While Tuesday was an extra day off for our students this week, our teachers were hard at work. We spent the morning engaged in different professional learning opportunities, all designed to help support teachers in meeting student needs. In this picture, Jason Lords and I are using all of our mobile devices to participate in our virtual morning sessions. These sessions focused on effective math instruction, using AI to support student learning, and meeting the needs of students with disabilities.

In the afternoon, our teachers gathered at Thunder Ridge High School to work in districtwide teams, reviewing the essential outcomes for each common course we teach across the district. Even though it was later in the day, they jumped right in with positive vibes and a keen focus on student learning. Many even stayed after our scheduled time to keep the work going.

I feel so grateful to work in a district full of teachers who believe in teamwork, stay positive, and care so deeply about students’ learning and literacy. Thank you for supporting our teachers as they continue their work to design success for every student.

The Board of Trustees recognized Zac Lords, Assistant Principal at Thunder Ridge High School, for being named the 2025–2026 Outstanding Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year for the State of Idaho by the Idaho Association of Secondary School Principals.

Mr. Lords is known for his unwavering commitment to students, staff, and school community. Since joining Thunder Ridge seven years ago, he has consistently stepped up to serve wherever needed—from supporting students and teachers daily to contributing to district-level responsibilities, including Title IX investigations. Colleagues describe him as dependable, humble, and deeply student-centered.

During the recognition, Mr. Lords expressed his appreciation for the Thunder Ridge staff, district leadership, and his family, noting that this honor reflects the collective dedication of the entire school community.

Congratulations, Mr. Lords! Thank you for your leadership and service to Thunder Ridge and District 93.

The Board of Trustees honored Thunder Ridge High School senior Justin Anderson for winning the 6A Boys Golf State Championship—his second consecutive state title. With classifications shifting this year, Justin currently stands as the only 6A individual golf champion in Idaho.

Coach Danny Allen and Justin’s family joined him at the meeting, noting not only his outstanding skill on the course, but his leadership, humility, and sportsmanship. Coach Allen shared that Justin set the tone for the entire team, leading them to a strong season, including a district title and top-four finish at state.

Justin will continue his golf career next year at Boise State University. Congratulations, Justin! We are proud of your hard work, dedication, and the way you represent Thunder Ridge and D93.

The Board of Trustees applauded the Bonneville High School Volleyball Team for being named the IHSAA 5A Academic State Champions. The team earned this award by achieving an outstanding combined weighted GPA of 3.932, demonstrating excellence both on the court and in the classroom.

Coaches shared that while the Bees are known for their strong volleyball program and competitive spirit, this year’s recognition highlights the players’ dedication to their studies, teamwork, and character. Despite facing injuries and a young roster, the team continued to support one another, compete with heart, and represent Bonneville with pride.

Congratulations to these student–athletes and coaching staff for modeling what it means to be committed, resilient, and well-rounded.

The district has finalized and approved the Certified Staff Transfer Resolution that outlines the voluntary and, if necessary, involuntary transfer process connected to the upcoming boundary adjustments, the opening of Willow Creek Elementary, and the repurposing of Ammon Elementary.

District leadership reviewed the resolution with the Bonneville Education Association (BEA), and the BEA expressed support for the plan. Only one clarification request was received and addressed regarding staff transfer eligibility. With that clarification provided, the transfer process will now move forward.

This resolution ensures:

The voluntary transfer window will open this spring, with additional guidance shared directly with staff.

The Board of Trustees approved a bond refinancing resolution that will reduce the interest rates on previously issued district bonds—resulting in significant savings for local taxpayers over the remaining life of the bonds.

Representatives Chelsea Porter (Bond Counsel), Eric Herringer (Piper Sandler), and Michael Keith (Municipal Advisor) presented the refinancing plan, which takes advantage of improved market conditions and the district’s strong bond rating. By refinancing at a lower interest rate, the district will save approximately $3.5 million in total debt payments over the next several years.

These savings directly benefit the community by lowering the amount of property tax revenue needed to repay the bonds, helping reduce the overall tax burden for District 93 taxpayers—without extending the repayment timeline or increasing district debt.

We are grateful to our financial partners and district finance team for their careful stewardship of public funds and continued commitment to responsible budgeting.