2015-2016 school year a positive one for Boundary County School District
On June 4, I had the distinct honor to shake the hands of 86 successful young men and women. The sparkle in their eyes made me feel both young and old at the same time. The graduation ceremony was well attended, fun and hot. All speakers hit the mark with memorable advice and positive counsel for a bright future. I was impressed. I look forward to seeing my former students through this good and improving educational system in Boundary County. Badger Nation is on the RISE!
When you get to the end of a year, it is important to look back to celebrate the successes and learn from the mistakes. Most of our staff have accepted new instructional strategies and techniques offered through professional development opportunities; the others will come along in time. These strategies have changed the way we relate with the students. With this, academic performance has shown improvement. A small token of proof that it’s working — no eighth-grader needed summer school this year to advance to high school.
The BCMS and BFHS athletic programs showed increased participation and most teams made a post-season appearance. Records were broken and new firsts at the Idaho State level were enjoyed. Our music and drama programs demanded attention. Robotics again shot for the stars. We have good people working with our kids.
BCSD is in the communication business. When we make mistakes, it is in this realm — communication. From a problem in this area, an improvement will be made. Next year, Badger Pride will be shown through better sportsmanship by our staff, parents and students. Another improvement came through state funding. We were able to expand our high school counseling program. This will lead to stronger communication and better tracking for class placement, whether it is advanced placement with college credit, Career Technical Education involving welding, cabinet making, FFA and/or industrial arts or an alternative graduation certificate. The pathway for our students will be clearer.
Programs to look into this summer:
VVES Summer Reading Program Thursdays, from June 30-July 28. Fun-filled activities including chess, snacks, crafts, reading, and free lunch. It will be held from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Naples Summer Reading Camp Tuesday and Thursday June 21, 23, 28, 29, July 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28 and Aug. 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., free lunch and snack will be offered
Mount Hall Elementary is offering a Migrant Summer School from Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will run from July 11 through Aug. 4 and includes a free breakfast and lunch
The Boundary County Public Library is a special place. Story Time continues to be the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month, at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. All ages welcome.
2015 Summer Reading Program, “On Your Mark, Get Set … READ.” will run from June 15 to July 27. Signups will be available on mid-June at the library. Other events including Lego Club and special programs: Our Solar Neighbors and Songbirds to name a few. Stop by and sign up.
If your kids or grandkids say there is nothing to do … read, read and read some more. Write letters and poems. Play math games. Play together, love each other, and be positive. Stay healthy, exercise and eat well. Success begins in the home. Occasionally stop, hug your child no matter how old they are and take a quick look for head lice (they really never go away).
Thank you for entrusting your children to BCSD. We are honored to serve our community. On behalf of our entire staff, thank you. Enjoy the break and keep your children ready for the next challenge.