D91 Update Dec 20, 2024

It was my third year of teaching, and the holiday season was in full swing. Our classroom was alive with the buzz of excited students singing holiday songs making small treasured gifts for their families. Amid the festivities, I couldn’t help but think about one of my students who had mentioned they weren’t expecting much under the tree this year.

Later that day, I shared the story with a few of my colleagues. Without hesitation, they sprang into action. Together, we pooled resources, purchased gifts, and spent the evening wrapping toys, books, and other treasures. What had been one tired bunch of teachers turned into joyous laughter and hearts filled with the hope of Christmas. The next morning, we ran through the snow to deliver the brightly wrapped presents. We entered the home to see that not only were there no presents under the tree, there was no tree. We carefully placed the gifts around and on the couch. The joy and surprise we saw on the mother’s face when she realized her family would have Christmas is a moment I have never forgotten.

That experience has stayed with me as a powerful reminder of the incredible heart and generosity of educators. It also highlights the profound impact of small acts of kindness and how they can create lasting joy for the families and students we serve.

During this holiday season, I hope you find time to rest, recharge, and create cherished memories with your loved ones. May you also be reminded of the tremendous difference you make in the lives of others every day. Your dedication, compassion, and kindness inspire me, and I am deeply grateful to work alongside such an incredible team of educators in our District 91 family.

Best wishes for a joyous holiday season and a happy New Year!

Superintendent Karla LaOrange

We’re excited to share that a new layer of safety will be in place at all D91 schools when students return after the Christmas break!

Starting January 7, all our schools will feature the new Visitor Aware check-in system to enhance the security and safety of our students and staff.

Here’s how it works:
When visiting during the school day, you’ll check in at a user-friendly kiosk. The system will take your photo and ask a few quick questions, like your name and the purpose of your visit. You’ll then scan your driver’s license or ID for a quick background check. Once verified, a badge with your photo will be printed for you to wear during your visit.

Check out the brief video below to see how simple and seamless it is! This system is an added safety measure to ensure we always know who is in our schools, helping us create the safest environment possible for our students and staff.

Thank you for your support as we continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of everyone in our schools!

• Dec 23-Jan 6: Christmas Break, No School
• Jan 7: School Resumes
• Jan 20: MLK Day, No School
• Jan 28: D91 College and Career Fair at Mountain America Center
• Feb 13: Parent Teacher Conferences for Secondary Schools, Early release for Middle Schools
• Feb 14: On-line Learning day for Secondary Schools/Teacher Comp Day
• Feb 17: Presidents Day, No School

Especially for Athletes is a program that inspires athletes to be socially responsible and to make differences in the lives of others. All high school and middle school athletes and their parents are invited to come on Jan 13 to learn how they can use their influence to assist others. IFHS and Taylorview athletes and parents will meet from 6:30-7:30 pm at Taylorview. Skyline and Eagle Rock athletes and parents will meet at Skyline High School from 8-9pm.

Students at Emerson Alternative High School spent the last day of school before the Christmas break doing service for others. Among the several acts of service were tying together blankets for those in need and making cards for veterans and neighbors. We love how our D91 students are so community minded.

The Grinch was no match for the holiday spirit at Idaho Falls High School. Students raised hundreds of dollars to help other students in need this Christmas during the Money Blitz assembly on Thursday. What a great tradition of giving at IFHS. Thank you to all the students, teachers, and staff that made this possible.

Longfellow Elementary's Reading Night was a success this week. Superintendent Karla LaOrange was one of many guest readers who came to read to the families. We also want to thank all of our readers. Great job by the Longfellow staff to put together such a wonderful event.

Students at Idaho Falls High School participated in the Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange Program. The Smithsonian Club wrote letters and swapped reveal boxes with Sandra Day O'Connor High School in Helotes, Texas. Both schools opened the box in a Zoom meeting. The blue/purple potatoes were a huge hit with Texas! IFHS students enjoyed some snacks from Buc-ee's. The students loved it and are already wanting to send another box.

Congratulations to the Eagle Rock 7th grade girls basketball team for winning the conference championship. They defeated Madison to win the USRVC A1 Conference title. The 8th grade lost a tough one against Black Canyon to finish in 2nd place.

Skyline had the opportunity last week to celebrate the Boys Cross Country Team as well as Elias Couch and the Boys' Swim Team on their accomplishments on their seasons during the State Champions Walk. Elias Couch was the individual state champion for the 200 and 500 m Freestyle event. The Boys' Swim Team were academic State Champions and the Boys' Cross Country Team were State Champions.

Idaho Falls soccer player Valerie Chavez is heading to Sterling, Colorado to play for Northeastern Junior College. She signed her letter of intent this past week. Congratulations, Valerie and good luck! We are all rooting for you.

Idaho Falls High School: Assistant Tennis Coach

We are accepting applications for teaching positions for the 2025-2026 school year:

Elementary Teachers K-6

Middle School Teachers 7-8

High School Teachers

Special Education Teacher

See all current openings here.