Shawnee Mission School District (SMSD) began its sixth season of the Read Across SMSD reading celebration on September 18, 2026, emphasizing the district’s “One Shawnee Mission” motto. Superintendent Dr. Michael Schumacher visited John Diemer Elementary School to launch the program and introduce the featured elementary title, We the People is All the People by Howard W. Reeves.
Community members highlighted
Sixth‑grade students Julian, Archer and Kyra introduced key staff members who support daily school life. Julian presented custodian Tina Sevieri, noting that custodians keep schools clean and safe. Archer highlighted Selene Chavez of Student Nutrition Services, stressing the importance of providing meals for every grade level. Kyra introduced paraeducator Breanna Renier, emphasizing the role of paraeducators in ensuring all students receive the learning experience they need.
Partnerships and support
The program is backed each year by NEA Shawnee Mission and the Shawnee Mission Education Foundation. Jill Johnson, president of NEA Shawnee Mission, said she is proud to support the celebration and the sense of belonging it fosters. Kim Hinkle, executive director of the Foundation, explained that the organization supplies Read Across SMSD books to every district library, hoping students see their connection to the community and bright futures ahead.
Program background
Read Across SMSD mirrors the National Read Across America initiative and is a collaborative effort between the district, NEA‑Shawnee Mission and the Shawnee Mission Education Foundation. The program provides resources, archive videos and past‑year materials on its website.
SMSD, the third‑largest district in Kansas, serves Pre‑K through 12th grade across 34 elementary schools, five middle schools, five high schools and several educational centers. The district serves a diverse student body from 14 cities in northeast Johnson County, about 10 miles from downtown Kansas City, Missouri, and consistently ranks among the nation’s top districts for student performance.
Families and community members can stay updated on district news through the SMSD website, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, or by listening to the district’s podcast.
Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.
