Welcome to the Ketchikan Borough
School District, 2012-2013

     As the 2012-2013 school year starts we have a great deal to celebrate from last year. Two elementary schools were recognized by the state as schools of excellence and ready to receive national Blue Ribbon Awards.  Mark O'Brien was recognized by British Petroleum as Teacher of the Year, Katy Hook was Alaska Paraprofessional of the Year, and Alex Pankow, a KayHi Senior, received the Presidential Scholar. District-wide ACT scores exceeded state and national averages in all categories. These are just a few of the many achievements of schools, staff and students last year.

     During the 2012-13 school year the District is adopting a new teacher evaluation process, engaging the Department of Education School Improvement planning tools, and continuing to develop the
RtI (Response to Intervention) and PBS (Positive Behavior Support) programs. Although we experienced a number of successes, the math scores on Standards Based Assessments were not what we expected. Staff development and instructional review for math strategies are part of our focus for 2013.

     Parent and community involvement are essential ingredients of successful schools. A goal of the Board of Education is to expand on community participation in the decision making process of our schools. You are encouraged to contact your child’s teacher, talk with the school principal, participate in the Parent Teacher Associations, attend Board meetings, or all of the above. New websites are being developed, PowerSchool (Parent’s direct access to their child’s school grades and attendance) has been upgraded, FlashNews, a voluntary sign-up for email and cell phone communications, and a Face Book site are operating, all in effort to keep you informed.

I am honored and excited to serve the community, staff, and students of KGBSD.   If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me.