

D91 Weekly Update
From Superintendent Karla LaOrange

Celebrating Change, Second Chances, and the Power of Educators
This week, as we honored the graduating classes of 2025, we didn’t just celebrate academic milestones—we celebrated transformation. Graduation is a powerful symbol of change: a moment that captures not only how far students have come, but also the journey that got them there.
But behind every cap and gown is a story we often don’t see.
We don’t see the countless sleepless nights educators spend worrying about a student facing a difficult challenge. We don’t see the thousands of hours poured into lesson planning, grading, mentoring, encouraging, and guiding. We don’t see the quiet contributions from librarians, tutors, custodians, bus drivers, kitchen staff, and office teams who all play essential roles in shaping a student’s experience.
But our students see it.
And more importantly—they feel it.
One graduate shared how her teachers turned her fears into confidence and her confusion into curiosity.
“They taught me more than just subjects,” she said. “They taught me how to move on from mistakes, think critically, and work with others. They changed my life.”
Another student told a story that stayed with all of us. He shared that most of his teachers knew him as the kid who could never stay awake in class because he worked graveyard shifts at McDonald's to support his family. But one day, a teacher looked him in the eye and said, “You’re a good kid.” That simple sentence changed his life.
He went on to say something remarkable:
“Throughout every obstacle, every friend or foe, it never mattered—because my teachers were always on the same team. They taught me that there are no bad kids—just kids who need a second chance. They never gave up on me, and because of that, I won’t give up on myself.”
These students reminded us of something profound: education isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about belief. It’s about compassion. It’s about second chances.
As we close out another school year, we want to say thank you to every educator and staff member who chooses to believe in every student—especially when it’s hard. Thank you for the quiet encouragement, the relentless dedication, the tough conversations, and the words of hope.
Thank you for providing second chances.
Thank you for changing lives.
Thank you for being the reason our students cross that stage with hope in their hearts.
We do this work because we believe every child can learn—and grow—and thrive.
This week, we celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our students and the unwavering support from the adults who guide them every step of the way—our dedicated staff and our families. Thank you for being our partners in this work.
As we wrap up the school year, we hope you take time to celebrate your child’s growth, reflect on the moments that mattered, and enjoy summer break!
Keep your kids fueled for summer fun with FREE meals from D91. Breakfast and lunch are available at Longfellow Elementary (June 4-27) and lunch at Kate Curley Park (June 9-July 24)
What's Happening Around D91
The 6th grade students showed incredible determination and teamwork at their district track meet. Students competed in various events including sprints, relays, and field competitions, demonstrating the skills they've been developing in PE class.
Skyline student government leaders stepped up to discuss education innovation with Senator Dave Lent, Chair of Idaho's Senate Education Committee. From classroom technology to career prep - our students have ideas worth hearing.