Superintendent Changes

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

On July 15, 2010 I wrote my first blog post for this school district titled: "Oh to Live in St. Ignatius." It states: 

"It is a pleasure to have the opportunity to serve this community in the beautiful Mission Valley of Montana! I already have my Mission Blue and am ready to support the Bulldogs. I look forward to the challenges and the opportunity to meet parents, students, staff and community. I grew up as a Cornhusker in Nebraska, served as a district superintendent in Northwestern Wyoming, but feel right at home here in Mission."

For the past five years my family and I have worn Mission Blue with pride.  This has been our home. Deb and I have had a daughter graduate from this school. Her picture proudly hangs on the All State Wall for basketball along with name plates for several track records. She is a Bulldog! My youngest has made life long friends and enjoys Mission immensely. Our family has had a great experience with some exceptional professionals that work in this district. To say the least the Lewandowskis have been Mission Proud! We have been embraced by the community and have been part of HCA (Home Court Advantage) and Mission Possible.

At the end of this month, Mission Possible will be taking our family in a different direction. On June 1, 2015, I was offered a new opportunity with the Colstrip Public School District #19 as Superintendent. It is a district that is closer to my home. Even though Mission is dear to my heart, so are my family members in Nebraska and Wyoming. Having lost Deb’s mother this last March and knowing my Dad is not getting any younger, I want to take every opportunity to be close when needed. Mission is truly one of the last best places; however, love for family is difficult to replace.


My time at Mission has been some of the best years of my life. I will miss my job and the incredible people I have had the pleasure of working with throughout the past five years. I cannot thank all of you enough for the opportunities and experiences you have provided. Once again, thank you and God bless!
 

Mission Community Mobilization

By Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

As a school administrator, I have had the privilege of building school tracks, schools, pools as well as additions and major renovations, but nothing is as exciting as the celebration of new playground equipment. Mission elementary students could not wait to experience what was in store out on the playground. They have worked hard to earn the necessary funds to help make this happen. What they couldn't earn they showed thanks for at the Mission Playground Possible assembly.

The assembly started by tracing the project from beginning to end. Many of the donors were recognized and several were able to attend

• Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation: Jack Gilbraith
• Blackfoot Telephone: Jim Blush
• Plum Creek Foundation: Rebecca Hendrix
• St. Ignatius PTO: Mary Leishman
• Indian Education Committee: Terry Durglo and Dana Hewankorn
• Recreation Brand: Jeremy Winters

In addition to the large donors that attended, we recognized all other contributions and donors as well. Students enthusiastically applauded each donor and contribution. The students showed the same love that was given with their applause. It was a proud day to be a Bulldog. After the assembly and the celebration concluded the playground was unlocked for student access.

I was so moved by the number of elementary students that came up to me and said "thank you." From kindergarten to the fifth grade, our kids know how to be grateful. In many cases it was a hug and then off to the new playground equipment. After seeing how much they enjoyed the new equipment, it only made me wish we could have gotten it to them even sooner.

This project has been a community project. Everyone has worked hard to earn the money and support needed to gain the needed attentions of larger donor organizations. Our community was determined to make this project happen. It wasn't easy, but it was worth it. We had walk-a-thons, pennies for playground, Tupperware sales, silent auctions, pizza sales, pathways for playgrounds and GoFundMe websites in order to earn the money needed to get the flywheel moving. Once it got started, the momentum has continued into the next playground equipment project in the upper playground. We have already collected over $13,200. Another $24,000 and we will have the funds to apply to another matching grant and install our next playground structure.

So many have done so much. As a collective whole, Mission answered the call of our students' needs. This project will serve as a template to follow for mobilizing a community. Mission is a great example of community mobilization.  Now...lets go out an get another $24,000 for the upper playground.

See the Missoulian for their coverage of the Mission Playground "Made" Possible assembly.

OUR GOLD STAR

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

This is the 23rd year that NBC Montana has recognized outstanding teachers through the "GOLD STAR AWARD" program. According to NBC Montana: "This program brings public recognition to educators (K-12) who have made significant contributions toward better education."

This year, our very own high school English teacher, Sara Keast, was not only nominated, but the recipient of the GOLD STAR.  Congratulations Sara for winning the KECI Gold Star Award! We are all so proud of you! See video below for more information.

Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation Donates $10,000 to Mission Possible Playground

Chief Executive Officer, Jack Gilbraith presents a $10,000 check to Tammy Demien and Bob Lewandowski

by Superintendent Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

The Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation awarded a grant to Mission Possible Playground for $10,000 in 2014 for the lower playground equipment and another $10,000 in 2015 for the upper playground equipment. Principal Tammy Demien wrote the grant for $20,000 and the school was awarded the grant last Friday, December 5, 2014.

I can't begin to tell you how excited we are to have this type of donation to add to our community efforts. This brings our total fundraising up to $60,224.21 for the lower playground equipment and $10,000 for the upper playground. We are so grateful for the Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation. Their donation/grant is so generous. It will make a difference in the lives, health and well being of the children we serve in our community.

The equipment is set to arrive this week in St. Ignatius. We will continue to accept donations until the upper playground equipment is funded. At this time we are short $168 from completely funding the lower playground. WE ARE ALMOST THERE!

THIS IS MISSION POSSIBLE!

Administration Team Presents to the Salish Kootenai Tribal Council

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

Superintendent Lewandowski and the district administrative team presenting to the CSKT Council. Photo by Penny Kipp

The St. Ignatius Administration Team presented its annual report on Indian Policies and Procedures as well as data outcomes for the district on Tuesday, December 2, 2014 to the Salish Koontenia Tribal Council. Superintendent Bob Lewandowski, Elementary Principal Tammy Demien, Middle School Principal Dan Durglo, High School Principal Jason Sargent, Technology Director Matt Lyon, District Clerk Adam Hawkaluk and District Test Cordinator Susan Weaselhead presented data outcomes for 2013-2014 school year.


As Superintendent, this has been a pleasant task. With the learning success in the district, it is hard not to see our growth as anything but an opportunity to celebrate this school district's success. Our American Indian scores are especially impressive. The progress made in four years received praise from the Council. They take note of the work being done here at Mission and want to collaborate as much as possible. In their response to the presentation, you could see that they care about people, not just tribal students, but all students and families alike.  It is partnerships like this that make St. Ignatius School District #28 MISSION POSSIBLE.

Missoula Children's Theatre Does It Again

The cast of Blackbeard the Pirate

by Superintendent Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

Missoula Children's Theatre presented "Blackbeard the Pirate" on November 21 and 22. It was a fantastic presentation of Mission children on stage. It never ceases to amaze me how much confidence and growth take place when a child has an opportunity to be on "stage." Parents are so proud of their children and their children as so happy to make their families proud. No matter the production, Missoula Children's Theatre makes our kids look great!

Special thanks to everyone who has contributed to make this production an annual event.

NOW that's HCA Baby!

Click "READ MORE" to see all photos.

VOLLEYBALL B-6 Consolation Winners

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

Congratulations to the Varsity Volleyball Team. Seen in the photo after they won the Divisional Tournament Qualification Match beating Deer Lodge in 5 sets. The Lady Bulldogs ended the day as the Consolation Winners in the Region B-6 Tournament. They defeated Ronan in 3 straight sets. (The Lady Bulldogs own the bragging rights winning two of the three matches played against the Maidens).

Prep Athlete of the Week

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

Senior Steven Bravo carried the ball 16 times for 207 yards against Loyola Sacred Heart in a District 6-B victory. Bravo scored two touchdowns in the victory. He was selected at the Prep Athlete of the Week for October 16, 2014. Congratulations STEVEN! You make us MISSION PROUD!

Steven Bravo running for a touchdown!

2014 Maryfrances Shreeve Award for Teaching Excellence

 

by Superintendent Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

  On Friday, April 18, 2014, the University of Montana and the Phyllis J. Washington College of Education & Human Services celebrated the success of its students and many connections with individuals, communities and partners at its annual banquet. It was a wonderful evening of celebration and connections with so many educators and future educators. This year, our very own kindergarten teacher Brenda Clouser was heralded under the spotlight as the Maryfrances Shreeve Award winner for Teaching Excellence.

Maryfrances Shreeve was a much loved master teacher. She taught in Montana for thirty-seven years. She spent several of those years teaching right here at Mission.  Maryfrances Shreeve epitomized the dedicated, concerned and committed master teacher who set the standard for excellence in teaching today. The evening echoed her commitment to learning and Brenda Clouser accomplishments and success were celebrated in receiving this award.

Upon receipt of the award, Brenda received $2,000 for herself and $1,000 for her school district. Brenda has asked that the money be spent on additional leveled reading books for the lower grades. Congratulations Brenda Clouser. We are all so proud of you!

Leadership Learning: Discovering Best Practices at the National Level

 by Superintendent Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

This trip to Nashville, Tennessee started with cold weather, a head cold and a late arrival.  I am now sitting in a "Thought Session" with Alan Blankstien (author of Failure Isn't An Option) along with my wife and daughter. Learning and leadership have become a family thing. Almost all of our conversations at the table, in the car and around the house surround school and its many functions. I guess it only makes sense that my family saved their money to attend with this national venue with me. At least we will have more common ground for future family discussion.

So far, what I have found is a lot of  affirmation, with a few leadership twists and approaches to create capacity,  for the Five Essential Elements of Learning:

THE FIVE ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS of LEARNING
1. Focus on Learning
2. Collaborative Culture
3. Clearly Define What Every Student Needs To Learn
4. Consistently Measure Our Effectiveness
5. Systematically Respond When Students Don't/Do Learn

During my learning experience here in Nashville, I will do my best to share the experiences

HAPPY EASTER NEIL EASTER

by Superintendent Robert "Bob" Lewandowski 

Today, I can't help but reflect on the loss of my good friend and this district's long time employee, Neil Easter. We laid him to rest a little less than a month ago. This has been very difficult for the district staff and myself. I know others morn as well. With a last name like "Easter," and today being "Good Friday," it seems only right to speak to this loss.

Neil worked at St. Ignatius School District for almost 30 years. He brought his family here from Ohio out of a love for Yellowstone, the West and the great landscapes of Montana (as well as its world class fly-fishing). His wife, Joyce, was the first to be employed at the District. Neil soon followed as a Title I paraprofessional.

It wasn't long before Neil became the Business Manager and Clerk of the District. He kept the District in good financial standing. He was meticulous in his duty: every "t" was crossed and every "i" dotted. Most importantly, he cared about the kids of Mission. Neil Easter was "student" centered.

One of the first people I met on my interview, four years ago, was Neil. He shook my hand and introduced himself saying "Ah Doo." He was a 71 year old Business Clerk who had just lost his wife to cancer. Having just lost my 21 year old daughter, Ashton, to tragic car accident in Wyoming, Neil and I were good medicine for one another. Medicine that I needed. We spent a number of our coffee breaks talking about our losses and the anticipation of the future. He was as much an anchor for me as I was for him.

Neil was a strong man, but he couldn't help but wipe a tear away when talking about Joyce. He was just as proud of his sons and their accomplishments. Our conversations did our hearts good. He was a man to be trusted. I moved my family here without any formal connections to anyone. Neil stepped up to make Montana a home for me and my family. He was my daughter's, Stephanie's Senior Project Adviser and so much more to my family. On Sundays, he occupied the last pew in the back of the church at St. Ignatius. I knew that whatever I needed (I mean whatever), he would be there to offer assistance. These types of things don't happen in this day and age. Neil Easter is the exception. I fondly refer to him as one of my best friends.

From the empty chair in his office, the pathetic coffee he brewed, to the desk he occupied during board meetings, I and so many others miss him. These daily reminders sadden me at times, but at the same time they warm my heart knowing that I, and so many others, are better because we had met Neil Easter.

 Just this last fall we recognized Neil at the homecoming assembly for Making the Difference. We dedicated the new Student Commons to Joyce Easter after its completion three years ago. Many have suggested we include Neil's name in that dedication. One thing is for sure, his service will not go unnoticed and unrecognized by this district. A plan for such a dedication is in the making.

Happy Easter, Mr. Neil Easter: thank you for coming to Montana.

PIZZA FOR PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT

Don't miss the opportunity to support our playground equipment needs and eat pizza at the same time. This coming FRIDAY, March 21, 2014 from 11:00 AM until 8:00 PM Cornerstone Pizza will be donating 100% of the cost and profits of all of it's menu items to MISSION POSSIBLE PLAYGROUND!

Technology Director, Matt Lyon and I were able to get the Cornerstone management in to do our first Pod Cast here at St. Ignatius. I talked both Matt and Lynn into being the star presenters of the cast and well...click on the icon below to find out more information about this important initiative.

BUY A PIZZA, BUILD A PLAYGROUND!

BUILDING FOUNDATIONS OF LEARNING

 by Superintendent Robert "Bob" Lewandowski 

At the January 31, 2014 *PIR Day, Ken Williams from Solution Tree brought in a moral imperative and echoed the district's need to adopt, implement, and practice the Five Essential Elements of Learning (FEEL). FEEL, as we call it,  is the framework he presented for assuring student success. His presentation stems from professional development that the administrative team received in Seattle, WA last August 2013. It also aligns with Learning by Doing (a handbook for professional learning communities at work) by DuFour, DuFour, Eaker and Many that was purchased and distributed to each faculty member at the first faculty inservice in August. Ken provided an essential follow up to the professional development and direction set by the district at the beginning of the school year.

Ken William (MISSION POSSIBLE)

THE FIVE ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS of LEARNING
1. Focus on Learning
2. Collaborative Culture
3. Clearly Define What Every Student Needs To Learn
4. Constantly Measure Our Effectiveness
5. Systematically Respond When Students Don't/Do Learn

These FIVE essential elements of learning will become a staple in our educational delivery here at Mission. It is the administrative team's goal to make these five elements a common understanding with all stakeholders (teachers, parents, students, staff and community). We will learn them, we will develop them and we will practice them.

At the PIR, our staff focused on our current reality (where we are now) and began to identify their desired reality (where we want to be) in relationship to the FIVE ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF LEARNING.

For example, our staff examined five different types of schools:

• "A" School - Where learning is based upon student ability.
• "B" School - Where learning takes place only if the student takes advantage of the opportunities to learn within the school.
• "C" School - Where all students can learn something, and we will create a warm pleasant environment to learn.
• "D" School - Where all students can learn and we will do whatever it takes to help students learn and achieve the agreed upon curriculum/standards.

After examining these 4 types of schools, each staff member was asked to anonymously identify schools in the following scenarios:

1. Most of the instructional staff said they attended schools like "A" and "B."

2. The staff identified our current reality (the school we have now) as a school that is most like "B", "C", and "D" (There was an equal distribution of votes between these three schools).

3. The staff said the they most wanted to work in a "D" type of school (where we want to be).

4. Most importantly, our staff said that they would most want their own children to attend a "D" type of school (where we should be).

This staff development opportunity confirmed district direction and provided additional stability in our foundations of learning.   

NOTES: *A pupil instruction-related day (PIR) is a day of teacher activities devoted to improving the quality of instruction. Districts may receive funding for up to a total of 7 PIR days or a maximum of 42 hours. A minimum of 3 days of professional development (6 hours of contact time per day in no less than 2-hour increments for a total of 18 hours)must be scheduled for all professional staff. PIR time must NOT include any time also counted as pupil instruction time. Professional development is defined in the Mo ntana School Accreditation Standards (ARM 10.55.714 and ARM10.65.101).

WINTER SPORTS PROMOTIONAL POSTERS

I worked with Activity Director Rich Ferris to developed a Winter Sports Calendar for Wrestling, Boys & Girls Basketball. We were very fortunate to have a number of community businesses and members support our teams and purchase posters to put up in their establishments. The proceeds will be used to off-set unforeseen costs like the new track program here at Mission.

I would like to thank all of those that pitched in to help make this endeavor successful. It is great exposure for our senior athletes as well as our school and community. Now lets get our fans to sequel this effort and come out and support our kids. See the schedules for times and dates.

PUNT PASS & KICK CHAMPION

Girls can play the game too! Second grader, Izabel Evans won the Punt Pass & Kick Championship  and attended the Monday Night Football game at Seattle where the Seahawks embarrased the New Orleans Saints 34-7. Izzy won the Girls 6 & 7 year old division just as easily, out distancing the runner-up by 42' 2".

It is great celebrating a CHAMPION! Well don Izzy Evans! OHhh Yeah!!

Izabel Evans: 1st Place Punt Pass & Kick. Punt: 36'10", Pass: 36'3", Kick: 32'2".

COMMUNITY BREAKFAST MONDAY

 by Superintendent Robert "Bob" Lewandowski 

 Get ready and buckle up for the monthly Community Breakfast on Monday, October 7, 2013 starting at 7:30 AM until 9:00 AM. 

This is our monthly opportunity to communicate with students, parents and the community at large about Mission Schools. 

Topics of discussion vary from District and School Improvement Goals, Initiatives, Friday Night activities, supplemental education programs to Title services and budgets.  Our slide and video presentations showcase Mission students and community. We INVITE YOU to join us and be a part of MISSION POSSIBLE!

See you Monday over a cup of Coffee and hot breakfast (biscuits & gravy)!

NORMAN ROCKWELL MOMENT: Mission middle school student making some final adjustments before the snap of the ball.

MAKING THE DIFFERENCE

 by Superintendent Robert "Bob" Lewandowski 

 It was a privilege to honor District Clerk, Neil Easter at the Homecoming Assembly last Friday afternoon. He is definitely a "rock." The entire school district, K-12, gave Neil a standing ovation for his loyal dedication and unwavering commitment to Saint Ignatius Public Schools!

We thanked Mr. Easter for his outstanding contributions toward our school over the past 29 years and for making it stand above the rest.  

Once again, thank you NEIL EASTER, for MAKING THE DIFFERENCE!

SENIOR ATHLETES

It is always a pleasure to be able to recognize our senior athletes. Just recently I teamed up with our Activity Director Rich Ferris and Technology Director Matt Lyon and took some promotional photos of our football and volleyball senior athletes. I took the pictures on the stage and then in cooperation with Matt Lyon we were able to do some creative photoshop work in the background.

Once again, we believe that it is important to provide multimedia products to affirm, commemorate and permeate the positive student experience here at Mission Schools. I think these photos are an example of just that.

If you would like to download a high resolution photo, please go to our Mission Possible Photography site where you can find these and other other photos.

2013 Senior football Players: Ryce Hegwood, Patrick Eichert and Jarred Brown.

2013 Senior Volleyball Players: Courtney Charlo, Gina Linsebigler, Kaylie Durglo and Kayla Billette.

Congratulations and good luck seniors!

THE CLASS OF 2013

   
by Superintendent Robert "Bob" Lewandowski 

Below is a letter I sent the the parents and guardians of this year's graduating class. Since it takes a community to raise a child, I would like to share the same sentiments with all of those that contributed to the success of our graduating students. 

Dear Parents and/or Guardians,

I wanted to take the opportunity to let each of you know how proud I am of the students graduating this year. The Class of 2013 has provided the highest standard of leadership for our school and community. There are five seniors that have athletic scholarships in this class alone. I can’t ever remember being at a school that has had such a high number of athletic scholarships.

Athletics are not the only thing this class excels at. This class is one of the highest scoring classes on our state assessments in recent history. The students that make up the Class of 2013 are smart, athletic, fun, diligent, kind and considerate of others. They are winners! Most important, they are a great group of young men and women! As their parents or guardians, I am sure you are so proud. Their peers, teachers, administrators and the community alike, will miss each of them next year.

I am looking forward to the ceremony on Saturday, June 8, 2013 at 2:00 PM to celebrate the Class of 2013. I especially look forward to shaking their hands. I also know they haven’t done all of this on their own; therefore, I just wanted to formally congratulate their families and YOU, the guardians and parents, for raising such fine, up-standing young men and women.

Thank you for everything you’ve done to contribute to the success of your child. It has been an honor to witness and share this success. Well done!

BEST OF LUCK CLASS OF 2013!

COMMUNITY SHOWCASE

The district would like to invite you to the St. Ignatius School Community Showcase on April 25, 2013 from 4:30 PM until 7:30 PM.  We are serving a FREE Spaghetti Dinner from 5:00 PM until 6:30 PM in the Mulch-purpose Room (Cafeteria).

There is a talent show, gift give-aways, book drawings and much, much more.

See you there!