As the last week of June ends, it is of value to look back at the recent JHS graduating class of 2017 and thank all of them for their contributions to the school and community. The last week of May brought the graduation ceremony for the Jefferson High School Class of 2016. As I participated in the commencement ceremony, it was rewarding to see the amount of support in the audience by parents, grandparents, friends, and others. The gratefulness displayed by all present and all the communities that encompass the high school is overwhelming.
This continued support is a key factor in the success of all students. There will be a couple of new faces for next year at JHS. Brittani Bergtoll will be joining JHS as a new English teacher, and Sarah Layng is returning to education as the Librarian. I am excited for what they bring to enhance the JHS staff and the students. I am currently working on filling the FCS position for next year.
Although the information has been posted in past editions, I want to again congratulate spring sports participants on their successes. Members of the JHS boys and girls track teams participated at the state Class B meet in Butte and had a couple of state placers. Congrats also go out to all tennis and golf participants in representing JHS as student-athletes.
I would like to again recognize Dick Norden for being selected to the Montana Coaches Hall of Fame. Dick becomes the third member to the Hall who coached at Jefferson High School. Coach Norden has also been selected to the Hall of Fame by Rocky Mountain College for his accomplishments as a student-athlete. Both inductions will occur this year.
I want to update the community on the building improvements currently underway. This summer, the bleachers in both gyms are being replaced. The old bleachers in both gyms have been removed and the floors refinished. Also, a couple of spots in the south gym floor were repaired.
Lorie Carey was able to find a floor contractor to complete this work in the short window between bleacher removal and floor finishing. Her diligence was key in getting this project completed. The contractors are slated to be on site in mid July for installation of the new bleachers. The new bleachers will be a nice addition to the facility.
I also want to commend Buster Bullock and Cory Kirsch for the use of their forklifts during the gym bleacher removal. An Open House will be scheduled in August to allow the community to see the upgrades. As I begin my fifth year at JHS, I anticipate another great year and I am grateful for the support of the school, board, and community and I look forward to continued work with great students and staff.
