Blackfoot holds school board extravaganza

Blackfoot school district had a kick off extravaganza for the upcoming school year. The school board invited Snake River, Sho-Ban, and Chief Tahgee school districts to join in on the fun.

It’s a way to boost morale in the district. District 55 curriculum director Joy Mickelsen said comradery in the districts will help make for a great school year.

District 55 Superintendent Brian Kress said, “It’s just to re-energize, and remember, we are all in this together for kids, and that we can work together as a team and just help each other out and be the best we can for our kids and our community.”

District 55 invited speaker Stacey Bess to the event to inspire teachers.

“My whole mantra is to lift a child and change their families for the better,” Bess said. “I really believe in it, I think when we impact we change our communities and our families.”

Blackfoot High School teacher Holly Kartchner said, “She talked about a girl getting a coat and the tears that came to her eyes, and Stacey said, ‘You’re beautiful,’ and we just need to tell the kids the things that are so positive about the kids. That they are wonderful kids, and there is something positive, there is something to love with every kid.”

After Bess spoke, the school board provided hot dogs, activities, and vendors for educators.
Kartchner, recipient of a 2015 American Civic Education Teacher Award, was so happy with how the event turned out.

“We, as teachers, can come together in a positive environment and tell each other how much we appreciate what we all do for the kids in our district,” Kartchner said.

All districts involved said they are excited for the upcoming school year and thankful for the students they teach.

“There is something about that kid that is worthwhile. I am so grateful for the parents that give us the opportunity to teach their children,” Kartchner said.

Grades 10-12 of Blackfoot High School will be spending time at the elementary schools for their first day of school to encourage students and bring the district together.