McPHERSON COUNTY, Kan. — The McPherson County All Schools Day Committee has selected Kelsey Clark, library assistant at Washington Elementary School, as the winner of the 2026 All Schools Day Button design competition.
“Growing up in McPherson, All Schools Day was always my favorite day of the year,” Clark wrote in a Facebook post. “It felt magical. Like the whole town came alive with celebration, laughter, and pride as we wrapped up another school year.”
Clark mentioned that she has wanted to enter her designs in the competition for the past few years.
“Winning was never the point, I simply love creating. I love taking the feelings and memories that mean something to me and turning them into something tangible to share with others,” Clark said.
When she thought about this year’s design, she reminisced about her favorite All Schools Day traditions: the parade, the carnival, the fireworks, the pride and the joy. “I wanted my design to capture that magical feeling this day has always brought me,” she said.
“I am incredibly honored to be this year’s winner. But more than anything, I’m excited to share this with my students — as a real-life reminder that sometimes the things you quietly dream about are worth trying for. You may not know the outcome, but if you’re brave enough to put your creativity into the world, amazing things can happen,” Clark said.
According to ASD Button Chair Mary Steffes, there were over 130 entries this year.
“We had great response from area schools that sent many awesome entries that made choosing just one a real challenge,” Steffes said.
Clark will be awarded a $200 prize for her winning entry.
For more information and updates on McPherson County All Schools Day, follow the Facebook page or visit www.allschoolsday.com.
