Tony Barron, President

Grounds & Project Coordinator, Blue Valley Schools

Eudora Schools Parent

I truly believe that I have a civic duty to be involved in my local community.  Since I have three boys in the Eudora Public School system, serving as a volunteer on the Eudora Schools Foundation board was a perfect fit.  Because of my job as a school administrator in a nearby district, I see, first hand, the hard work and commitment put forth by teachers, support staff, and school administrators.  I also understand their need for additional resources to teach above and beyond standards and their drive to exceed expectations.  That is why I chose to be a part of the foundation.  Our students will dictate our future and I want to provide them with multiple learning and innovative opportunities.  Every student deserves this opportunity, and I want to be part of the foundation's mission to enrich the student experience, reward teacher excellence, and make our schools the very best.

Ed Hurtig, President Elect

Architect

Eudora Schools Parent

I grew up in a small town in north central Kansas and received an excellent education from both the school and the community. My upbringing helped me understand that when I had kids I wanted to make sure I raised them in a community with a great education system. We picked Eudora because of the people that we met and the opportunities the community offered. Once our children entered the school system, I knew that the choice we made was a great one. I have enjoyed watching my children grow and learn in this great school system, and I look forward to seeing the opportunities that lay ahead of them. I have a passion to make an impact in my community, and the Eudora Schools Foundation provides that opportunity for me.  Being a part of the Foundation board gives me a chance to give back to an educational system that is the backbone of this community, and I look forward to working with my fellow Foundation members on making a meaningful impact to Eudora.

Matt Bova, Past President

Retired, EHS English Teacher

I taught English and photojournalism at Eudora High School for 28 years before retiring in 2016. Throughout my career, the Eudora community provided the perfect place for me to work. In recent years, as the Eudora Schools Foundation continued to expand its reach, I was struck by the way the Foundation provided the structure to bring the community into direct partnership with the district’s classroom teachers. This partnership enriches everybody. Parents see their efforts having a direct impact. Students are provided with exciting classroom opportunities. And teachers feel the support of the community behind them. That’s why I was happy to accept the invitation to join the Eudora Schools Foundation. It is a great way for me to stay connected to the schools, and it gives me a chance to give something back to a place that gave so much to me.

Abram Chrislip, Co-Treasurer

CPA, Kindred CPA

Eudora Schools Parent

Eudora Schools Alumnus

I was born and raised in Eudora and attended Eudora public schools until my graduation from EHS in 1997. Shortly after finishing college, my wife (and fellow ’97 EHS graduate), Sarah, and I moved back to Eudora to raise our young family in the town where many of our family members and close friends still lived. We currently have 4 children at Eudora Schools and have been consistently impressed by the District’s schools and teachers. When I was asked to consider joining the Eudora Schools Foundation (ESF) board, it was an easy decision. I knew that the ESF board was composed of a terrific group of Eudora citizens committed to helping the Eudora school district continue to provide the best for its students. I am excited to work with the board and to help the Foundation accomplish its goals.

Becky Milner, Co-Treasurer President

Kindred CPA

Eudora Schools Parent

My family moved to Eudora three years ago, and we were quickly impressed by the Eudora school system.  We love the small town feel of the community and high standards of the education system.  I believe that all children have a right to quality education in a supportive environment, no matter what their background or economic status is.  I am excited to join the Eudora Schools Foundation and look forward to helping support and recognize the efforts of our teachers and administrators.

Lauri Kuntz, Secretary

Community Member

Eudora Schools Parent

My husband Shane and I have three children that attend Eudora Schools.  I am involved with the Eudora Elementary PTO, a volunteer at Eudora Elementary and  a member of the Eudora Schools Curriculum Council.  I love Eudora Schools because of the amazing teachers and staff.  Our teachers work so hard to know the students individually and help them to excel in and out of the classroom.  

Teresa Carnagie

Retired Administrative Activities Assistant, Eudora Schools

My family moved outside of Eudora in 1990, our two children graduated from Eudora.  I had the privilege to work for this awesome school district, as an Administrative Activities Assistant at Eudora High School. I retired in August of 2020, but during my time, I worked with many outstanding and caring staff members. I believe that our district staff has compassion for students, not only in educating and counseling, but the emotional and physical well-being of every student. This is something I am very passionate about. I believe the emotional and physical wellness of a student is an important part of their education.  Our small but mighty community has a great deal to do with this outstanding district.  If you need something, our community will find a way to help students and staff out.  That is why I'm proud to serve on the Eudora Schools Foundation.  

Denise Dietz

Paraprofessional, Eudora Schools

Eudora Schools Parent

I’ve lived in Eudora for over 17 years and it’s amazing to me how a small (but mighty!) town can produce such great schools.

A solid education provides not only a foundation for learning but it also develops that first sense of community. I don’t think it’s any coincidence that our amazing schools and wonderful community are intrinsically interconnected. It’s also no coincidence that ESF has played an integral role in making that connection happen.

I have 2 children, a daughter at EHS and a son at EMS, who have had so many opportunities because of the focus and dedication that Eudora Schools provide. As a paraprofessional, I’ve also seen firsthand what an ESF grant can do for a teacher, a student or an entire classroom. All of this to say, I’m so excited to be part of ESF to continue those experiences and enhance education in our community in extraordinary and innovative ways.

Candace Dunback

Athlete Network

Eudora Schools Parent

Why Eudora Schools…

As a young couple with no children, my husband and I settled in Eudora because at the time it split our work commutes perfectly East and West from our front door. Eighteen years and two children later, we are incredibly thankful we made the decision we did. We unexpectedly found a community and school district that not only supports our children in the ways they need, but also a warm and welcoming spirit of collaboration at a unique level. 

Why is education important…

The value of education comes in many forms and may vary from person to person based on their experiences or circumstances.  At the core of education, we are helping individuals find the best version of themselves and by doing so we are enriching their lives and elevating our communities simultaneously. Students become tomorrow’s leaders and educators who may effectuate change as needed and empower the next generation of Cardinals. Education is cyclical.

Why I care…

I am very conscious of the impact educators have had in my life. The direction of our lives is a reflection of the people who come in and out of our life stories. Educators were instrumental in keeping me pointed in a positive direction. Now that I have two sons in the Eudora School District, I have found even more clarity on this concept. On a daily basis I see strong educators come into my sons’ lives, plant seeds of curiosity and watch them grow. I have an immense amount of gratitude for the opportunity to support these individuals in the ways I am able while seeking that elusive balance of work and personal life.

Don Grosdidier

Director of Virtual Learning, Greenbush

Eudora Schools Parent

You might say that I have been an “almost life-long” member of the Eudora Schools community.  I am a graduate of Eudora High School and have worked for the school district for 28 years in a variety of capacities from Teacher-Coach to Principal to Superintendent. I have two daughters, one a student at EMS and one a graduate of Eudora High School. I take great pride in the quality of teaching and learning that takes place in Eudora Schools each day. I want to see us continue to offer the opportunities of a large school district while maintaining the personal relationships of a small district. I think it has been that ability that has set us apart from other districts in the area.

Robby Giffin

Senior Pastor, Lawrence First Church of the Nazarene

Eudora Schools Parent

My family and I moved to Eudora 15 years ago, intending it to be a temporary stay until our kids became of school age and we could move to a bigger district with more opportunities. We soon realized that there were actually more opportunities in a district like Eudora, where the community and the school district work in harmony with one another. Really, Eudora schools IS the community! It's an honor and a privilege to be a part of the schools foundation, where we can be a part of connecting both the community and the schools in enriching our students' educational and emotional growth.

Dain Hammerschmidt

Project Manager, Kiewit Engineering Group

Eudora Schools Parent

Nearly 20 years ago I graduated with a degree in civil engineering that afforded me the opportunity to chase my dreams of building incredible projects. That dream came true thanks to great teachers who shaped my confidence and helped guide me through the rigors of each next step. They not only prepared me for my future career, but for life as a whole.  I believe that strong schools are the foundation of a strong community and provide a solid platform for our kids to leap from into life. 

My wife, Katie and I, and our four children love calling Eudora home. Being part of the Eudora Schools Foundation allows me the opportunity to give back to our community and honor all the great teachers who believed in me along the way. 

Barbara Keltner

Retired, School Librarian

Eudora Schools Grandparent

Although my husband and I have lived in the Eudora community only 2 years since our retirement from teaching in Medicine Lodge, we have a 15 year history of knowing about Eudora and the amazing school system since our son teaches at the Eudora High School, and we now have one granddaughter in each of the three schools.   As a former school librarian of 40 years who loved my job, volunteering at the EES and EMS libraries each week has been a good fit, and being in the schools regularly is how I learned how very progressive the Eudora school system is and how innovative and caring the teachers are!  I have been especially impressed with the ESF grants to teachers and the amazing activities the students are able to do as a result, so when I was asked to consider serving on the ESF Board, I knew I would enjoy serving on a board for an organization that supports students and teachers in this way and many others.

Kelly Long

Realtor, McGrew

Eudora Schools Parent

Eudora Schools Alumna

I am so excited to be able to serve my community as a member of the Eudora Schools Foundation. As a former EHS graduate, Eudora Schools hold a special place in my heart. My husband, another former EHS graduate, and I have three children in the district. When families, like ours, can trust that their children are in a safe, strong learning environment, they will continue to live in and support their community, making it a better place. I believe that the Eudora Schools Foundation has been an integral part of building the robust, trusted environment we have throughout the district today.

Brynn Lorenz

ICON plc

Eudora Schools Parent

In 2013, a glitch in my navigation system brought me to this little town that I had never even heard of before. I immediately fell in love with its charm, genuineness and 'small town feel'. I have been a proud member of this incredible community ever since I came across it by happenstance all those years ago.

I have grown to admire, respect and value the members and businesses of our beloved community, as well as the Eudora School District! My partner and I have proudly watched our two daughters grow, learn and thrive as students in the Eudora Schools – and it’s all been thanks to the dedication, commitment and devotion of our Eudora Teachers, Faculty & Staff! Their camaraderie, passion and drive towards providing exceptional education for the youth of this community motivates me to support their admirable efforts.

I am proud and humbled to be a member of the Eudora Schools Foundation and eagerly look forward to helping to enrich the lives of our community. 

Frances Lyons

Assistant Dean for Student Services, KU School of Journalism & Mass Communications

Eudora Schools Parent

When my husband and I were looking to move our family in 2016, Eudora quickly rose to the top of our list. We wanted to plant roots in a community that demonstrated a commitment to excellence in public education and provided opportunities for all students to reach their full potential. We have three children in school now, and I've seen the difference Eudora Schools Foundation initiatives have made in their lives and those of their peers. Because the Foundation partners with the school and community to provide resources that might not otherwise be available, everyone benefits. Our teachers and staff go above and beyond to help our students and enrich their educational experiences. I want to do my part to support and recognize their efforts.  

Chrissy Mayer

Strategic Initiatives Coordinator, DCCCA

Eudora Schools Parent

Eudora Schools provides a wealth of opportunities for my children to grow and learn both academically and socially. The schools are responsive to the needs of all students and provide a safe, supportive learning environment. My family is fortunate to live in a district that puts kids first. We have state-of-the-art facilities and first-class teachers. The Eudora Schools Foundation is an incredible organization that supports excellence in our district.

Alvin Perez-Cruz

Hospital Administrator, Leavenworth VA Medical Center

Eudora Schools Parent

After 20 years of dedicated service, I retired from the United States Army in 2017. I moved to Eudora the same year and quickly immersed myself in the community, both volunteering at the Eudora schools and coaching youth sports. I continue to serve as a Hospital Administrator with Veterans Administration (VA) Health Care System, where I offer a vast knowledge of progressive and global experience, in numerous diverse management and leadership roles, especially within the healthcare industry.

Lastly, a little bit about my personal life. I’m originally from Puerto Rico. I’ve visited over 30 countries and enjoy traveling every year. Some of my favorite destinations include Thailand, Italy, Greece, and of course “anywhere warm with a beach”.

I have a son, Tiago, who attends Eudora Schools. We like to go shopping for cool shoes, playing Fortnite together and we both enjoy participating in sports like Jiu Jitsu and Soccer. I am excited for the opportunity to be part of a fantastic team, that truly cares for future of our students and I look forward continuing to serve the Eudora community in any way I can.

Fred Ramirez

School Resource Office, Eudora Schools

Eudora Schools Parent

When me and my wife first got married, we moved to Eudora, because it was in between my work and hers.  We also wanted to live in a small community to raise our children in.  While the kids were young we heard great things about the school district, and were excited for our kids to be apart of it.  I have a daughter in middle school and a son in high school, and I know they are in good hands.  I have worked with the schools for the past two years and have seen first hand how hard the teachers and staff work to provide a good learning environment for the kids.  I chose to be a part of the Eudora Schools Foundation to do my part in making sure the schools have what they need to continue excellence.  

Connor Schmidt

Undergraduate, University of Kansas

Paraprofessional, Eudora Schools

Eudora Alumnus

Since 2016, I have lived in Eudora and while that seems like a short time, I have come to love this place like no other. I graduated from EHS in 2020 and currently have a brother and sister that are students in the district. Also, if you know Ms. Schmidt the 2nd grade teacher, that is my mom. During in high school, I played basketball all four years, was a member of the band, and also served as student body president my senior year. Before I moved here, my family and I used to visit my cousins in Eudora every summer. I came from a bigger city so I always looked forward to all the great things that Eudora had to offer. During my time in the schools, I was able to see first-hand the amazing actions and projects that were put in place by the foundation. As I am now a part of the Foundation, I hope to help make positive differences that will last well into the future. 

Samantha Arredondo

Board of Education Representative

Eudora Parent

Growing up in a small town in East, Central Kansas community involvement and support have played a big part in my early educational success. When my husband and I were looking to relocate our family seven years ago Eudora quickly became our top choice. We enjoyed the small town feel, were impressed with the schools and really felt at home within the community. 

I truly believe in the duty of community service, and am honored to be part of the Eudora Schools Foundation through the Board of Education. The mission of the foundation was what initially drew me in, and being able to see that mission come to life and directly impact our students, staff and community has really shown me how special the Eudora Schools Foundation really is! 

Shanda Hurla, MS Ed., Executive Director

I truly enjoy working for the Eudora Schools Foundation. I am passionate about public education and the role that education it has our community. I have found that our small community is mighty and generous in its support.

When it comes to giving our Eudora students the education they need and deserve, public funds are simply inadequate. ESF helps to fill that gap, allowing Eudora Schools to sustain and expand innovative programs that might otherwise disappear from schools.

It is the role of the Eudora Schools Foundation to support district innovation, to enhance student opportunities, to reward teacher excellence, and make our schools the very best. We fund innovative academic initiatives through classroom grants, student enrichment programs, staff development and recognition, and ultimately grow our endowment to ensure student success, today and long into the future. I have personally seen the investment and contributions from our community to make our schools the best - we are mighty, we are generous!

My husband and I moved into the district in 2001 because of the excellent reputation of the schools. Our three of our four children now attend schools within the district. As a parent, I know the importance of quality education and value the district’s tradition of excellence and desire for innovation. I look forward to continuing the Foundation’s work to make Eudora Schools a “Destination District".