Congratulations to Paul Barrett and Jim Mitchell, who have been selected as the 2025 Wall of Honor Inductees!! This recognition celebrates individuals who have made a lasting impact on our district, shaping the lives of students and the community through their dedication and service.
Join us as we honor them at halftime of the boys' basketball game on February 10th, we are excited to celebrate their achievements with our schools and community!
Paul Barrett has been a dedicated and valued supporter of the Bonner Springs/Edwardsville School District for over 14 years. As an officer at Union Bank & Trust (UBT), Paul has played a crucial role in supporting USD 204 and its programs, as well as contributing significantly to the Bonner Springs-Edwardsville Chamber of Commerce. His commitment to giving back r
eflects both his personal values and those of UBT, a family-owned bank guided by the philosophy: “Faith, Family, Friends, and Work, in that order.”
Paul’s impact on USD 204 has been extensive, particularly through his volunteer work with the Bonner Springs/Edwardsville Education Foundation and his long-standing service on the Bill Kelly Alumni Open Golf Committee. A steadfast advocate for education, he has been a reliable supporter of staff appreciation events, student-centered initiatives, and efforts to ensure resources reach those who need them most. Dr. Jerry Abbott, Education Foundation Director, shared, "Whenever support is needed for an educational initiative in USD 204, you can always count on Paul to step up and make a difference."
In addition to his work with the district, Paul has been deeply involved in the Chamber of Commerce, serving as Treasurer and contributing to the success of Tiblow Days through his work on the BBQ, Entertainment, and Parade subcommittees. He has also helped strengthen business-education relationships through his participation in site councils, where he collaborates with the district to align business and education goals. Paul believes that “the strength of a community starts with the school district, and anything we can do to support that should be a priority.”
His commitment to service has earned both UBT and himself recognition, including Chamber Business of the Year and Chamber Member of the Year. Through his financial support, volunteerism, and community leadership, Paul Barrett has made a lasting impact, making him a truly deserving recipient of the Wall of Honor designation.
Jim Mitchell has dedicated over 38 years to the education profession, and came to the Bonner Springs/Edwardsville School District to serve as a phenomenal Special Education teacher and an outstanding coach. Throughout his career, he spent 25 years working with Special Education students at both Bonner Springs High School and Clark
Middle School, fostering an inclusive environment that embraced and supported all learners. Beyond the classroom, Jim made a lasting impact as a coach. He spent 12 years coaching football and served as the head track coach from 1997 to 2012. Even after retiring in 2021, his passion for coaching continued, as he took on the role of pole vault coach, now entering his third season.
Jim’s deep commitment to students extended beyond athletics and academics—he built meaningful relationships with students, athletes, parents, and faculty. His own three children also went through the Bonner Springs school system, further solidifying his connection to the community. Reflecting on his career, Jim cherished the culture of belonging and acceptance. He recalled, “One of the greatest memories I will carry with me is how the students, teachers, administrators, and community have embraced and welcomed students with special needs.”
His colleagues echo the tremendous impact he has had on both students and staff. Clark Middle School teacher and track & field coach Kyle Razak shared, “I was fortunate enough to work with Jim as both a teacher and a coach. In both settings, he was always so good about having a positive attitude and staying level-headed with the students and athletes, even during trying times.” Bonner Springs High School special education teacher Tierney Thompson reflected on his legacy, stating, “Jim’s dedication to helping students become independent, functioning community members and his passion for inclusion in the school and community are unmatched. The impact he has made in our district has had an incredible ripple effect.”
Jim’s unwavering commitment to students, both in and out of the classroom, was recognized with the Bonner Springs/Edwardsville Education Foundation’s Excellence in Education award. But for him, the true reward has always been in his students’ success. “The greatest reward for me is seeing how successful my students have transitioned into post-high school life.”
Jim Mitchell’s legacy is one of dedication, inclusion, and lasting impact—a true testament to his unwavering commitment to education and coaching. His influence will be felt in the Bonner Springs/Edwardsville community for generations to come.
Past honorees for the USD 204 Wall of Honor include Chris Wood, Clausie Smith, Kim Mitchel, Jill Holder, Linda Orangkhadivi, Dr. Jerry Abbott, and Connie (Grandma) Hadley.
Nominations are reviewed annually by a district committee and can be submitted using this Google form.