District 91 Updates May 10, 2024
From Superintendent Karla LaOrange
Spring is finally here, along with all the fun school activities and anticipation of the last week of school. It’s been a while since our last newsletter. Why the dry spell? In February, our former communications coordinator, Margaret Wimborne, left the district to work with Mayor Casper. Margaret’s departure left a void in our newsletter communications.
I’m pleased to share that the district has hired Dylan Barfuss as our new Communications Coordinator. Dylan was raised in Rupert, Idaho. Dylan comes to D91 from KIFI Local News 8, where he served as the sports director and then morning news anchor for the last 6 years. In addition to working at KIFI, Dylan has been a radio host, a play-by-play broadcaster for ESPN+ and has extensive experience in the media.
When asked about his new position, Dylan reported, “I am thrilled to join the Idaho Falls School District team. My kids all grew up in this district. It means a lot to our family. I can't wait to serve and share the wonderful things the district has to offer.”
I am excited to have Dylan’s expertise and skills as part of our district team. I’m sure you’ll see Dylan at your school events, covering the incredible work of our teachers and students. We also have some fun new communication ideas to share with everyone in the fall. Welcome to D91, Dylan!
Have a great weekend!
Superintendent Karla LaOrange
The Intervention Model is Coming
Next fall, we will implement the D91 Intervention Model. Middle and high school schedules will be a five-day week, with Friday as a dedicated Intervention School Day. All students will attend school Monday through Thursday. The Intervention School Day on Friday will be a half day of school for students who need additional instruction, labs, or practice to solidify learning. Students in advanced or elective classes can also attend cases on Friday to get additional help or to prepare for projects and tests. All students who have a D, or F or need more assistance with a course will attend school on Friday, the Intervention School Day. All other students are also invited to attend classes or participate in other learning opportunities to practice and/or extend their learning.
Students who are not required to attend in-person classes on the intervention school day will have online access to work that enhances what has been previously taught and offers opportunities for independent learning, practice, or extension. Each teacher will determine the online learning work that is appropriate to support students in their learning.
Friday afternoon, teachers will work together in Professional Learning Communities to plan assessment, instruction, and additional learning opportunities for students. This time is critical for teachers to analyze assessment information and plan instruction based on the needs of students.
Did you know that the Intervention Model is designed to provide students with more instruction time to grasp the content? Currently, students have seven classes daily, each lasting 47 minutes. However, next year, with the Intervention Model, students will have six classes per day, each lasting 58 minutes. This change means that students will receive more instruction next year in four days than they are currently getting in five days, plus the Intervention School Day. This is a significant improvement that we believe will greatly benefit our students.
Keep watching our newsletter for more information about the D91 Intervention Model!
Upcoming Dates
- May 27: Memorial Day, No School
- May 28: Compass Academy Graduation: 4:30 pm, Mountain America Center, Idaho Falls
- May 28: Skyline High School Graduation: 7:30 pm, Mountain American Center, Idaho Falls
- May 29: Emerson High School Graduation: 3:00 pm, Mountain American Center, Idaho Falls
- May 29: Idaho Falls High School Graduation: 7:30 pm, Mountain American Center, Idaho Falls
- May 31: Last day of School!!!
Don't let the beat drop this summer
D91 is offering summer band and orchestra classes at Taylorview Middle School from June 10-28. Anybody 5th grade or older (adults welcome) can learn to play woodwind, brass, violin, cello and bass instruments. Classes will be Monday through Friday. The cost is $45 per session. For more information call the District Music Office at (208) 525-7572. Scan the QR code to register!
Summer Feeding Program begins June 10
The Summer Feeding Program starts June 10. Lunch will be available Monday through Thursday at Kate Curley Park and Eagle Rock Middle School. Breakfast and lunch will be available at Longfellow Elementary starting July 22. Refer to the flyer or the District website for times. Meals are free for children ages 1-18.
What's Happening Around District 91
Congratulations to the Idaho Falls boys track team for taking 2nd at the 4A state track and field championships. This is their first runners-up finish since 1967. Parker Elliot took state the 100M and 200M. Luke Athay won the 3200M, 1600M, and 800M state titles. Several other Tigers, both boys and girls, placed as well.
Max Traynor and Katie Woodhouse of Idaho Falls brought home a state title in mixed doubles from the 4A state tennis championships Saturday in Boise. As a team, Idaho Falls took 4th on the girls side and 5th on the boys side. Skyline's Shay Shippen advanced to the semi-finals in girls singles competition. Congratulations to all our D91 athletes who competed at state.
Governor Brad Little visited Idaho Falls High School this past week to present a check for $42.1 million to District 91. The money comes from HB 521 signed into law this year. It is to be used for repair, maintenance, and new construction.