Celebrating the KPS Paving Pathways Award
Kalispell Public Schools is excited to introduce the inaugural presentations of the Paving Pathways Award – which celebrates educators who go above and beyond to extend learning pathways beyond the classroom walls.
KPS is recognizing K-8 educators who show dedication to championing Extended Classroom Experiences that create meaningful connections in the Flathead Valley for our students. These educators offer opportunities to their students that spark curiosity about future careers, foster real-world understanding, and guide the next generation of our community.
On December 18, we recognized our K-8 Community Involvement Advisory Team members in this first semester of awards for their incredible dedication and support in advancing our community involvement goals.
During the second semester, these recipients will have the opportunity to nominate another outstanding educator from their school to receive the award this spring, which includes a $250 gift.
We want to acknowledge and thank all of our KPS educators for your continued dedication and commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences inside and outside of the classroom.
Jenna Morgan & Emily Glascock – Elrod
The award is co-awarded to both Jenna and Emily, as members of the Community Involvement Advisory Team.
Jenna was an inaugural member of the Community Involvement Advisory Team (2024–25) and consistently brings creative ideas to deepen community connections.
A standout example is her work with the Northwest Montana History Museum, where she enhances student learning through immersive pre- and post-lessons tied to a 19th-century classroom experience to bring it to life. She is continually developing new ways to take her students into the community to broaden the value of their in-classroom learning.
Emily has been instrumental in expanding Extended Classroom Experiences and community involvement goals at Elrod after joining the Community Involvement Advisory Team for the 2025-26 school year.
Her leadership is especially evident in building Elrod’s partnership with Logan Health, where students regularly create artwork and cards for hospital patients — building empathy while making a tangible impact in the community.
Desi Palmer – Edgerton
Desi is a leader in organizing and piloting Extended Classroom Experiences at Edgerton. She actively seeks out opportunities to invite community presenters into the classroom and helps students explore careers through firsthand experiences, such as the Daily Inter Lake printing press tours.
Desi also emphasizes gratitude, having students write thank-you cards to community partners who support their learning to create strong relationships. Her heart for the valley is evident in all she does to foster community connections.
Lexie Marsh – Hedges
Lexie is often among the first educators to pilot new Extended Classroom Experience site locations, such as the Whitefish Legacy Partners environmental education programs.
Her willingness to try new opportunities helps expand access for students and opens the door for future partnerships across the district.
She is an advocate for her peers by sharing educator feedback and guiding many through the process to strengthen partnerships and community interactions.
Rachael Munday – Peterson
Rachael is a consistent champion of Extended Classroom Experiences at Peterson. She goes above and beyond to ensure these opportunities are meaningful, including preparing students to perform songs and write cards for residents at Immanuel Living.
Her thoughtful approach strengthens both community relationships and student learning. She is a strong liaison for Peterson staff on the Community Involvement Advisory Team, assisting peers and providing feedback to strengthen community involvement goals.
Katie Hankinson – Rankin
Katie is deeply connected to the Flathead Valley and serves as a strong ambassador for Rankin and Kalispell Public Schools.
She leads meaningful community-based learning, including the Rankin Farmers Market project, which connects science standards with real-world applications through a partnership with the Ag Ed Center.
What began with a first grade sunflower project has grown into a meaningful school-wide experience that fosters student voice, entrepreneurship, and leadership.
Tausha Holden – Russell
An innovator at heart, Tausha consistently connects students to real-world learning experiences. She regularly invites community professionals into her classroom, allowing her students to learn about a wide range of career possibilities—from veterinary medicine to marketing and entrepreneurship.
She initiated the Rams Market, now hosting two events a year that allows students to create, market and sell in an entrepreneurial setting.
Tausha is often taking students into the community on Extended Classroom Experiences, empowering her students to explore future paths with confidence and curiosity.
Liz Cummings – KMS
Liz brings creativity, intention, and dedication to expanding students’ engagement with the community.
She helps pilot new Extended Classroom Experiences and builds strong relationships with community partners, ensuring meaningful, hands-on learning opportunities for students.
Her leadership, example and collaborative spirit make a lasting impact across KMS and the district.