Magnet School Director Named

A Hamlet, Indiana educator has been named director of the Idaho Falls School District’s new Magnet High School. Matthew Bertasso is currently director of Instructional Technology and New Tech Coordinator for the Oregon-Davis School Corporation in Indiana.

According to a District 91 news release, Bertasso will lead the district’s new Magnet High School when it opens in fall 2012 as part of the New Tech Network of Schools. For three years he has been part of the network, which is a national non-profit organization that works with districts across the country to open innovative schools.

Idaho Falls school officials say Bertasso has experience with project-based instruction, technology integration, and training teachers in the project based learning process.

“I am excited to be part of this new school in Idaho Falls,” Bertasso said, adding, “the energy and engagement that comes when students discover the world in a project-based environment is exciting.” Bertasso said he believes the New Tech Network has found a way to help districts across the country implement powerful schools that positively influence their students, parents, and communities.

The school will open in fall 2012 with 150 slots for freshmen and 150 slots for sophomores. An additional class will be added every year until it ultimately becomes a four-year high school with about 600 students.

Applications to attend the school are now available from the district office, the district’s three junior high schools or from the district’s website, www.ifschools.org Applications are due no later than 4:30 pm Tuesday, Jan. 31. District officials say if more applications are received than there are available slots, a lottery to select

Bertasso will be available to parents and students during an open house set for 7 pm Wednesday, Jan. 25 at Clair E. Gale Junior High School, 955 Garfield.