Superintendent Update Week of Oct. 5

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Good Day Kimball. I hope everyone is having a chance to enjoy the colors of fall this year. The fall sports season is coming to an end, as we approach the MEA break in mid-October. The students are working hard in the classroom and on the sports field to do their best. If you get a chance, ask your child or a student how their school year is going and give them encouragement if they seem to be struggling. This time of year starts the push to raise the level of work and expectations for students. They would appreciate some kind words from you.

I had a chance last week to attend a superintendent conference in Duluth. These conferences can be extremely helpful when it comes to gathering information on all of the things we are trying to do here in Kimball. There are a record number of school districts going to voters this fall for various building projects and levies. Many school districts are having troubles because of the lack of funding from the state, so they have to go to the tax payer for help to keep their district functioning.

I found it interesting the number of people surprised that Kimball was going for a building bond this November. The most common remark was, ?ÄúI can?Äôt believe Kimball is ready for such an extensive project.?Äù This kind of took me by surprise so I would ask why, Kimball, would it be such a surprise? The most common response was the Kimball community has the reputation of not looking that far ahead and not wanting to attract growth.  In hearing this, I found it disappointing for people to have that perception about the Kimball community and surrounding area. These same people said that they just never hear a lot of good things about or from Kimball. At that point I made it crystal clear that Kimball has taken the bull by the horns and we are doing things in Kimball that can compete and beat anything any other school district does in the state. I told these individuals that they should come to Kimball and see what is happening. That way they can get a sense of the present and not the past.

I have found that in my time in Kimball, there are a lot of great things happening. I am always making sure to let other superintendents know that Kimball is on the rise and we have many great students and community members who are ready to take it to the next level. I feel that the whole area is on the cusp of doing some great things and I am excited to be a small part of that. The school board members are working hard to look at all of the things that we can do to spread the message and have people excited about what we can accomplish. I look forward to seeing all that Kimball, Maine Prairie, Fair Haven, Kingston, Marty, South Haven, and all others who call themselves a part of this community can accomplish now and in the future.

 Just a reminder, we are having one last public meeting to discuss the operating levy and building bond Wednesday, Oct. 21. The meeting will start at 6 p.m. in the cafetorium. Come with any questions or concerns you might have. This is a great way to make sure your voice is heard.

Thank you for your support of the school district. Have a great weekend, and more than ever, GO CUBS!