Distinguished Service Award

2020 KSSA Distinguished Service Award Given to John Burke of Haysville

Each year, the Kansas School Superintendents' Association recognizes the outstanding contributions of one member to the organization and to the education profession. Kansas is blessed with outstanding superintendents who support public education and KSSA; only a few superintendents have shown the commitment, research, and voice as this year’s honoree.

Dr. John Burke is completing his 35th year as a Kansas Superintendent. His experiences as superintendent have taken him to Marion, Valley Falls, Neodesha and the last 18 years in Haysville, Kansas. 

John brought "Capturing Kids Hearts" to Haysville which transformed the way students and staff interact. It was so successful all 11 schools became National Showcase Schools which lead to the first National Showcase District award. They duplicated this achievement the following year to become the first "Back to Back National Showcase District Award" winners. 

In 2015, through his leadership, the district passed a $59M bond project, with almost 80% of the voters saying Yes.

He has been very active throughout his career with memberships in KSSA, USA-Kansas, AASA, and more. He has presented at numerous regional, state and national conferences including the ASCD and AASA National Conferences on multiple occasions. He has also been very engaged supporting future administrators by teaching administration courses at multiple colleges and universities in the state.

He is a member of Haysville Forward, Haysville Chamber of Commerce, and is active in his church.