Kapptie's Korner

Summer's Here, School's Not Far Behind!

With the sun shining and summer in full swing, the new school year is already on our minds at Ekalaka Schools. We're gearing up for an exciting year and have some important updates to share with you!

Athletics Program Updates:

Running our athletics program is a significant investment, much like feeding students, which alone costs $12,000 annually for our athletes. With rising costs for officials and the challenges of bringing officials to Ekalaka, we're seeking innovative solutions. One exciting idea is to create our own pool of trained officials. This community-driven initiative could save the school money and foster local involvement. If you have creative suggestions, we'd love to hear them! Our farming/ranching community is known for its resourcefulness-sometimes it takes a bit of bailing wire to fix the tractor and finish the job.

Job Openings:

We're hiring! Join our dedicated team. We have openings for drivers (paying $20-$27 per hour with exceptional flexibility), teachers, and paraprofessionals. Be a part of our mission to provide top-notch education and support to our students. Check our website and get those applications in.

Wrestling Co-op with Baker:

Great news for wrestling fans! We're in discussions with Baker Schools about forming a co-op program for wrestling. We're eagerly awaiting their response and will keep you updated on any developments.

Revamping the Handbook Process:

School handbooks are essential for outlining expectations and procedures. We're committed to streamlining the review and approval process, aiming for approval at the July board meeting. To avoid last-minute rushes, we'll establish a new schedule for ongoing handbook reviews. This ensures thorough discussions and timely approvals throughout the year.

Cell Phone Policy Discussions:

As the national conversation about cell phones in schools continues. We're focusing on what's best for our students. Research shows that the human brain continues significant development into the early twenties. As we develop a new cell phone guidelines, we encourage you to consider:

• How can we ensure a safe and secure learning environment for our students?

• What benefits do cell phones offer during the school day?

• What are the potential consequences of cell phone use in the classroom?

Building Trust and Open Communication:

Stay tuned to our school website and Facebook page for surveys and information. We need your input on streaming board meetings, and handbook items. Our school community stretches far and wide, reminding me of one of the Johnny Cash songs playing in my dad's pickup, "I have been everywhere, man." Here's our local twist:

Our school is everywhere, man

We come from everywhere, man

Crossed the Medicine Rocks, man

I've breathed the W Buttes air, man

Of travel I've had my share, man

We from everywhere

I've been to Hammond, Alzada, Mill Iron, Ekalaka, Finger Buttes, Long Pines, Albion, Capitol Ridgway, Belltower, Ridge, Boyes, Stoneville

Open communication and trust are key for overcoming any challenge, and schools are no exception. We're committed to ongoing dialogue and collaborating with students and families to create a successful learning environment for all.

Reach out to me directly with your ideas, concerns, or for more information. You can call or text me at 406-630-1596.

We look forward to a productive and exciting school year and will keep you informed every step of the way!