Derby Public Schools is launching new programs for the 2024-2025 school year, including full-time 4-year-old Pre-Kindergarten classes at two elementary schools, a STEAM program integrating art with science and math and the Derby E-Academy offering flexible online schooling for grades 6-12. We have also adopted Character Strong, a district-wide social-emotional learning curriculum. Learn more about these new programs and initiatives below. 

Elementary STEAM Program

STEAM is a new specials class at the elementary level that students will rotate through twice a week to reinforce math and science concepts through the creation of Art projects. STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math and is taught in an Arts first, integrated manner. We are excited to offer arts-focused STEAM lessons to our elementary students this year.

4-Year-Old Pre-Kindergarten

Derby Public Schools is proud to offer several different early childhood learning programs that meet the social, emotional and educational needs of students. Two, full-time 4-year-old Pre-Kindergarten classrooms, one at Derby Hills Elementary and one at El Paso Elementary, have been added this year. Currently, applications for these Pre-K classrooms are not open. A waiting list has been established.

Learn More About Pre-K

Derby E-Academy: An Online Schooling Option

Derby's new E-Academy is open for enrollment for the 2024-2025 school year! This online option is open to any Kansas student in grades 6-12, providing a blended education model designed to be flexible and meet the unique needs of each family. E-Academy offers the choice of a 100% Virtual or a Hybrid online/in-person option. Edgenuity, the online curriculum that will be utilized, aligns with Kansas Core standards. Instructional support is available for students with IEPs, 504s and ELL plans. There are no fees to enroll, however, if a student needs a device to complete online coursework, they can choose to receive a district-issued Chromebook and pay a $40 non-refundable technology fee to be paid upon enrollment. The device would need to be returned in good condition when the student completes the E-Academy program.

Learn More About E-Academy

District-Wide Social-Emotional Learning Curriculum

New for the 2024-2025 school year, Derby Public Schools has adopted Character Strong, a district-wide social-emotional learning curriculum. It is a comprehensive approach to education that prioritizes the development of both academic and personal skills. Character Strong is designed to integrate social-emotional learning and character education into students' daily lives, helping develop skills such as empathy, self-awareness, responsible decision-making, relationship-building and resilience.  The lessons can also help lead to a more positive, supportive and effective educational environment.