whitefish school district staff

Background: Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Minnesota; Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Gustavus Adolphus College; Former CEO and CFO of multiple dental offices; former President and VP of Austin Youth Hockey Association; former assistant high school hockey coach; former volunteer EMT and firefighter; volunteer for North Valley Search and Rescue. Staff - Whitefish Independent High School Our schools have implemented multiple intervention strategies for those students in need of additional support through mentoring and individual tutoring. P: (406) 862-8620 P: (406) 862-8650 Family: Married to Bill Paatalo; three kids and one due this week. I am not only familiar with all the topics that need to be addressed, but I will also continue to put my energy into providing a welcoming and enriching education for all students and creating a positive working environment for our staff. What really drew me here was the people that live here they have these wonderful qualities of really fierce independence and strength, coupled with a very strong sense of community, Kearns said. DECA is the youngest activity at WHS with students taking several honors across the state and a national championship that included international competitors. | Mr. Josh Branstetter Principal Mr. Tyler Jones Assistant Principal Teachers. WHITEFISH SCHOOL DISTRICT 600 East Second Street Whitefish, MT 59937 4068628640 4068621507 . He was inspired to run in the trustee election because of his desire to serve and give back to the community. During the pandemic, a group of average, common people on the school board unanimously took unprecedented action to usurp control from parents over their children's bodies. Having a safe learning environment is paramount for our school districts staff and students. Various art shows have displayed student works across the county, state and at the national level. Ray and Jerrie directed the American Field Service (AFS) exchange student program in Montana for many years. She and her husband love living in Whitefish where they enjoy skiing, being out on the lake, and being part of a special community where we're all neighbors working together for the greater good. The board should consider creative options, such as involvement in affordable housing at the city level, or spearheading their own housing initiatives. I think that is a really important skill set that Im bringing to the table because our job on the school board is listening to a bunch of varied positions and opinions of people that are not agreeing with each other, Kearns said. Although Diehl has never served on a school board before, he believes his leadership experience from his military career would be an asset to the Whitefish School Board. The use of multiple assessment tools has vastly improved curriculum offerings and the instructional methods used to reach students at all levels of learning. 2022-2023 WSD School Calendar. Students are expected to complete a rigorous academic program from kindergarten through grade 12. Find job postings in CA, NY, NYC, NJ, TX, FL, MI, OH, IL, PA, GA, MA, WA, UT, CO, AZ, SF Bay Area, LA County, USA, UAE, SA, North America, abroad. Lengacher added that he believes all involved in the school district right now are doing wonderful things, but given the support for schools in Whitefish the door is wide open for even more improvements. As far as how the district handled COVID-19 and reopening schools, she supports the decisions made regarding the hybrid teaching model. For more information on ballots, contact the Whitefish School District office at 862-8640. I feel this pay it forward, as far as Im incredibly grateful for my career and my education that I received as part of a Montana public school system that allows me to have the life I have today; I want that for every kid.. There is no room for a narrow focus or agenda. Finally, bringing a science background to the board offers another perspective of data interpretation and problem-solving. A close family friend, Ben Parsons, passed away from the accident and Bennetts says the community of Whitefish stepped up to support her family during the hardship. Our community is experiencing unprecedented growth and this increase in population impacts our students and our staff. Staff: Intramurals: 1: Student Store: 1: Whitefish Middle School Student Council: 1: Yearbook Club: 1: Web Accessibility Complaint Form Web . I feel like Im a really good listener; I like to listen to all perspectives before weighing in on a decision.. Its time to bring back compassion, kindness and compromise to the table, fostering relationships along the way. Whitefish, MT 59937 312 E. Second Street One of the things that drew her to Whitefish, which she discovered on a ski vacation with friends, was that people were friendly and the community. I feel like the hybrid model was a balance of the needs of maintaining safety as well as recognizing in-person education is invaluable.. I think theyre one of the most important demographics that we have and the best investment is in the development of a child, she added. Whitefish, MT 59937 With COVID and the influx of new people in Whitefish, she sees that the community togetherness is starting to become divisive. As far as how the school district handled the COVID-19 pandemic, Diehl said he supported the districts methodical approach to reopening schools. You may choose to opt-out of ad cookies. Each building has a PTA Volunteer Coordinator who would gladly assist you with your unique skills that may be shared with staff and students. The School Board needs to engage with other community groups to find solutions for our housing issues. In addition, students have taken the lead and their voice may be heard on the Big Fish Radio. Current trustees Ruth Harrison and Betsy Kohnstamm both decided not to run for reelection. Five candidates are running for the Whitefish School Board. You have an incomplete application for I am very dedicated; if I decide to do something I give it my all, she said. Ms. Rachel Anderson . Voices on all sides have felt unheard. Whitefish High School Of course were outdoor enthusiasts, so that was the first appeal; then the great schools, the fantastic gym, the theater, the awesome town, the airport. History & Computer Coding Teacher. 406-862-3505. But do they leave the room feeling like they are heard and hopeful; I think I can offer that.. Morrow said shes never served on a school board or other government board before, but has held plenty of leadership positions throughout her life. Homes for Sale Near 5333 Highway 93 S. 10 ACRES. She served as the local American Cancer Society Education Director for many years. Todd Lengacher has a vast amount of experience in education coupled with a strong desire to be involved in the community and local schools. Interested students have furthered their broadcasting skills due to their production knowledge and skills during this unique opportunity. Five trustee candidates are running for two open spots on the Whitefish School Board. Lastly she added that with skills shes obtained through her career combined with her hardworking attitude she knows she could make a positive impact if elected to the board. Diehl and his wife Amina have two teenage kids currently attending Whitefish Middle School. Staff. The need to consider expanding the high school and requesting a bond from the voters is impending for the district. (Courtesy photos) Editor's note: This story originally ran in the April 14, 2021 edition of the Whitefish Pilot. From everyone I talked to, this district worked hard to put in place what I would call an adaptive management approach she said. 406-862-3505. In the past she worked for a nonprofit that partnered with schools to deliver extended programming this work helped her grow to recognize the struggles that teachers and students face daily. Kearns and her family moved to Whitefish in September 2020, although they have been coming to the area to visit often since her husbands family has owned a cabin in Essex for many years. Drama students continue to excel at our states Thespian Festival as an example great individual and group achievements. (Courtesy photos). Elizabeth is a Veterinarian at Alpine Animal Hospital in Whitefish. Quincy married Joel Shehan in 2001, and together they moved to the Flathead Valley in 2004. Spring programs consist of track & field, tennis and softballBulldog state track titles - boys (8), girls (3)Tennis state titles - boys (7), girls (1). Coordinators & Supervisors: 4.00: Total Guidance Counselors: 312 E. Second Street F: (406) 862-8664, 1143 E. 4th St. Whitefish School District Address 600 East Second Street Whitefish, MT 59937 USA Industry Education Report Job Most Popular Elementary Principal Job Categories Elementary Schools Elementary School School Administration Bilingual Elementary Teacher Other Helpful Pages Related To Elementary Principal Elementary Principal Salaries All Jobs F: (406) 862-8664, 1143 E. 4th St. My goal is to reunite our district with the common goal of doing what is best for our children, which is ultimately what is best for society as a whole. Education Factions Emerge in Whitefish School Board Race With five candidates seeking two seats on the Whitefish School District Board of Trustees, one candidate's profanity-laced email. Job specializations: Administrative/Clerical. Currently Kearns is a stay at home parent to two daughters ages 2 and 5. Type any part of the Job Title, Job Type, or Job Location to Search, Director of Student Services (Beginning 23/24), PowerSchool Group LLC and/or its affiliate(s). Accommodating growth, utilizing resources efficiently and student mental health are important challenges our school district has been facing. The overwhelming majority of our students are involved in clubs and sports our kids and our schools are thriving and I believe that is at least partially due to a dedicated school board. There are some changes that just inevitably bring challenges because that is how new leadership works, she expressed. High school enrollment is already nearing capacity. However, he would like to see that progression continue and figure out the next steps in returning kids to normalcy in the classroom. Emails to trustees received after the business meeting is postedwill be included in the next business meeting packet. Mission - The Whitefish School District cultivates and supports a community She and her husband Joel Shehan have one son in third grade at Muldown Elementary and the family enjoys being in the outdoors, especially hiking and paddle boarding. Factions Emerge in Whitefish School Board Race Whitefish School District and the surrounding community is bordered by the Rocky Mountains, Whitefish Lake and the Flathead Valley communities of Columbia Falls and Kalispell. Ms. Victoria Buls. She just opened her own studio called Whitefish School of Ballet and serves as the artistic director. F: (406) 730-2176, 600 East 2nd St. 56 were here. After staying a week in Whitefish, Diehl says it just felt like home. And looking forward he would welcome contributing to the board as a trustee as they make further decisions regarding the pandemic, such as decisions involving vaccinations. My concern lies with the willingness of the board to step on the rights of parents. Whitefish, MT 59937 I just think theres lots of possibilities for us to continue to be innovative given the relatively small size and the support for education in Whitefish.. P: (406) 862-8620 She and her husband Joel Shehan have one son in third grade at Muldown Elementary and the family enjoys being in the outdoors, especially hiking and paddle boarding. Although Diehl has never served on a school board before, he believes his leadership experience from his military career would be an asset to the Whitefish School Board. I believe the most important issue facing the district right now is whether it has lost the ability to protect the kids from political divisiveness within the community and the country. However she does believe a huge concern facing the school district is continuing to recover from the educational setbacks and emotional disturbances to students caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. You have an incomplete application for One of the really important things to me has been understanding how much relationships matter and how we treat each other matters, she said. Diverse perspectives are crucial in order to govern a community in a representative way. School Board governance is a non-partisan position that carries a wide range of responsibilities and duties. Mr. Gary Carmichael. Over the last year, Lengacher says he supports the decisions the board made regarding reopening schools during the pandemic. As far as how the district handled COVID-19 and reopening schools, she supports the decisions made regarding the hybrid teaching model. School board trustee candidates share perspectives - Whitefish Pilot P: 406.862.8650 F: 406.862.8664. Listed on 2023-03-02. I will strive to bring creative solutions to ensure fair and just policy, and reject policies that create more problems. F: (406) 730-2176, 600 East 2nd St. Although she doesnt have any children of her own yet, she loves spending time with kids and volunteering in programs serving youth. BA History and Political Science U of M. Minor Library Media U of M. If you want to view and listen to the meeting via mobile device, you are encouraged to install the Zoom app. I will have a child in every school in the district for the next five years. Candidate preferences are the decision of the Employer or Recruiting Agent, and are controlled by them alone. And I feel well informed just given the proximity to my wifes work., copyright 2023 Vocal Music Students begin their quest for vocal music at Muldown Elementary and Whitefish Middle School show casing their talents at local district and building level events. The election is May 4 and the mail-in ballots are scheduled to be sent out on April 14 and arrive in voter's mailboxes by next week. School board trustee candidates share perspectives | Whitefish Pilot I believe the school district did the right thing in how they proceeded he said. $790,000. Emily Morrow believes that children are one of the most important demographics and has been committed to serving kids in many ways throughout her life. Why are you the best candidate for this position and what will you bring to the board if elected? She admitted that the board and administrators were in a tough situation and did the best they could at the time. ! Student publications include the high school newspaper, The Bulldog Breeze, the literary publication, Snow Ghosts, and the annual WHS year book. Staff. Our students organize and participate in annual blood drives, food drives, and strongly support the American Cancer Society with the Relay for Life. Would you like to continue working on this application? I am running for reelection as there is a direct correlation between high student achievement outcomes and low board member turnover. I applaud the boards decision to use COVID recovery funds for mental health resources, and there should be continued effort to look at factors impacting students and solutions at a systemic level. Since then shes wanted to find a way she could leverage her skillset and contribute to the betterment of the community running for school board seemed like a great opportunity to do just that. Bennetts grew up in Great Falls and her father was a school teacher for 40 years. Staff - Whitefish School District Five candidates are running for the Whitefish School Board. Terms of Use | Fall sports of cross country, football, golf, soccer and volleyball have consistently won state titles. I feel like the hybrid model was a balance of the needs of maintaining safety as well as recognizing in-person education is invaluable.. Three years ago Lengacher and his family moved to Whitefish and chose this town specifically based on the size and the community. NEW - 2 DAYS AGO 2.46 ACRES. I feel like Im a really good listener; I like to listen to all perspectives before weighing in on a decision.. Of course were outdoor enthusiasts, so that was the first appeal; then the great schools, the fantastic gym, the theater, the awesome town, the airport. Im glad they didnt go completely remote because the detriment of that I saw in a student I was helping.. She attended Whitefish public schools from kindergarten to her graduation in 2002. If elected, Lengacher says other priorities would include understanding the impact that the pandemic has had on education and also how its accelerated the income, education and Access gap within the community. Quincy Bennetts is a Montana native who feels indebted to her community of Whitefish and also has an eagerness to put her own skills and personal qualities to use for the betterment of local public schools. Teachers/ Staff Dual credit for most classes is accepted by WHS for graduation purposes. Quincy Bennetts was born and raised as a 4th generation Montanan in Great Falls, Montana graduating in 1997 from Great Falls High. Search: There is no staff matching your search criteria Administration. National award winners have had their works displayed via the national duck stamp for the U.S. The election will be held on May 3 at the Whitefish School District Board Room, 600 East Second Street. His wife has a masters in public health and has been highly involved in infection mitigation in Montana during the pandemic. Whitefish, MT 59937 Mr. Dave Means Superintendent Mrs. Lucie Shea Director of Business/District Clerk Lisa Bloom Director of Curriculum and Instruction . Date: Mar 21. The district is engaged with leaders in the community to work towards affordable housing solutions. Bennetts expressed great respect for the current board members, administrators, district staff and everyone already involved in the district. First and foremost I just want to volunteer my time and energy to better the community, he said. Elementary Principal (Beginning 23/24) Job in Whitefish, MT at Congratulations to your new WHS royalty! Location: Whitefish School District Board Room 600 E Second St Whitefish, MT. In addition to her work with schools, she also has experience in mediation. Lastly, the lack of affordable housing is having a direct impact on hiring and retaining staff. How do we all catch up after the last year to two years of interrupted educational experiences and make sure were serving all these kids not just their educational needs but the extreme stress and emotional burden that theyve been carrying, she said. Whitefish School District Prior to becoming a trustee I actively attended Whitefish School District board meetings and work sessions. The election will be held on May 3 at the Whitefish School District Board Room, 600 East Second Street. And I really am supportive of standardized curriculum to support teachers, but at the same time not constrain their ability to be flexible.. WMS Jazz Band Festival @ U of M. Date: Mar 17. I think they did a really good job of managing an impossible situation.. I definitely want to come with the intention of open mindedness to the position, she said. Mrs. Kristine Yorba Secretary Web Accessibility Complaint Form Web Accessibility Statement. After staying a week in Whitefish, Diehl says it just felt like home. In addition to her work with schools, she also has experience in mediation. Privacy Policy Any chance I get I love to spend time with children Children are always the center of my life, she said. I think the school district did a great job taking it really seriously, doing its homework and trusting in data and science, which I really appreciate, Lengacher said. Transparency of politically charged curriculum is a must, but not enough. 2023 School Board Trustee Election Information The biggest challenge is to meet the needs and bring kids to a place thats up to speed with what we can give them as far as care and nurturing.. When I talk about moving here and being in the school district, I understand that those values exist here, and I want to guard those and keep those.. Trustees - School Board - School Board - Whitefish School District Trustees If you would like to email all of the school board trustees please send your email to trustees@whitefishschools. P: (406) 862-8688 F: (406) 862-2586. I dont know what all our needs are right now, so first of all I want to be a sounding board and listen and learn, Diehl said. In spite of the pandemic, our high school is ranked number two in the state and our reading and math scores are on the upswing across every grade level in the district. For further information, please visit their website at, Center for Sustainability and Entrepreneurship, http://www.whitefisheducationfoundation.org/. The Whitefish School District office at Central School downtown. The Whitefish School District cultivates and supports a community, Center for Sustainability and Entrepreneurship. Id bring a sense of leadership and sharing in ideas, Morrow said. Thats something she believes every child should have. In the past year just seeing the way public discourse has evolved and how relationships in our communities have become so fractured, it made me rethink waiting (to get involved).. As a parent of young children, working in the service industry and a woman of color, its clear this perspective is absent in our communitys leadership. Please select a different job from those listed below. I think the next step is allowing kids to go to school without wearing masks, we need to work towards that goal.. Whitefish School District. P: 406.862.8650 F: 406.862.8664. Whitefish, MT 59937 Its why I am on the board of CRYJ, why I became a Girl Scout leader, and why I am giving my time and energy to work on a play about social issues in our community. However, he would like to see that progression continue and figure out the next steps in returning kids to normalcy in the classroom. Amina is also a science teacher at the middle school and a lawyer in the Air Force. Im actually looking forward to, if I were on the board, helping begin to make a plan for that, he expressed. She says she wants to make sure everyone living here and moving here is treated like an individual, not just a number. But one main reason is to give back to the community. I think were a growing economy in Whitefish; the challenge would be to serve every member of the community and know what their needs are because theyre coming from all different directions of the country, Morrow said. The need to provide additional educational and mental health support is a top priority for me. He is an incurable do-it yourselfer, enjoys cooking and being outdoors and has won awards for his writing and his photography. Unfortunately, this position is no longer available. Community service projects are greatly encouraged. Wfbschools.com - Whitefish Bay Schools | An Exceptional Place to Learn Whitefish Middle School An injury ended her professional dancing career, but opened up the opportunity to move somewhere new and start a dance school. Visual Arts The districts visual arts programs begin at the elementary level and truly excel at the high school level. Instrumental Music all students have the choice of instruments beginning with the 5th grade and may specialize with one or more instruments by the time they finish their high school career. She says she always had a desire to get into local politics and government and knows she has a lot to offer in the role. He and his wife were married on their family property on Flathead Lake and eventually moved to Whitefish in 2018. The support, compassion and care we have shown each other as a community needs to continue as we deal with ongoing issues relating to the pandemic. Since then shes wanted to find a way she could leverage her skillset and contribute to the betterment of the community running for school board seemed like a great opportunity to do just that. When considering the issues facing the school district, COVID and continuing to adapt to the issues arising from the pandemic is definitely on her mind, she notes. Powered by Her favorite part of serving the community in this volunteer role is getting to visit the schools and see learning in action. 1118 East 7th St., The opportunity for public comment and participation during a school board meeting is provided by attending the school board meeting in-person. And given his background in education, he feels like the Whitefish School Board would be a good fit. He added that other priorities for him as a trustee would include ensuring quality teaching materials and a supportive standardized curriculum for teachers, empowering kids to make their own decisions, supporting extracurricular programs and improving communication in parent-teacher relationships across the district. The 2021 Whitefish School Board Trustee Candidates are Quincy Bennetts, David Diehl, Leanette Kearns, Todd Lengacher and Emily Morrow. Staff - Whitefish High School In 2017 she said her family had a tough time after her husband was involved in a tragic avalanche accident in Glacier National Park. A strong educational program K-12 exists for all students. I am committed to Whitefish kids and all the dedicated, talented professionals who support them. Whitefish, MT 59937 Whitefish High School. From everyone I talked to, this district worked hard to put in place what I would call an adaptive management approach she said. Search: There is no staff matching your search criteria Administration. I believe the school district did the right thing in how they proceeded he said. Trustees serve in staggered three-year terms. There should never be a policy void of faith and trust in the parents who love these children. While most recently living in Seattle, his family was coming out to the Flathead Valley more often and developing a stronger desire to stay in Montana. - listing US Job Opportunities, Staffing Agencies, International / Overseas Employment. If elected to the school board, keeping that genuine community feel and engagement is one aspect she would prioritize. He also would like to have a positive influence by helping to elevate the board itself. Student must have advanced computer skills for on-line success with VHS offerings. The high school is almost at student capacity with the growth of our community. Morrow has been a dancer her whole life and also enjoys going to restaurants and reading in her free time. While we cannot change the past, we have an opportunity to learn from our mistakes and build a better future. Hes worked in schools both domestically and internationally, helping to develop educational programs in 13 countries. Family, educational and community involvement are Jerries passions. In addition, I have extensive business experience dealing with budgets, personnel and scheduling, and I have held many volunteer roles in the community. I think Im really interested in vision and goal planning with the district and getting involved in that process.. Being so close with the work she does, he supports the data-driven approach that the school district took. Her oldest daughter will start at Muldown in the fall. Lengacher has long family ties to the valley as his inlaws have owned property on Flathead Lake for many years. She taught Education Through Music classes for teachers throughout the state.