LPOSD Families and Community Members,

As we approach our holiday break, I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and your family. I hope this two-week period is filled with joy, laughter and memorable moments with loved ones. While enjoying festivities and traditions, take the family on an outdoor adventure, whether it's a brisk winter walk, a day on the mountain, or simply enjoying a quiet hour in nature.

We are so blessed to live in this beautiful part of the world!

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our staff for their commitment and compassion, especially during this time of year. Their ability to create a safe, nurturing environment for all students is truly remarkable. I look forward to the continued success and collaboration in 2025! School resumes on January 6, and our staff will be thrilled to welcome back students & hear all about their holiday break!

With Much Gratitude, bwm

Dr. Becky Meyer

Hundreds of Lake Pend Oreille students were inspired to support the less fortunate in our community through acts of kindness. Farmin Stidwell classrooms took part recently in Blankets of Hope, a kindness service project. Students wrote notes of hope and kindness on 210 new fleece blankets, delivered to Sandpoint United Methodist Church and the Bonner County Food Bank just before Thanksgiving — perfect timing for those in need. “I want our children to know that any act of kindness, no matter how small, can contribute to the greater good,” said Renee Lorden, a fourth grade teacher who organizes the annual effort.

As they journey toward adulthood, and ultimately a career, Clark Fork High School upperclassmen benefit from attending a small, rural school with a determined senior mentor who looks far and wide for work experiences to guide them toward informed post-graduation choices. The school’s unique job shadow program is both a senior project requirement and an opportunity to explore real careers. Each fall, they work closely with the business communities in Clark Fork, Sandpoint, Coeur d’Alene, Spokane and more to secure on-the-job training placement opportunities. Twelve seniors and three juniors will wrap up their semester-long program in January with a presentation to a panel of judges. To read more about the program, use this link.

Did you know that each LPOSD School Board meeting begins with a student presentation? In December, LPO seniors shared personal stories about their journey to graduation (see video below). Next month, Sandpoint High School is slated to present. Hope to see you there!

The "Winter READY! for Kindergarten" registration is now open! The program includes free 90-minutes workshops, childcare and interactive children's toys that parents take home. These services and materials are free to the community due to the generous donations of community members through the Panhandle Alliance for Education.

LPOSD’s Human Resources Department exceeded its fundraising goal this year for Bonner County Food Bank donations. Each year (for the past 15 years), HR collects food donations, and just over 250 pounds of food was collected and donated this November. “It was certainly a success and a moment of community connection,” said Thoretta Short, Human Resources director.

Each December, Kootenai Elementary students raise funds to fill food boxes for Kootenai families who need a helping hand over the holiday break. Kids bring loose change, dollar bills or checks to donate in “Giving Jars,” located in 16 individual classrooms. These wonderful kids and staff raised an amazing $4,854 this year! Thirty-five food boxes were presented to families, just before Christmas break. This marks the school’s 13th year. “We love being able to support families who need extra help during times of need. Over the years, we’ve also loved hearing from families who received support through Collection for a Cause, made it through challenging times, and are now able to give back to the cause and support others during their time of need,” said Principal Summer Tigert.