Community Update from Superintendent

 August 2025

Dear Students, Families, and Community Members,

As we begin the 2025–2026 school year, I want to provide an important update regarding district staffing and the use of levy funds recently approved by voters.

Staffing Update

Despite a thorough search, the district was unable to fill the high school principal position for the upcoming school year. In response, we have implemented a three-person interim administrative team to ensure strong leadership and ongoing support for our students, families, and staff.

This team-based model allows us to maintain essential school functions and provides continuity during this transitional period by leveraging the strengths of our internal leadership. The interim team will be structured as follows:

• Mrs. Kelly will serve as Acting High School Principal, leading on student and parent matters, and supporting staff. With support at the high school level, Mrs. Kelly will continue to provide strong leadership at the middle school as well.

• Mrs. Horner will serve as Vice Principal, focusing on attendance, minor discipline, IEP meetings, and other student support functions.

• I will oversee school operations, including reporting, staff evaluations, and extracurricular activities.

This interim solution reflects our district’s adaptability, our commitment to student success, and our confidence in the capabilities of our existing staff. While this leadership structure is temporary, it ensures the school year begins with a strong foundation of support and stability.

In addition, we continue to face a few unfilled staff positions. School staffing is a challenge not only for our district, but also for districts across the state as we continue to work through the complexities of a teacher shortage. To address this, several staff members have generously agreed to take on additional duties to meet student needs. We deeply appreciate their dedication and flexibility. Those assuming extra responsibilities will receive stipends in recognition of their time and commitment.

Levy Update

We are also pleased to provide an update on the levy that was successfully passed in May. The district will receive HB 292 funds on August 31, which help offset the tax burden for our community. Residents will see this reflected on their November property tax statements.

The annual levy amount of $650,000 will be allocated as follows to directly support our students and staff:

Purpose	Amount
Staffing	$330,000
Curriculum	$30,000
Transportation	$250,000
Teaching Supplies	$40,000
Total	$650,000

Please note that levy funds cannot be used for building maintenance. These needs are met through School Modernization funds and, when necessary, through the general fund. The levy funds will become available to the district August 31st and will be used as stated.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support of our schools. As always, our focus remains on creating a positive, supportive, and successful learning environment for all students. We are excited to begin another school year together.

Sincerely,

Angie Oparnico

Buhl School District Superintendent