Superintendent's Message
It is my sincere pleasure to serve you as the interim district superintendent for the 2023-24 school year. This school year will be my 19th year as a Montana school superintendent and my 42nd year as an educator in Montana. I “unretired” to accept the position. As the Interim superintendent, I will only be in this position for the current school year. This will give the school board the time it needs to conduct an extensive search, interview candidates, and hire a permanent superintendent for the district who will begin their duties during the 2024-25 school year. Although I will only be serving as your superintendent for one school year, I will not simply be a placeholder, but an active superintendent that will work to see that Kalispell Public Schools continues their tradition of excellence.
The district will continue to move forward with implementation of the KPS Strategic Plan which outlines our priority goals and action steps in providing the best possible education for our students. Highlights include:
- developing transformational learning opportunities,
- fostering safe and supportive learning environments,
- building career pathways and advanced learning opportunities, and
- continuing support of social, emotional, and mental well-being.
In addition to the district’s strategic plan the new school accreditation rules took effect on July 1, 2023. School accreditation standards include rules on curriculum, class sizes, teacher and staff qualifications, Indian Education for All, and student learning assessment to ensure all students receive a quality education. One of the standards relates to family and community engagement. It will be a high priority of the school district to increase family and community participation relative to all our strategic goals. I look forward to helping build a strong partnership between the school and our community.
As the school year progresses all our staff will work every day to create an environment where every student can find success. We are committed to working together to develop students that proudly represent the Kalispell community. As the district’s vision statement states “Kalispell Schools is a great place to learn, work, and grow.” I will work diligently throughout the school year to see that the strategic plan, accreditation standards, and vision statement is being met during my tenure.
Please feel free to communicate with me throughout the school year about how the district is doing in meeting its strategic plan, accomplishing the accreditation standards, and fulfilling its vision statement. I have an “open door” policy with the public which means you can contact me any time through phone calls, email, or just by dropping in at the district office. Let’s have a great 2023-24 school year!