Green and Gold: Reflections of gratitude
I begin each school year with enthusiasm and appreciation for our schools and community. One of the greatest joys of my job is my weekly visits to each building, where I witness exceptional education in action. I am honored and proud to be the superintendent of such an outstanding educational system supported and shaped by all of us.
As I walk through the three buildings of the Whitefish School District, I see our incredibly talented staff and administration in action. I see welcoming, caring and supportive educators helping students engage in learning as they start the new school year. As I visit classrooms, I can feel the excitement as students are smiling, laughing, working together and engaging with their teachers. I continually walk away from my weekly rounds with a sense of awe at how fortunate we are to have immensely caring and supportive staff, administration, trustees, families, and community. When we all work together, problem-solve, and seek solutions, we can accomplish amazing things in support of our students.
The recent passage of the Whitefish High School bonds is a great example of the community coming together to support Whitefish School District students. We worked with stakeholders and listened to feedback from the community to help create expansion concepts for the building and athletic improvements to address enrollment for the next 15 to 20 years. Passing these school bonds is another example of our community’s strength, vitality, and vision. Collaboration happens daily in Whitefish Schools and reflects the goals within the school district’s strategic plan, leading to the most beneficial outcomes for our students.
Together with you, our community, we have developed quality facilities and an educational system to be proud of that is supportive, welcoming, and caring. It is one that helps all students grow and learn at the highest levels. We are seeing success in academics, the arts, and activities —from high academic rankings across the state and nation—to championship sports teams and award-winning activities. This success and level of excellence does not happen by accident. It happens because our staff, administration, trustees, families, and community work together to continually improve and build upon the quality and excellence that came before us and continues to grow every year. I look forward to the school year to continue our collaborative work to support all students in reaching their full academic potential, prepare for career opportunities, and become engaged citizens. I appreciate the support and involvement in Whitefish Schools from our community as we continue to learn and grow together.
— Dave Means, Whitefish School District Superintendent