focus Volume 76:2 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Autumn 2016 dd!! vviittee IInn YYoouu’’rre

Mount Baker School District 75 Years of Excellence & Pride Join us for a

of our school A Gathering of Current Staff Members Who Are Also Mount Baker Graduates district’s 75th Baker Pride – MBHS Graduate Recollections Photos, Stories Anniversary. “Walking into Kindergarten “Jim Freeman measuring how “Having Roland Holterman and History on the first day and being tall all of the girls in his science as a driver Ed teacher and 16 greeted by Erika Alexander. class were. He was trying to stopping at Herfy Drive Inn Meet Past t. 21, 20 That welcoming joy, smile, recruit for basketball.” for his French fries.” Grads & Staff Oc and kindness [is] consistently –Jacki Johnson (Anderson), —Ina Little (Helgesen) found in this district!” Graduate of 1987 Graduate Cider, Coffee 5:45 - 6:45 PM —Emily Patz, & Donuts Graduate of 2011 Additional gradute recollections continued on page 2 MBHS Auditorium

Mount Baker’s Ron Lepper to be Celebrating our inducted into Washington State 75th Anniversary Page Wrestling Hall of Fame • Graduate Nominated to the Washington State Wrestling Coaches Association by Recollections former Blaine wrestling coach Craig Foster, Coach Ron Lepper will be • Band Uniforms inducted into the Washington State Wrestling Hall of Fame on November 2 5th. Lepper was our head wrestling coach from 1994-2014. He led the Post High School Mountaineers to a boys state cham- pionship in 2000 and a girls title in Planning INSIDE Page 2008. He coached 14 state champi- • World Language ons and was named the State Coach Credits for ESL of the Year in 1998. Lepper currently coaches our football and softball • Financial Aid programs. 4 Winter Safety & Veterans’ Day Activities Facilities Report Kendall Harmony Acme MB Junior/Senior Page Elementary Elementary Elementary High School • Busing & Delays • FFA Barn Assembly Assembly Assembly Assembly November 10th November 10th November 10th November 10th • New IT Director 10:00 AM 9:35-10:05 AM 10:00 AM 9:15-9:50 AM INSIDE 6

NON-PROFIT ORG Good of the U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 1 Order News DEMING, WA Page • Books on Wheels 4956 Deming Road PO Box 95 • FFA Fair Report Deming, WA 98244-0095 • Staff Training 8 Page 2 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Autumn 2016

Band Uniforms Baker Pride – MBHS Graduate Recollections In 1938, Mount Baker High School had an orchestra, a “The Freeman Stare—a “Getting sent to Charlie “Sitting in the window seat. glee club, and a pep band. Harry Pond was a new direc- term we coined in our senior Burleigh’s office daily.” Getting out of 3rd period, tor of our music department, and changed the focus of calculus class taught by Jim going down & using the pay department when he began the marching and concert –Douglas Lee, Freeman. He would stare at phone to order steak and band. This year there were 65 members in the band. Graduate 2005 The band were proud of their Mountaineer uniforms; the board with a pondering tidbits from the Deming however, the band performed at a May Day Celebration look at a complex problem. Tavern, and then driving “The support this school in New Westminster, B.C. they were humbled that day We all thought he was down to pick them up district gives to its students when they saw several adult kilt bands. They were told waiting for us to answer. As during lunch. The old gym. these uniforms cost several hundred dollars each, and and staff. They work as a teacher, now I know he Pep buses.” cost more than all of our uniforms combined. a family. Always a laugh was trying to figure it out, with whomever you talk to. —Darlene Varang (Larsen), Pond was inspired; he knew that to have a successful too!” band program he would have those uniforms. This was I never got away with skip- Graduate 1975 during the time of the great depression and there was —Erin DeRoco (Signaw), ping class because everyone no money, but Pond found a way. He arranged with a Graduate 1998 would call my mom, Gwen “Having the Superintendent fabric store in Vancouver, B.C. to purchase a bolt of fabric Garrett, who works in ride our bus route with us. (40-100 yards). He then found a group of parents, Mrs. “My first year at Harmony Special Programs.” This was the first time this Sanderson and Mrs. Jensen, to work on the uniforms after being out of high school had happened in the district. with Mr. and Mrs. Pond. Two band students, Jack Jensen –Jessica Mansfield, for 30 years: I team taught It was done to limit the and Harry Sanderson, had to try on the new kilt uniforms Graduate 2004 to see if they fit, which meant they had to walk out in with my sixth grade teacher supply of snow being brought in the same class room he’d on the bus from students front of four or five adults. After a few alterations, the “My most fond memory was had 36 years earlier. It putting on the busses chains. kilts were complete. of the original JH/HS build- looked exactly the same— No snow or snowballs could The sash was made from the same fabric and would ing: the window seat in the same furniture and all.” be thrown.” normally be fastened at the shoulder with a broach, staircase; the medallion in this wasn’t a luxury anyone could afford at the time, so —Jodi Eriksen (Thramer), the foyer that if you walked —Vici Jean Whitehead (Bliven), Pond went to a drapery house and purchased a bunch Graduate 1976 on, you had to clean with a Graduate 1971 of drapery rings about two inches in diameter, we would toothbrush; and the old gym lace both the ends of the sash through the ring, sort of an over and under arrangement. The stockings were “Mr. Freeman’s geometry with wooden bleachers.” “My favorite memory is tests. He personalized them marching down the Deming lumbermen’s wool socks, white with a red band at the —Katy Schmidt (Paul), with our names and it road with Mr. Sutton. top. Black shoes were a must, but everyone had black Graduate 1993 shoes. The bowtie was either purchased or made by helped us relax!” Marching and playing in the parents. The sporran is a pouch/purse worn in the front band and going on all the –Bobbie Gilmore (Anderson), “Being in ASB as Vice of the kilt, but ours was a flat panel with hemp rope that band trips got me through Graduate 1986 President and going to camp. had been unraveled to look like horse hair. Overseas cap high school. My other for each member was made out of old felt hats from stu- Band trips and the great favorite memory is everyone dent’s fathers. Pond collected them, washed them, and “My first drive behind Disneyland trip. Going to dancing to Bob Seger’s “Old blocked them. He cut out a sample and put it together to the wheel with Rollie cheer camp and our van Time Rock & Roll” played at see what it looked like. Holterman. He is laughing breaking down, and sleeping the end of every pep dance. After the first of these band uniforms were developed, at my leg jumping from my in the ditch.” Decorating the different class it was the responsibility of the mothers of the band nerves. On the last half mile —Lisa Strachila (Zender), halls and building floats for members to follow the pattern and provide a uniform to my house a dog runs out, Graduate 1979 Homecoming and “buying” for the child. The materials were furnished, but are and I hit it. The dog (puppy) teachers to do our bidding unable to tell you who paid for the materials. The cost survived, but I make Rollie’s per total uniform was less than $4.00 ($68.33 in today’s for a day rank up there too!” Top 5 stories that he tells all rates United States Department of Labor CPI Inflation Calculator). his classes.” —Wendy Cosgrove (Watts), Graduate 1987. I hope the members of the band, the school, and the –Tammie Haehn-Bowen, community is as proud of your band as we were of ours: Graduate 1982 where and when it all started. By Jack Jensen (Edited by Katie Chugg)

Page 2 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Autumn 2016 Autumn 2016 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Page 3 Make Every Day Count: A Focus on School Attendance In the Mount Baker School District, we envision an outcome that supports every child in acquiring the Put your child on the academic tools to succeed, become well-rounded, www.mtbaker.wednet.edu productive citizens, and be prepared to pursue a path to success with field of work after high school graduation. these strategies: Our Mission This year, we are putting the spotlight on the importance • Follow a routine: make sure your children have a regular bedtime and morning The Mount Baker School District, of attendance in achieving this vision. routine. working with the community, Showing up for school is crucial for a • Monitor sick days: make sure your child will provide a strong student’s academic, social, and emotional goes to school unless they are truly sick. educational foundation upon which all students can build success starting in kindergarten and • Seek to understand: ask for help from their futures as productive continuing through high school. teachers, nurses and school counselors if your children are regularly sick, or citizens in our changing world. Developing an expectation for children to attend school regularly feel anxious or upset about every day, early on is highly predictive of their academic going to school. success, and supports their social and emotional well- • Schedule wisely: look at the school District Administration being as they grow and mature. Indeed, regular attendance calendar and arrange dentist and doctor’s Superintendent boosts students’ feelings of connection with teachers and appointments after school, on weekends, Charles Burleigh peers, and can help students have a more positive outlook or during holiday breaks if possible (360) 383-2000 about school. • Arrange homework: if your child has to Director of Curriculum & Instruction Families play a key role in making sure miss school, for any amount of time, talk Bridget Rossman students get to school safely every day. with teachers ahead of time so they can (360) 383-2013 arrange a homework packet, and monitor Thank you for supporting this important work. their completion of the work. This ensures Director of Finance & Operations a successful re-entry for children when Ben Thomas they return to their class. (360) 383-2005 • Report in: know your school’s attendance Director of Special Programs Josie Nickum, Counselor policies. If an absence is unavoidable, Ian Linterman Acme Elementary Jane Beckel, Counselor contact your school. (360) 383-2012 Harmony Elementary Kendall Elementary Principal, Mount Baker JH/HS Matt Durand Adapted from Report to Parents from naesp.org (360) 383-2015 Assistant Principal, Mount Baker JH/HS Mount Baker Staff— Troy Wright (360) 383-2015 Graduates of Mount Baker High School Assistant Principal/Athletics Director, Mount Baker JH/HS Year Years Year Years Name (Previous) Position Graduated with District Name (Previous) Position Graduated with District Quinn LeSage Delfina Amarando (Badillo) Food Service 1992 10+ Julie Kutschbach (Moline) Para-educator 1972 15 (360) 383-2015 Dean Anderson Maintenance 1971 37 Tom Larsen Maintenance 1979 20 Principal, Acme Elementary Tammy Baisden (Zwick) Secretary 1980 31 Ina Little (Helgesen) Food Service 16+ Angie Bass (Grimes) Secretary/Registrar 1992 10 Carly Takata Douglas Lee Network Technician 2005 2 Kelli Blockley (Dekriek) Para-educator 1986 15 (360) 383-2045 Lisa Malone (Zamzow) Para-educator 1988 9 Steve Buckner Custodian 1972 11 Jessica Mansfield Para-educator 2004 3 Principal, Harmony Elementary Morgan Clarke (Lenssen) Teacher 2000 1 Ashley Nolte (Cronk) Teacher 2007 3 Justin May Lacey De Lange (Larsen-Varang) Teacher 1996 9 Maxine O’Brien (Macdonald) Para-educator 1979 10 (360) 383-2050 Erin DeRoco (Signaw) Teacher 1998 12 Emily Patz LST 2011 1 Ellen Dodson School Board 1975 16 Principal, Kendall Elementary Holly Peterson (Butenschoen) Secretary 1992 5 Jodi Ericksen (Thramer) Teacher 1976 11 Tammy Postlewait (Zender) Para-educator 1992 8 Susan Gribble Bonnie Fedenuik (Brown) Food Service 1983 13 Miranda Rothenbuhler Para-educator 2011 1 (360) 383-2055 Kim Fredere Para-educator 1990 17 Katy Schmidt (Paul) Para-educator 1993 7 David Galbraith Maintenance 1973 16 Carrie Strachila Teacher 2005 3 Debbie George (Tyler) Food Service 1981 26 JoAnne Smith (Zender) Food Service 10 Bobbie Gilmore (Anderson) Teacher 1986 5 Lisa Strachila (Zender) Para-educator 1979 25 Tara Grimes ( Van Dyk) Para-educator 1995 8 Sara Strachila Teacher 2005 3 Tammie Haehn-Bowen (Haehn) Para-educator 1982 18 Belva Tyska (Leibrant) Para-educator 1979 12 Susan Horsmon (Williamson) Custodian 1974 3 Darlene Varang (Larsen) Secretary 1975 25 A.J. Howard Teacher 2011 4 Fred Varang Custodian 1990 21 Diane Jacoby (Chase) Secretary 1963 32 Vici Jean Whitehad (Bliven) Para-educator 1971 15+ Brett Johnson Teacher 2009 1 Bridget Whitson (Paulus) Para-educator 1989 1 Jacki Johnson (Anderson) Para-educator 1987 10 Debbie Wilson (Warner) Para-educator 1978 17+ Charlene Johnson-Knauft Para-educator 1976 11 Becky Zender (Gates) Para-educator 1988 13 Mary Kalsbeek (Horsmon) Custodian 1997 12 Wendy Cosgrove (Watts) Para-educator 1987 8 Diane Jacoby is Our Earliest Mount Baker Graduate (Class of 1963) Currently Employed by the District.

Autumn 2016 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Page 3 Page 4 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Autumn 2016 College Bound Scholarship Competency Testing and Achievement Awardee for 2016 Credits for World Languages Mount Baker Junior/Senior High The Mount Baker School District is adopting a policy and www.mtbaker.wednet.edu School Recognized by FuturesNW procedure for assessing language proficiency and granting competency-based credits for world languages. Junior high Over the past six years, FuturesNW has had the extraor- and high school students, who can speak, listen, read and Mount Baker dinary benefit of generous support through volunteerism, write in a language other than English, may be able to earn Schools partnership and collaboration on the part of individuals, 1-4 high school world language credits. These credits can help Acme Elementary schools, and higher education institutions. On the occasion meet high school graduation requirements for elective credits Secretaries of our sixth anniversary we are introducing new Champion as well as 4-year college admissions requirements for world Michelle Anderson Awards to showcase the profoundly important relationships (foreign) languages. Any student who earns four credits is eli- Sally Shetler that enable and enhance everything we do. Those chosen gible to receive the Washington State Seal of Biliteracy, and the (360) 383-2045 for these awards exemplify the very best in those who seal will be noted on their high school diploma and transcript. champion the mission of FuturesNW to level the college Kendall Elementary Interested students will be asked to complete a Quick Language Secretaries playing field and empower low-income, often marginalized Norma Adkinson students, to achieve their career and college dreams. Self-Assessment to see what level of proficiency they can dem- Diane Jacoby onstrate in reading, writing, speaking and listening. Depending Justina Grimes It is my privilege on behalf of the FuturesNW Board of on their responses to the self-assessment, a student may then (360) 383-2055 Directors to inform you that Mt. Baker Junior/Senior High take a test to determine world language proficiency. All assess- School has been chosen as a College Bound Scholarship ments will be evaluated based on proficiency guidelines from Harmony Elementary Achievement Awardee for 2016. This award is based on the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages Secretaries the “numbers” of students enrolled in the College Bound (AFTFL). Through this process, our district recognizes and Noel Conlee Scholarship at the eighth grade level, the programming and Colleen Seutz values the language skills students develop in their homes, support offered students during their high school years to (360) 383-2050 their community, and previous places they have lived. enable students to access the College Bound Scholarship and Mount Baker the number of College Bound Scholars completing a FAFSA/ Students should see either Chris Johnson or their guidance Jr/Sr High School WASFA. The selection criteria also took into consideration counselor to take the Quick Language Self-Assessment; to obtain a permission slip for testing, which must be signed and Secretaries the college-going culture of high schools, the willingness Angie Bass–Registrar to partner with external agencies to support students, and returned by October 24, 2016. Eligible students will be given a ticket for their scheduled testing session and informed of their Karin Snavely–Attendance the creative solutions used to reduce educational barriers Heidi Brown–ASB/AP next steps. Language testing, which takes about two hours to for all students. We cannot think of any other school that Principal’s Secretary complete, will occur on campus on the mornings of November has put as much in place for College Bound Scholars and (360) 383-2015 14-15, 2016. Students will be informed of their results within a we congratulate you your efforts. ERC: Educational few weeks of testing. Resource Center -Sharon J. Camblin, Ed. D., -Caroline Williams, ELL Coordinator, FuturesNW Executive Director Ian Linterman (360) 383-2012 Mount Baker School District Mount Baker Academy Anne Erlandson–Teacher, Student Learning Plan Consultant Financial Aid Jodi Ericksen–Teacher, Facts & New CHANGES for this year Student Learning Plan Consultant Financial Aid is any grant or scholarship, loan, or paid employment offered Mount Baker Jr/Sr High School (360) 383-2078 to help a student meet his/her college expenses. Such aid is usually provided counseling department is com- by various sources such as federal and state agencies, colleges, high schools, mitted to helping families through foundations, and corporations. Some form of financial aid is available at all this process in its entirety. institutions of higher learning whether they are technical schools, commu- nity colleges, or universities public or private. If you missed our Sept. 28th Financial Aid Workshop below is a calendar of FAFSA/WASFA The first step in qualifying for New DEADLINES for the If at any time students or completion events that students financial aid is to APPLY. FAFSA & WASFA this year. families have questions can access to help them through In Washington state there or concerns about their this process with the help of are two ways to apply. Previously the earliest you could financial aid status or file your FAFSA/WASFA was professionals. need help filing their forms You will EITHER complete the: January 1st. Now the priority deadline is October 1st. Families October 9 October 18 PLEASE CONTACT FAFSA (Free Application for want to file their FAFSA or WASFA Sunday Tuesday Federal Student Aid): if you are a Sandi Madison at as soon as possible after October 1:00–4:00 PM 6:00 – 8:00 PM [email protected] US citizen or eligible non-citizen. Squalicum HS Nooksack HS www.fafsa.gov 1st. Washington state aid is allo- She will be happy to cated on a first come first serve OR October 11 October 20 basis. Filing your financial aid meet with you. WASFA (Washington Application Tuesday Thursday paperwork as soon as possible for State Financial Aid) if you 6:00–9:00 PM 6:00 – 8:00 PM will increase your chances of are not eligible to file the FAFSA Lynden HS Bellingham HS because of your immigration status. receiving aid if you are eligible. www.readysetgrad.org/WASFA. Changing the deadline to October October 12 October 26, 1st now makes it much easier Wednesday Wednesday Filing for financial aid is a PROCESS. for families to submit all of the 6:00–8:00 PM 6:00 – 8:00 PM After you have filed either a FAFSA required financial information Meridian HS Ferndale HS/ or WASFA your information will be in a timely matter. It also means Lummi HS October 15 sent to the colleges to which you are that you will know in the early Saturday October 29 applying. Once you decide on which fall whether or not you qualify 9:00 AM–1:00 PM Saturday Sandi Madison college you are going to attend that for free money which may help Whatcom 9:00 AM–1:00 PM Career Specialist school will notify you as to how to you make a more informed deci- Community Skagit Valley complete the process and receive sion regarding affordable school College College your aid, if eligible. options.

Page 4 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Autumn 2016 Autumn 2016 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Page 5 Assessment Resource Normal School A new assessment resource tool is available to help with navigating and understanding Washington State assessments. Office Hours

“WCAP: Keeping Washington’s Students information about the knowledge and Starting September 1, 2016: on Track for College and Career”. This site skills represented by student scores, along District Office 7:30–4:00 p.m. contains a visual guide explaining the main with sample items from Smarter Balanced. parts of the Family Report (also known There is also a section containing links to Jr./Sr. High 7:30–3:30 p.m. Bridget Rossman as the Student Score Report) document. other webpages with resources designed Transportation 6:00–5:00 p.m. Parents can use drop-down menus for for parents. The website address is: Director of Curriculum grade, subject, and score range to access http://testscoreguide.org/wa/ & Instruction Kendall 8:00–4:30 p.m. Harmony 8:00–4:30 p.m. Child Nutrition Services Acme 8:00–4:30 p.m. What’s new this year Where can I Pre-Pay Online, View Student Purchases? in Child Nutrition You can pay in many ways, check, cash, and online. Please visit www. MBSD Parent • We will no longer be sending MyMealtime.com which is under links on our district website. Many parents Groups home paper copies of charge enjoy the convenience of My Mealtime© Online. It is our computerized slips. system that allows families to access balances, view purchases, request low Mountaineer Parent Group Supporting MBJH and MBHS students, staff, families. • You now can go online and set balance email notifications, or make payments 24 hours a day from your up a reminder custom fit for your computer (a bank service fee will be applied). All students are assigned an President — Kelly Kelly family. ID Number when they enter the district. There [email protected] is no charge to view purchases, receive email • A reminder phone call about notifications, or check balances. Once a day FFA Boosters unpaid charges will go out our point of sale system transmits and down- President — Ian Whitson Sunday and Wednesday night. loads any new deposits to our school building (360) 592-0968 • Families can link accounts that terminals so accounts [email protected] will allow money to transfer balances are current. If Our year has between family members in the you miss this deadline, “ started off great, district. Contact Karla Atwood the account will not Karla Atwood Mt. Baker Co-Op Preschool to set up your family account at: reflect the new balance feeding friendly Child Nutrition Contact Information: [email protected] until the following day. faces and new Director Phone: (360) 671-1426 friends too. ” Website: www.mtbakercoop.org Find us on Facebook facebook.com/pages/ Winter Pantry Mt-Baker-Co-op-Preschool The Foothills Food Bank, with support from the How it works: Mount Baker School District and a grant from At their child’s school families can Acme Elementary PTA Whatcom Educational Credit Union, will once sign up with the Family Services President — Tristin Rieken again present the Winter and Spring Pantry Coordinator. Boxes with breakfast [email protected] Programs. The Pantry Programs provide supple- and lunch items that children can www.acmepta.com mental breakfast and lunch items to families with prepare themselves are delivered Find us on Facebook: children at Acme, Harmony and Kendall elemen- to their home the Friday morning facebook.com/AcmePTA tary schools during the 2016-17 Winter and Spring before the break. School breaks. Harmony Elementary PTO How to get involved: President — Kristi Nason • Donate money • Donate non-perishable • Volunteer to deliver (360) 739-0843 o Checks made out to Foothills food in bins at various the boxes on Friday, [email protected] Food Bank can be given to east county locations: December 16, 2016 Find us on Facebook Family Services Coordinator o Instant oatmeal o Email: facebook.com/HarmonyElemPTO or mailed: Foothills Food Bank o Low sugar cereals foothillsfoodbankcontact@ 5568 Mt. Baker Hwy gmail.com Deming, WA 98244 o Individual serving applesauce Kendall Elementary PTA or other fruit o Phone: Jennie Ablondi, o Secure online donations can be Coordinator (360) 599-9245 Co-President — Nikki Kent Brown made at the Foothills Food Bank o Graham crackers 360-592-5606 Facebook page or the website: o Granola bars www.foothillsfoodbank.org Co-President — Leanne Pinkey o Trail mix/Nuts o The money is used to purchase Foothills Food Bank 360-599-9652 fresh fruits and vegetables, o Peanut butter Distributions: Kendall PTA email: milk, bread and cheese o Jelly [email protected] o Easy open (pop tops) Every Tuesday Kendall PTA website: • Host a food drive at your kendallpta.vpweb.com ready-made soups from 9:00-11:30 AM place of work, church, or at St. Peter’s Church o Individual serving (cups) community organization 6210 Mt. Baker Hwy, Deming Mac ‘n Cheese Mount Baker Athletic Boosters o Tuna fish in pouches 2nd Saturday of the month The Mount Baker Athletic Booster Club raises money to benefit student athletes and/or athletic programs. o Saltines/Rice crackers 11:30 AM-12:30 PM at EWRRC 8251 President — Chellie Anderson o Cup of Noodles/Top Ramen Kendall Rd., Maple Falls [email protected] Find us on Facebook facebook.com/mtbakerathleticboosterclub

Autumn 2016 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Page 5 Page 6 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Autumn 2016

Emergency Weather Info School Safety Report What To Do About School (360) 383-2070 “ When the weather turns cold, it’s time When Weather Is Bad to prepare for possible snow and ice. School The safety of students, staff, and the and bus schedules may change during • If school start time is general public is and will continue severe weather. When this happens, there delayed, scheduled bus to be a priority for the Mount Baker are some things you must know. ” stop times will be delayed School District at all levels. Behind the same amount of time. the scenes, there are procedures that must be developed and updated to ensure that all • Buses may be running late staff is informed of what to do and have designated responsibilities should an emergency due to road conditions. occur. Below is information around inclement weather delays, transportation and closures. • Due to adverse conditions Are schools operating on Will the school Bus and for their personal a regular schedule? Will Routes Change? there be snow routes? safety, please have your If school is delayed, your bus will pick student stand as far back You may tune in to your local radio or TV you up later than usual. School delay 1.5 from the edge of the road station. You will hear special announcements hour = bus delay 1.5 hour. For example, if as possible, prior to the giving school closures or delayed starting school is starting 1.5 hour late and your bus stopping. times beginning at 6:00 a.m. normal pick up time is 8:40 a.m., the bus will now be picking you up at 10:10 a.m. • The bus cannot stop on RADIO: KGMI (790 AM), KLYN (930 AM), KPUG (1170 AM), inclines. KAFE (104.3 FM), KMPS (94.1 FM), KUBE (93.3 FM) For students living in certain areas, their pick up and drop off stops may change. TV: KOMO 4, KING 5, KONG 6/16, KIRO 7, KVOS 12 PLEASE CALL 383-2070, the Some areas in the district are difficult for school buses Mount Baker School District If there are no announcements, schools will operate on the regular schedule. The to maneuver Weather & Information Line bus garage, district office or school office when there is ice FOR ALL INFORMATION should be used only as a last choice for and snow on the ON SCHOOL CLOSURES ganing infomation. We need our phone road. Children AND/OR DELAYS. lines accessible for emergency situations. who live in these areas may need How will I know/remember to catch their if I live on a snow route? bus at an alter- 90 Minute Ben Thomas Find out ahead of time. Look at the snow nate location. Delayed route schedule. Talk to your bus driver These are called Director of Finance before it snows. SNOW ROUTES. & Operations Start Times (find snow routes on our website)

In the event of a weather or emergency determined Michael Neuterman delayed start time, school Director of Technology for the will end as usual but begin Mount Baker School District 90 minutes late: Hello Mount Baker Community! I am Michael Neuterman, the new Director of Technology Junior High and for the Mount Baker School District. I spent ten High School: years in the United States Air Force as an F-16 9:25 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Crew Chief, and a Telecommunications Installer. My civilian career in technology was primarily Elementary Schools: in the casino industry: Nooksack River Casino, 11:00 a.m. – 3:25 p.m. Northwood Casinos, Swinomish Casino, and Angel of the Winds Casino. I have an Associate of Bus stop pick ups will all FFA Barn Projected Science in Computer Information Systems, spe- be delayed 90 minutes. cializing in network security, and am currently Completion Mid-November working on a degree in Bachelor’s in Software Development. Technology is a passion of mine Mount Baker’s new FFA barn is nearing completion. and I truly enjoy what it can accomplish. I have For transportation With the foundation poured, poles in place, and roof being lived in Washington for 16 years, and my time questions or concerns installed, the barn will be ready for animals soon. at the Mount Baker School District has been other than, “is the wonderful. I am looking forward to continuing “This facility will support the real world working with the staff and community. bus running on learning which has been at the core of our schedule?” please call FFA program for many, many years.” the Transportation Office at 383-2060. When the project is complete an To find out if school is running open house will be held to allow and on time remember to use community to tour the finished the Operations & Weather structure. Information Line 383-2070. “We appreciate the support of the community Charlie Burleigh in helping to complete Superintendent this important project.”

Page 6 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Autumn 2016 Autumn 2016 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Page 7 Library Corner Welcome Back! Sasquatch/Evergreen 2017 Mount Baker Libraries have successfully launched We are continuing our Sasquatch Reading Program this year. the new year starting with checkouts on the first Students Who read 10 books from the following lists and pass day of school. Since then we have circulated 9,200 their Accelerated Reader quizzes by the first week of May Suggested Reading books in the month of September! will be eligible to go on our Sasquatch Field trip to Silver Lake Award Nominees 2017 the first Friday in June. The following titles are available in Otter Grades 1-4 We also have successfully launched our CONNECTEd our library and the public library, which students can access The Haunted Library Program, our partnership with Whatcom County with their student number and password 1234. Most of the by Dori Hillestad Butler Public Libraries. As a small district, we simply titles are accessible through the Washington Anytime Library Jelly Bean: Shelter cannot afford to purchase all the digital resources in ebook or audiobook form (wcls.org). Below are the titles Pet Squad #1 required to make us a 21st Century library. Because with A/R Reading Level and Points. Most teachers have set by Cynthia Lord of the partnership, we can provide more current, A/R point goals for their students. Check with your student’s Let’s Get Cracking! by Cyndi Marko viable research opportunities for our students. It teacher for their Reading Level and Point goal information. Rescue on the Oregon Trail also allows students to check out ebooks and audio- by Kate Messner New this year, fourth graders and students with teacher books that we could not offer on our own. If your permission may choose up to four titles from a new Award Rise of the Earth Dragon student had a library account before, they still have by Tracey West List, The Otter Award. These that account in addition to their student account. Hilo: Book 1 are shorter chapter books New book quiz prizes by Judd Winick We are the first district in the county to pilot this closer to the fourth grade for Sasquatch Program program! reading level, which will give participants. them more choice in book Sasquatch Unfortunately, because we sent the information Grades 4-8 out at the beginning of school with all the begin- selection. Iron Trial (Magis- Vine Basket ning of year forms parents have to sign, many Also new this year, students terium, Book 1) by La Valley, Josanne by Black, Holly & parents accidentally opted who participate in the Clare, Cassandra Dash by Larson, Kirby their students out from Sasquatch Reading program Kinda Like Brothers this program. If this is so, by Booth, Coe The Misadventures of and pass a/r quizzes will the Family Fletcher students may be missing receive a keychain to put on Gaby, Lost and Found by Levy, Dana Allison by Cervantes, Angela out on many classroom their backpack. For every Zane and the activities. If you would like Award book quiz they pass, Mountain Dog Hurricane by Engle, Margarita by Philbrick, Rodman your student back in the they will receive a foot to A Song for Bijou Eddie Red, Under- program, please print out put on their chain. by Farrar, Josh cover: Mystery on the Opt-In form and return Space Case Museum Mile Visit our Library’s by Wells, Marcia Melissa Menti it to your building librarian by Gibbs, Stuart District Librarian web page listed under The Forbidden Library or your school secretary. Departments & Programs at by Wexler, Django www.mtbaker.wednet.edu Young Reader’s Choice Junior Division Grades 4-8 Absolutely Almost Rain Reign by Graff, Lisa by Martin, Ann M. Mount Baker Kindergarten Preparedness Play & Learn Loot The Thickety: A by Watson, Jude Path Begins by White, J.A. groups are: El Deafo Kaleidoscope™ Play & Learn by Bell, Cece New Kid by Green, Tim A FREE facilitated play group, 2016-17 Kaleidoscope© The Fourteenth Singing songs Goldfish The Circus Dogs welcoming young children Play and Learn Schedule: by Holm, Jennifer of Prague 0-5 years old and the parents, by Delaney, Rachelle All classes are 10:00–11:30 a.m. aunts, uncles, grandparents, Telling stories Intermediate Senior Division older brothers and sisters, September - May Division Grades 9-12 friends and others who take Following the MBSD calendar Grades 6-8 Four The Crossover by Roth, Veronica care of them. Playing & learning Tuesdays – Glenhaven Clubhouse by Alexander, Kwame I’ll Give You the Sun together by Nelson, Jandy Now in our third year, Play & Learn is a combina- Wednesdays - Harmony Elementary Greenglass House by Milford, Kate The Young Elites tion of hands-on fun for children and informal by Lu, Marie Thursdays - Kendall Elementary Making friends Deep Blue parent education for caregivers. Simple, “try- by Donnelly, Jennifer In Real Life by Doctorow, Cory this-at-home” activities that support children’s Fridays - Acme Elementary The Iron Trial & Jen Wang growth and development will be provided, along by Black, Holly and Getting ready Cassandra Clare To All the Boys I with ongoing parent support. Feel free to drop Please check in with secretaries Outside In Loved Before by and meet new friends - for you and your child. when entering district buildings. for school! by Ellis, Sarah by Han, Jenny The Night Gardener Panic by Auxier, Jonathan by Oliver, Lauren The Boundless Since You’ve “Early Learning at Home” Program by Oppel, Kenneth Been Gone by Matson, Morgan A new program for families with children, 0-5. Quarterly classes are held at Skink No Surrender Questions? by Hiaasen, Carl Through the Woods Mount Baker ELC/ERC building – across from the JH in Deming. From 6:00-7:30 p.m. Contact Kaye Marshall: by Carroll, Emily [email protected] Evergreen Grades 7-12 FALL - Thursday, October 13, 2016 6:00-6:45 p.m. The Crossover Jackaby Parents with Kaye; children in or call 383-2000 by Kwame Alexander by William Ritter high quality prek classroom To All the Boys I’ve The Port Chicago 50 WINTER - Thursday, Feb. 2, 2017 Loved Before by Steve Sheinkin by Jenny Han 6:45-7:30 p.m. PACT time: The Rule of Three SPRING - Thursday, May 4, 2017 Parents and Children Together The Story of Owen: by Eric Walters Dragon Slayer Kaye Marshall Noggin of Trondheim by John Corey Whaley Early Learning by E.K. Johnston REGISTRATION 1Ms. Marvel Volume 1 Specialist Positive: A Memoir by G. Willow Wilson FREE – Registration required via email to Kaye Marshall: by Paige Rawl & Adrian Alphona [email protected] Divided We Fall by Trent Reedy Autumn 2016 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Page 7 Page 8 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Autumn 2016 SCHOOL BOARD GOOD OF THE ORDERS

August 25, 2016 Have a Mount Baker School www.mtbaker.wednet.edu Books on Wheels District story to tell? Thank you to everyone involved in Email your news this great activity! We were able to Board of Directors give 85 kids books!! I was amazed items for the Your Mount Baker School Board with the amount of staff who School Board of Directors is comprised of five volunteered to help this round. It District citizens elected by District was a great opportunity to recon- Good of the Order: voters for four-year terms. nect with students and families and meet incoming new students. [email protected] Board members serve in an Thank you to Kaye and Heidi for unpaid, volunteer capacity. the wonderful books! Although directors are elected to Thank you to Katy, Josie, Paul, Krista, Lacey, Emily, Julianna, Jessica, Julie, Kalei, specific areas, they collectively Valerie, Beth and hopefully I didn’t forget anyone else – there were so many it was September 22, 2016 represent the entire district. hard to keep track!! What a great way to kick off the new school year! –Carly Takata MBSD Staff Training Brian Kelly, In August MB staff had the opportunity Director District 1 to attend a variety of trainings offered by Ellen Dodson, their colleagues as well as a few outside educators. In total 160 staff attended Director District 2 (some duplicate i.e. attended more than Trish Hart, President, one course). Director District 3 Jim Freeman, Director District 4 Russ Pfeiffer-Hoyt, Director District 5 Charles Burleigh, Superintendent

Board Meetings: Community Members are encouraged to attend our regular Board meetings held on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays each month at 6:00 p.m., September 8, 2016 usually at the District Office. Mount Baker FFA Report from Fair MBSD Communications Herdsmanship – 1st place & Public Relations Team Horse Judging – 1st place Charles Burleigh, Superintendent Sweepstakes Bridget Rossman, Curriculum Director Pam Butenschoen, HR Coordinator Individual Results and Assistant to the Superintendent • Eddie Whirley – Grand Champion Katie Chugg, Website Support Market Hog Kristi Nason, Print & Social Media • Chase Barter – Reserve Grand The MBSD newsletter is published Champion Market Hog periodically by the Mount Baker School District as a communications link between Class Champions the district and the community. Its intent • Luke Steeves Swine Fitting and Showing Class Junior Champion Hereford and purpose is to provide the board and Finalists • Eddie Whirley • Bailey Harkness district staff a venue to inform community • Wyatt Marsing members about programs, goals and Junior Champion Horse showman activities of public education in our district. Class Reserve Champions • DJ Camacho, Jr. • Hailey Siguaw Please direct questions or comments to the • Chelsea Zender • Nick Tanis Communications Team through the District Office: [email protected] • Chase Barter • Chelsea Zender FFA Wool Fleece Grand Champion • Connor Estabrook The Mount Baker School District does not • Chase Barter discriminate on the basis of race, color, national • Hayden Linderman Top Dorset sheep origin, sex, marital status, disability, age, Vietnam- era Veteran’s status, or disabled Veteran status or the Senior Swine Reserve Champion • Bailey Butenschoen presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of training dog guides or service animals • Wyatt Marsing by a disabled person in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and Junior Swine Reserve Champion Eleven Mount Baker FFA members other designated youth groups. The following person • Nick Tanis going through the market sale earned has been designated to handle inquiries regarding $13,883.97; averaging $1,262.17 per the non-discrimination policies: Novice Swine Reserve Champion animal! Charles Burleigh MBSD Superintendent: • Chase Barter PO Box 95, Deming, WA 98244 (360) 383-2000 Overall Swine Reserve Champion • Wyatt Marsing

Page 8 Educational Excellence and Community Pride Autumn 2016