Exciting times in education

“The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows.”

Sydney J. Harris

The school year is half way done and a lot has been accomplished and even more still needs to be completed.

Presently, schools across Montana are busy with implementing new standards and related assessments. This involves professional development for teachers and administrators along with changes in student instruction. These changes also bring new criteria for teacher and administrator evaluation. From my perspective, these are exciting times in education because all of these new strategies and innovations are based on sound research. As parents and community members, I want to convey to you how hard the teachers, administration and school board are working to successfully implement all these changes.

With change, there are always questions and challenges by parents and organized groups. In this case, there have been questions and concerns expressed about the implementation of the Common Core Standards. Alice Blasdel, school board member, and I recently attended a presentation addressing their concerns and disagreement about these new standards. Even though I did not agree with much of what was presented, I found value in it. I now have a better grasp on the group’s position, and I can hopefully better address their concerns when asked. Personally, I believe it’s important to listen carefully to both sides on an issue so I can better understand and address questions pertaining to it.

To any of you who may have questions about these changes, I encourage you to contact me, the school principal, and teachers. I’m confident we can answer your questions. We have copies of those standards for review. Once reviewed and addressed, I am confident those making inquiries will understand the breadth and depth of the new standards and how they are so much more challenging than what was previously in place.

As we look further toward the end of this year and into next year, we begin reviewing needs and planning a budget. The needs are always plentiful and we have to weigh whether or not to run a levy to support the needs. One item that stands out this year is technology needs and related upgrades. Also, there are always facility and maintenance considerations.

If the board decides to hold a levy election, you can be involved by registering to vote. It should be noted that this is an election year, and if you register to vote, you are covered for the levy election, primaries and the general election. The deadline for registering for levy elections is April 30. I hope you make this a goal for the New Year because you can truly make a difference by voting.

Paul Jenkins

Superintenent, Somers-Lakeside Schools