December 18, 2023
Dear Gooding School District Families, Staff, and Community Members,
I hope this letter finds you well as we reach the midpoint of the school year. It has been a privilege to serve our community the past six months, and I am pleased to provide you with an update on the progress and achievements we have made together.
Academic Achievements:
Our students continue to grow and excel academically, showcasing their dedication to learning and the commitment of our exceptional teaching staff. Interim assessments have shown improvements across all grade levels, reflecting the effectiveness of our curriculum and the hard work of both students and educators.
In response to the ever-evolving educational landscape, we continue to provide meaningful professional development for our staff. This includes mentoring for new staff members and training on curriculum and programs used within each school. We also have a process for updating curriculum that integrates the use of technology within classrooms. Pacing guides and course outlines are being developed and as they are finished can be found at https://gsd231.org. Our focus on fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills remains steadfast, preparing our students for success in an increasingly complex world.
Safety and Wellbeing:
The safety and wellbeing of our students remain our top priorities. We continue to implement and revise comprehensive safety measures, including enhanced security protocols, emergency preparedness drills, and ongoing mental health support initiatives for staff, students and their families. Our dedicated team of administrators, counselors, psychologist, and support staff are committed to ensuring that every student feels secure and supported throughout their educational journey.
Community Engagement:
Our district thrives on collaboration between schools, families, and the broader community. Over the past six months, we have hosted concerts, parent meetings, a Dia De Los Muertos event, a Healthy Harvest Celebration and a booster club Winter Sports Showcase. These types of events, and many others, are important to continue fostering that “Senator Pride!”
Infrastructure and Facilities:
Investments in our school infrastructure and facilities continue to be a key focus. Some examples include replacing most of the roof and adding outdoor classrooms at the elementary/middle school, purchasing three new buses and adding interactive whiteboards in several classrooms. We will always be striving to improve the overall learning environment for our students.
Looking Ahead:
As we enter the second half of the school year, we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. One of the biggest is revisiting plans put on hold during COVID to update and/or remodel our schools. Our commitment to continuous improvement remains unwavering, and we are dedicated to addressing any challenges that may arise. We will continue to explore new ways to engage our students, support our educators, and strengthen our ties with the community. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to our district office.
