Kalispell Public Schools trustees are floating a bond this September for eight new classrooms and a new central kitchen. If voters approve the bond, new classrooms would be constructed to aid crowded classes throughout the district. A new central kitchen would also be built at Kalispell Middle School.
Officials from the school district are hoping to emphasize the importance of the upgrades at upcoming events. Community members have three opportunities to tour local schools and see where bond funds would be spent.
District Chef Malcolm Orser will lead a cooking demonstration in the current central kitchen at Flathead High School on Aug. 9, from 5:45 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The cooking class will be the first of its kind in the district and feature assorted vegetables grown in school gardens as part of the education and health goals promoted by new Food Service Director Jennifer Montague. Each guest will receive copies of recipes and be able to taste food from several courses prepared by Chef Orser. Orser, the head chef for the local school district, was named the A.C.F. Atlanta Chef of the Year in 2002 and has been a certification examiner for the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line since 2008.
“I will be sharing several simple techniques that are not only tasty, but anyone can do themselves at home,” Orser said, “and I’m really looking forward to meeting community members to share my passion for cooking.”
Space is limited and registering ahead of time is recommended. Call 751-3432.
On Sept. 4, Peterson Elementary School will welcome members of the community to tour classrooms between 1 and 3 p.m. Last year Peterson transported over 100 students from surrounding neighborhoods to other schools because of overcrowding. Students return from summer break on this date, so visitors are required to call Melissa in the Peterson front office (751-3737) to arrange specific times. Principal Rick Anfenson will be one of the guides available to answer questions.
In mid-August, Edgerton Elementary School will host a public comment session on the proposed blueprints for new classrooms and a central kitchen. The district architect will share what a successful bond would build. Visit the Kalispell Public Schools website at www.sd5.k12.mt.us and click on the bond information link to read details and updates.
Kalispell’s school district has failed to meet state accreditation standards in kindergarten through second-grade classes in recent years. Voters approved a levy in May that provided the elementary district with $211,500 dollars for more staffing.