News
![Two students sit at classroom desks, one using a laptop with headphones and the other reading a book.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1786626721/usd470com/n8ag54qh60tgyhqtocd4/ScreenTime.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1786626721/usd470com/n8ag54qh60tgyhqtocd4/ScreenTime.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1786626721/usd470com/n8ag54qh60tgyhqtocd4/ScreenTime.png","width":800}])
Arkansas City Public Schools has developed new screen time guidelines to help staff use technology with purpose and create more balance in the school day. The guidelines support teacher judgment while encouraging a healthy mix of technology, reading, writing, discussion, collaboration, movement, and hands-on learning.
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![Graphic titled “Budget Fact” explaining that school funding comes from several sources. A pie chart highlights state aid, local property taxes, federal funds, grants, and fees and other revenue. Brief descriptions explain how each source supports student programs, daily operations, facilities, and other district needs.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1785327557/usd470com/ssyfodwncn09ohhqf8ci/23764.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1785327557/usd470com/ssyfodwncn09ohhqf8ci/23764.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1785327557/usd470com/ssyfodwncn09ohhqf8ci/23764.png","width":800}])
Arkansas City Public Schools is helping community members better understand school finance through its Building Our Future: Budget Breakdown series. The series explains how the district budget is developed, where funding comes from, how funds may be used, and how property taxes, Revenue Neutral, and voter-approved bond funding affect local schools.
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![Will Pfannenstiel smiles at the camera in a professional headshot, wearing a dark suit jacket, light checkered dress shirt and glasses against a gray background.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1782925324/usd470com/lwtsfvndkm20txp9dfj1/WillNewsImage.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1782925324/usd470com/lwtsfvndkm20txp9dfj1/WillNewsImage.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1782925324/usd470com/lwtsfvndkm20txp9dfj1/WillNewsImage.png","width":800}])
Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for Arkansas City Public Schools. In his first message as superintendent, Will Pfannenstiel shares his gratitude for the opportunity to serve, reflects on the values that have shaped his leadership, and outlines his commitment to working alongside students, families, employees, and the community as USD 470 builds for the future.
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![A Cowley College cosmetology student styles a young girl's hair during a Spa Day for IXL Elementary's Boost Self-Esteem/Hair Confidence group. Another student receives hair styling in the background.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1778620430/usd470com/erlmzxsl71ayyfdz4qxm/Boost.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1778620430/usd470com/erlmzxsl71ayyfdz4qxm/Boost.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1778620430/usd470com/erlmzxsl71ayyfdz4qxm/Boost.png","width":800}])
Students in IXL Elementary’s Boost Self-Esteem/Hair Confidence group are building confidence while learning practical hair care skills and positive self-image. The year ended with a special Spa Day at Cowley College, where cosmetology students treated participants to hair styling, nail care, and a day focused on helping each child feel valued and proud of who they are.
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![decorative image]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1776268393/usd470com/yrtwdbtxxjjm5qi3wlhm/SummerMeals2026.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1776268393/usd470com/yrtwdbtxxjjm5qi3wlhm/SummerMeals2026.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1776268393/usd470com/yrtwdbtxxjjm5qi3wlhm/SummerMeals2026.png","width":800}])
Keep your kids fueled this summer with free meals for ages 1–18. No cost. No registration. Just stop by a location near you.
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![Graphic with the message “Be All In: Attendance Is Up.” It shows overall attendance increasing from 93.1% to 94.6% and chronic absenteeism decreasing from 29.5% to 16.2%.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1775141053/usd470com/k49vg7mahr2imlucoq0l/WebNewsStoryImage800x867px.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1775141053/usd470com/k49vg7mahr2imlucoq0l/WebNewsStoryImage800x867px.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1775141053/usd470com/k49vg7mahr2imlucoq0l/WebNewsStoryImage800x867px.png","width":800}])
Attendance is improving across Arkansas City Public Schools. See the latest district attendance data and find helpful resources in our Family Attendance Guide.
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