Ed Hurtig, President

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.

Tony Barron, Past 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.

Denise Dietz, President Elect

Graphic Designer

Eudora Schools Parent

I’ve lived in Eudora for over 18 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.

Becky Milner, Treasurer

Kindred CPA

Eudora Schools Parent

My family moved to Eudora four 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.

Frances Lyons, Secretary

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.  

Samantha Arredondo

Talent Acquisition, Omnicom Health

Eudora Schools 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. 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! 

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.  

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.

Christy Bourne

Marketing Director, Cboe Global

Eudora Schools Parent

My husband and I settled in Eudora when we married mostly because of Eudora's location to our workplaces, but also because of the reputation of its schools. Upon starting a family and having children in Eudora's schools, we have been impressed with the opportunities the schools provide and the dedication of the teachers and staff. Each year I have been overwhelmed with the generosity this community has shown to the Eudora Schools Foundation. And I've seen the impact ESF has in ensuring our teachers have the support they need to help students thrive. I am excited to give back to the school district that has given so much to my children and this community. My goal is to work with fellow board members to continue the tradition and dedication started by those who preceded us in making our schools the very best. 

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. 

Larry McPherson

Retired Eudora Teacher & Athletics Director

I started teaching in Eudora in the fall of 1968, as the high school Industrial Arts teacher and Driver's Education instructor. I wore a lot of different hats as an assistant football coach, bus driver, and an athletic director. During these years, I loved seeing my fellow teachers and students succeed. There is nothing like watching a student set a record or watching a student's eyes light up when they understand a concept in the classroom. I could barely handout the trophy when our basketball team made it to the state championship because of my excitement of those kids. I loved working at Eudora Schools because of my colleagues and students. I still run into former students, they continue to call me Mr. McPherson, even though, I tell them to call me Larry. Through all the years, I learned that kids know when you care about them. Even today, when times have changed, kids know. Kids know when they matter and that you are taking time to understand them.

During the past few years, I started reading articles about the Eudora Schools Foundation and also talking to parents about ways their students benefited from the Foundation's opportunities. I love the idea of Eudora kids getting new experiences and teachers getting the support they need. This why the Foundation's important to me.

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.

Gary Pratt

Private Banking Officer, Meritrust Credit Union

Eudora Schools Parent

In 2010 we moved to my wife Molly’s hometown of Eudora. It was important for us to raise our seven children in a place that feels grounded and real. We enjoy the small town feel, and the commitment to every child and family that makes the community strong. Our children have developed great friendships and role models at the schools in academics and through extracurricular activities. They have also received the support they need to be successful in life after they graduate.

From a young age I was taught that community leadership was a civic responsibility. I was also taught to be a good neighbor and to see the dignity of each person I meet by my mother, who taught special education in Eudora for many years. Eudora has wonderful people and a bright future. I’m proud to serve on the Eudora Schools Foundation to do my part to continue this tradition of excellence and to support our teachers, staff and the families in Eudora.

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. 

Jeremy Warren

Director Training & Safety, KidsTLC

Eudora Schools Parent

I grew up in a small, farm community in North Central Kansas.  I had a great experience growing up in that community and had several teachers and coaches that made a positive impact in my life.  This experience led me down a path of wanting to give back and help others.  I graduated from Baker University in Baldwin City, KS with a Psychology degree and went to work at a non-profit child welfare agency in Lawrence, KS that assisted children and their families in our foster care and juvenile justice system. While at Baker University, I also met a pretty fantastic lady, and married her in 2004.  When we were talking about having children and where to raise them, we wanted them to have the same experience in a small town we did. This little town of Eudora was right down the road from us.  Everything lined up and now my wife, Tina, works for the school district in the Nurse’s Office and both of our daughters have attended EES and EMS; my oldest will be a freshman this upcoming school year and my youngest a 5th grader.  I currently work in Olathe at KidsTLC and continue my mission of helping families and children who struggle with mental and behavioral health issues.  I see the importance of education, resources, and community connections that is needed to build people up and set them up for success.  We have been impressed with every school professional our girls have worked with in our district.  We see they love and support our schools provide for community members so joining the Eudora Schools Foundation is another great opportunity for me to give back.

Stu Moeckel

Superintendent, USD #491 (ex-officio)

Eudora Schools Parent

I am excited to be a part of the Eudora community and serve others in helping to continue the great things that are going on!  This community and its residents have been so supportive of myself and my family during this transition making us feel right at home.  Our schools at USD #491 are filled with amazing staff, teachers and students, and I am eager to meet and work with everyone.

My wife, Summer, an elementary teacher for 18 years, is currently an elementary teacher for Lawrence Public Schools. We have a daughter, Brennan, and two sons, Braxton and Brantley. Our family is excited about the opportunities that exist in Eudora. Being new to the schools, I am excited learn all the amazing and innovative things going on at USD #491. 

Mr. Moeckel comes to Eudora after serving the students and families of Madison-Virgil USD 386, in Madison, Kansas, as their superintendent of schools and high school principal. Prior to serving in USD 386, Mr. Moeckel was a high school principal and activities director at Victoria High School, following nine years as an industrial and technology studies teacher. Mr. Moeckel earned his Bachelor's degree and Master's in Education Administration from Fort Hays State University. In May of 2022, Mr. Moeckel will conclude his doctoral degree from Wichita State University.

Heather Whalen

Board of Education Representative

Eudora Schools Parent

I grew up in a small town in western Kansas where the schools were the heart of the community.  I saw first hand how critical it is for a community to have a healthy, vibrant school system.  When my husband and I were looking to move to Eudora, one of the first things we noticed in many of the store windows around town were the Eudoras Schools Foundation red heart signs.  It was clear to see that Eudora was united around the importance of education.  We now have three children in the district who are greatly benefiting from that commitment to education by the community and the Eudora Schools Foundation.  

As an educator, I am continually impressed by the passion and innovation of our teaching staff and the administrators who work to support them and the students. I feel the work of the Eudora Schools Foundation plays a vital role in the continued success of our schools.  The impact the foundation makes is felt across the district both academically and socially.  It is an honor to be part of the Eudora Schools Foundation through the Board of Education, and to help bring support and enrichment to our amazing students and staff!

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".