Shawnee Heights USD 450
Gary Burdette has extensive experience in both education and music. Currently serving as a Special Education Teacher at Shawnee Heights USD 450 since August 2022, Gary previously worked as a Transition Special Education Teacher at Lawrence USD 497 from August 2014 to May 2022. Earlier roles include Director of Instrumental Music at Elwood USD 486/Riverside USD 114 (2009-2012) and Director of Bands at Mason County Schools (2003-2006). In addition to educational roles, Gary has been a freelance musician since February 2017, specializing as a musical theatre trumpeter with performances in notable productions such as The Music Man and Beauty and the Beast. Gary holds several degrees, including a Doctoral Candidate status in EdD in Leadership, Curriculum, and Instruction from the University of Saint Mary, a Master of Science in Special Education from The University of Kansas, a Master of Music in Music Theory from The University of Kansas, and a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Marshall University.
Shawnee Heights USD 450
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Shawnee Heights is the center of learning for approximately 3,500 student in grades Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade. Four elementary schools, a 7/8 middle school and a 9-12 high school comprise the attendance centers of the district. Over 55% of the faculty in the district hold a Masters Degree or beyond. The district is noted for its dedication to students, staff and community. Its focus is for providing a comprehensive program of instruction to meet the varied needs of all students and high standards for student performance and behavior. School transportation is available for all students regardless of the distance from school as are many other services. Shawnee Heights School District is a suburban school district located in southeastern Shawnee County. Shawnee Heights combines the benefits of a rural community with proximity to the technology and cultural opportunities of Kansas City, just 50 miles to the east. We are located about half way between Topeka and Lawrence. Shawnee Heights lies in an area of great rural beauty and close to the heart of the Kansas capital in Topeka. Opportunities for recreation abound from fishing and boating at nearby Clinton Lake, as well as water skiing and golfing at Lake Shawnee. Nearby colleges, Washburn University (in Topeka), Kansas State University, Manhattan (located about 62 miles to the west), University of Kansas, Lawrence (located approximately 16 miles to the east), and Emporia State University (50 miles south) offer cultural and educational opportunities. Business areas offer convenient services and light industry provides local employment. At the center of the community is Shawnee Heights School District.