USD 204 is proud to recognize Dr. Jerry Abbott and Connie (Grandma) Hadley on Friday, February 23rd, during halftime of the boys basketball game in the 2024 Wall of Honor Ceremony.
Dr. Jerry Abbott is a seasoned educator who has made a significant impact on the Bonner Springs/Edwardsville School District. In 1997, he arrived at USD 204 with a passion for fostering academic excellence and student growth. Serving as the Principal of Bonner Springs High School, Dr. Abbott dedicated himself to creating a supportive and enriching learning environment for over a decade. Throughout his tenure, which spanned from 1997 to 2010, he demonstrated a steadfast commitment to educational leadership and community engagement; including his part in creating the BSHS Memorial Walkway, a dedicated pathway around the high school campus designed to honor and commemorate BSHS students and staff.
Lisa Terrell, BSHS Counselor, says Dr. Abbott epitomized compassionate leadership. “He deeply cared for his staff. His commitment to excellence was unmatched, constantly going above and beyond. His professional demeanor commanded respect, yet his involvement and business-like approach fostered a collaborative and driven environment.”
In 2010, Dr. Abbott moved to a new role within the district, Director of the Bonner Springs/Edwardsville Education Foundation. Over the past 14 years with the Foundation, he has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for students in USD 204. Under his leadership, the Foundation has seen unprecedented growth and success, securing vital resources and support for innovative programs, scholarships, and educational grants. The Education Foundation also sponsors the Bonner Springs High School Hall of Fame, established in 2006 during Dr. Abbott's tenure as Principal.
Nancy Landers, President of the Foundation, says Dr. Abbott’s work with the Foundation and within the community has made a lasting impact. "Throughout the years I've worked alongside Jerry, I've consistently been inspired by his enduring dedication and advocacy for our district and its staff. His leadership, characterized by integrity and guidance, has strengthened our board's resolve to achieve our objectives. Jerry's active engagement within the community is equally pivotal to our accomplishments and overall success."
Dr. Abbott's passion for empowering students and educators alike has left an indelible mark on the district, fostering a culture of academic excellence and lifelong learning. His visionary leadership continues to shape the future of education in the community.
Connie Hadley, affectionately known as Grandma Hadley, devoted decades of her life to volunteer service within the Bonner Springs/Edwardsville School District. As a cherished member of the Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas Foster Grandparent program, Connie graciously contributed over twenty years of her time and care to the students of Edwardsville Elementary School.
She dutifully served primarily within the special education department at EDW. There, she supported students in small group settings, assisting them with their reading, writing, and math skills, while also offering a compassionate ear for those who simply needed someone to listen and uplift them. Additionally, her kind words of encouragement were a constant source of support and motivation for all the adults within the school building.
Kristin Moulin served as a Counselor at EDW during Connie’s tenure and says beyond volunteerism, Grandma Hadley epitomized the essence of empathy and dedication. “She poured her heart into helping our Special Education Students, reading with them, and giving them the extra help they needed. Connie was kind, but she was also firm when it mattered, making sure every child felt loved and supported.”
Moulin emphasizes that Connie's efforts reached beyond the walls of EDW, as she actively contributed to supporting the community in meaningful ways. ”Every year, she organized a school supply drive through her church, making sure kids who couldn't afford supplies still had what they needed. She was a real champion for our community, always finding ways to lend a helping hand. When I think of Connie, I remember her kindness, her generosity, and her unwavering dedication to making the world a better place."
Connie received the Friend of Education Award in 2017, a recognition bestowed by the Bonner Springs/Edwardsville Education Foundation. At that time, both the mayors of Bonner Springs and Edwardsville signed a proclamation officially declaring May 26th as Connie Hadley Day.
Suzy Hartley, a Teacher at Edwardsville Elementary, says Connie was a differencemaker at EDW and in the Bonner Springs/Edwardsville community. “Everyone loved Grandma Hadley! Her attendance and work ethic were unmatched. She loved the kids and staff at EDW like family and showed up daily full of grace and with a positive attitude. She worked up to her 90th birthday. She was an amazing lady who touched so many lives in a positive way. She passed away in 2020, but her spirit is still in the heart of EDW and we are forever grateful for her.”
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The goal of the Wall of Honor is to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the Bonner Springs/Edwardsville School District. Nominations will be reviewed by a district committee on an annual basis.
If you have a nomination for the Wall of Honor, submissions can be made here: https://forms.gle/6AufKEisMyrgQbUs9