Recently, the Emmett School District hosted its 3rd Annual Principal for a Day event - which brought together business owners, community leaders, patrons, and parents to participate alongside building principals in the educational process.  This year’s event hosted 30 guest principals.

“It’s really encouraging to see the event growing in popularity and interest,” explained Superintendent Craig Woods.  “The first year we hosted this event in 2021, we had 6 community members join us.  We grew that number to 24 this year.  We are excited to continue building this opportunity.”  

The event was open to any community members who were interested in participating, and guest principals could provide a preference on which school site they attended.  Guest principals spend the morning on site at the school, and they have the opportunity to observe classroom activities, day-to-day troubleshooting and what it’s like to lead a school with hundreds of students.  After spending the morning at the assigned schools, all principals (guest and building) meet at Payette River Technical Academy for a catered lunch provided by the PRTA Culinary Program and spend time debriefing on the experience.  

One participant stated that the event, “helped me to understand the bigger picture of what our schools do, how the curriculum is taught, and what is needed to have a fully functioning school.”  

It was a general consensus that the participants appreciated the interactions between the students and Emmett School District staff.  “The culture was warm and friendly, and I enjoyed learning about the behavior expectations and how the students receive positive reinforcements,” explained one guest participant.  

Following the event, participants were asked for feedback on ways to continue improving the event, and the general consensus from the survey was that participants would like to return for another year and they would recommend the event to others. 

“Our goal is to continue building, growing, and improving this event,” said event organizer Katie Watkins.  “This is such a positive opportunity to build community partnerships and impact the educational experience for our students.  I love to see the involvement and investment in our students.”  

While the date for the 4th Annual Principal for a Day event has not yet been determined, you can reserve your spot now by contacting info@isd221.net.  

Guest Principals Included: 

Carberry Elementary School: Shannon Carter; Serena Rekow; Paul Anderson; and Samantha Scheller.

Shadow Butte Elementary School: Heather Chandler; Sheryll Goeckner; and Jacki Weideman.

Butte View Elementary School: Kelly Meyers; Teena Turner; and Jocelyn Webb.

Black Canyon Junior/Senior High School: Nita Bernard; Chris Kimball; and Brian Short.

Emmett Middle School: Clark Fear; Crysta McMaster; Maliesa Zimmering; Mike Baranowski; and Rachel Fear. 

Emmett High School: Mona Barnes; Ron Oberleitner; and Terry Jones. 

Payette River Technical Academy: Mayor Gordon Petrie; Shelby Lindley; and Matt Godfrey.

At Monday’s School Board Meeting, the Board of Trustees approved the hire of Mr. Larry Parks as Emmett High School’s principal for the 2023-2024 school year.  The Board of Trustees unanimously approved the recommendation from Superintendent Craig Woods.  

Parks, a long-time Emmett resident and 1989 EHS graduate, is no stranger to the District.  Parks began his career in Emmett in 1996 as an English teacher and coach. Continuing his career in public education, Parks served as the Assistant Principal at Emmett Middle School from 2004-2008.  He then served as the principal at Carberry and Emmett Middle School from 2008-2017 before leaving the district to join the West Ada School District.  

However, Parks returned to the Emmett School District in the Fall of 2022 when he accepted a position at Emmett High School as the Assistant Principal.  

“Returning to Emmett has been a blessing because  I really missed working with the staff, students, and parents of the Emmett School District,” Parks explained.

A seven-member committee interviewed three finalists and Superintendent Craig Woods recommended Parks for the hire.  

“We determined that Mr. Parks would be the best person to build on what Mr. (Bob) Hyde has done the past 2 years at Emmett High School,” explained Superintendent Craig Woods. 

Last month, Hyde was announced as the new Assistant Superintendent of the Emmett School District effective July 1st.  Hyde will remain at the helm of Emmett High School for the remainder of the 22-23 school year.  

“It is with excitement that we welcome Mr. Parks as the incoming principal of Emmett High School,” said Bob Hyde.  “Mr. Parks brings extensive experience as an administrator and will serve the school community with pride.  I am excited to work alongside Mr. Parks and together work to continue moving our district forward.”  

Mr. Parks is passionate about students, and he advocates for staff and students and believes they deserve the best.  As he communicated in his application, “my vision for Emmett High School is quite simple. Our students and our community deserve to have the best teachers, coaches, advisors, and counselors in the country. Our teachers and students deserve to have the safest and best facilities in the country.”

“I’m looking forward to serving our staff, students, and community.  I’m also looking forward to continuing the great work that Mr. Hyde and the staff have accomplished thus far,” explained Parks. 

On Tuesday, March 14, 2023, Gem County voters will be asked to consider the renewal of the Emmett Independent School District #221 Operational Levy.  

The Operational Levy is a voter-approved levy that generates funds a school district can use to support local operating costs.  If approved, the Operational Levy will provide $1.5 million in funding per year for two years.  

This levy would replace the current 2 million dollar levy which expires this summer, June 30, 2023. 

The estimated cost to local taxpayers for the proposed levy is $52/year or $4.37/month per $100,000 of taxable property value based on the estimated levy rate of .0005246..  This is an increase of $17/year per $100,000 from the previous year.  

This is not a new tax.  The Emmett School District has utilized an Operational Levy for many years, and it is a general revenue source that equates to roughly 7% of the operational budget.  Funds from the Operational Levy would be utilized to support and deliver K-12 education to more than 2,500 learners in the Emmett School District.  

The proposed levy funds would be allocated to both maintenance and personnel costs.  $600,000 per year has been earmarked for district building safety upgrades - which also include roof repair at Carberry Elementary School and Shadow Butte Elementary School.  $900,000 per year will also support these educational priorities: Instructional Coach; Two Elementary Counselors; Secondary English Teacher; Elementary (small, rural schools) Principal; District-Wide School Psychologist; Secondary Math Teacher; Special Education Support (k-12). 

Election day is Tuesday, March 14, 2023 from 8am - 8pm.  Early walk-in voting begins Monday, February 27th at the Gem County Courthouse. Early voting ends on Friday, March 10th.  

“Passing this operational levy is crucial for the long-term success and well-being of our School District,” explained Superintendent Craig Woods.  “Passing this operational levy demonstrates a commitment to education, to our students, to our community, and to our schools as well as a willingness to invest in the future of Gem County.  It helps to validate the message that Gem county residents value our students and want to provide a quality education for all students.” 

The Emmett School District is humbled today after receiving a monetary donation from an anonymous community member.  The anonymous donation of $14,000 will pay off all current outstanding meal charges for students in the Emmett School District.  

“We have certainly seen an uptick in outstanding meal charges this year,” explained Superintendent Craig Woods.  “That is likely due to the fact that COVID Relief Waivers allowed for free meals for all students for the last two years, and now, those waivers are no longer available for our students.”

Even though some families are struggling to pay for school meals, the Emmett School District Food Service Staff continues to feed every child who comes through the lunch line regardless of account standing. 

“We will always feed our students at school - regardless of their account status.  Students will not be hungry while they are at school,” promised Superintendent Woods.  

“The donor requested to remain anonymous, and they wanted no recognition - just wanted to be a help to our schools,” explained Child Nutrition Director, Tyree White.  “They are local business owners and have a heart for this community.  What a privilege it is to live and work in this community.”  

The generosity of the Emmett community is astonishing.  Just two weeks ago, the Emmett School District received a donation from a local business for $1,000 to go towards student meal accounts as well.  

Child Nutrition Administrative Assistant, Sherri Olson said, “We are so excited to see how the Emmett community has jumped in to help our school families with the overwhelming burden of their meal accounts.  Each and every donation we have received is a gift, and we are so grateful!”

The outpouring of generosity and kindness from the community is noticed and appreciated.  

Emmett School District Hires Next 

Assistant Superintendent: Mr. Robert Hyde

The Emmett School District will begin the new fiscal year (July 1st) with a new Assistant Superintendent, current Emmett High School Principal, Mr. Robert Hyde. 

Hyde will be replacing Dr. Isa De Armas who retired from the Emmett School District in late December of 2022.

The Board of Trustees approved the hiring on Tuesday, January 17th during a special board meeting.  Superintendent Craig Woods will be working with the ESD administrative team to further define the District roles and supervisory duties of the new Assistant Superintendent, and Superintendent Woods is looking forward to working alongside Mr. Hyde at the District Office.  

“I am excited to work with Mr. Hyde in his new role within the District,” said Superintendent Craig Woods.  “His professionalism and experience will be invaluable to our mission in improving academic achievement.  Mr. Hyde is a strong academic leader willing to roll up his sleeves and work side by side with our staff and our community.  I believe we have selected an Assistant Superintendent that will help our district grow.”

Mr. Hyde returned to the Emmett School District after spending several years in the West Ada School District as an Assistant Principal at Eagle High School.  However, Hyde is no stranger to the Emmett School District. 

“I was born and raised in Emmett and attended public schools here,” explained Bob Hyde.  “I owe a debt of gratitude to our school, district, school board, and those tremendous educators before me that have offered me so many opportunities to serve our students in this great community.”  

The incoming assistant superintendent said he is excited about working with Superintendent Woods and supporting all staff and families toward the District’s goals.  

“In this role, I am looking forward to working with all district stakeholders and building support through trusting relationships, understanding others’ perspectives, and bringing others together to attain educational equity for all students in the Emmett School District,” said Hyde.

December 16, 2022

Last month, Emmett High School Football Coach, Rich Hargitt, was nominated by his fellow SIC coaches for the SIC 4A Coach of the Year Award - for the 3rd consecutive year.  

Hargitt, who joined the Huskie Family in 2018, credits his players, coaches, and community for his successful season.  

“I am so humbled and honored to receive this award from the SIC Head Football Coaches.   This award is a credit to all the hard work that our players, coaches, and community have put forward this past year,” Hargitt said.  “I am continuously humbled and excited by the effort that our student-athletes put forward in the weightroom, on the football field, as well as in the community.  I am very blessed to be the Head Football Coach at Emmett High School.”

The Emmett Huskies recorded two losses in the regular season to the Blackfoot Mustangs and to the Bishop Kelly Knights to finish the regular season with an impressive 7-2 record.  However, in the first round of the playoffs, the Huskies fell to the #11 ranked Shelley Russets.  

“Coach Hargitt is one of the hardest working coaches I have ever worked with, and it has truly been a pleasure getting to know him and his program. As a brand new Emmett employee, the football players were the first to smile and say hi to me every day in the hallway,” stated EHS Athletic Director Ashley Holt. “They were also the first to offer their assistance when I needed it. It was those daily smiles and greetings that caused me to fall in love with this school and this town, and that is a true testament to who Coach Hargitt is as a person. He is not only creating talented, hard working football players, he is creating wonderful human beings. Emmett is a better place with him in it.” 

“Coach Hargitt deserves this award because he truly is a coach that stretches beyond the field for these boys,” said Assistant Coach Preston Simpson.  “He truly cares about what happens to these boys after high school, and he does everything in his power to make sure they are successful.”

The Emmett Football coaching staff works hard to ensure the team is successful on and off the field.  It is very common to watch the football team compete on Friday night under the lights and witness the football team’s selfless community service on Saturday morning.  However, their acts of service do not end when the season is over.  Just last week, Coach Hargitt took his athletes out to cut down and deliver Christmas trees to community members.  

“Coach Hargitt is a great coach and is very deserving of the title Coach of the Year, but he is so much more,” EHS parent, Dali Korell said. “As a parent he is the kind of man that you want as a role model and influence for your kids.” 

However, Coach Hargitt hasn’t just impacted his student-athletes; his coaching staff also speaks to the legacy that he is building with his staff.  

“Coach Hargitt has given me the wisdom and the knowledge to effectively teach our players what we expect from them. He has also broadened my knowledge exponentially in the game of football and in the game of life,” said Simpson.

 “I love the game of football dearly, but I didn't think I belonged on the staff,” explained Assistant Coach, Josh Bork. “He told me otherwise. Him believing in me and letting me be a part of the process means the world to me.”  

June 1, 2022

Emmett High School College/Career Mentor Jeff Ulmer is one of two Idaho educators invited to a behind-the-scenes tour of the United States Air Force and Space Force in San Antonio, Texas, as part of the Air Force Recruiting Service’s Distinguished Educator Tour Program. 

Ulmer started at Emmett High School in the 2021-22 school year. 

“The main objective of this four-day tour is to showcase the Air Force and Space Force as a viable career opportunity for your best students,” according to a letter he received alerting him of the opportunity. 

Ulmer said he is excited for this opportunity.

 “This behind-the-scenes, four-day tour will be a great opportunity to actually see first-hand what the Air Force and Space Force offer to our best and brightest students,” Ulmer said. “I look forward to the one-on-one interaction, and hopefully I can bring back knowledge from that interaction to share with our students.”

Ulmer works with students to help them prepare for college or a chosen career. He also arranges for military recruiters to come onto Emmett High School’s campus and works with college recruiters to spend time on campus with students and at career fairs. 

The trip to San Antonio, also known as Military City, will occur later this month. 

Emmett High School Principal Bob Hyde said Ulmer took his assignment to expose students to post-secondary education opportunities, including the military, very seriously.

“Mr. Ulmer worked hard this past year to bring recruiters from colleges, military units and professional programs and businesses to Emmett High School,” Hyde said. “Our students were very successful in earning scholarships or being placed in career opportunities that will pay off in dividends in the future for those students.” 

The letter outlined the details for the upcoming trip. 

“Educators like you are effective mentors who can share your unique Air Force tour experience with your students in a discussion about the many opportunities the U.S. Air Force offers. We do that by showing off the Air Force’s best resource – our Airmen,” the letter stated.  “The tour starts on Randolph Air Force Base (AFB) in San Antonio, Texas, where you meet enlisted members, officers and civilians from a variety of career fields to learn how the Air Force recruits, trains, educates and employs its Airmen. The tour includes an upfront look at flying training and both technical as well as college educational programs at several of San Antonio’s joint military bases. Our tour group also visits Basic Military Training at Lackland AFB, allowing interaction with countless Airmen and Guardians, from brand new accessions to senior officers.”

Emmett High School Coach Shawn Marquez was named SIC’s 4A Softball Coach of the Year after completing his ninth season as head varsity coach. 

Marquez, who ran the Youth Emmett Softball League and coached in that league for several years, became the EHS Head JV coach in 2012 and moved to varsity in 2013 and was named head coach in 2014. 

Shawn’s assistant coaches include his wife, Brandy, far left, and his daughter,  Jordyn.  

“I am very honored to receive this award on behalf of my peers. This achievement could not be done without the strong support of my family, coaching staff, school administration, Youth Softball Program, and the community. It has been a great 15 years, plus working with our youth players, and their families. Watching all of it come together, and being a part of something big like this is what keeps the fire burning! Thank you to all who have supported me along the way. I could not do any of it without you! GO HUSKIES!”

Emmett High School Principal Bob Hyde praised Marquez for his strong commitment to the sport and the team. 

“I just love the work ethic and team spirit that Coach Marquez and his team exude on and off the field,” Hyde said. “He’s the real deal and the players just love him.”

Emmett School District’s Summer School at Black Canyon for middle and high school students begins Friday, June 3rd, according to Summer School Principal Stu Peterson. Summer School ends Friday, July 8th, or earlier if required course work is done.

Middle School Registration: Friday, June 3rd, 7:30-11:30

High School Registration: Friday, June 3rd,  12:00-4:30

Black Canyon Junior-Senior High School, 400 S. Pine St. Suite #2

• Students are required to remain on campus for the entire time (4+ hrs) for their appropriate grade level for registration and orientation. Lunch will be provided.

• Parents/guardians may appear in person on the 3rd for registration, only, or submit the registration paperwork early

• Students must have the counselor/administrator form completed. Here is the link: https://docs.google.com/document/d/19WNdzUP9frQHoPeosa1NZHYJwKvM6OLheT-IRg2NKZ0/edit?usp=sharing 

• Completed forms may be turned in early to the BCJSHS office.

“The Summer School program is designed to help students who need to complete additional school work,” Peterson said. “The program, scheduled to end July 8th, is free of charge, but students must be approved for enrollment, based on needed school work.”

Students are allowed to miss only two days. Transportation will not be provided.  Free lunch will be served daily.  

Students are not required to attend through July 8th if course work is completed early. They work on one credit at a time. Once a credit is completed, they move on to the next if time allows. 

Summer School will be held at Black Canyon Junior-Senior High School 

• Middle School: 7:30 am to 11:30 am

• Lunch: 11:30 am to 12:00 pm

• High School:  12:00 pm to 4:30 pm

For more information, call Mrs. Sanchez at BCJSHS (208-365-5552) or Mr. Peterson at EHS (208-365-6323 Ext.1610) or email speterson@isd221.net.

March 14, 2022

Emmett Superintendent Craig Woods will present a plan to address maintenance and classroom/gym space needs during the Monday, March 14th, Board of Trustees meeting. 

“The hope, Woods said, “is to provide a proposal that covers needs, but also is more affordable for Emmett School District taxpayers.”

In 2021, voters rejected two proposals: a 10-year plant facilities levy in May and a bond proposal that included a new high school.

The Board of Trustees will hear Superintendent Woods’ proposal but would not take any action at the meeting. If the trustees wanted to move forward with a plan, it would have to be voted on during an upcoming meeting.

With a 5 percent contingency fund and costs for the project priority list, as reviewed Monday night, the total cost $35,805,000. August is the earliest a bond proposal would be placed on the ballot.

“The need is still there and costs to execute upgrades and construction continue to go up,” Woods said.  “We can’t ignore the maintenance list for our existing schools and buildings. This is a proposal that addresses those needs and expands available classroom space at the High School to accommodate future growth.”

The construction of a fieldhouse with classrooms would house two gyms to provide more practice space for boys and girls teams, a larger weight room and four science labs would open up classrooms in the Dome. That expansion could extend the life of the High School as enrollment increases. 

As an added value, it would provide an indoor walking path that could be used by the public as well as students, Woods said. 

HIGH SCHOOL FIELDHOUSE AND PARKING LOT/BUS DROP OFF CHANGES: $15,620,000

1. Construct a new Fieldhouse located between the  modular units and mini domes.
1. $14.5 million for a 44,000 sq-foot building at $330 per square foot
2. weight room
3. 2 gyms
4. 4 science lab classrooms,
5. indoor community walking path
2. Bus Drop-Off on 12th Street
3. Resurface and stripe the parking lot

HIGH SCHOOL DOMES:   $2,000,000

1. $1 million for building renovations, floors, doors, restrooms and locker rooms
2. $1 million for stadium and facilities upgrades

BUTTE VIEW COMPLEX: $3,700,000

1. A gymnasium to make the elementary school comparable to Carberry and Shadow Butte elementary schools
1. $2.9 million for a 9,000 square feet at $330 per square foot
2. HVAC and energy efficiency upgrades
3. Building renovations, door security and ADA compliance

MIDDLE SCHOOL: $5,060,000

1. $3.7 million to replace the HVAC system
2. $1 million to replace fire sprinkler and voice alarm systems
3. Bathroom renovations
4. Buildings and grounds renovations, including asphalt and floor coverings

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS: $3,050,000

1. $3 million for general improvements
1. HVAC and energy efficiency upgrades (Ola already completed)
2. Secure entries
3. Standard renovations, flooring and repairs
4. Playground updates at Ola, Sweet, Carberry and Shadow Butte
5. New roofing at Carberry & Shadow Butte
6. Gym floor replacement at Sweet

NON-STUDENT DISTRICT BUILDINGS:   $500,000

1. Replace Bus Shop roof
2. Install Bus Shop perimeter fencing and automatic gates
3. Upgrade maintenance and grounds equipment
4. General maintenance at Tech, Food Service and Maintenance buildings

LAND PURCHASE FOR FUTURE GROWTH: $4,500,000

1. $4.5 million to purchase land for future growth or expand EHS campus

Click here to view the complete project list and Bond Analysis 

Emmett High School alumna and current High School Assistant Principal Katie Watkins will handle internal and external communications for the school district when the 2022-2023 school year begins July 1. 

Superintendent Craig Woods said Watkins is the perfect person to step into the communications role, replacing Vickie Holbrook, who retires June 30. 

“Katie Watkins, a former English teacher, has excellent communication skills,” Woods said. “Ms. Watkins comes with education and school leadership experience. She understands the importance of good communication within the school district and with our school patrons. Even better, she is an Emmett native, and understands the Gem County and Emmett communities.”

Watkins will also oversee the process to welcome and train new employees and retain our current staff. 

“Mrs. Holbrook laid the foundation for improved communications when she started in her part-time role in December 2019,” Woods said.  “But we see an important need to strengthen our onboarding of new teachers and staff and focusing on retaining our staff. That takes time and a good understanding of the K-12 education system and what kind of toll it can take on teachers. Miss Watkins will bring her unique perspective to the communications position and shore up employee relations.”

Watkins, who graduated in 2010 and coined the phrase “it’s a great day to be a Huskie,” said she is very excited to step into the new role.

“Emmett High School has been my “home” for the last 9 years, and I am grateful for the opportunities and the people who have shaped me into the educator that I am,” Watkins said. “I can say with certainty that I am a much better person and educator today than when I walked in 9 years ago; however, this new path is one that I am so excited to pursue.”

If you know Watkins, you know her passion for both Emmett and the Emmett School District. 

“I have always felt so passionate about the Emmett School District and its potential for success, and I look forward to being an advocate and champion for our schools, teachers, and students.  I can’t wait to help Emmett School District and Gem County reach its fullest potential.” 

“As a first-year principal at Emmett High School, Katie has been a valuable resource,” Principal Bob Hyde said. “ In her three years as assistant principal, she has built a strong rapport with staff, students, parents and local businesses. Katie will be missed. We'll be looking for someone with the same kind of energy and passion that she brought to Emmett High School.”

Hyde said the search to replace Watkins will start immediately. 

March 8, 2021

Science teacher Chuck Alexander has been named SIC’s 4A Boys Cross Country Coach of the Year. 

Alexander, who has coached the coed Cross Country team at Emmett High School for 16 seasons, credits the team’s quality runners with tremendous physical talent and mental strength. 

The 2021 Team qualified for the State Meet, a first for Emmett High School, in the 4A division.  The boys team went to 3A state a few years ago before it moved into 4A. The EHS Boys Cross Country team won the 2A state title in the 90s. 

“Much of the credit goes to Denton Bassett, my assistant coach of 15 years,” Alexander said.  “The 2021 team was a classic team, highlighted with the experience of returning leaders, freshmen, a new student, and a couple seniors out for their one and only year.  Their team success was due to individuals stepping up and leading when their teammates could not.”

“We are extremely proud of Coach Alexander and this honor,” EHS Principal Bob Hyde said. “It was a great team, but it takes someone like Coach Alexander to pull it all together like he did.” 

Athletic Director Gavin Watson concurred. 

“Coach Alexander always does an excellent job with the cross country athletes, but I’m especially proud of his accomplishments this past season and gratified to know his efforts and the team’s accomplishments were recognized,” Watson said.

For the second year in a row, Emmett High School Football Coach Rich Hargitt was named SIC 4A Football Coach of the Year after taking the Huskies to the playoffs for a second consecutive year.

Emmett garnered the back-to-back SIC 4A Conference Champion title after the 2021 season. The SIC 4A conference includes Bishop Kelly, Caldwell, Emmett, Kuna, Middleton, Nampa, Ridgevue, and Vallivue. 

In his first year as coach in Emmett, the 2018 season ended with a 1-8 record. Emmett then improved to 3-6 in 2019 and missed the playoffs by one game.  Emmett finished its 2020 season with a 10-3 record with a loss in the state football title game.  Emmett High School wrapped up the 2021 season with a 7-3 record after losing a close game against Nampa High School in the first round state playoffs. 

“The fact that he was named SIC Coach of the Year for the second consecutive year shows that Coach Hargitt has developed a strong program that’s recognized throughout the Treasure Valley,” EHS Principal Bob Hyde said. 

“This is my first year at EHS and I’m extremely proud of Coach Hargitt and his coaching staff,” Hyde said. “The football players are energized and the program is continually recognized as a strong athletic program.”

“I am so grateful to the coaches of the Southern Idaho Conference for voting me as Coach of the Year for the second straight year,” Hargitt said. “I am humbled and honored to receive this award and dedicate it to the tireless work of my players and staff.”

“It’s been a pleasure watching Coach Hargitt continue to develop the football program,” Athletic Director Gavin Watson said. “It speaks volumes about the work ethic and the expectations that are set for the players. The community has embraced this successful coaching staff.” 

Construction of a new, more secure entrance at Emmett's Middle School is done, however, there are a few loose ends that still need to be addressed. 

The project at the 4th Street entrance includes a new enclosed vestibule with electronic locks has been constructed to improve student and staff safety by providing supervised access to the building. The three main entry ways have electronically locked doors that can be opened with a programmed RFID card that will be issued to staff. All three entry point doors have sensors to indicate if they are open or closed.

Like the Emmett High School, the front door will also have a video doorbell for guests. That is scheduled to be installed later this week. Once installed and functioning, Middle School Office staff will be able to see who is at the door and communicate with the guest and let them in, rather than having visitors entering the building undetected. 

“Completion of this project means improved safety for students and staff and brings us  some peace of mind,” Principal Rich Winegar said. “I’ve appreciated the patience and cooperation of parents, students and staff who worked through this with us.   I’m also thankful for the work crew and  the maintenance staff for seeing this through to completion.” 

The project was expected to be completed by mid February, but the construction team encountered several obstacles:

1. As is the case for many industries, parts have been difficult to obtain.
2. Cables had to be rerouted
3. Ceiling tiles had to be removed and fixed properly

Although the front doors are functional now, the correct replacement light fixtures are needed for the entryway and the floor company must return to fix an issue later this month. 

Roofing at the point of construction must be repaired. In February, the Board of Trustees approved an additional $10,000 for the repair. 

The project was approved by the Board of Trustees in August 2021 for just under $70,000. Carryover funds will pay for the project. 

Currently, visitors can walk into the school building and gain access down the long hallway without any surveillance or control. A similar system has been installed at the High School and Sweet Montour Elementary School. Sweet Montour has the same electronic door locks but does not have a video doorbell.

Students at the high school have key cards that they scan to gain access. At the middle school, only staff would have cards, but the doors would be programmed to be open during peak periods when students arrive on campus.

The security improvement has been a priority for the Emmett School District, Superintendent Craig Woods said. This system is similar to those installed in other schools in Idaho and nationally. 

February 11, 2022

The community is invited to attend the Career & Community Resource Fair, scheduled for 3 to 7 pm Thursday, February 24th, at Emmett’s High School’s Gym. There will also be a free dinner between 5 and 6 pm and door prizes. 

The event, organized by Emmett High School, The Payette River Regional Technical Academy (PR2TA) and the Emmett Independent School District, will feature both college and career representatives who will be available to provide information about a wide variety of colleges, technical schools, public safety, military, and other employment opportunities. 

EHS College/Career Mentor Jeff Ulmer said the fair will also feature resources that the community could take advantage of. Adults can also explore careers and post-secondary opportunities. Bilingual representatives have been invited.  

“It’s really a one-stop shopping experience,” Ulmer said. “It’s been designed to cater to the students between 1 and 3 pm and open to the community between 3 and 7 pm.”

Ulmer said the goal is to make it easy for both students and adults who want to plan their next steps in pursuit of an education or career.

Also featured: 

• Emmett School District Community Coordinator Amy Burr will be able to speak about the unique program hosted at Carberry Elementary. The Community School concept is designed to serve all families in Gem County, not just students at Carberry. 
• Burr will also answer questions about the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education program that ensures all students have access to education. 
• Migrant Education Program Coordinator Elsa Johnson will be on hand to distribute information about the program.

Review a list of vendors. Please note, new vendors will be continuously added until the special event. 

https://www.emmettschools.org/Page/3358

January 31, 2022

Taller gratuito “Ready for Kindergarten” Martes 8 de febrero

We’re announcing this information in case you have a preschooler between 3-5 years old. We are fortunate to have these free workshops aimed at helping you prepare your children for kindergarten. If you know of someone who could benefit from this, please pass the word. 

All you need to do to register is: Contact Amy Burr by email or phone.  

NOTE: These workshops are for all preschool children in Gem County. 

Free dinner (at 5:30) and childcare will be provided.

Participants will also receive free educational materials that will help you along the way. 

Even if you missed the first workshop, you can still come to the next one!

Superintendent Craig Woods is scheduled to review community discussions with the Board of Trustees during the regular monthly meeting, set for 4:30 to 6 pm Monday, January 31.

Halfway into the 2021-2022 school year, the Emmett School District wants to hear from its patrons, parents and staff regarding future spending decisions of ESSER funds. 

Superintendent Craig Woods met with a small group of people in June where he explained possible options and the regulations regarding how the federal funds can be spent. He also heard ideas for best ways to use the funds. 

The Board of Trustees voted in August on a spending plan. It can be reviewed here. 

ESSER III funds for the Emmett School District amount to just over $4.5 million and can be spent over a three-year period.  Like the other ESSER federal funds, it must be spent on COVID-related expenditures, including learning-loss programming. 

There are 18 buckets or categories where the money can be spent, but again, must be COVID related. The school considers this one-time money and has avoided cases where it would cover ongoing annual expenses. 

If you are not able to attend the meeting, you are welcome to email your suggestions to info@isd221.net. Only suggestions emailed to info@isd221.net or provided at the public meeting will be considered. The meeting will not be livestreamed. 

The spending categories include: 

1. Federal Title Requirements:
2. IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
3. Adult Family Literacy
4. Carl Perkins (Technical Education)
5. Coordinate Partnerships
6. ELL MV At Risk (English Language Learning and McKinney-Vento)
7. Response Local Education Agencies
8. Sanitation Training
9. Purchasing Sanitation Supplies
10. Planning for Long-term Closures
11. Technology Purchasing
12. Mental Health Services - Community School
13. Planning & Implementing Summer Learning and Supplemental After School Programs
14. Learning Loss: Students at Risk
15. Repairs (Maintenance) ESSER Use of Funds FAQ
1. https://www.sde.idaho.gov/federal-programs/prf/files/ESSER-Use-of-Funds.pdf
16. Air Quality Management
17. Protocols
18. Other Activities

January 19, 2022

The Emmett Board of Trustees has voted 6-0 to reduce the number of days for required quarantine of students and staff who have a confirmed case of COVID from 10 to 5 days with a strong recommendation to wear a mask for 5 more days.

The change is effective immediately.  

Superintendent Craig Woods said the change reflects the recent decision by the  CDC to revise its own recommendation. 

Woods told trustees Tuesday night during a special board meeting that requiring masks for the second five days would be difficult to enforce. Instead, Emmett’s revised protocol strongly recommends anyone who returns to school after 5 days also wear a tightly fitted mask to reduce the spread if someone is still contagious.

The ultimate goal is to keep students and staff in school for continued face-to-face learning. Although last week’s numbers don’t seem high, schools started this week off with a higher number of confirmed cases, reflecting the same trends seen regionally and through the state. 

Superintendent Woods and school principals will continue to watch very closely those trends to determine if this week’s early numbers may merit any targeted school closures.

“It is imperative that parents report to the schools whether their students test positive for COVID,” Woods added

January 11, 2022

Construction of a new, more secure entrance at Emmett's Middle School has started. The new vestibule at the 4th Street entrance will take 2 to 4 weeks to complete and should provide better security at the school, requiring visitors to wait to be let in by school staff.

As a result, temporary entrances have been identified at each end of the building for students and parents and guests. 

Beginning on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, the front entrance to Emmett Middle School will be closed to install a new vestibule with electronic locks. This project will improve safety to our students by providing supervised access to the building.

The construction is scheduled to take 2-4 weeks and the project was approved by the Board of Trustees in August for just under $70,000. Carryover funds will pay for the project. 

“We appreciate everyone’s cooperation during this construction project,” Principal Rich Winegar said. “Signage is up at the school to help direct visitors and students.” 

During construction students, staff, and parents will access the building through the cafeteria or west end doors as follows:

• 7th grade students, who typically enter the building through the front doors in the morning will enter through the west end.
• 8th grade students will continue to enter through the west end doors in the morning.
• 6th grade students dropped off in the front pull through will use the east cafeteria doors using the sidewalk on the east side of the building. 
• Parents or other visitors will access the building through the east side cafeteria doors by using the sidewalk on the east side of the building. 

Once the project is complete, Middle School office staff will be able to remotely view who is at the main entrance and give them access. Currently, visitors can walk into the school building and gain access down the long hallway without any surveillance or control. A similar system has been installed at the High School and Sweet Montour Elementary School. 

Students at the high school have key cards that they scan to gain access. At the middle school, only staff would have cards, but the doors would be programmed to be open during peak periods when students arrive on campus.

The security improvement has been a priority for the Emmett School District, Superintendent Craig Woods said. This system is similar to those installed in other Idaho and nationally. 

January 11, 2022

Emmett Superintendent Craig Woods has made good on his long-term goal to increase pay for the hard-to-fill jobs, including classroom aides and bus drivers, when he proposed a starting base pay of $14 an hour, up from the lowest hourly rate of $10.19.

The Emmett School District Board of Trustees unanimously approved the proposal Monday night. The increases will be effective January 16th for the February paycheck. It is not retroactive. 

Woods told trustees the increase for just under 150 employees would cost the district about $212,609.38 through June and he assured them the plan is financially sustainable.

The $14 an hour pay rate applies to classroom aides, transportation, maintenance, office and food service workers.

“The base pay should really be closer to $16 an hour but $14 an hour is a good start,” Woods said. “This will affect about half of the Emmett School District’s staff,” Woods said. 

This is important, Trustee Ronnie Weekes said, because it’s about our kids.

“I commend this school district. You watch the national news right now, we’re like rock stars, and I mean that sincerely. This shows that we are invested in our children,” Weekes said. 

Most of the classified employees live locally and it’s been very difficult to fill positions, especially where classroom aides are difficult to hire, as evidenced by the fact that there are several support staff vacancies.

Woods said the improved pay should also allow the school district to recruit and retain  highly qualified employees who will have a tendency to stay, understanding the commitment made to improving classified pay.

View the new classified schedule here: https://simbli.eboardsolutions.com/Meetings/Attachment.aspx?S=36030867&AID=22905&MID=937

View current job listings here: https://www.emmettschools.org/site/Default.aspx?PageID=599

Visit this page and scroll down to see the weekly letters. 

November 18, 2021

Athletic Director Gavin Watson announced today that Emmett High School has hired a new varsity baseball coach.

Joe Jones, who comes from Winston Churchill High School in Eugene, said he is very excited to be the head coach and looks forward to getting to know the Emmett community. 

“I look forward to working with the administration, community and youth programs to further develop a program that has a history of success. Traditions are an important part of my beliefs.  By developing new traditions along with maintaining the current and past, we will be able to make an exciting connection with the community.  With that excitement, I look forward to helping build the Emmett baseball community into something very special.”

 Watson is equally excited.

“We are thrilled to welcome Coach Jones into the fold here at EHS,” Watson said. “Coach Jones brings with him extensive experience coaching winning baseball in Oregon for the past 20+ years. His passion for the game, belief in the process of developing young student athletes and his vision for our baseball program will help continue and expand upon our proud history of baseball at Emmett High School.”

September 15, 2021, Press Release

Eight candidates, including one incumbent, submitted completed packets to run for the three open seats for the Emmett School’s District’s Board of Trustees. 

The three seats are held by Ronnie Weeks, Ross Walker and Zach Higgins. Only Weekes submitted paperwork to run again.

The top 3 vote-getters on November 2 will serve on the Board of Trustees, starting in January. 

A candidates forum will be held in conjunction with the Messenger Index in October. Watch for announcements. 

The candidates are:

• Mona Barnes
• Heather Chandler
• Janet Hines
• Caleb Hoobery
• Terry Jones
• Carmen Tyack
• Jennifer Standley
• Ronnie Weeks

Qualified candidates were required to meet the following criteria:

• Individuals need to be 18 years old,
• A United States citizen, and
• A resident of the Emmett School District for at least 30 days.
• Idaho Code 33‐507 (3) states, “No spouse of any trustee may be employed by a school district with a fall student enrollment population of greater than one thousand two hundred (1,200) in the prior school year.”

August 12, 2021 - Press Release - PDF

Three of the Emmett School Board’s six seats are up for election in November. The deadline to file your intention to run for one of those three seats is 5 pm Friday, September 3, with the Emmett School Board Clerk. 

The three seats are held by Ronnie Weeks, Ross Walker and Zach Higgins and it’s not known if they plan to seek re-election. If more than three people file for the seats, then the three who receive the most votes will be sworn into office in January when the new four-year terms begin. 

Because the Emmett School District is a specially chartered school district, established before Idaho became a state, trustees don’t represent zones like they do in other school districts. Emmett’s trustees are elected in a county-wide election and may live anywhere within the Emmett School District. 

“It’s one of the most local and powerful positions a person can hold in his/her community because it is all about local control,” Superintendent Craig Woods said. “I have a lot of admiration for our trustees and I appreciate the time and effort they dedicate to the position.” 

Qualified candidates must meet the following criteria: 

• Individuals need to be 18 years old,
• A United States citizen, and
• A resident of the Emmett School District for at least 30 days.
• Idaho Code 33‐507 (3) states, “No spouse of any trustee may be employed by a school district with a fall student enrollment population of greater than one thousand two hundred (1,200) in the prior school year.” 

To be included on the November 2 ballot:

• The prospective Board Member must complete the Candidate Filing Packet-PDF, which includes a petition for candidacy and a declaration of candidacy.
• https://www.emmettschools.org/cms/lib/ID01904047/Centricity/Domain/542/Special_District_Candidate.pdf
• Candidates must go to the County Elections Department to have signatures (at least 5) on the petition certified. This can't be done after the filing deadline. The county provides a certification page that must be included in the candidate packet.
• Packets are due to District Clerk Angela Mattingly at 119 N. Wardwell Avenue, Emmett, by 5 pm Friday, September 3.
• Contact District Clerk Angela Mattingly at 208-365-6301 for more information. 

August 11, 2021 - Press Release (PDF)

The Emmett Board of Trustees took action on several issues Monday night including the following: 

Complete the security system at Emmett Middle School

Trustees approved a plan to complete the front door remodel so security can be improved at the Emmett Middle School. A new entry vestibule would be constructed for $69,805 at the 4th Street entrance to provide better security at the school, requiring visitors to wait to be let in by school staff, Superintendent Woods told the board.

Currently, people can walk into the school building and gain access down the long hallway without any surveillance or control. A similar system has been installed at the High School and Sweet Montour Elementary School. 

The new system allows staff to remotely view who is at the door. Students at the high school have key cards that they scan to gain access. At the middle school, only staff would have cards, but the doors would be programmed to be open during peak periods when students arrive on campus.

Security and the safety of students is a priority and although new to Emmett, school districts nationwide and in Idaho have installed similar systems.  

Carryover funds will pay for the construction anticipated to occur this fall. 

Superintendent recommends plan to help retain staff

Approved a recommendation to use ESSER III funds, designed to help retain and recruit staff, to fund another step on the certified Salary Schedule for those who are eligible and a 3 percent increase for all other employees. 

Woods told the Board of Trustees this action restores the advancement on the salary schedule that was halted last year when Governor Brad Little froze the education salary schedules for the 2020-2021 school year. That step also froze pay for classified employees.

Woods told the board it has been a struggle to compete financially in the Treasure Valley when employers, including McDonald’s, pay more than what the District pays some of its classified employees.

It is even more of a challenge when some employees can find a new job with a significant increase, but also save upwards of $1000 for family insurance, Woods said.

Trustees, voting 5-0, indicated support for the recommendation and recognized the challenges for both the district and the employees.

“You can't keep your help if you don't pay,”  Vice Chairman Michael Garner said.

Trustee Ross Walker, who sat in on the negotiations this summer with the Gem County Education Association, said teachers “have done a lot to lift the load and move us forward and we're asking a lot with what we’re doing with our continuous Improvement plan. I think this is a good faith effort to show them that they matter.”

ESSER III funds come from the federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Act that provides funds to maintain staff, recognizing that retaining staff during the pandemic has been a struggle for most school districts. 

Ola School construction on track for completion

Beniton Construction reported to the board that the renovation at Ola School is on track to be completed by October 1.  See new photos here. 

Approved a request to review the Hillsdale 1776 Curriculum

Authorized both Superintendent Woods to create a curriculum committee to review and provide information regarding a request to review the Hillsdale 1776 Curriculum, a recently released American history and civics curriculum for grades K-12. The goal is to review the material and make sure that it would meet the requirements of state education standards.

Woods told the trustees that the committee would only review whether the proposed curriculum would meet state standards. It would not be considered for adoption at this time.   

Idaho Senator Steven Thayn made the request in July with the goal to strengthen the government   curriculum and provided the trustees with more names of families who support the Hillsdale curriculum. 

“What I have discovered is that we have a very patriotic community,” Thayn said Monday night. 

Woods said the district would follow the same curriculum policy review process that it does for any curriculum as defined in the Emmett School District policy, No. 662. The district’s schedule to adopt a social studies curriculum is slated for 2022-2023.

The curriculum is available to the general public for free at K12.Hillsdale.edu.

Letter to Parents (PDF) Spanish

August 6, 2021

Emmett Parents, Students, Staff and Community,

The Emmett School District is preparing for the start of the 2021-2022 school year. Like last year, it’s our goal to keep our schools open for face-to-face learning. 

With the updates and recommendations from the CDC there have been a number of questions and concerns raised.  I hope this letter will explain the ESD position as we start the new school year. 

ESD will continue to meet with Southwest District Health Department, Valor Health, and Local Emergency Agencies biweekly. The focus of these meetings is to look at data specific to Gem County and Emmett School District as we monitor COVID-19 and its variants within our communities and the district. 

We will continue to look at data in making determinations as to school closures and we will share that information with parents, staff and the community. We will follow current Reopening 2021-2022 procedures and protocols that were adopted at the July board meeting.  

Masks will not be mandated for students or staff.  If you recall, the Board of Trustees voted in December to leave any requirements for wearing masks up to a local or state region with the authority to make such decisions.

Furthermore, vaccinations will not be required for staff or students. The decision to be vaccinated is a personal choice and it is not the position of the district to advocate for or against your personal choice. 

Students and staff members, who are in close contact with a confirmed case, will be required to quarantine for 5 days before testing; a person with a negative result and no symptoms will be eligible to return to school, but will be asked to self monitor for symptoms.

CDC recommends schools maintain at least 3 feet of physical distance between students within classrooms.

Staff requesting students wear masks when in close proximity to the teacher will continue to  be supported.  The district will continue to offer PPE for students and staff in those situations.  Students who choose to wear a mask will be supported. 

Once again, we have a virtual option for parents who prefer to keep their children out of the classroom, but still in the Emmett School District. It is a bit different from the program offered last year. If you are interested, please contact Wade Carter or call 208-365-3016. Learn more about the virtual program.

We do ask that you help us keep schools open because we know that face-to-face learning is the best for our students. Last school year, you did a great job helping with the following: 

• Keep your children home if they are sick.
• Supporting online learning while your child was home sick or quarantined.  
• Keep your students home if they have been exposed to a positive COVID case. 
• Report exposures and/or confirmed positive COVID cases  to the school’s attendance secretary. 
• Remind students that personal hygiene is critical.

We appreciate your cooperation and your interest in the Emmett School District. We really are in this together, and we want to make the 2021-2022 school year successful for everyone. 

By the way, the first day of school is Monday, August 23. We have open houses at all our schools on Thursday, August 19.

• Elementary schools: 5 to 7 pm

• Secondary schools: 6 to 8 pm

Look for more details on this and more on our Emmett Schools Facebook Page and in a newsletter that we’ll email out next week. 

Meanwhile, you may want to keep this document handy. It has important phone numbers and links. 

Sincerely, 

Superintendent Craig Woods

August 4, 2021 - Press Release

The Emmett School District will hold a free screening for children between 3 and 5 years old who demonstrate developmental delays in one or more of these critical areas including: 

• Speech/Language
• Thinking Ability
• Self-help Skills
• Social Skills
• Motor Skills
• Emotional Concerns
• Other Concerns

If you live in the Emmett School District and you have developmental concerns about your 3-5-year-old child, please call Butte View Complex at 208-365-5971 for a screening appointment for either August 30 or August 31.

If your child meets certain criteria, he/she would be eligible for a free preschool program in the Emmett School District.

July 1, 2021- Press Release

View the PDF that includes photos

It may be summer break for many, but several Emmett School District educators are working and students are learning. Programs started in June and will end in late July or August with a break this week. 

Secondary students

The District has a secondary program at Black Canyon School for middle and high school students who either want to get ahead in classes or who need to make up some credits.  

This summer program is held annually and federally funded. 

Stu Peterson, who typically teaches Spanish and coaches girls basketball during the regular school year, serves as the summer principal.

He said enrollment, which normally hovers at about 70 each summer, has about 100 this summer and is linked to the shift from trimester to semester scheduling, Peterson said.  “Our students are having great success recovering credits this summer. We have a handful of students who have stayed and put in the extra effort to recover multiple credits.”

K-3 Acceleration Program

The K-3 Summer Acceleration Program is federally funded, and is serving just under 100 students. These students were recommended by their teachers to help them to continue to grow and make gains in their learning, Principal Jodie Farnsworth said.

The focus is geared toward STEM and literacy skills in a highly interactive environment for the  students. Students get to participate in engaging and fun lessons each day, according to Farnsworth, who serves as instructional coach during the regular school year.

In addition to daily engaging learning activities, students receive free breakfast and lunch.

It’s been a rewarding experience for Farnsworth. The feedback has been positive. She shared one email that she received from a parent. 

Cooking Camp at the Middle School

Cooking Camp at the Emmett Middle School is hosted by 21st Century Coordinator Shannon Anderson and Kelley Lankford. The first annual Cooking Camp was held for five days with 30 students split in morning and afternoon sessions.

The Cooking Camp is sponsored by the Emmett Middle School After School Program, which is funded by a 21st Century Community Learning Center five-year grant and managed by Anderson. Similar programs are held after school during the regular school year. Contact the Middle School for more information. For more information about the grant, read the press release.

>https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LuLx0Ye574I7LChuHFvF-yEyXQ5698RUIzgHzPTy96E/edit?usp=sharing

The 21st Century will continue cooking and other life skills activities on a weekly basis as part of the EMS after school program, Anderson said. 

This grant, which will be funded for four more years, is aimed at reducing achievement gaps by supporting students academically, socially and emotionally, Anderson added. 

Jumpstart Kindergarten Camp

The Emmett School District and 21st Century Community Learning Center grants also offered an opportunity for a “Jumpstart Kindergarten Camp" during June. The camp was free of charge and offered to families with children who will be entering Kindergarten in the fall of 2021.

A second week of the camp will be held during the week of August 9-13 at Carberry Elementary School. Please contact the director, Shannon Anderson, at sanderson@isd221.net if you are interested. It is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. 

The camp is taught by members of the Kindergarten READY teams from Carberry Elementary and Shadow Butte Elementary schools. Enjoyable academic activities and enrichment activities are included on a daily basis, including arts and crafts, friendshipping, alphabet awareness, simple beginning math facts, freeplay, manners, music, and physical activity. There will also be a parent-child together activity offered during the week.

Migrant summer programs

Elsa Johnson, coordinator for the Migrant Education Program and Family Liaison, said the summer program operates in three layers for students who meet strict criteria, based on federal guidelines. The goal is to reduce the impact of academic disruptions and receive the same opportunities to meet academic standards. The three layers are: 

• Outreach to qualified families to provide educational resources for families and students aged 0-21.  Serve secondary students, who need to make up credits via the Idaho Connects School; an online program that meets Idaho State Department of  Education standards. Students, who also may be working in agriculture or other related fields, can complete their classwork 24/7. 
• Provide elementary students lessons and books to supplement classroom instruction before  school resumes in the fall.

Updated June 30, 2021 

Thank you to those who came to these two meetings. They were recorded on You Tube: 

1st Meeting

2nd Meeting

PDF of the Presentation used during both meetings. 

Superintendent Craig Woods is scheduled to review community discussions with the Board of Trustees during the regular monthly meeting, set for 6 pm Monday, July 12. 

June 16, 2021 - Press Release PDF

As you know, the Emmett School District has received federal funds to mitigate costs related to COVID. We’ve tried our best to use the funds appropriately and gained approval at the state level before spending any of those monies. 

ESSER III funds for the Emmett School District amount to just over $4.5 million and can be spent over a three-year period.  Like the other ESSER federal funds, it must be spent on COVID-related expenditures. A portion must be spent on learning loss programming. There are 18 buckets or categories where the money can be spent, but again, must be COVID  related. We consider this one-time money and won’t consider it for ongoing annual expenses. 

We will have two meetings on June 29th - 10 am and 6 pm - at Butte View Complex so we can gather community opinions that will help us determine spending priorities and you are invited.

If you are not able to attend one of the meetings, you are welcome to email your suggestions to info@isd221.net. These meetings will not be livestreamed and we won’t be taking comments from Facebook.   You can review the draft here. https://simbli.eboardsolutions.com/Meetings/Attachment.aspx?S=36030867&AID=19546&MID=704

A few folks have already asked if we can use the funds to complete some of the projects outlined in the May bond. Sadly, we can’t, unless we can justify the project as a way to mitigate future COVID outbreaks. We did find two ways to cover capital projects with earlier ESSER funds:  

• By moving the District Office out of the Butte View Complex next week, we free up 5 classrooms and provide ample space to separate students into smaller groups if another virus outbreak occurs. It also restores the school library that is currently used for district personnel and provides a much larger space for students to visit the library. The District Office will move next week to the office building at 119 N. Wardwell Ave. That was purchased for $490,000 or $89 a square foot. The new office space also provides individual space for employees sharing space as they do now. 
• Use $400,000 to cover some of the Ola School remodel expenses. The remodel remediates the building, removing dry rot and improving the ventilation system. Students should be able to return to the remodeled school this fall.

We could consider these two projects. 

• One possible project - although very expensive and greatly reduces flexibility for the ESSER III funds - is to replace the HVAC system at the Middle School. The new system would improve the ventilation system for students. 
• Bacterial resistant doors for an estimated cost is $120,000 and would cover doors in the following buildings: EHS, EMS, Butte View Elementary,and Sweet.

The categories include: 

1. Federal Title Requirements:
2. IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
3. Adult Family Literacy
4. Carl Perkins (Technical Education)
5. Coordinate Partnerships
6. ELL MV At Risk (English Language Learning and McKinney-Vento)
7. Response Local Education Agencies
8. Sanitation Training
9. Purchasing Sanitation Supplies
10. Planning for Long-term Closures
11. Technology Purchasing
12. Mental Health Services - Community School
13. Planning & Implementing Summer Learning and Supplemental After School Programs
14. Learning Loss: Students at Risk
15. Repairs (Maintenance) ESSER Use of Funds FAQ
16. Air Quality Management
17. Protocols
18. Other Activities

Press Release - May 26, 2021

Emmett School District’s nurse Suzi Morgan has been named School Nurse of the Year for Idaho and will be honored next summer at a national conference in Atlanta. 

Morgan primarily treats students at Emmett’s Carberry Elementary, but also serves at Emmett and Black Canyon high schools. 

Morgan, nominated by peers, has been a school nurse in Emmett since 2008. Nominees were reviewed by the School Nurse Organization of Idaho and then the winner was selected by a committee. 

“I didn't know I was nominated so it was a big surprise,” Morgan said. “I am humbled, believe me. It's been a tough year for all school nurses. There's no way I could do my job if I didn't have great office staff to work with and the amazing support from Carberry’s Principal Greg Alexander. School nursing is the best job I could ever hope to have and I absolutely love the challenges and successes as I help students deal with health maintenance and chronic health issues. Healthy students are ready to learn and I do what I can to make that happen.”

Principal Alexander is very proud of Morgan. 

“Suzi is an amazing colleague, school nurse and member of our community.  She spends most of her time at Carberry but also serves Emmett High School and Black Canyon Jr-Sr High as needed,” Alexander said. “I knew of Suzi before I came to Emmett because of her reputation of getting so many students immunization records up to date.  She knows the value of a healthy school and keeping track of her reports is something that is acknowledged at the state level.  Before Carberry was a Community School, Suzi was the person whom teachers and staff went to get basic needs met for students.”  

But more than that, Morgan has built a reputation as the person to go to when there is a need.  

“Whether a bloody knee or a sad heart, Suzi can be counted on to listen and support the person, whether student or staff. If something is going on, Suzi knows about it or is planning it,” Alexander said. “I think she created the term ‘FOMO, Fear of Missing Out.” 

Morgan has a long list of accomplishments. She started as a LPN in 1982 and became an RN in 1992. She became a school nurse in 1994. Before nursing, she was a teacher and has a Master’s in Vocational Education. 

She just completed a term, serving on the national board as the Idaho Director for National Association of School Nurses.  As a Director, she helped write position papers on chronic absenteeism and service animals in schools, among others.

She also:

• Serves on the Editorial Advisory Board  for NASN School Nurse magazine reviewing article submissions for publication.  
• Is the Secretary for SNOI and has served as President for SNOI as well.  
• In Emmett Schools, she is the CPR instructor for the district, serves on the Insurance and Wellness Committees, Leadership team for Carberry and Building Rep for GCEA.
• Is a Certified Family Home provider.
• Teaches driver’s education.

June 24, 2021 - Press Release

The Emmett School District Transportation Department works hard to make sure your children -- our students -- are safe day in and day out.

Bus Driver and Trainer Rachel  Crawford started driving a school bus in 1998 when she realized she could quit her night-shift job and work the same schedule as her babies when they went to school.

She drove for a short time in the Meridian School District before moving to Utah, where she also drove, eventually moving to Emmett in 2009 to continue her transportation career.

Even though two of her three children have graduated from Emmett High School, Crawford calls all of the students who ride “my bus babies.”

That’s the kind of commitment the Emmett School District sees in its employees. 

Crawford also trains the bus drivers. Crawford keeps up with the proper training so she can teach new drivers. 

One of her co-workers suggested that she take on the training role. And later, Crawford urged fellow driver Laura Nitzel to also train drivers. Between the two of them, they train up to six a year. 

Crawford’s hard work has paid off. She recently won the Driver Trainer of the Year award at a Student Transportation state meeting. 

“We’ve been having a hard time getting new drivers,” Crawford said. 

In her nomination, Student Transportation Supervisor Shauna Davis said: "Rachel has a very warm and welcome smile for everyone she meets. All drivers who train under her direction have nothing but complementary comments, saying she is very positive and easy to work with.”

To Crawford’s credit, all the drivers she has taught have passed their tests with “flying colors.”  

Even better, Davis said, Crawford is always open to suggestions for improvement and is willing to come in nights and weekends to help new drivers get through the necessary training. 

Davis, Crawford and Nitzel recently attended the three-day Idaho Association of Pupil Transportation and State Department of Education Summer Training Conference.

 “The award doesn’t surprise me,” Superintendent Craig Woods said. “Shauna Davis does a superb job making sure student transportation operates smoothly and safely. We are proud of what she and the others do, and it’s especially nice to see, Rachel Crawford, has been recognized for her hard work.” 

Want to be a bus driver? 

Visit: https://bit.ly/DriveEmmettBus

The Emmett School District staff, including Superintendent Woods and Clerk of the Board Angela Mattingly and nine others, will move to its new location, 119 N. Wardwell Avenue, Emmett. 

The office at both locations will be closed Tuesday, June 22, through Friday, June 25, of this week. 

If you have any questions that need immediate attention, please call the office at 208-365-6301 and leave a message or email us at info@isd221.net.

The move provides classrooms for the second grade classes, expanding Butte View Elementary to serve kindergarten through second grade for the 2021-2022 school year. 

It will also open up the space, currently occupied by five people including the superintendent, so the former library can be restored for the elementary students in the coming school year. Currently, the library is in the school’s attendance and nurse’s office area.   

Board of Trustee meetings and special meetings will continue to occur at Butte View Elementary. 

The Special Education office will remain at the Butte View Complex. 

The new office building at 119 N. Wardwell Ave., is the former medical clinic owned by Dr. Barry Smith. The district purchased the office building for $490,000 or $89 a square foot and paid for it with unanticipated federal funds to provide additional classroom space for Butte View Elementary students and support staff. 

June 1, 2020

PDF

In the first year that David Lileks had a girls golf team, he was named top coach in the 4A SIC league and he’s looking forward to more success with his athletes.

Lileks has been the Head Varsity Boys/Girls coach for three years, the same time that he has taught Political Science and Economics at Emmett High School, but this was the first year he actually had a girls golf team -- and one student, Annika Robins, qualified for state.

Lileks has coached a variety of sports in several districts during the past 20 years, but this year has been special. 

“The players on the team are the ones who helped convey a message to the other coaches in the SIC, that Emmett High School has been able to put together a competitive girls golf team in a short amount of time,” Lileks said. “In the future, the Emmett Girls Varsity Golf Team could and should be a fun school to watch. I am very excited to see how they develop individually and as a team!” 

Lileks wants others to enjoy the sport, too.

“A message also goes out to those who are interested,” Lileks said.  “Come out and enjoy the competition and camaraderie as we will compete and (hopefully) beat some of the finest schools in Idaho! Girls and boys, come hone your skills with the Golf Team!”

It’s that kind of enthusiasm that makes Lileks an excellent coach, Athletic Director Gavin Watson said. 

 “David's top priority when hired as our golf coach three years ago was to establish a full girls golf team that would compete at a high level and give our female golfers an outlet to showcase their talents. This season saw that goal realized as our girls golf team consistently placed in the top half of the SIC.” 

June 1, 2021

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In her first year as head boys track coach, Molly Yates is being honored as the 4A SIC Boys Coach of the Year.

Yates, who has taught psychology and U.S. History for 15 years at Emmett High School, had been the assistant coach the three previous years.

Yates credits her assistant track coaches for the success.

“I am blessed to have worked with such talented assistant coaches and talented athletes this past season,” Yates said.  

Before coming to Emmett, Yates coached track and cross country at Skyview High School in Nampa for six years. 

June 1

Read the PDF

Even though Emmett classes end June 3, the Emmett School District will continue to provide meals for all Gem County children, ages 1-18, on weekdays (no holidays) beginning Friday, June 4th and continuing through August 13. 

Albertsons Nourishing Neighbors Foundation just awarded a $15,000 grant to the Emmett School District’s summer program. 

“This $15,000 Albertsons grant comes at a perfect time as the Emmett Food Service program gears up for the summer program,” Emmett’s Child Nutrition Director Tyree White. “The grant enables the district to buy two reach-in coolers to help with cold storage of the meal bags that are prepared for curbside distribution this summer.”

The drive-up curbside summer food distribution begins at 11:00 am and ends at 12:30 pm at the Emmett Middle School and will include breakfast and lunch in a brown paper bag. 

“The Emmett School District continues to help provide food assistance to those in need and is grateful that Albertsons Foundation Nourishing Neighbors is helping,” Assistant Superintendent Isa DeArmas said. 

The grant is part of Albertsons Nourishing Neighbors Community Relief Initiative.

“With school out for the summer, we want to ensure all students have access to proper nutrition. While the Emmett School District works hard to meet the needs of these children, we need help to accomplish this mission,” DeArmas said.  “We’re grateful that Albertsons Foundation Nourishing Neighbors are partnering with us to keep kids fed this summer.”

This will be the 11th year for Emmett’s summer food program, White said. 

Nourishing Neighbors summer meals grants help organizations that work to bridge the nutrition gap for students without access to school meal programs during the summer break.

“We’re honored to partner with the Emmett School District to help support their efforts in the fight against hunger,” said John Colgrove, Albertsons Companies Intermountain Division President. “We’re particularly grateful to be able to help fill the stomachs of children in our community so they can enjoy their summer break without the gnawing feeling of hunger. Community partners like the Emmett School District are key in helping us nourish our neighbors.”

May 21 - view the pdf

Emmett High School’s Gavin Watson has been named Southern Idaho Conference Athletic Director of the Year for the 4A League.

Watson, who has been the athletic director for three years at EHS, is humbled by the announcement. 

“We have great coaches here at Emmett High School, and they deserve the bulk of the credit,” Watson said. 

For those who know Watson, his reaction is no surprise, because he puts others before himself and always does what’s best for students.

Few people know that Watson also teaches physical education at the high school. But that changes for the upcoming school year when he shifts to being a full-time athletic director.  Watson has been in education for eight years.  

EHS Principal Wade Carter also credits Watson for his work during the height of the pandemic. 

“Mr. Watson worked tirelessly to make sure our athletes had a chance to play during this pandemic,” Carter said. “He cares about the athletes and has taken on the task to make sure students stay on track to graduate. Emmett High Schools is very proud to have Gavin Watson as athletic director.”

“Truly, if it weren't for Gavin and his dedication and time, our students, school, and community would not have had athletics this year,” Assistant Principal Katie Watkins said. “I am so grateful to be on the same team as Coach Watson, and I couldn't be more proud to work alongside him.”  

Superintendent Craig Woods said today that he will recommend Dr. Christina Nava as the next principal for Shadow Butte Elementary. Nava, who has been an Instructional Coach at Shadow Butte since August 2019, has worked closely with outgoing principal Todd Adams. Adams will be the next principal at Star Elementary in West Ada School District. 

“I am honored and blessed to be able to serve Shadow Butte Elementary as principal,”
Nava said. “I am committed to working with staff, families, and the Emmett community to ensure our students receive the best education possible.” 

Outgoing principal Adams said this about Nava: “I couldn't be more excited for Shadow Butte students, staff and parents.  Dr. Nava brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in how to create the best opportunities for student learning.  Shadow Butte will excel and move to new heights under her leadership.”

“This is a great opportunity for Dr. Nava, and I think she is an excellent choice to follow in Mr. Adams’ footsteps,”  Woods said. “As Instructional Coach, Dr. Nava has demonstrated the skills necessary to coach teachers and navigate local, state and federal guidelines to ensure that our students are getting the best education possible. We had excellent internal candidates for the vacancy, but in the end, the selection committee chose Nava.”

Woods will recommend Nava be promoted to the principalship at the next Board of Trustees meeting, likely a special board meeting before the end of May.

Before her hire as an Instructional Coach, Nava was the director of the EL/Migrant Program at the Idaho State Department of Education, where she worked for six years. 

She held a similar position for the Nampa School District for more than two years. Prior to her leadership roles, she was a teacher for the Nyssa School District and Nampa School District.

Nava stated in her application that teachers must be reflective practitioners and life-long learners, ready to evolve with the advancements in society and technology. 

“A principal must balance between being the instructional leader and operational manager of the school to be effective,” she said in her application. Among the characteristics of a good principal, Nava said a principal “sets the vision and goals while building a culture for learning for students and teachers.”

Superintendent Craig Woods said today that the Emmett School District will be hiring a new principal for Shadow Butte Elementary because Todd Adams will be the new principal at Star Elementary in West Ada School District. 

“This is a bitter-sweet moment for the district and Shadow Butte,” Woods said. “We are very proud and excited for Mr. Adams. It’s been his goal to move to a larger school district where he could eventually seek other positions at the district level administration. But, as a community, school district and for Shadow Butte’s students, parents and staff, it’s a sad day because Mr. Adams has made significant contributions since he became principal 6 years ago.” 

It will be hard to replace the outgoing principal, but it’s possible that someone within the district may be interested in a new challenge, Woods said.   

“Mr. Adams has played an integral role in improving day-to-day instructional programming, inspiring teachers and making Shadow Butte the school it is today,” Woods said. “He’s sensitive to today’s environment and challenges and understands why it is important to work with fellow principals and instructional coaches to find best practices for our students.” 

Adams taught in the West Ada School District for 17 years where he served as teacher and athletic director at Lake Hazel Middle School and later as assistant principal at Desert Sage Elementary before accepting his first job as principal at Shadow Butte. 

The departing principal said he will miss the smaller community feel, but says Star Elementary reflects a similar environment, even though growth there is exploding. 

“I’ve been fortunate to work with an incredible group of people -- from colleagues, Shadow Butte teachers and staff and the parents in Emmett. It has been incredible to watch the growth in Emmett. The teachers have the desire to do the best they can do so the students excel.”

Adams added: “I truly appreciate the support from the district administration, the staff and parents. I’ve gained so much, both as an instructional leader and a person.” 

“You have to do what is right for you.  No one walks in your shoes.”   Anonymous

I was hired in July of 2019 with four focused goals: 

1. Improve student achievement K-12 
2. Provide and improve district transparency  
3. Build trust and support within the Emmett community 
4. Stabilize the district fiscally 

GOAL #1  IMPROVE STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT

Improving student achievement entails much more than test scores.  

• It involves creating life-long learners who use critical thinking skills to solve problems. 
• Creating a culture of safety for students and staff to challenge themselves and their peers to take risks and learn from failures.

Are we there yet?  Unfortunately, no, yet we continue to move that direction and change the culture. The two focal points of this year can be boiled down into these two phrases.  

“Focus on the Kids” and “Take care of one another.”

GOAL #2  PROVIDE TRANSPARENCY

This has been my mission since Day One. 

•  I have met with local service groups, small public gatherings and town hall meetings across the county. Our district continues to provide live video feeds of all our board meetings. 
• There have been multiple opportunities for community involvement (i.e. Principal for Day with business leaders, Kiwanis and Lions Club monthly meetings).
• I have even met at local patron homes to talk about the direction and vision of the Emmett School District.  

GOAL #3  BUILD TRUST

The actions of the school district, and specifically me as the leader of the district, is where I can affect Trust.  

• The District completed every project that was promised in the 2018 levy.  
• We have reduced our district dependency on Supplemental Levies by 25% during a fiscal period that also saw the Governor reduce our total general budget by 6% just over $750,000 in revenue from the prior year. 
•  We opened our schools and did the best to keep students and staff safe while most districts around the nation chose to keep their doors closed and teach remotely.

How about this? Trust is gained through open communication and timely actions. I have modeled both of these traits as the Emmett Superintendent.

GOAL #4  FINANCIALLY STABILIZE THE DISTRICT

This is a difficult thing to do during a Pandemic, yet the district reduced spending without affecting class size or asking our patrons for additional funds.  

• We cut $750,000 from our prior year budget, and we were able to withstand the loss of students due to COVID from our classrooms. 
•  We did more with much less, we asked our teachers, paraeducators, support personnel, and administration to take on more work and more responsibilities. 

On May 18th, the voters in Gem County have the opportunity to vote. I ask that you take the time to vote.  

• There is never a good time to raise taxes.  
• We need to prepare and plan for growth  

I can assure parents and patrons, whether the bond election is successful or unsuccessful on May 18th, our students and our staff will be hard at work on May 19th, continuing to provide the best education possible for the students of Gem County.  I ask that every resident in Gem County on May 19th to smile and treat their neighbors with respect and compassion.  I know that I will continue to respect my neighbors no matter what the outcome of the election.

Respectfully, Superintendent Craig Woods

I want to take a moment to respond directly to some of the information presented in both the Farm Bureau letter that appeared in the Messenger Index this week and the brochure mailed out by the Concerned Citizens of Gem County. 

1. Maximum capacity of the school district
2. Poor use of the Emmett Middle School
3. Reasons for loss in student enrollment and “Critical Race Theory”
4. Enormous amount of debt

MAXIMUM CAPACITY OF THE EMMETT SCHOOL DISTRICT

• 2020-2021 Emmett School District Current Classrooms 156  (Butte View current location of District Office limits classrooms)
• 156 classrooms at 22 per classroom equates to 3,432
• Opening up the Butte View wing will bring our classroom capacity to 165
• 165 classrooms at 22 per classroom equates to 3,630  

For argument's sake let's take the 3,630 number and let me discuss some concerns. 

District Enrollment Capacity is different from Building Capacity.  

• Butte View Elementary, for example, houses our preschool program of approximately 20 students. This program currently uses three classrooms daily because of the unique needs of those students. 

Maximum capacity in a district or building for that matter has to take into account the point of diminishing return.  Not all students are treated the same and use the same amount of space. The kind of lesson also makes a difference in the size of the classroom.

The Trustees and I have been open and transparent that this is a comprehensive plan that addresses the current need to improve our existing buildings while providing a plan for the current and future growth in our community. 

POOR USE OF THE EMMETT MIDDLE SCHOOL FACILITIES IN THIS CURRENT PLAN

• Bond plan moves our current Black Canyon Middle School and High School and AIMS programs to the middle school.  That current population is closer to 120 students instead of the quoted number of 75.
• This planned move would take place after completion of the new high school in August of 2024.
• The Board is in discussion with the Gem County Rec Department regarding a possible partnership and leasing of a portion of the Emmett Middle School to better utilize this building. 
• Emmett Middle School building allows for flexibility in terms of growth.  The vision is that it can be made into an intermediate school with grades 5th and 6th as the district reaches capacity at either the the elementary level or secondary level. 
• The plan allows for the district to remodel portions of the building while Black Canyon utilizes other portions of the building. 

This big picture vision of what the Middle School may become has been discussed at Town Hall meetings and board meetings. 

LOSS OF STUDENT ENROLLMENT

• Students have left and will continue to leave because of the increasing Federal mandates that force our Children to  learn about “Critical Race Theory.”
• I can say without any reservation that not one person expressed to me that Critical Race Theory was their reasoning for leaving.
• Idaho Code 33-501 defines the roles and responsibilities of the Board of Trustees.  This code empowers the local Trustees with adopting the curriculum used within the District not the Federal government. 
• This year the Emmett School District saw a reduction of student population of approximately 8% based on our February student count.  This count is used to set funding for school districts.  
• Every parent I spoke to this year, and this past summer, stated their primary reason for online or homeschool for their child was because of COVID concerns and concerns over the possibility of being forced to go back online due to COVID. 
• To assume students will not return to school or choose to homeschool in the future, is just that an assumption.  I cannot in good conscience rely on an assumption when planning and preparing for the upcoming school year. Many of the students who chose to homeschool this year have returned to the district and registered for the 2021-22 school year.  

ENORMOUS AMOUNT OF DEBT

• You are correct $68,000,000 is a large amount of money.
• The bond in front of the Gem County voters is the largest ever attempted.  
• It is a comprehensive bond that takes into account the prior bond attempts in 2005, 2008, and 2018 and addresses the needs that were included in those failed bond elections as well as the need to build a new high school
• The Trustees selected a 30-year bond resolution to lessen the tax increase on our patrons.  
• Eric Herringer with Piper Sandler presented at the town hall meeting that if the bond is successful, and the board elected to continue to levy the $194 per $100,000 throughout the bond life -- with an estimated market assessed growth rate of 5% -- this bond could be paid off in less than 20 years.  
• The resolution estimates are based on the 2020 Market value of Gem County.  With continued growth the debt amount can be paid off in an efficient and timely manner.  Without the initial cost to the taxpayer of $245 that would be required if the resolution would have been for a 20 year bond. 

The final comment that I would like to make is in regard to the comments of irresponsible or rushed planning of this bond.  This comprehensive plan has been discussed and reviewed over the past two years.  It was refined after the initial presentation in May of 2019.  Members of both the Farm Bureau and the Concerned Citizens of Gem County sat on the committee that I facilitated.  They were given an opportunity and a voice during those meetings. Those meetings were public and can be watched on our Youtube channel. 

The committee, as a whole, developed the plan.  Some of the individual ideas may have been added while others were not. They were still given a seat and a voice at the table that helped  develop the list of projects included in this bond.

Respectfully, Superintendent Craig Woods

The Emmett Girls Varsity Basketball Team will have a new coach this next school year.

Athletic Director Gavin Watson said Amos Lee will coach the team, bringing with him several years experience coaching in the Treasure Valley since 1997. He is currently the athletic director, Dean of Students and Head Boys Basketball Coach at Cascade High School. Since 2008, Lee has also coached at Ridgevue High, Meridian High and Boise High.

“We are thrilled to welcome Amos to the Huskie Family as our new Head Girls Basketball Coach,” Watson said.  “Coach Lee brings experience leading winning basketball programs that excel on the court and in the community. His professionalism, work ethic and genuine belief in positive leadership will continue to drive the success of our girls basketball program.” 

Lee will also teach physical education. 

Lee said he is “stoked” to become part of the Huskie coaching team. 

“I am blessed to find an opportunity to come to Emmett,” Lee said. “I am ecstatic to be given an opportunity to continue the growth that Emmett has shown over the past few years.”

Emmett has some of the brightest advantages of both small towns and big schools alike, Lee said. 

“Having coached in the smallest schools and the 4A/5A SIC, I can tell you that I have admired the scrappy, driven attitudes, and strong work ethic my teams have faced vs the Huskies.  That alone is a great place to start from when taking over a team,” Lee said.

“It's rare to go somewhere where the programs and people all truly care about each other, but as John Wooden said, ‘It's amazing what gets accomplished when no one cares who gets credit!’  I feel like that is the picture I am stepping into, and I couldn't be more thrilled.”

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Athletic Director Gavin Watson announced today that Emmett High School has hired a new Head Girls Soccer Coach. 

Brandon Jenkins of Caldwell has been the head soccer coach for girls U12 and U16 Inferno soccer teams and he has been the JV girls soccer coach in the Vallivue School District since June of 2017. He also owns Born Again Fitness in Nampa. 

“Coach Jenkins' addition as our next head Head Girls Soccer Coach is a huge addition to the growing culture of success within EHS athletics,” Watson said. “Coach Jenkins' passion for, and knowledge of the game of soccer are tremendous. Under his leadership, our girls soccer program will continue to grow, improve and compete at a high level.”

 Jenkins said he is excited to join the coaching staff and take on this group of up-and-coming young ladies.

 “Together, we will create a culture where we share a common goal, build each other up, hold one another accountable, and strive for excellence in all that we do,” the new soccer coach said. 

“I am passionate about the youth in our community and want to provide a safe environment for them to learn the game of soccer while making them feel as if they are a part of something greater than themselves,” Jenkins said. 

PDF Version

Press Release - March 31, 2021 - PDF version

Espanol

Trustees also emphasize desire to use local contractors; Butte View will expand for 2021-2022; District Office will relocate to Downtown area; phase 2 funds for Ola approved

During a special board meeting Tuesday night, the Emmett School District Board of Trustees approved a preliminary list for the upcoming bond election and cleared the way to further expand Butte View Elementary School’s population. 

Superintendent Craig Woods presented a list for each of the district’s buildings, illustrating how the proceeds from the May 18th bond election may be used, if approved by nearly 67 percent of the voters, may be spent. *He noted, however, that Ola is not listed because of the current renovation project. 

The 2020 bond election was put on hold when the COVID pandemic shut down Idaho and created uncertain financial conditions. 

But as Woods and the Board of Trustees discussed March 15th, the needs are still there and costs continue to increase. With lower interest rates, the board revived the bond plan, increasing it by $4 million to address increased costs for building materials.

A new high school tops the list. The other needs include a gym for the Butte View Complex, student and staff safety and security improvements and deferred maintenance needs at the other school buildings.

Woods told trustees that the list (and costs) is subject to change and will be further revised this week, after meetings with the construction manager and architects, but closely reflects what the Bond Committee outlined in late 2019 as priorities.

In the event that the bond measure passes, Trustee Ross Walker emphasized the need to make sure local contractors have the ability to bid on projects, and requested that information be easily found and promoted on the web and social media. 

Woods agreed that wherever possible the district would want to reinvest in the community by using local construction companies.

Trustee Zach Higgins said the bidding process is identified by the Department of Public Works.  

Woods also quickly reviewed the total cost of the $68 million bond, reminding trustees that the total cost for the borrowed funds would be closer to $85 million, not $100,000 as some have said, because the state’s equalization fund would reduce that by $13,942,320. 

• Read the bond measure language. https://docs.google.com/document/d/18wzD4UKVjpkN7tj6hNZ7nbLKFCwyAG2ExBVikgL460M/edit
• Learn more about the bond measure. https://www.emmettschools.org/bond2021

For more information

• Listen to the recorded board meeting on YouTube (Please note: The board moved to executive session to discuss property purchase, so you may want to start listening at 1:16) 
• Read the press release regarding the decision to hold a bond election on May 18th

Town Hall Meetings planned

Two informational meetings with the construction manager and architect will be held. Community members will be able to learn more about the bond election and ask officials with Beniton Construction and Design West questions. 

Those meetings will be held: 

• 7 pm Tuesday, April 27 at the Emmett Middle School Auditorium.
• 7 pm Tuesday, May 4 at the Emmett Middle School Auditorium. 

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Emmett trustees approve plan to expand Butte View Elementary by another grade and reopen library for new school year

During a special meeting Tuesday night, Emmett School District trustees approved Superintendent Craig Woods’ proposal to expand Butte View Elementary for the 2021-22 and 2022-23 school years. 

Butte View Elementary reopened in the fall of 2020 for all-day kindergarten and first-grade classes to use current district buildings and make good on the commitment to move 5th grade back to the elementary school.

A year ago, instead of purchasing new module classrooms for the 20-year elementary schools to accommodate growth, newly appointed Superintendent Woods recommended the reopening of Butte View Elementary with the vision that it would annually expand to accommodate another grade level. 

Next fall, current first graders will stay at Butte View in the newly created second-grade classrooms led by veteran teachers Rebekah Brune and Tonia Overton. 

Currently, District Office staff, including Superintendent Woods, occupy the Library and two of the classrooms needed to expand Butte View Elementary as planned in the fall and two more classrooms would be needed in 2022-23. 

Butte View’s current library is housed in the reception area and is not comparable to the libraries provided at the other elementary schools. 

Knowing this, Woods looked for suitable office space that could become the permanent offices for the District staff.

Butte View Elementary was built in 1960. It closed in 2011 when students transferred to either Kenneth J. Carberry or Shadow Butte elementaries. The Butte View Complex also houses Black Canyon Jr-Sr High School and special education programs.  

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District Office staff will relocate when federal funds are released

Trustees approved Woods’ recommendation to purchase the office building at 119 N. Wardwell Ave., for the new home of the District staff with plans to complete the move in time for the new teachers to prepare their classrooms for the new school year. 

Woods told the board the office building provides enough space to house the district level staff members and provide much needed private office space for confidential and sensitive matters. It would also provide a better work environment to minimize interruptions. Currently, only Woods and the Special Education Director have private offices. There’s also ample space for storage and some meeting space. 

There’s also space for newly appointed Emmett Remote Academy Director Wade Carter, who will oversee the alternative online education program for students with the expectation to grow the student population, even reaching students valleywide, Woods said. There would also be a space to test students. 

The 5,500-square-foot office building would be purchased for $490,000, contingent on the appraisal to be completed and the state release of ESSER 2 (one-time Covid-related federal funds that can be used for capital projects). The State Department of Education has approved the use of the funds and now the district is waiting for the Legislature to release those funds and the completion of property appraisal.

Woods told the trustees that the price is very reasonable, breaking down to $89 per square foot and the building is pretty much turn-key ready for move in. He also emphasized that it will not use general fund dollars or supplemental levy funds, but rather unencumbered federal funds. 

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Board OKs plan to complete Phase 2 for Ola renovation

A request to use up to $400,000 in ESSER 2 funds to complete Phase 2 of the Ola renovation has also been approved by the Emmett Board of Trustees and the State Department of Education, contingent on the Legislature’s release of the funds.

Superintendent Woods reviewed the overall cost for Phase 1. Now that bids have been submitted and needs identified, the Phase 1 cost has increased from $650,000 to $718,000.  The Save Our School Committee has also raised $320,000 to help cover the costs.

*One important note, Woods clarified, is that although all other school buildings would benefit if the bond measure is approved in May, Ola will not see additional renovations because of the current renovation covered with other funds. 

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Meet Butte View’s 2nd grade teachers for 2021-22

Rebekah Brune’s first teaching job was at Butte View and moved to Carberry when Butte View and Carberry were combined in 2011. The 15-year teacher currently teaches second grade part-time and has also taught third grade. 

“It will be fun to return to the school where I started teaching,” Brune said. “I’m excited about the opportunity to work in a primary school setting again and also have the chance to teach full time again.  I’ve worked with most of the teachers who are teaching Kindergarten and 1st grade at Butte View, and I’m excited to get to work with them.”

Tonia Overton started as a first-grade teacher and moved to second grade in her second year at Carberry, where she has taught for 10 years. 

“I am excited to be part of a primary school and to go back to where I did my student teaching,” Overton said. “I think being part of a smaller school community will allow for collaboration between grade levels and that is a positive for the learning of all the students.”

Overton also added: “I think Emmett is a wonderful place to raise a family and I am proud of both my children who graduated from Emmett High School.”

March 18, 2021

Espanol

During a special meeting Thursday night, Emmett School District trustees approved the ballot language for the upcoming May 18th bond election.

The life of the bond will be 30 years, which would reduce the annual cost to taxpayers, however, trustees would be able to financially manage the bond payoff, reducing the actual interest rate considerably. The bond must be approved by 66 and 2/3rds of the voters. 

The bond language would state: “The purpose of the bond is for purchasing land and constructing a new high school, together with repairs and updates to existing school facilities. The interest rate anticipated on the proposed bond issue is 2.66% per annum. The total amount estimated to be repaid over the life of the bonds, based on the anticipated interest rate, is $85,432,735, consisting of $68,000,000 in principal and $31,375,056 of interest, totaling $99,375,056, less $13,942,320 in estimated bond levy equalization payments. The term of the bonds will not exceed 30 years. The District has no existing bonded indebtedness.” 

The ballot would further state: “The estimated average annual cost to the taxpayer on the proposed bond levy is a tax of $194 per $100,000 of taxable assessed value, per year, based on current conditions.”

The taxable assessed value does not include the Homeowner’s exemption. 

Trustee Chairman Hoss White said he personally supports the 30-year life span. 

“One of the big complaints that we've been hearing over and over that growth needs to pay for growth,” Hoss said. “I can't tell you how many times I've heard that over the last year, and this is the way to not necessarily completely do that, but certainly help, and the thing I like about this. You know we have a lot of a lot of homes that have come into the valley. 

Thirty years gives the district flexibility at a very low tax rate, White said.  It will require some major fiscal responsibility from the board and superintendent.

“But I think if this is part of our strategic plan that's being worked on. That's a blueprint for future district leaders to follow,” White said.

Superintendent Craig Woods said the bond makes sense and will address the prioritized safety and major preventative maintenance needs in the district and would build a new high school and a new gymnasium at the Butte View Complex. 

The district’s financial advisor told the trustees that other Idaho school districts have been able to refinance or pay off debt earlier. 

How did the Emmett School District get to this point? 

• March 2020: Trustees had planned to ask voters in May 2020 to approve a similar $64 million bond, but decided the COVID-19 pandemic and effects of a shutdown created an uncertain climate.
• March 9, 2021: Voters rejected a proposed 10-year School Plant Facilities Levy by 32 votes, prompting the trustees to consider options.
• March 15, 2021: Trustees voted unanimously to ask voters on May 18th to approve a $68 million bond to build a new high school and repair or update existing school buildings. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION

• Read the full bond resolution

• Watch the recorded March 18th board meeting on YouTube

• Read the March 16th press release regarding the bond election

• Watch the recorded March 15th board meeting on YouTube when the board decided to hold a bond instead of a school plant facilities levy.

• Visit EmmettSchools.org/Bond2021 for information regarding the election

• Review related school board documents

• In the coming weeks, more information with greater detail should answer Gem County residents’ questions
• A committee of local supporters will be called into action to help get the word out

• Request an absentee ballot for the May 18th election

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A LEVY AND A BOND? 

• A supplemental levy generates new funds each year, based on a pre-set percentage of the assessed property value in the Emmett School District.
• School bonds provide funds for large long-term capital projects.

March 17, 2021

Emmett High School Principal Wade Carter told staff and teachers today that he has accepted a newly created position in the district for the new school year. 

Carter, who has been the High School Principal for 12 years and 27 years an educator. Carter was principal at the Emmett Junior High for 11 years before moving to the High School and taught elementary and middle school classes in Montana and Idaho before that. 

Carter told fellow administrators that he is excited to take on this new role as the principal of the Emmett Remote Academy, but certainly has mixed feelings about leaving the High School after a dozen years in the top spot.

It’s been a tremendous honor to lead Emmett High School and I’m very grateful to both students and staff whom I’ve worked with during the past 12 years. But I’m also looking forward to the new challenge

We asked Mr. Carter to list the three most memorable highlights while at the High School.

1. Being recognized in 2017 by US News and World Report as one of the 10 percent high schools in the United States.
2. I’m very proud of the dual credit program; some students leave with over 30 college credits when they graduate.
3. Scoring 356.5 on the last EHS accreditation, well exceeding the average scores in the nation. 

“Mr. Carter is perfectly suited for ERA’s principalship because he is highly organized and understands the Idaho Digital Learning Academy and will be able to work with counselors and teachers in ERA’s second year,” Superintendent Craig Woods said. 

The new principalship is possible because of the recently approved two-year supplemental levy, Woods said. 

“We really want to solidify and grow ERA’s program,” Woods said.  “We know there are parents and students who want this alternative program, even beyond the COVID pandemic. Mr. Carter will be able to coordinate with ERA teachers and counselors as well as parents to create a successful program.”

“I feel grateful and blessed to have worked alongside Wade for the last 2 years,” EHS Assistant Principal Katie Watkins said.  “His influence has shaped me into the teacher and administrator I am today, and I am thankful for the opportunities our partnership has provided. I continue to look forward to the successes in Wade's professional life - as I know there will be many - and I have no doubt he will lead the ERA program to success just as he has done at Emmett High School.”

Woods said a search for the next EHS will begin right away. 

March 16, 2021

Espanol

Less than a week after voters rejected a proposed 10-year School Plant Facilities Levy by 32 votes, Emmett Board of Trustees decided Monday night to present a $68 million bond to voters on May 18 with the intent to build a new high school and repair or update existing school buildings.

Trustees had planned to ask voters in May 2020 to approve a similar $64 million bond, but decided the COVID-19 pandemic and effects of a shutdown created an uncertain climate. In making the motion for a $68 million bond, Trustee Ronnie Weekes said construction costs are climbing with no end in sight. 

“If not now, when?” Superintendent Craig Woods asked earlier today after reviewing Monday’s night’s discussion and subsequent decision. “Interest rates are historically low, construction costs continue to increase. The population of our valley continues to grow and our aging buildings are in need of repair. and replacement.” 

 Looking forward, “Passage of the $68 million bond will allow the district to address immediate safety concerns that our plant and facilities levy had prioritized within the first two years, as well as much larger remodel and updates to all of our district schools.  The majority of the bond proceeds will go to replacing the current high school that will provide space for future growth within our schools.” 

Woods told trustees that getting the required 67 percent voter passage is a “heavy lift.” But today he said: “I am confident the Emmett patrons will support our efforts.  I believe that the health of a community is directly related to the health of the schools within that community. Our students deserve our best!”  

During discussions regarding the proposed levy on the March 9th ballot, many patrons asked why the district was not going for the bond to build a high school. A similar bond was rejected in 2018.

Although it was not a public hearing, Board Chairman Hoss White invited those who attended the meeting in person to comment before a final decision was made. 

As was discussed by the board, one person said the School Plant Facilities Levy created too much uncertainty for property owners over a 10-year period, causing voters to cast a “no” vote.

Three people who spoke said they would support the bond. 

Moving forward, the trustees decided that voters deserved the opportunity to vote on a bond to build a new high school. They also expressed concern that without a bond or levy, school repairs and updates would not be done and the costs would continue to skyrocket. 

The final vote Monday night was 4-1. Michael Garner was absent and White voted no because he didn’t think the timing was right, but said he will support the bond effort 110 percent.

Woods said today that actual calculations for costs to the taxpayer and the exact wording of the ballot measure will be determined. 

The Emmett School District had also originally identified property for the new high school on the corner of East 4th Street and South Substation Road. Negotiations to purchase the 42 acres was put on hold when trustees pulled the bond measure from the ballot a year ago. 

Woods said he has continued discussions with the property owners and will more actively pursue the property purchase. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION

• Watch the recorded March 15th board meeting on YouTube

• Visit EmmettSchools.org/Bond2021 for information regarding the election

• Review related school board documents

• In the coming weeks, more information with greater detail should answer Gem County residents’ questions
• A committee of local supporters will be called into action to help get the word out

• Request an absentee ballot for the May 18th election

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A LEVY AND A BOND? 

• A supplemental levy generates new funds each year, based on a pre-set percentage of the assessed property value in the Emmett School District.
• School bonds provide funds for large long-term capital projects.

March 10, 2021

Espanol

Emmett School District’s proposed two-year Supplemental Levy passed with 56 percent of the vote. The levy will generate $2 million during a two-year period,  beginning in 2022. It will fund district textbooks and online curriculum; instructional coaches and provide staff support for student learning programs, counselors and provide a district psychologist. 

“We are grateful for the continued passage of this important supplemental levy,” Superintendent Craig Woods said.  

The 10-year School Plant Facilities Levy, the first of its kind proposed for the Emmett School District, failed with 53.5 percent of the vote. Passage required 55 percent. 

“First I would like to thank everyone who exercised their right to vote in the March election,” Woods said. “It is disheartening to come so close with the School Plant Facilities Levy, especially by just 32 votes,” Woods said. “Nevertheless we knew it was going to take trust to be successful in reaching the 55% needed  pass. Trust is earned through our actions, and as we continue to be open and transparent in building a strong community partnership, we will work harder to instill trust in the Emmett School District.”   

"Mixed results give me mixed emotions,” Board Chairman Hoss White said. “I'm grateful to our community for passing the supplemental levy, allowing us to continue and enhance what goes on in the classrooms.  At the same time, I'm disappointed the plant and facilities levy failed.  In looking at the numbers though, I see hope; it only failed by 32 votes.  This is a type of levy that, to my knowledge, has never been done in Emmett, so to come so close on our first try tells me that we're on the right track.  Thank you to all who came out and made their voices heard."

As for whether the Board of Trustees will consider asking patrons again, White said: “We’ve not yet made any decisions as a board, but we will definitely discuss it in the near future. I’m looking forward to working with Mr. Woods, the board, and community to decide on the next steps.”

Woods, who held informational meetings at every school during the past month, said he appreciated those who came out to learn more about the levies and supported the proposals.

“It’s very encouraging to see all the support from individuals and groups that we had during the past couple of months as these levies were discussed. People care about their schools and their future,” Woods said.  

March 10, 2020
Press Release 

Espanol

With just 3 confirmed COVID cases within students and staff since February 23, the Emmett School District continues to keep students in class, practicing the same safety measures instituted at the beginning of the school year. The district had 1 confirmed case, 1 quarantine case and 7 suspected cases during the past two weeks. 

The same positive trends are also reflected in the Gem County statistics, prompting Southwest District Health Department to shift Gem County into the “gray” category, which means less than 1 daily positive case per day in 10,000. 

About 160 Emmett School District staff members received their second vaccination on March 5, thanks to the clinic organized by Valor Health and volunteers. 

Weekly COVID report shifts to biweekly

With the reduction in COVID cases in the school district, county and region, this report will be completed  biweekly, unless there’s a spike in numbers. The next report will be March 31 because of the district’s upcoming Spring Break the week of March 22.  

New information that may be helpful

The State of Idaho released their new COVID-19 Vaccine pre-registration tool on Friday, March 5. We have added a button on the SWDH vaccine webpage to pre-registration tool: https://phd3.idaho.gov/covid19/#Vaccine 

On Monday, March 15, Subgroup 2.3 will open up in District 3 along with additional public health districts across the state. SWDH will be providing updates on resources for this subgroup. Please visit the State website for groups currently eligible for vaccine and how to pre-register for vaccine: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/covid-19-vaccination  

Gem County information provided by Southwest District Health: 

• SWDH has Gem County in the Gray Category. 
• Governor Little has moved Idaho back to Stage 3. 
• Deaths since March 2020 in Gem County: 33
• Case Breakdown for Gem County: 1,338 confirmed, 364 probables for a total of 1,702 and 1,634 recovered. 
• Visit Southwest District Health Department for more information. 

 Valor Health numbers for patients seen:

• Current 30-day positivity trend: 11.33%
• 7-day positivity trend: 8% (Feb. 28 - March 7)
• Urgent Care: Saw 23 patients with 2 COVID tests performed.
• The Emergency Department saw 49 total patients (weekend), no covid tests.
• Vaccines administered: As of March 4, 1,328 doses administered with 417 people registered for the March 5th clinic that included the Emmett School District’s employees who received their second dose. 

Emmett School District numbers: 

Week of February 23-March 8

• Quarantined: 1 students and staff
• Suspected: 7 students and staff
• Probable: 0
• Confirmed: 1

Definitions

• Quarantined: People who have been exposed to a confirmed COVID case. 
• Confirmed: People who have been tested positive for COVID.
• Probables: People who had direct contact with someone who tested positive AND has COVID symptoms. 
• Suspected: Students or staff who are ill and have been tested and are awaiting results, or who may be tested.

Thursday, March 4, 2021

The Board of Trustees recently voted 5-0 to move forward with the renovation of the 121-year-old two-room schoolhouse.

Beniton Construction of Meridian will handle construction, estimated to cost $653,770 for both phases of the project. The first phase will cost $348,000. 

Ola Elementary was built in 1910, and is on the National Register of Historic Buildings. It is Idaho's oldest two-room schoolhouse and has about 20 students in grades K-6. 

However, school has been held in Ola Community Hall since August 2019 when it was determined that the Ola School was not safe until it was renovated to remove the dry rot, shore up walls and remove lead paint, among other things. 

Both Beniton and the district have agreed that some information regarding necessary repairs may materially change if something is discovered once the actual work begins.

Demolition of the interior walls and ceiling will begin in mid-March. The project is expected to be completed by July so students can return to school in that building for the 2021-22 school year. 

The Save Ola School (SOS) Committee, led by Shannon Miller, has been working on raising funds, and announced last summer that it had received a $200,000 grant from the Laura Moore Cunningham Foundation.

Miller said the committee has raised just over $260,000 to help cover the costs of the renovation. Anyone with questions about the fundraising effort should contact Miller at 208-584-3269.