Dr. Adams' Dual Role: Leavenworth to Piper

0:00It's April 14. This is Kansas News today, your AI-powered local news. Dr. Kellen Adams, Superintendent of Leavenworth, USD 453, is heading to the Piper School District starting July 1st. He's aiming to wrap things up strong in Leavenworth while laying groundwork for his new gig, calling it like having your feet in two places at once. Adams sees this as a career step up, staying in the Kansas City metro area, and he's drawn to Piper's focus on real-world learning programs. Meanwhile, Piper voters shot down a $32.5 million bond last April that would have funded an athletic complex, more classrooms, and tech upgrades. Parents on both sides are feeling the pinch. In Piper, some Mike Sanis-Shaniberger regret missing that growth chance, while others like Diane Smith say the district needed better planning before. Hitting taxpayers, Leavenworth folks, including Amy Parsons, know there's no easy fix for their budget gaps. Adams still has key work ahead in Leavenworth, my closing a lingering budget shortfall for

1:02the 26-27 school year. He's pushing hard for closing an elementary school for efficiency, even though the board pushed back, and he'll keep advocating till he leaves. As he steps out, Adams stresses the upcoming school board election. Leavenworth needs committed folks ready to dive into the tough stuff and unlock the district's real potential.