Our Schools: Exciting things ahead for district

Libby School District is entering an exciting and important time period.

Critical decisions and major changes are just around the corner.  To keep you informed and solicit input, we have enhanced our communication network.  The first e-newsletter went online in April.  I encourage parents and community members to visit our website at www.libby.k12.mt.us and subscribe to the school newsletter online.   

You will receive all e-newsletters and important updates on a regular basis.

The State of Montana recently adopted the National Common Core Standards for literacy (all subjects) and math/technology.  Staff and administration have worked throughout the year to align our curriculum to the standards.  The process is time-intensive.  We have less than a year to complete the process.  Students will then be required to take the new state/national test online.  They must have the academic and technological skills required for success.

A budget shortfall of approximately $150,000 is projected for the 2012-2013 school year.  

Our challenge is to make up the deficit without causing a negative impact on students.  

I believe we can find a positive solution to the problem for next year.  However, the 2013-2014 school budget will face a much larger shortfall, attributed to a large decrease in high school enrollment and increases in expenses (insurance, transportation, etc.).  We may need your help.

Libby Schools received a Montana Department of Commerce Grant for $391,000 to replace the middle/high school boilers.  

The District is responsible for an additional $44,000 to complete the project.  Existing boilers are old, inefficient, and in need of repair.  Boiler design, specifications, and bid documents are in the works.  

The project will be put out to bid next month.  

The Asa Wood property is extremely important to both the school and community.  It is prime property, right in the heart of town.  I have encouraged the possible creation of a school/community center — supported by the county, city, park board, school and community.  

A team approach could make Asa Wood a self-sustaining asset for everyone.  Community input is always appreciated.  Please weigh in on this project.

As this year winds down and preparations begin for the 2012-2013 school year, I want to stress the first sentence in our mission statement:  “Education is a lifelong process and is a shared responsibility of the students, the schools, the family, and the community at large.”  The focus must always be on what is best for students!  

They are the future for our community, state, and nation.  Schools, community, and family should work cooperatively to provide students with the necessary skills to function in a changing world.  The goal is to develop life-long learners who understand the world around them and who can creatively participate in a changing environment.

 (K.W. Maki is Libby Schools superintendent. His column will appear appear every seven weeks.)