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Following in her grandparents and parents Griz Alumni footsteps, she attended the University of Montana in Missoula earning a Bachelors in Exercise Science, and graduate degree with a Masters in Physical Therapy. One of the really important things to me has been understanding how much relationships matter and how we treat each other matters, she said. After staying a week in Whitefish, Diehl says it just felt like home. But in addition to those interests, Lengacher has an even stronger passion to serve in the local community. The district has 1,500 plus students housed in four facilities: Muldown Elementary (K-4), Whitefish Middle School (5-8), Whitefish High School (9-12), and our Independent High School which provides a non-traditional setting for grades 10-12. 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. Whitefish School District #44 is located in the scenic resort community of. Morrow moved to Whitefish one year ago in search of a friendly place to settle down and potentially start a family. There are some changes that just inevitably bring challenges because that is how new leadership works, she expressed. 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. 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. Whitefish School Board Meetings are held in the school board meeting room at 600 East Second Street, Whitefish, Montana. I believe the school district did the right thing in how they proceeded he said. Finally, bringing a science background to the board offers another perspective of data interpretation and problem-solving. The election is May 4 and the mail-in ballots are scheduled to be sent out on April 14 and arrive in voters mailboxes by next week. I think Im really interested in vision and goal planning with the district and getting involved in that process.. Muldown elementary School. Emails or letters received after that will be included in the following month's business meeting materials. 1296 Whitefish Village Dr, Amina is also a science teacher at the middle school and a lawyer in the Air Force. I am not privy to the inside workings of the schools, and all my dealings with any staff have exceeded my expectations. Time: 6:00 PM. Student publications include the high school newspaper, The Bulldog Breeze, the literary publication, Snow Ghosts, and the annual WHS year book. 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. The need to consider expanding the high school and requesting a bond from the voters is impending for the district. Emails to trustees received after the business meeting is postedwill be included in the next business meeting packet. A strong educational program K-12 exists for all students. She said although her family felt they had roots in Whitefish long before that, the actions of the community solidified those feelings. Although originally from Dallas, she was living in Las Vegas and was a dancer for Cirque du Soleil. For reference, kindergarteners in 2020 who are now in second grade have never experienced a normal school year due to Covid. 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.. Amina is also a science teacher at the middle school and a lawyer in the Air Force. I will stand up for our children, parents and teachers by seeking to level the playing field for all. The top challenges currently facing the district are issues related to the pandemic, growth of the student population and affordable housing. Suicide rates have increased. Each building has a PTA Volunteer Coordinator who would gladly assist you with your unique skills that may be shared with staff and students. High school enrollment is already nearing capacity. Im glad they didnt go completely remote because the detriment of that I saw in a student I was helping.. Ray and Jerrie directed the American Field Service (AFS) exchange student program in Montana for many years. Five candidates are running for the Whitefish School Board. Quincy married Joel Shehan in 2001, and together they moved to the Flathead Valley in 2004. Todd Lengacher is honored to join the board in the spring of 2021. WHS students have the additional opportunity to take part in a variety of interest clubs: Weightlifting, Young Democrats, Math, National Honor Society, United Students, Key Club, Young Life, Computer Club, French and Spanish Clubs. Speech and Debate activities offer students an opportunity to hone their skills in a variety of competitive events at both the local and state level. The foundation has received several donations from Alumni, business leaders, and other individuals who value education and have provided gifts of stock, bonds, estate holdings and other financial resources. These essential cookies may also be used for improvements, site monitoring and security. An injury ended her professional dancing career, but opened up the opportunity to move somewhere new and start a dance school. I feel like Im a really good listener; I like to listen to all perspectives before weighing in on a decision.. Trustees serve in staggered three-year terms. All parents are encouraged to attend and become active members regardless of the grade of your child. It has all the elements that makes it so appealing to all of us. If you want to view and listen to the meeting via mobile device, you are encouraged to install the Zoom app. Todd and his wife met at a small progressive K-12 school in Seattle and they also worked together at a boarding school on a 500 acre working farm in southern Vermont. Copyright2005-document.write(new Date().getFullYear()) -PowerSchool Group LLC and/or its affiliate(s), WHITEFISH SCHOOL DISTRICT600 East Second StreetWhitefish, MT 5993740686286404068621507. Lengacher has long family ties to the valley as his inlaws have owned property on Flathead Lake for many years. Staff: Intramurals: 1: Student Store: 1: Whitefish Middle School Student Council: 1: Yearbook Club: 1: Web Accessibility Complaint Form Web . 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. 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. She served as the local American Cancer Society Education Director for many years. 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. It has all the elements that makes it so appealing to all of us. Bennetts says she was inspired to run for school board for a number of reasons including wanting to help make sure every child has access to an excellent education. And in addition, bringing more support and professional development to faculty. - The Whitefish School District cultivates and supports a community that engages each student to succeed in continuous learning, Theres people who have been on the board and dedicated educators who are in the trenches that I want to hear from to learn what they view as the priorities first.. He also would like to have a positive influence by helping to elevate the board itself. Todd Lengacher has a vast amount of experience in education coupled with a strong desire to be involved in the community and local schools. Note that applications are not being accepted from your jurisdiction for this job currently via this jobsite. He has worked as a teacher, administrator, and program director for over 20 years. Wfbschools.com - Whitefish Bay Schools | An Exceptional Place to Learn Whitefish, MT 59937 For more information on the election call the district office at 862-8640. Whitefish High School Calendar Facebook Home Students Big Ideas Check Grades Student Email Student Handbook School Calendar Registration Handbook Bring Your Own Device Teachers/ Staff Daily Schedule Clubs & Activities Odysseyware Edgenuity Student Assistance Program Google Docs Coping with Grief Google Classroom MT EdReady While we cannot change the past, we have an opportunity to learn from our mistakes and build a better future. To this board Todd brings school and nonprofit board experience. From his service in the military he has a vast amount of senior leadership experience, most notably in the U.S. Embassy in two different countries Thailand and Bolivia. Her interest in children is a huge reason why she is running for a trustee seat on the Whitefish School Board. He spent 20 years as an educator, 10 of those in administration, and has a masters in mathematics. Drama students in both the middle and high school have opportunities to participate in one act plays, full production plays, and may be viewed by students and by the community alike on several performance dates. 1118 East 7th St., This can be done by continuing to responsibly spend covid funding to remedy these issues. 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. 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. She acknowledges the challenges the pandemic caused in the educational setting, but also respects the decisions the district made by implementing the hybrid in person and online model. 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. I am committed to Whitefish kids and all the dedicated, talented professionals who support them. David Diehl is a retired U.S. Air Force command pilot and colonel who moved his family to Whitefish in July 2020. Ms. Victoria Buls. Joined by their golden retriever, they all enjoy supporting the local outdoor community and are grateful for the accessible, beautiful places that surround Whitefish. Website Disclaimer. He was inspired to run in the trustee election because of his desire to serve and give back to the community. Pet exams oftentimes turn into conversations about our lives, families and various community topics. 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. She said although her family felt they had roots in Whitefish long before that, the actions of the community solidified those feelings. She has a bachelor's in fine arts and communications, and currently working on her master's degree in professional counseling. Written public correspondence can be submitted by emailing the Trustees at trustees@whitefishschools.org or by a written letter sent to the Whitefish School District Trustees at 600 East Second Street, Whitefish, MT 59937. As much as anything, I want to leverage my experience with schools and with boards to build the best and highest functioning board we possibly can.. If you would like to email all of the school board trustees please send your email to. Over 300 course offerings are available to students who have an interest and aptitude to challenge them in a diverse curriculum taught by nationally known instructors. Mission - The Whitefish School District cultivates and supports a 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. I probably wish they had gone back to school (in-person) earlier, but I dont fault them for being cautious, she said. During the pandemic and these generally difficult times, young peoples mental health has suffered. The family enjoys skiing, spending time outdoors and fishing, Lengacher himself says given a free day he would be out on a river fly fishing. Staff Directory District Overview Directions 406.862.8640 Email Directions. After living in a few different locations they came back to Whitefish in 2003. Family: Husband Kyle is a Whitefish High School alum, daughter seventh grade at Whitefish Middle School, and son fourth grade at Muldown Elementary. After your information is complete, you will receive a confirmation number, and your information will be saved allowing you to return at any time to submit additional applications. David Diehl is a retired U.S. Air Force command pilot and colonel who moved his family to Whitefish in July 2020. You have an incomplete application for Affordable housing is an issue for many in the community, and this includes school personnel. Transparency of politically charged curriculum is a must, but not enough. Employment Opportunities. I come from a long line of teachers as well, children are just extremely important. Free administrative/clerical job search site: School Secretary job in Whitefish Montana, USA. I have daily interactions with students, parents, teachers and the community that provide a boots on the ground perspective. 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. And just very subtly, but very intentionally took care of us.. 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.. Their son Porter attends Muldown Elementary. Mr. Dave Means Superintendent Mrs. Lucie Shea Director of Business/District Clerk Lisa Bloom Director of Curriculum and Instruction . Leanette Kearns has an understanding of schools and the challenges teachers, staff and students face daily. P: (406) 862-8688 F: (406) 862-2586. 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. Background: Current Vice Chair for Whitefish School District School Board. However, I dont claim my diverse perspective is what qualifies me alone for this position. As the election approaches, Kearns hopes voters will keep in mind that although shes new to living in Whitefish, she understands the community and just has a desire to serve for the betterment of local education. 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. Bennetts and her family moved to the Flathead Valley in 2004, then settled into Whitefish 10 years later. Diehl and his wife Amina have two teenage kids currently attending Whitefish Middle School. 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. Students also have the option of attending Flathead Valley Community College by taking classes of their choice in the Running Start program. She has a bachelor's in fine arts and communications, and currently working on her master's degree in professional counseling. 56 were here. I will have a child in every school in the district for the next five years. Trustees serve in staggered three-year terms. She said her personal qualities of commitment and loyalty will help her make a difference if she takes on this role. But do they leave the room feeling like they are heard and hopeful; I think I can offer that.. Family: I am very lucky to have my parents and siblings close by and I have a niece and nephew in the Whitefish Schools. Family, educational and community involvement are Jerries passions. Kearns would like to help mend that and wants to start by serving on the school board. And I really am supportive of standardized curriculum to support teachers, but at the same time not constrain their ability to be flexible.. Especially in Whitefish, it's a small community so your actions can have a direct and immediate impact.. (Courtesy photos). Family: I am married to my high school sweetheart; we have four children, ages 5-14. After staying a week in Whitefish, Diehl says it just felt like home. Jerrie Boksich was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, and attended public schools. Website Disclaimer. Five trustee candidates are running for two open spots on the Whitefish School Board. Community service projects are greatly encouraged. My degree from an elite university demonstrates my commitment to providing pathways to higher education for all students. If elected to the school board, keeping that genuine community feel and engagement is one aspect she would prioritize. And I feel well informed just given the proximity to my wifes work.. In addition to her work with schools, she also has experience in mediation. He is an incurable do-it yourselfer, enjoys cooking and being outdoors and has won awards for his writing and his photography. The Whitefish School District cultivates and supports a community, Center for Sustainability and Entrepreneurship. I am a Whitefish native and graduate of Whitefish Schools; I greatly value the educational opportunities offered by our schools. Ballots for those registered as absentee should have already hit the mailboxes in Whitefish and are due back to the Whitefish School District Office by 8 p.m. on Election Day. I think the next step is allowing kids to go to school without wearing masks, we need to work towards that goal.. Im glad they didnt go completely remote because the detriment of that I saw in a student I was helping.. 1143 E. 4th St. Whitefish, MT 59937 . All responses are in the words of the candidates and edited only for style. Business expansions have helped solidify the district's tax base. But now I think its time to continue along the same path in whatever the community and school district decide is the next marker. For public correspondence to be published within the school board business meeting materials, it must be received by 3:00 PM on the Friday before the scheduled monthly business meeting. Accommodating growth, utilizing resources efficiently and student mental health are important challenges our school district has been facing. Ive been in senior leadership positions quite often and understand the difficulties presented, he explained. The 2021 Whitefish School Board Trustee Candidates are Quincy Bennetts, David Diehl, Leanette Kearns, Todd Lengacher and Emily Morrow. P: (406) 862-8650 Would you like to continue working on this application? The queer community has become a targeted group recently and this should be addressed at the district level. The election will be held on May 3 at the Whitefish School District Board Room, 600 East Second Street. Bennetts expressed great respect for the current board members, administrators, district staff and everyone already involved in the district. Leanette Kearns has an understanding of schools and the challenges teachers, staff and students face daily. Teachers/ Staff I definitely want to come with the intention of open mindedness to the position, she said. Our on-line Virtual High School (VHS) is open to students beginning in the 8th grade through high school. Homes for Sale Near 5333 Highway 93 S. 10 ACRES. 406-862-3505. Our WHS choir students may participate in Concert Choir, Voce Primo and Chorale. 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).. 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. There should never be a policy void of faith and trust in the parents who love these children. F: (406) 730-2176, 600 East 2nd St. I have a lot of skills and different perspectives and talents to offer in my service so I just felt really strongly that I should jump into that Kearns said. Bulletin Board. I am running for the Whitefish School Board to bring the community together with a common goal of protecting the innocence of children while ensuring they have access to a quality education. Winter athletic programs for basketball has earned 3 state titlesboys (2), girls (1) and speech & debate (1). I see the school district doing lots of good work, he said. Please select a different job from those listed below. We had a week at an Airbnb in Whitefish and just absolutely fell in love with it, he said. For in-depth information, please visit the districts website. The Whitefish School District cultivates and supports a community, (406) 730-3080 | speakup@whitefishschools.org, Center for Sustainability and Entrepreneurship, 2023 School Board Trustee Election Information, 7th Grade Girls Basketball Tournament @ West Valley, 8th Grade Girls Basketball Tournament @ Kalispell Middle School, Whitefish High School Expansion Information Poster, Whitefish School District Seeks Additional Input for Whitefish High School Expansion, The 988 Suicide and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline offers 24/7 free and confidential mental health support. Two incumbents, Darcy Schellinger and Elizabeth Pitman, are seeking reelection while three new candidates are also running. The Running Start program provides eligible high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to get a start on their college career by earning dual credit simultaneously with WHS and FVCC. After moving around a lot as a youngster himself, Diehls father was also in the Air Force, he wanted his two kids to attend one high school instead of moving several times. I will strive to bring creative solutions to ensure fair and just policy, and reject policies that create more problems. Ive always been interested in the educational and artistic development of children. Whitefish, MT 59937 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. (Courtesy photos) Editor's note: This story originally ran in the April 14, 2021 edition of the Whitefish Pilot. I believe the school district did the right thing in how they proceeded he said. He also currently serves on the North Valley Food Bank and Whitefish Education Foundation boards, and is the executive director of the Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Northwest Montana program. And out of the variety of ways to participate in building and shaping my community, serving on the school board is a great fit given my skills and experiences. Students are expected to complete a rigorous academic program from kindergarten through grade 12. Whitefish, MT 59937 . Search: There is no staff matching your search criteria Administration. Kearns would like to help mend that and wants to start by serving on the school board. As the pandemic narrative on masking and jabs unravels, it's clear our children were subject to political agendas and not health measures. To begin a new application, choose a job from the available listings below. Dual credit for most classes is accepted by WHS for graduation purposes. Website Disclaimer. One of the really important things to me has been understanding how much relationships matter and how we treat each other matters, she said. He also currently serves on the North Valley Food Bank and Whitefish Education Foundation boards, and is the executive director of the Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Northwest Montana program. Diehl says one of his strongest qualities that he would contribute to the board is his ability to listen and his desire to hear all points of the issue before making any recommendations. P: 406.862.8650 F: 406.862.8664. He spent 20 years as an educator, 10 of those in administration, and has a masters in mathematics. Whitefish School District. Diehl and his wife Amina have two teenage kids currently attending Whitefish Middle School. P: 406.862.8650 F: 406.862.8664. 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. Being so close with the work she does, he supports the data-driven approach that the school district took. It is my desire is to see Whitefish continue to strive for the highest degree of success for all its students no matter where their paths may lead. 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. She also lived in Essex for a summer season working at the Snow Slip Inn in 2009. Location: Whitefish School District Board Room 600 E Second St Whitefish, MT. She and her husband, Ray, both taught in the Whitefish schools for their entire teaching careers. I feel like Im a really good listener; I like to listen to all perspectives before weighing in on a decision.. With COVID and the influx of new people in Whitefish, she sees that the community togetherness is starting to become divisive. Currently Jerrie is also serving on the Alpine Theater Project Board of Directors. 1118 East 7th St., 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. $790,000. 312 E. Second Street Background: Born and raised in Whitefish, graduating from Whitefish High School in 2002; Bachelor of Arts in history at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at Washington State University in Pullman, Washington. An injury ended her professional dancing career, but opened up the opportunity to move somewhere new and start a dance school. Yes, take me to my job application. 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. 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).. Whitefish, MT 59937 Mission - The Whitefish School District cultivates and supports a community that engages each student to succeed in . An aspect of life that is really important to Kearns is that relationships matter. I have a lot of skills and different perspectives and talents to offer in my service so I just felt really strongly that I should jump into that Kearns said. His wife has a masters in public health and has been highly involved in infection mitigation in Montana during the pandemic. I feel like the hybrid model was a balance of the needs of maintaining safety as well as recognizing in-person education is invaluable.. P: (406) 862-8620 Students have a wide selection of elective programs to include pottery, drawing and painting. And my experience in after-school programming gives me insight into the daily challenges faced by our staff and teachers. Why are you the best candidate for this position and what will you bring to the board if elected? My concern lies with the willingness of the board to step on the rights of parents. She says she wants to make sure everyone living here and moving here is treated like an individual, not just a number. Attracting and housing teachers and support staff is becoming more of a challenge and we need to think of community-based solutions. A Whitefish native, Elizabeth has called Whitefish home for 38 years. But also with Whitefish Superintendent Dave Means only being a year into his new role and then a new principal starting at Muldown in the fall, she believes there will be challenges associated with the changes in leadership. It's a tumultuous time, and we must fight against the spirit of the age's attempt to create a new normal for our kids. As far as how the school district handled the COVID-19 pandemic, Diehl said he supported the districts methodical approach to reopening schools. Im actually looking forward to, if I were on the board, helping begin to make a plan for that, he expressed. 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. Through this work she developed a skill set that she believes would be beneficial to have on the Whitefish School Board. In addition, I have extensive business experience dealing with budgets, personnel and scheduling, and I have held many volunteer roles in the community. Ive always been interested in the educational and artistic development of children. F: (406) 730-2176, 600 East 2nd St. History & Computer Coding Teacher. Study after study reveals that every school that is really excelling, by whatever metric, has a board that is excellent by every metric, he says. Lengacher and his wife Erica have one 8-year-old daughter and naturally they were looking for somewhere enjoyable to raise her. 1118 East 7th St., Whitefish, MT 59937 P: (406) 862-8620 F: (406) 730-2176 Theres people who have been on the board and dedicated educators who are in the trenches that I want to hear from to learn what they view as the priorities first..