Restitched: Repurpose & Redesign — FCCLA STAR Event
Olivia Houchin, Lola Ogden, and Piper Shinkle are giving old denim a brand-new life by transforming jeans into stylish, sustainable purses. Every stitch showcases their creativity, craftsmanship, and commitment to eco-friendly fashion. Upcycling at its finest — where style meets a greener future.
Think It Through — They Might Fool You
Kinzley Evans and Carleigh Compton are empowering 5th graders with real-world safety skills by teaching them the difference between “stranger danger” and “tricky people.” They explained how safe words work, why they matter, and how to stay alert both online and in person. Their message: It’s not just strangers to watch for — it’s anyone who tries to trick, pressure, or confuse you. By learning to spot tricky behaviors, students become safer, smarter, and more confident in protecting themselves.
Staying on the Bright Side of Sun Safety
This year, Morgan Adams and Millie McKenney took their FCCLA leadership to the next level by competing in the STAR Event National Programs in Action. Their project focused on helping their peers understand the power of sun safety — and they made it memorable.
To kick things off, they invited local physician Dr. Jennifer McKenney to speak with students about the importance of protecting your skin. She highlighted why sunscreen matters, how quickly UV damage can occur, and the long-term risks of unprotected exposure, including skin cancer. Her message was clear: your skin is worth protecting every single day.
But Morgan and Millie aren’t stopping there. Later this year, they plan to create Sun Safety Kits for every outdoor athlete. Each kit will include sunscreen samples, UV-detection stickers, SPF lip balm, sunglasses, and a helpful brochure — all packed into a fun, easy-to-carry pouch. Their goal? Make sun safety simple, accessible, and part of every athlete’s routine.
Their biggest takeaway: Be sun smart! Wear sunscreen and protective clothing — long sleeves, sunglasses, hats, and more — to guard your skin from harmful UV rays.
Morgan and Millie are shining a light on healthy habits, and their work is already making a difference!
Only seven days remain in our November Initiative, and we’d love to see those final family moments before the month wraps up! With the season of gratitude upon us, share what family time looks like and use #USD484FamilyMoments to join in. Plus—everyone who participates is entered to win a $50 gift certificate to El Puerto! Let’s finish strong!
Weekly Calendar 2025
November 24-30
Brook Derby Named Southeast Kansas Unified Partner of the Year
Fredonia High School senior Brook Derby has been honored as one of only five statewide recipients of the Kansas Special Olympics Unified Partner Award—and was selected as the 2025 Southeast Kansas Unified Partner of the Year.
Brook has been a dedicated Unified Partner since 7th grade, consistently showing up to support her peers with and without intellectual disabilities. She attends every Special Olympics event, meeting, summit, and activity, always bringing enthusiasm, kindness, and leadership.
Her commitment to inclusion goes far beyond participation—Brook is known for encouraging others, forming genuine friendships, and helping grow Unified programs across the region. Her peers and coaches describe her as dependable, compassionate, and a true champion for the unified movement.
Congratulations, Brook, on this well deserved recognition.
Fredonia Junior High Wrestlers Hit the Mat for Their Final Matchup of the Season!
The final showdown of the junior high wrestling season is here, and our Yellowjackets are ready to finish strong! Today, the team travels to Coffeyville for their last competition of the year, with action beginning at 4:00 PM.
Our wrestlers have shown grit, growth, and determination all season long — stepping onto the mat with confidence, learning from every match, and building a program that continues to grow in excitement and momentum.
Let’s send them off with big support and proud Fredonia energy as they wrap up an incredible season.
Good luck, Yellowjackets — finish the year with heart and hustle!
Their hard work and talent have earned them a spot on this honored stage. Catch their performance on January 10 at Chanute High School — it’s sure to be an incredible concert!
https://charity.pledgeit.org/fredonia25
As YAC members, they help spread the Unified Movement, share ideas to strengthen school and community programs, and grow as leaders who champion inclusion for peers of all abilities.
Both Brook and Chris said they are excited to serve this year and are looking forward to being part of the Plunge for Inclusion this Friday!
On November 13th, Pittsburg State University hosted its annual TR-iffic Field Day, a carnival-themed celebration designed by PSU’s Therapeutic Recreation majors for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Hundreds of participants enjoyed bowling, bingo, carnival games, activity stations, and an uplifting day of community and fun.
Fredonia USD 484 proudly brought 57 Unified Partners (Pre-K through 12th grade) to attend and support this amazing event. Our students demonstrated leadership, compassion, and inclusion—ensuring that every attendee had a great experience.
From quirky contestants to high-stakes spelling drama, this hilarious musical invites the audience into a world where every letter counts and every student has a story. The cast of FHS students has been working hard to bring these larger-than-life characters to the stage, and their energy and humor promise a performance you won’t want to miss.
Cheer on these talented performers and join us for a night that will have you laughing, clapping, and maybe even spelling along from your seat.
Come support FHS Theater and be part of the buzz!
Congratulations, boys!
On Friday, November 21st at 1:00 PM, Fredonia Jr/Sr High School will host one of our coolest traditions of the year — the Fredonia Polar Plunge for Inclusion! Students, staff, and supporters will brave the icy splash to raise awareness and funds for Unified Sports, Unified Esports, and Inclusive Leadership programs across our district.
Want to join the plunge crew?
All it takes is a $40 tax-deductible donation and a signed waiver. Once you’re in, you’ll be part of a powerful movement that lifts up students of all abilities and strengthens the heart of our school community.
Every dollar makes a difference.
Every plunger sends a message of unity.
Every splash supports opportunities that help our students learn, compete, and lead — together.
Register or donate online: https://charity.pledgeit.org/fredonia25
Let’s show what Yellowjacket pride looks like.
Let’s dive in for inclusion.
Use #USD484FamilyMoments to share what family time looks like around your home this fall — whether it’s cozy nights in, weekend adventures, or simple moments that mean the most.
Let’s celebrate the season together!
Weekly Calendar 2025
November 17-23
A huge shoutout to KACRAO and every partner who helped make this event a powerful and inspiring experience for all who attended!
Yellowjackets Serve Boldly: Plunge for Inclusion!
Fredonia Junior Senior High School is gearing up for a chilly, heart-pounding tradition — the Plunge for Inclusion on November 21st at 1:00 PM! And this year, YOU get to decide who takes the icy plunge!
Students, staff, families, and supporters can cast their vote by making a donation at:
https://charity.pledgeit.org/fredonia25
Every dollar counts as a vote toward selecting the “lucky” winners who will step up, climb in, and brave an unforgettable icy dive — all for a great cause.
This event supports:
Fredonia Unified Sports
Wilson County Rockers
Special Olympics of Kansas
Your donation does more than choose a plunger — it helps create inclusive opportunities, celebrates student leaders, and strengthens our commitment to unified athletics and the power of community.
Join us. Cheer loudly. Give boldly.
And get ready to see which brave Yellowjackets take the plunge!
