Goddard Public Schools Families.
The Goddard USD 265 Board of Education is excited to announce the hiring of three new administrators that will begin on July 1, 2024. Nicholas Grummert will serve as Director of Human Resources; Luke Smith, Principal of Discovery Intermediate School, and Paige Hill, Principal of Explorer Elementary School.
Below is a brief introduction of each individual.
Nicholas Grummert, Director of Human Resources
Mr. Grummert has been in education for 16 years and has experienced many different roles, including serving as a 3rd and 6th-grade teacher at Tecumseh North Elementary, K-6 instructional coach at Shawnee Heights Elementary in Shawnee Heights USD 450, assistant principal at Jardine Elementary in Topeka USD 501, and his most recent assignment as principal of Abilene Elementary School in Valley Center USD 262. Nick earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education / English Language Learning from McPherson College, Master of Education and School Leadership endorsement from Baker University, and acquired his district level licensure from Wichita State University.
Nick stated, "I’m excited for the opportunity to join the elite team at Goddard. I'm committed to listening, developing relationships and inspiring others. I can't wait to meet and get to know everyone."
Luke Smith, Principal of Discovery Intermediate School
Mr. Smith has been in education for 20 years and has experienced many different roles, including serving as chemistry/physics teacher, National Honor Society advisor, and being football, basketball, golf, and softball coach at Wellington Middle and High Schools, before becoming the district athletic/activities director for Wellington USD 353. His most recent assignment was as the Maize South High School assistant principal and athletic director. Luke earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Secondary Education / Physics & Chemistry from Emporia State University, Master of Science in Education, and Master of Science in School Leadership from Baker University.
Luke stated, "I am truly honored and excited to be a part of the Goddard District and the Discovery Intermediate School team. Discovery has an outstanding reputation and an amazing staff dedicated to caring about and doing what's best for students. I cannot wait to build relationships with this amazing group of students, educators, and families."
Paige Hill, Principal of Explorer Elementary School
Mrs. Hill has been in education for 14 years and has experienced many different roles, including serving as a 1st-grade teacher at McLouth Elementary School in McLouth School District USD 342, Vermillion Elementary School, Pray-Woodman Elementary, and a 5th-grade teacher at Pray-Woodman Elementary before transitioning to her current role as the assistant principal of Maize Middle School. Paige earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from Kansas State University, and Master of Science in Educational Administration from Emporia State University.
Paige stated, "I am eager to collaborate and work alongside the Goddard USD 265 students, staff, and families to help create avenues and resources that focus on academic, social, and behavioral needs. I am grateful to join the #265Family and look forward to growing as an educational leader and learner. I believe every student deserves and must be provided the opportunity to be successful in their learning, as this will help create the mentality and foundation of a lifelong learner. I look forward to bringing my two daughters, Gracie (10) and Millie (7), to the Goddard District. I would not be where I am today without my rock, Drew Hill (husband), and his consistent support in helping me pursue my goals and dreams of bringing students and families the best educational experience possible."
Please help us welcome these individuals to the Goddard Public Schools family!
Dane Baxa
Director of Community Relations
Goddard Public Schools, USD 265