District

We are known for providing an excellent education, along with a plethora of unique opportunities. Derby, with a population of nearly 26,000, is a supportive community with access to many activities for people of all ages. Derby Public Schools has nine elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school. Our award-winning schools are made possible by incredible educators and administrators, parents, support staff and the supportive community. Derby Public Schools passed a $114 million dollar bond in 2018 that enhanced facilities with new construction, intruder locks, storm shelters, Americans with Disabilities Act accessible playgrounds and more.

To help ensure access to the latest technology, our students are provided with iPads (1:1 Early Childhood-1st) and Chromebooks (2nd-12th). Other technology resources are available throughout the district including SMART Boards, Apple TVs and much more. Our educators have the opportunity to provide input into curriculum which becomes part of career pathways.

One example is our engineering program which encourages students to pursue an engineering career at local and state institutions of higher learning. This program also allows students to participate in a variety of contests including an annual engineering competition at Wichita State University.

Students can find success in their specific area of interest through many career pathways, award-winning organizations, activities, athletic programs and other expansive opportunities. One example is Derby High School’s AFJROTC, Kansas 61st. This program has earned the honor of Distinguished Unit, 19 of the last 20 years and the "Silver Star" Community Service Excellence Award for five of the last six years (paused one year due to COVID-19). Cadets proudly complete over 4,000 hours of community service each school year! Leaders rise in Derby Public Schools.

Our Board of Education is committed to ensuring all students continually grow and learn by looking at ways to enhance educational opportunities within the district. With support of the Board and a planning team, a strategic plan is in place, designed to be a roadmap for the district for 2022-2027. The plan articulates a common foundation of expectations and goals in place to prepare our students and staff for success Proactive strategies were developed and the specific action plans are in progress to produce incredible results district-wide.

Why Choose Derby?

With award-winning schools that house a dedicated and highly-educated team of staff who are ready to help your student reach their fullest potential, your student will have excellent opportunities. Our district is proud to offer a place for your student to grow and learn in a safe and supportive community with unique program offerings and experiences.

Derby Public Schools Honors and Recognitions 

Project Lead the Way Distinguished Schools

• 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 - Cooper, Derby Hills, El Paso, Oaklawn, Park Hill, Swaney, Tanglewood, Wineteer Elementary Schools
• 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 - Derby High School

Civic Advocacy Network

• Schools of Excellence - Derby Hills, Park Hill, Swaney and Tanglewood Elementary Schools, Derby North Middle School.
• School of Promising Practice - Derby High School

Seal of Biliteracy

• 2017 - German, Spanish
• 2021 - German, Spanish
• 2022 - English, Spanish
• 2023 - English, Spanish, German, Portuguese

Kansans Can Star Recognition Program

Through the Kansans Can Star Recognition Program, the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) recognizes the exceptional work school districts are doing to reach the state’s vision for education - Kansas leads the world in the success of each student. 

• 2019 - Copper Star Award, Commissioner’s Award
• 2020 - Bronze Graduation, Copper Civic Engagement, Copper Social-Emotional Growth
• 2021 - Bronze Graduation, Copper Academically Prepared for Postsecondary, Copper Civic Engagement, Bronze Social-Emotional Growth
• 2022 - Bronze Graduation, Bronze Civic Engagement, Bronze Social-Emotional Growth, Copper Individual Plans of Study
• 2023 - Silver Social-Emotional Growth, Copper Individual Plan of Study, Bronze Civic Engagement, Bronze Graduation
• 2024 - Silver Social-Emotional Growth, Bronze Individual Plan of Study, Bronze Civic Engagement