Supt Scoop

BONNERS FERRY — Happy New Year ... SCHOOL, that is! I like what I see coming. Summer training and new hires are very strong. In my 39 years in this wonderful profession, I have never been more excited by the possibilities than the ones I see for Boundary Count. Our administrative team and school board are stronger than I have ever seen. Expect great things.

This year, all our schools will maintain a simple, easy to understand, three-word motto: “SAFE, CIVIL & PRODUCTIVE.” To the freshmen and sophomores who went to Valley View, these will be familiar terms. But these are far from an elementary school concept. These terms will help all of us improve basic behavioral and academic expectations. This philosophy will lead to advanced performance, daily etiquette, and better relationships. These words are not just a motto; they are a direction. I expect a positive effect in our community, as well.

To define these words further: SAFE is both physical and emotional safety. CIVIL behaviors allow us to live in a polite and cooperative society. PRODUCTIVE is accepting our role and responsibility to make it all work by completing given tasks to the best of our ability. My aim this year is to continue to raise expectations for both students and staff. I believe we can all do our jobs better.

A second goal for the year is to improve communication. This will be found in a number of categories. First, communication should take place between our students and staff. Many of our staff have learned the effectiveness of PEAK teaching strategies. Relationship building is at the core of this success. Love and Logic is another tried and true strategy; all staff will begin the year revisiting this basic training. In October, we will offer the theme of Love & Logic to our community along with a free supper, so stay tuned.

Improved communication will also be found through a new advisory committee to the Board of Trustees. A Budget and Financial Understanding Committee will be established. Diane Cartwright, our business manager, has overseen our district’s money for years with ethical care and experience. We are entering the year in a good way thanks to her. Our new Facilities Committee studied our buildings and has recommended necessary repairs. Our Board has established a long term plan for the year. The Finance Committee will further these efforts so we can plan for the unknown, support our employees and give our children the best opportunities for their future. This is another levy year. The plan is our community will enjoy a clear financial picture as we lay out our needs. The Finance Committee will give monthly reports to our Board of Trustees.

Finally, improved communication will be seen in our co-curricular programs. We will of course, continue to play to win! We must become better winners — and losers, if it happens — on the fields and courts, as well as in the stand. Sportsmanship is seen through supporting our students and coaches, not yelling at the refs or booing the other team — these two negative actions only hurt our students and must not happen.

New & transferred employees this year: WELCOME!!! If I missed anyone, please let me know.

Mt. Hall: Aimee Christopherson, special education, and Tracy Roehmer, second grade.

Naples: Kylee Knelson, third grade; Jason Murray, fourth grade; Bethany Cavendar, fifth grade; Chloe Cavender PE/art/music para.

Valley View Elementary School: Julie Holly, 2/3 teacher; Natalie Erickson, PE/ERI para; Jessica McMicheal, ERI; Samantha Tinerella, ERI; Kelli Davis, preschool para; Vicki Downing, special ed para; Cassie Romine, special ed para; Sandy Moss, kitchen manager.

Boundary County Middle School: Jacob Garrison, science; Benjamin Kaiser, computer education; Brandy Warren, math; Amber Flack, library para; Micah Litteral, special ed para; Charles Meyers, special ed para; Marilyn Kesslar, kitchen

Bonners Ferry High School: Kevin Dinning, principal; Russell Thorman, advanced math; transfer of Steve Alverez, computer education; Jaycee Atkins, Gear Up; Penny Pruitt, kitchen.

So what can you expect this year? As stated, higher expectations and better communication. Your support and input is welcome. I have found all contributions are always better in person than on Facebook. Fact sharing and cooperation/collaboration are always more clear when humans meet face-to-face. With that said and using the words of an ancient English philosopher, “You can’t always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you get what you need.”

Such is life! What I saw at the fair and with the Badger Boosters’ booth, we have the people around us that can lead. As we move into this year, please become and stay involved in your child’s educational program. Through your help and support, your children will enjoy what they deserve. Our focus will remain on the kids; it is their time, not ours.

Respectfully submitted by

Gary Pflueger