BHS Principal Letter September

A Great Start to the Year at Buhl High School

The school year is off and running: classrooms are full, fall sports are underway, and the energy is up, like we never left for summer break. 

This year is especially meaningful to me as I begin my first year as principal of Buhl High School. After spending the past three years serving as assistant principal, I am beyond excited and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving our students, staff, families, and community in this new role. I have always had a deeply rooted love for Buhl and the people who make this community what it is. I am invested in the success of Buhl High School, and I hope to call Buhl home for many years to come.

We have had a fantastic start to the 2026–27 school year. Our enrollment numbers are up, and we are also seeing increased participation in athletics. With Buhl moving to the 3A classification this year, our fall sports are already in full swing. Football opened the season with an exciting win over New Plymouth, while volleyball, cross country, and both boys and girls soccer are underway as well, racking up some impressive wins. More important than wins and rankings, though, is seeing so many of our students choosing to get involved, represent their school, and support one another.

We have also welcomed a few new teachers to BHS this year. They have brought tremendous energy, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn and become part of our school community. Our returning staff have been equally committed to starting the year strong, and I continue to be impressed by the amount of work our teachers put into creating opportunities for students. 

That positive energy is carrying over to our students. We have already begun MAP testing using a new schedule and student incentives designed to encourage students to take ownership of their growth and show us what they are capable of. Our goal isn't simply to earn a certain score—it is to help every student recognize that growth matters and that their effort makes a difference.

Our Seniors (Class of 2027) haven't wasted any time, either. They have already had the opportunity to visit the Jae Foundation for their boots, and Senior Projects are getting underway. It is exciting to watch the Class of 2027 begin a year filled with “lasts” while also preparing for everything that comes after graduation.

Next on the horizon is Homecoming, and we are looking forward to bringing our students, staff, alumni, families, and community together to celebrate both new and longstanding Buhl traditions.

As I begin this new role, one of my biggest goals is for our community to see all of the good happening inside Buhl High School. There is so much to be proud of here. Our students are talented, our staff cares deeply about kids, and our community continues to show up for our school.

We have plenty of work ahead of us this year, but we are off to a great start—and I am incredibly excited to see where this year takes us.

Go Buhl!

Katie Horner

Principal, Buhl High School