We believe that every student should be educated in a safe, orderly, effective and innovative learning environment.
Code of Ethics
Educators commit to their own learning in order to develop their practice.
Educators create, support, and maintain challenging learning environments for all.
Educators advance the intellectual and ethical foundation of the learning community.
Educators collaborate with colleagues and other professionals in the interest of student learning.
Educators collaborate with parents and community, building trust and respecting confidentiality.
Educators nurture the intellectual, physical, emotional, social, and civic potential of each student.
Departmental Mission Statements
Facilities and Maintenance Department Mission Statement
The MISSION of the USD 377 Facilities and Maintenance department is dedicated to providing first-in-class, safe, healthful and effective learning environments and reliable utilities. We are pro-active in delivering quality maintenance repair and service for our students, staff and community that supports our district in achieving excellence. We do that with pride, integrity, and respect in accordance with a cooperative and accommodating schedule.
Technology Department Mission Statement
The MISSION of the USD 377 Technology Department is to provide and integrate effective technology into the district's curriculum, instruction, and administrative applications to increase student achievement, effectiveness of instruction, and efficiency of the staff and administration.
The Food Service Mission Statement
The MISSION of the USD 377 Food Service Department is to prepare quality nutritious meals for students and staff and help educate the students so they develop healthier lifestyles.