Superintendent Messages

Dear Cache Families,

For many years, our district has made early literacy a top priority. Recent Acadience data, the statewide assessment used to measure reading progress, show that 79.2% of our third-grade students are reading at or above grade level, compared to 70.5% statewide. This strong performance reflects steady improvement over time and the impact of intentional, early instruction.

This progress is the result of a comprehensive, systemwide approach that begins early and builds year after year. Over the past two years, the district has implemented full-day kindergarten, giving our youngest learners the time they need to develop strong foundational skills in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. This expanded learning time allows teachers to identify and address reading challenges early, before gaps widen.

At the same time, we have invested heavily in training all teachers and principals in the Science of Reading instructional strategies. This shared understanding ensures consistent, evidence-based literacy instruction across classrooms and schools, and strengthens instructional leadership so that reading remains a priority at every level.

A key component of our early intervention efforts has also been the continued support and training of paraeducators who work alongside classroom teachers to provide targeted reading support for students who need additional time and practice. These trained professionals play a vital role in accelerating progress and reinforcing essential skills for struggling readers.

Equally important, our classrooms use high-quality instructional materials aligned to the Science of Reading. These materials give educators the tools they need to deliver structured, effective instruction while responding to individual student needs through data-informed decisions.

Recently, the governor and legislature have increased their focus on third-grade reading proficiency, including discussions about retention. While any conversation about retention can be concerning for families, our district’s long-standing emphasis on early identification, timely intervention, and continuous progress monitoring means that the number of students ever considered for retention is already very small. Most importantly, any future retention decisions will always be made thoughtfully, individually, and in close coordination and cooperation with parents.

Our goal remains clear: to ensure every child becomes a confident reader as early as possible. Through full-day kindergarten, well-trained educators, early intervention, and strong partnerships with families, we will continue to support students long before retention is ever a consideration and help every learner build a strong foundation for lifelong success.

Parents play an important role in helping their children become successful readers. I encourage parents to read to their children from a wide variety of books, beginning with picture books to complex novels. As children develop the mechanics of reading and experience literacy at home, they will be on the path of lifelong learning.

I appreciate our hardworking teachers, paraeducators, and principals who provide a solid foundation for all students to become successful readers. 

Warmly,

Todd McKee

Dear Cache Families,

There’s a simple story I keep coming back to lately.

President Benjamin Harrison once said the ideal schoolhouse could be imagined as a teacher and a student sitting together on a log. No desks. No walls. No technology. Just two people, side by side, learning together.

At first, that sounds a little strange. After all, our schools today are full of classrooms, electronic devices, textbooks, and carefully designed spaces. But that’s kind of the point. Harrison wasn’t saying these things don’t matter—he was reminding us that learning starts with relationships.

If real learning can’t happen in a simple moment between a teacher and a student, then no amount of technology or programs can make it happen.

I see “log moments” like this every day across our district:

• A teacher kneeling next to a student who finally “gets it.”
• A quiet check-in that turns a rough day around.
• A coach or advisor offering encouragement at just the right moment.
• A staff member taking the time to really listen.

These moments don’t always show up in data or reports, but they are what make schools work.

As we continue to grow, open new buildings, and adopt new programs and strategies, this story is a good reminder of what matters most. Our goal is to make sure every classroom, hallway, and learning space supports what that log represents—connection, curiosity, and care.

Thank you to our teachers, staff, families, and students for creating those moments every day. They may look simple, but they make all the difference.

I wish everyone in Cache County School District a wonderful, warm, and joyful New Year.

Sincerely,

Dr. Todd McKee
Superintendent

Dear Cache Families,

December always brings a chance to pause and appreciate the good happening in our schools. I’m grateful for our students, families, and staff who continue to support one another and keep our focus on learning and growth.

This time of year can be busy, so I hope everyone can find moments to rest, connect, and enjoy the season. The small things—kind words, helping hands, and everyday wins in our classrooms—are what make our district a great place to be.

Thank you for your support and partnership. I wish you and your family a warm, safe, and relaxing holiday season.

Warmly,

Dr. Todd McKee
Superintendent

Dear Cache County School District community,

November invites us to pause and look around with gratitude. In a season that can feel full and fast, I want to simply say thank you—to our students who show up with curiosity and heart; to our families who partner with us through the routines and the surprises; and to our staff who keep promises every day—teaching, driving, cleaning, cooking, counseling, coaching, repairing, scheduling, and quietly making sure every child is seen and supported.

Our values guide our shared work—student-centered, community, character, and excellence. I see those values come to life in a hundred small ways: a kind word at drop-off, a bus safely pulling in on a snowy morning, a paraprofessional celebrating a reading breakthrough, a custodian’s hallway that gleams, a nutrition team that knows students by name, and a teacher who stays a few extra minutes to listen. These everyday choices build trust and create the conditions that enable students to thrive.

This month also gives us opportunities to learn and honor together:

• Veterans Day (Nov. 11): We are grateful for those who have served and continue to serve. Thank you to our schools for planning assemblies and classroom activities that teach both history and the importance of gratitude.
   
• Native American Heritage Month: We celebrate the rich histories, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of Native peoples. Thank you to the teachers and librarians who elevate authentic voices and resources throughout November and beyond.
   
• Thanksgiving: May your time with family and friends be restful and filled with meaning. I hope everyone finds a moment to unplug, recharge, and return refreshed.

Gratitude in Action

If you’re looking for simple ways to spread thanks this month:

• Write a brief note to a staff member who made a positive impact on your student.
   
• Ask your child, “Who helped you today?” and send that person a thank-you email.
   
• Notice and name the good—on the field, on the stage, and in the classroom.
   
• Consider a small act of service as a family: donate winter gear, shelf-stable food, or gently used books to a local drive.

As we head toward the final week of the trimester—with concerts, showcases, and winter activities—I’m proud of the way our community shows up for one another. Thank you for the trust you place in our schools and for the kindness you model for our students.

With respect and gratitude,

Dr. Todd McKee
Superintendent

Dear CCSD Families,

As we enter October, I want to express my sincere appreciation to our students, staff, families, and community for helping us launch another successful school year. The start of 2025–26 has been one of the smoothest in recent memory—thanks to the preparation, professionalism, and teamwork demonstrated across every school and department. From the first bus routes to the first bell, it’s clear that Cache County remains a place where learning thrives and people care deeply about doing what’s best for students.

This fall also marks the beginning of a new Cache County School District tradition—the presentation of our Challenge Coins. These coins are given to individuals who exemplify our district’s core values of Student-Centered, Community, Character, and Excellence. Each coin represents both a recognition and a challenge—a recognition of those who model our values in exceptional ways, and a challenge to the rest of us to continually strive to represent those same ideals in our work and relationships.

Recently, we had the privilege of presenting Challenge Coins to four English teachers at Sky View High School whose efforts have led to remarkable academic growth. Over the past four years, their students’ average English ACT scores have increased from 16 to 22, placing Sky View among the top-performing schools in the state. This achievement reflects not only skillful instruction but also persistence, collaboration, and a shared belief in what students can achieve.

As autumn brings cooler weather and color changes, it’s a good time to pause and celebrate the many small and large successes happening throughout our district. Whether it’s a teacher inspiring curiosity, a custodian keeping our schools safe and clean, a bus driver greeting students each morning, or a parent supporting learning at home—each of these actions strengthens our community and moves us closer to our mission of excellence for all.

Thank you for continuing to make Cache County School District a place where dedication, purpose, and heart come together every day.

Warm regards,
 

Dr. Todd McKee
Superintendent

The Strength of Our Community 

September 3, 2025

Dear Cache Valley Community,

It's hard to believe we're already two weeks into the new school year! From exciting classroom discussions to new friendships on the playground, our students and teachers are fully engaged in the rewarding work of learning.

I believe our schools mirror the strength of our community. From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to ball fields, we have incredible schools because of the people who serve in them and the community that supports them. For that, I am deeply grateful. Thank you for your continued partnership to help students thrive.

We are committed to ensuring every student feels seen, heard, and valued. Here's to a year filled with curiosity, kindness, and inspiring moments that make a difference.

Warmly,

Welcome Back

Welcome back, Cache County School District!

I hope you’ve all had a chance to rest, recharge, and spend time with the people you love this summer. As we step into a brand-new school year, I’m reminded once again of what makes our district special—the people. Our students, families, and staff bring so much energy, care, and commitment to making our schools places where every child can learn and belong.

Our values—community, excellence, student focus, and character—aren’t just words we hang on a wall. They shape the way we treat one another and the choices we make every day. At the heart of it all is a promise: every student will be seen, heard, and valued.

We also have exciting things on the horizon. The opening of new schools in the 2026–27 school year will bring opportunities for growth, new connections, and fresh ideas. Change can feel challenging, but it’s also a chance to create something even better for our students and community.

Thank you for everything you do to make Cache County School District a place where students can thrive. Here’s to a year filled with learning, kindness, and the moments that remind us why we do this work.

Dr. Todd McKee
Superintendent
Cache County School District

On Truth in Taxation

August 29, 2025

Dear Cache Community,

I want to thank everyone who recently attended the district’s Truth in Taxation hearing. These conversations aren’t easy—taxes affect all of us in real and personal ways. As a member of this community with both young and old family members here in the valley, I take very seriously the district’s responsibility when it comes to levying taxes.

Many have asked about the district’s recent tax adjustment, and I want to clarify what’s on the property tax notices. The notices may be confusing because they lump several different taxes under “Cache Schools,” even though not all of them come to the Cache County School District. Of the four listed on the notice, one goes to the state, one to local charter schools, and only two flow directly into the district.

Within the district’s portion, one rate funds bonds, and the other—the largest—supports operations. That operations line actually combines three smaller rates, but the notice doesn’t show them separately. So, when one small rate goes up, it looks like the entire amount is increasing, when in reality, the others are decreasing. In fact, this year, five of the six rates tied to the district are going down, resulting in an overall decrease in school property tax rates.

Why raise one rate at all?
It’s a fair question, especially in uncertain times. The answer lies in how Utah funds schools. About two-thirds of our budget comes from the state. Unlike some large districts with big corporate tax bases, we rely heavily on state programs. One of these programs, which brings nearly $40 million into our district, requires us to maintain a certain level of local property tax as a local contribution. At least every five years, districts must adjust one of their rates to maintain a certain tax level to stay eligible. This will be changing to every two years after 2026.

Because property values in Cache Valley have risen sharply in recent years, our rates have steadily dropped. We intentionally delayed any changes as long as possible to save taxpayers, but this year we’ve reached the five-year mark. Without the adjustment, we would risk losing portions of those state funds—dollars that directly support our students and schools.

What about just cutting back?
Some have suggested the district should avoid raising the rate and instead absorb the loss by reducing spending. I understand the comparison—many families and businesses cut back when times are tight. But here’s the reality: our district has been running lean for years.

More than 80% of our budget goes to people—teachers, staff, and those who serve students every day. Yet we already have large class sizes, and we operate with fewer school and district administrators than nearly every district of our size. We’ve worked hard to raise starting pay to keep great teachers here, but that has meant deferring maintenance, delaying curriculum updates, managing without air conditioning in some older schools, and stretching aging technology.

Even so, we are careful with every dollar. Internal and external auditors review our spending. Every new hire goes through a contract center to ensure the position is necessary and within budget. Our goal is to squeeze the most value possible from every tax dollar entrusted to us.

A reflection of community
I believe our schools mirror the strength of our community. From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to ball fields, we have incredible schools because of the people who serve in them and the community that supports them. For that, I am deeply grateful.

Thank you for your ongoing trust and support.

Warmly,
Dr. Todd McKee
Superintendent, Cache County School District

Building Together

Dear Cache County Community,

As I wrap up my second year as superintendent, I wanted to take a moment to share a few things we’ve been working on together—and to thank you for being part of it.

This district has a unique story. It started small and rural, and over the years, it has grown quickly. That kind of growth brings both opportunities and challenges. Over the past two years, we’ve focused on one key question: how do we organize and improve our systems to support a large and growing district—without losing the close-knit community feel that makes this place special?

Much of our work has been guided by the district’s core values: being student-centered, fostering a strong sense of community, acting with character, and striving for excellence in ways that are steady and practical—not flashy, but real.

One of our first steps was creating district-wide committees with staff and parent representatives. These groups have helped guide decisions on curriculum updates, the 6th grade transition to middle school, the launch of a new magnet model for Dual Language Immersion, boundary changes through the Facilities Advisory Committee, and improvements in how we recruit and hire staff across the district. These haven’t always been easy conversations, but involving the right voices has helped us move forward in more thoughtful ways.

We’ve also worked to improve communication. We refreshed the district website, started a monthly newsletter (like this one), and implemented the Safe Arrival system to improve student attendance tracking and safety. These changes have helped us stay better connected with families, and we’re continuing to look for ways to keep the lines of communication open.

We’ve expanded opportunities for students as well. The DLI magnet model offers more consistency and sustainability for immersion programs. After much planning, we will also open our CAPS program in partnership with Bridgerland Technical College this fall to give students access to hands-on, career-connected learning experiences. These are real steps toward helping students discover what they’re good at and where they want to go next.

On the planning side, we’ve updated several board policies and developed a more regular review process. We also passed a bond to fund the construction of three new schools—something we’ll be working on over the coming years to ensure we can meet the needs of our students and communities.

We’re also trying to use data more effectively. We’ve completed a district-wide demographic study, evaluated all of our school buildings, and launched a new partnership with Utah State University to support program evaluation through the Analytics Solutions Center. These efforts help us make better decisions and keep improving over time.

These first two years have been a time of learning—for me and for the district. There’s still work to do, and we know we’re not perfect. But I feel good about the direction we’re heading, and I’m grateful to be working with a team and a community that cares deeply about our schools.

Thanks for your support of our work.

Warm regards,

Todd McKee, Ed.D.
Superintendent

Finishing Strong

Dear Cache County Families,

As we enter the final stretch of the school year, May brings both celebration and reflection. Across our district, classrooms are alive with learning, final projects, and preparations for year-end assessments. At the end of this month, we will gather as a community to celebrate one of the most meaningful milestones in a student’s educational journey—graduation.

Graduation is not just a ceremony but a powerful symbol of persistence, growth, and achievement. It represents the culmination of years of effort by students, families, and educators alike. As we honor our graduating seniors, we are reminded of the value of staying the course and the importance of finishing strong.

With just a few weeks left, now is the time to double down on two key priorities: attendance and academic performance.

Too often, students begin to disengage as the school year nears its end. But the research is clear—and our district data supports it: students who miss more than 10% of the school year are 10 times more likely to fail the following academic year. That’s the equivalent of just two days a month—every single day of instruction matters.

Attendance is not just about showing up—it's about staying connected to peers, building momentum in learning, and giving every student the best possible opportunity to succeed. As we’ve seen in our classrooms, students who attend regularly are far more likely to complete assignments, master standards, and build confidence that will carry them into the next grade and beyond.

To families, we say: help us finish strong by encouraging daily attendance and reinforcing the importance of every day between now and the last. To students: your effort matters—right up to the final bell. And to our staff: thank you for continuing to teach with excellence and care through the year's final weeks.

Let’s make May a month of strong finishes, lasting lessons, and joyful celebration. Together, we can ensure every student ends the year with momentum and pride.

Warm regards,

Todd McKee, Ed.D.
Superintendent

New Schools & Boundary Adjustments

Dear Families and Community Members,

As superintendent, it’s both an honor and a responsibility to ensure that every student in our district has access to high-quality learning environments that support their growth and success. I’m thrilled to share that, beginning in Fall 2026, we will open three brand-new schools to help accommodate our growing community and better serve our students.

With this exciting growth comes the need to adjust school boundaries across our district. This is a significant undertaking—one that we are approaching with careful planning, data-informed decisions, and meaningful community involvement.

Here’s what you can expect as we move through the boundary adjustment process:

• Fall 2024: A professional demographer will begin analyzing enrollment trends and population data to help us understand current and future needs.*
   

• January 2025: We will convene a Facilities Advisory Committee composed of parents, educators, and community members to review data and explore potential boundary options.
   

• June 2025: The committee will help develop a set of proposed boundary options based on their work and the data collected.
   

• Summer 2025: We’ll launch community surveys to gather input from families across the district—your voice is essential in this process.
   

• September/October 2025: We will hold public hearings to present the options and hear feedback directly from our community.
   

• December 2025: A public notice will be issued outlining the consideration of proposed boundary changes.
   

• January 2026: A final boundary adjustment proposal will be presented to the Board of Education for approval.
   

• Spring 2026: Families will be officially notified of any boundary changes that may impact them.
   

• Fall 2026: Our new schools will open, welcoming students into fresh, purpose-built learning spaces.
   

We understand that boundary changes can affect families in meaningful ways, including where your child attends school, transportation routines, and community connections. That’s why we are committed to being transparent, inclusive, and thoughtful throughout every step of this process.

Our goal is to create school boundaries that are equitable, sustainable, and reflective of our shared values. I encourage you to stay engaged, participate in surveys and public forums, and reach out with your questions and concerns along the way.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Together, we’re shaping the future of education in our district—and I couldn’t be more excited about what lies ahead.

Warmly,

Todd McKee, Ed.D.
Superintendent

*The results of this analysis are included in the March Board of Education Meeting summary and minutes.

Screen Time and Student Engagement

Dear Cache Community,

As we continue our mission to provide our students with the best possible learning environment, it is important to address the growing concern about excessive screen time and its impact on children’s well-being. Jonathan Haidt's compelling new book, "The Anxious Generation," sheds light on how the rise of smartphones and social media has contributed to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and social struggles among young people.

Haidt explains that over the past decade, the widespread use of smartphones and social media has reshaped childhood in ways that are causing significant harm. He highlights the troubling trends of declining mental health, reduced attention spans, and a decrease in face-to-face interactions among young people. One of the book’s key takeaways is that children benefit immensely from real-world socialization, free play, and limits on digital exposure.

As educators, we see firsthand how cell phones can be a distraction in the classroom. That’s why our district policy is clear: Cell phones and electronic devices should not interfere with student learning. This policy ensures that students are fully engaged in their education and social interactions without the constant pull of digital distractions.

Parents play a crucial role in supporting their children’s healthy development in a digital world. Here are some ways to help:

• Delay Smartphone Use – Haidt suggests waiting as long as possible before giving children smartphones. Many experts recommend waiting until at least high school.

• Encourage Face-to-Face Interaction – Promote real-life friendships and activities that foster in-person communication and emotional growth.

• Set Boundaries for Screen Time – Create clear guidelines for when and where devices can be used, such as keeping phones out of bedrooms at night and limiting social media access.

• Support the School Policy – Reinforce our district’s “off and away” policy by ensuring your child understands the importance of focusing on learning while at school.

• Model Healthy Habits – Children learn by example, so demonstrate balanced technology use in your own daily life.

By working together—schools, parents, and the entire community—we can help our children thrive in an increasingly digital world while safeguarding their mental and emotional well-being. Thank you for your partnership in creating a supportive, distraction-free learning environment for our students.

Sincerely,
Todd McKee, Ed.D.
Superintendent

Cultivating Strengths of Character

Dear Members of the Cache Community,

As February unfolds, I find myself reflecting on the values that shape our district and guide us toward a brighter future. Among the four key values of our district—Student-Centered, Community, Excellence, and Character—Character stands out as a foundational pillar. In our pursuit of excellence, it is essential that we nurture the character of every individual within our community. This month, I’d like to highlight three strengths of character that Angela Duckworth identifies as foundational: heart, mind, and will. These strengths define us as individuals and form the cornerstone of our district’s mission.

Character of the Heart
At the heart of our schools lies a commitment to fostering empathy, kindness, and meaningful connections. Every day, I witness students and staff going above and beyond to support one another. Whether it’s a student lending a helping hand to a classmate or a teacher offering encouragement during a challenging moment, these acts of compassion remind us of the importance of building a caring community. A recent example of this is Nibley Elementary’s "Mountains to Maui" project, highlighted last month, which demonstrated how our students and staff come together to support others with empathy and generosity. Let us continue to prioritize relationships and create an environment where everyone feels valued and supported.

Character of the Mind
Our district is dedicated to cultivating a love of learning and intellectual curiosity. Character of the mind involves critical thinking, creativity, and a growth mindset—qualities that prepare our students to thrive in an ever-changing world. In classrooms across the district, educators inspire students to ask questions, explore new ideas, and embrace challenges as opportunities to grow. Together, we strive to equip every learner with the tools they need to reach their fullest potential.

Character of the Will
Perseverance and determination are the driving forces behind success, and they are at the heart of our district’s commitment to resilience. Character of the will is about embracing hard work and maintaining focus even in the face of adversity. In Cache Valley, we know how to do hard things, and I am continually inspired by the grit and dedication displayed by our students, staff, and families. Whether tackling a difficult project, pursuing a personal goal, or overcoming obstacles, our community exemplifies the power of determination.

As we move through the month of February, I encourage all of us to reflect on how we can strengthen the heart, mind, and will in our daily lives. By doing so, we not only enrich our own character but also contribute to a thriving, vibrant school community.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support.

With gratitude,

Celebrating Service - Nibley Elementary's "Mountains to Maui" Initiative

Dear Cache Community,

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season. As we begin a new calendar year, Nibley Elementary reminds us of the power of community through its "Mountains to Maui" initiative. Under the guidance of teacher Sandy Curtis, along with 5th-grade teacher Melissa Houser and PTA President Becky Bankhead, the school came together to support families and schools in Hawaii still recovering from the Lahaina Fires. Their efforts included raising funds, collecting supplies, and delivering these gifts directly to the Maui community during a heartfelt service trip.

This project demonstrated the value of kindness and resilience. Nibley students and families raised over $2,500 and contributed thousands more in essential supplies, which the team brought to five Title I schools and a local nonprofit. While in Maui, they witnessed the determination of teachers and families striving to rebuild and provide safe, nurturing environments for children. Through this effort, Nibley students learned that small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

As we reflect on this accomplishment, we celebrate the character displayed by Nibley Elementary—students, staff, and families—in extending care and compassion across oceans. Special thanks to Kristen Bowen, Freckle Farm Garden Center, and everyone who supported this meaningful project. Here’s to a new year filled with opportunities to demonstrate kindness and make a positive impact!

Best,

World Kindness Day at Heritage Elementary

Dear Cache County Families,

As we reflect on the spirit of kindness and community this holiday season, I want to share a heartwarming event from Heritage Elementary that brought our students and staff together in a powerful way.

On World Kindness Day, under the leadership of Matthew Mallory, our dedicated school counselor, Heritage Elementary transformed into a hub of positivity and connection. Beginning bright and early at 8:30 AM, students gathered to learn about the power of kindness through a special lesson led by Mr. Mallory. The highlight? The launch of the Heritage Kindness Mail Services, complete with a mailbox and two mailman uniforms.

Students were encouraged to write kind and thankful letters to their peers, which Mr. Mallory and members of the 6th-grade Kindness Committee collected and sorted for delivery. By the end of the year, every student at Heritage Elementary will receive a piece of kindness mail—a beautiful reminder of the community’s compassion.

The day didn’t stop there. Each class received a list of 30 acts of kindness to complete, and for every act finished, students added a piece to a collaborative display outside the lunchroom. By the end of the day, Heritage Elementary had completed an astounding 810 acts of kindness, not including the letters exchanged!

To honor the occasion, all staff and the Kindness Committee donned their custom kindness shirts, while students wore their own kindness shirts or brightly colored attire. The event culminated with drone photos capturing the colorful celebration, creating lasting memories of a day dedicated to spreading joy and unity.

Mr. Mallory’s efforts to foster a culture of kindness exemplify the values we hold dear in our district. His innovative ideas and dedication have created lasting impressions, reminding us that even small gestures can have a big impact.

Thank you to the students, staff, and families who made World Kindness Day such a meaningful event. We are so proud of how our community comes together to lift one another up. I hope that as we enter the holiday season, we can all follow Mr. Mallory and our students at Heritage Elementary by sharing acts of kindness and compassion for others.

Warm regards,

Public Education - the Core of a Community

Dear Cache County School District Families,

As we close the election season, I have been reflecting on the critical role of public education. In a world inundated with information, disinformation, and diverse opinions, the educational foundation provided by our public schools is more vital than ever, not just for our students but for our entire community and form of government.

Public schools are more than just places to learn; they’re social hubs where kids can meet, families can connect, and diverse ideas can flourish. When students engage in classroom discussions and join extracurricular activities, they learn respect, empathy, and teamwork - values that help them become responsible citizens.

Plus, our schools are often the beating heart of our neighborhoods. They bring people together and create a sense of belonging. When we invest in public education, we’re really investing in the future of our community—making sure every child has access to quality and the opportunities that come with it.

These elections are the perfect moment to emphasize the role of public education and how important voting is, regardless of political beliefs. Voting isn’t just a right; it’s a responsibility. Every vote counts, and participating in elections ensures our voices are heard on the many issues facing our schools and community.

Among our core values as a school district is community, and the strength of this value makes Cache Valley stand out among the rest of the state. I appreciate all of the diligence and hard work of staff and parents, which has contributed to a great start to the school year and the district's overall success. It is a remarkable place to live, work, and raise our children.

I hope the transition to the holiday season is joyful and full of time with family and friends.

Warm regards,

School Safety

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I want to celebrate the excitement and energy that has filled our hallways at the start of a new school year. During my visits to each school, I have seen our students engaging in their studies, reconnecting with friends, and embracing the opportunities this year has to offer. I want to thank everyone for such a great start to the year.

In light of recent legislation, specifically Utah House Bill 84, we recognize the need to enhance our safety measures across the district. This bill emphasizes the necessity of creating a secure environment for our children, and we are committed to implementing the required improvements while maintaining a warm and welcoming learning environment.

At the heart of our district's values is a strong commitment to building a community where every student can thrive. We believe that fostering a nurturing environment goes hand in hand with ensuring their safety. Together, we can achieve a balance that prioritizes both the sense of community and the protective measures necessary for our students' well-being.

As we move forward, we will keep you informed about the measures we are putting in place and invite your feedback and involvement in these important discussions. Your partnership is crucial as we strive to create a safe and supportive environment for all our students.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our school community. Here’s to a wonderful school year ahead!

Warm regards,

Welcome to a New Year of School

Dear Cache County Community,

Welcome to the start of a new school year! I hope your family is off to a great beginning. As I visited each school over the first few days, I was delighted to see so many happy, eager faces, all excited for the year ahead. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our dedicated staff and teachers who spent their summer tirelessly preparing our classrooms and facilities. Our district thrives on community, and it is truly inspiring to witness the love and care that our community pours into our children.

As we embark on this new academic journey, I want to stress the critical importance of daily attendance. Across the state, we've seen a rise in chronic absenteeism since the pandemic, and our district is no exception. While some of this may be due to personal or family circumstances, it's essential to remember the unparalleled value of learning from a highly qualified teacher in the classroom.

The COVID-19 pandemic taught us many lessons, including the irreplaceable role of teachers. While we understand that unforeseen circumstances may occasionally prevent your student from attending school, I encourage you to aim for a 90% or better attendance rate this year. By doing so, I am confident that your student will have a successful and enriching school year.

Wishing you all the best,