The halls of Independence Local Schools will soon come alive again as the district prepares to welcome students back for the first day of the 2025-26 school year on Thursday, August 21. With 1,000 students currently enrolled and approximately 90 certified teachers on staff, the district is ready to launch a new year full of opportunity, learning, and community connection.
Welcoming New Faces
This year marks an exciting time of growth and transition, with 18 new teachers and 5 new administrators joining the district. Many of these hires follow the retirements of long-serving staff members who dedicated decades to Independence students.
Among the new additions are two building leaders: Jodie Hughes, principal at Independence Primary School, and Haley Mueller, principal at Independence Middle School.
“I’m honored to be joining such a high-achieving, dedicated, and student-focused community,” said Hughes. “I look forward to listening, learning, and working together to support the growth of the whole child and every family.”
Mueller added, “I am incredibly honored to join the Independence Middle School community as the new principal. I bring with me a strong belief in the power of positive energy to inspire growth and connection. It is truly a privilege to become part of a special place that is Independence.”
Other new staff include district psychologist Emily Bennett, technology integration specialist Melissa Garcar, several new teachers across all three schools, and new district-level leaders Natalie Matthews, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessments, and TJ Ebert, Director of Human Resources and Business Operations. Danny Zillich joins the district as the middle and high school athletic director. Matt Grendel also joins as dean of students.
The 2025-26 school calendar is available on the district’s website: 2025-26 School Calendar
New Courses, Curriculum, and Clubs
High school students will have the opportunity to take two engaging new courses this year. Newswriting will teach students real-world reporting, writing, photography, and digital layout skills while contributing to the school newspaper. CCP Public Speaking, a College Credit Plus offering, gives students the chance to earn both high school and college credit while sharpening their communication skills.
Across all grade levels, students will experience new math and science curricula that emphasize hands-on learning, collaboration, and real-world problem solving. “Students will notice more opportunities for inquiry, critical thinking, and engaging applications in both subjects,” said Superintendent Kelli Cogan.
Younger learners at Independence Primary School can also look forward to expanded extracurricular opportunities with the recent launch of a Drone Club, continuing the district’s commitment to innovation and curiosity-driven learning.
A Renewed Vision for the Future
This year, the district proudly unveils its new guiding vision: “Cultivating a Legacy of Excellence.” Supported by belief statements and four strategic priorities, the vision underscores Independence’s long-standing commitment to excellence while paving the way for future growth.
The district's four key strategic priorities are:
Empowering Whole Child Development
Designing Valuable Experiences and Work
Aligning Resources and Knowledge for Collaborative Growth
Creating an Inclusive and Welcoming Community Environment
“These priorities will guide our decisions, resource allocation, and daily practices across all three schools,” said Cogan. “We are committed to maintaining strong communication and transparency as we implement these initiatives.”
Planning for the Next Generation of Learning Spaces
Looking ahead, the district will begin discussions with the community regarding future facilities planning, with a proposal to construct a new PK–8 building to replace the aging primary and middle school buildings. “Independence Local Schools is committed to providing safe, modern learning environments for our students while being fiscally responsible to our community,” Cogan said. Details are available on the district’s website under “Future Facilities Planning.”
A Message from the Superintendent
“As we begin a new school year, I want to welcome all of our students back with excitement and encouragement. This is a fresh opportunity to learn, grow, and discover your strengths—and we are here to support you every step of the way,” said Superintendent Kelli Cogan. “To our parents and community members, thank you for your continued partnership and trust. Independence Local Schools thrives because of your involvement and commitment to our students’ success. Together, we will continue to provide opportunities for every student to grow, lead, and succeed.”
From academics to extracurriculars, from new leadership to new classrooms, Independence Local Schools is ready to embark on a new year with purpose, pride, and the promise of excellence.