USD #368, Paola, is a progressive rural district with an easy 20-minute access to the Kansas City metro area and its amenities.  Paola School District serves approximately 2,000 students.  The district includes two elementary schools (one K-2 and one 3-5), one middle school (6-8), and one high school (9-12).  The district includes an Adult Education center and the Parents as Teachers program.  Paola is the host district for an eight-district special education cooperative program.

Paola recently completed a $17 million school bond project to support their local schools.  Bond projects completed include additional classroom space, building renovations to school buildings and the high school track and football field, a new competitive gym at Paola High School, a new baseball and softball complex, and the installation of tornado shelters at all school facilities with students.  A science lab greenhouse and FFA animal lab are currently under construction.

District technology includes a dedicated technology integration specialist to support teachers with technology integration in the classroom, a wireless technology environment, network upgrades, 1 to 1 Chromebooks in grades 6 - 12, utilization of iPads to support elementary student engagement, and Smart Board technology in all core classrooms.  USD #368 is committed to using technology as a tool to enhance learning and to support a dedicated professional teaching staff.

Paola provides a mentoring program for first-year teachers.  Beginning teachers are paired with master teachers for support and guidance.  At the completion of the program, new teachers have fulfilled the Kansas State Department of Education requirements to move from an initial to professional teaching license.  Professional development is a vital part of continued growth for all licensed personnel.

Paola schools are an integral part of a progressive community featuring an active town square, a growing business corridor, new housing complexes, and quick four-lane access to all of the Kansas City amenities.  It is a great place to live, where people care about their children, schools, community and each other.  More information can be found on our website, www.usd368.org.  Come visit our community and schools.