School District 2 explores alternative options

Hopes to keep students in the district and increase graduation rates

At its regular meeting Monday, Oct. 13, the Big Horn County School District No. 2 Board of Trustees heard updates on several initiatives aimed at strengthening community partnerships and helping students succeed.

Middle school principal Lydia McCraken began by honoring eighth-grader Macee Winterholler as her Student of the Month, saying, “Macee is a smart young lady with a beautiful smile.” High school teacher Dane Robertson presented the high school award to Atlee Sanders, praising her for having “consistently demonstrated remarkable foresight, initiative and commitment to growth.”

Lovell High School Principal Craig Lundberg shared a vision for an alternative high school program designed for students who would benefit from a different approach to learning. The goal is to provide more flexible schedules, greater access to school-to-work experiences and a hybrid option that combines classroom instruction with online or independent study within the school building.

Lundberg emphasized that the program would not be an “easy way out.” Students would still need to meet the same graduation requirements as every other LHS student. He acknowledged that the first year would require additional teacher buy-in and extra effort as systems are built, but by the second year the district would be eligible for state funding tied to enrollment to help sustain the program.

The proposal is also intended to keep more students in the district. Lundberg noted that 13 students have already left this year for virtual or independent alternatives. He believes a local program could help raise graduation rates while keeping students enrolled. The district’s graduation rate last year was 81 percent, which falls below the state average. The school board gave Lundberg permission to continue pursuing the plan and come back later with a formal proposal.

LHS Athletic Director Chris Edwards presented a plan to formalize business sponsorships to support Lovell athletics. The program would allow advertising banners in the gym and on the football field and offer “game sponsorships” where a business could be featured in programs, set up a lobby booth or toss T-shirts to fans.

Details are still being developed, including pricing and banner sizes, but Edwards suggested a three-tier system to determine sponsorship levels. He has consulted with other schools, including Northwest College, and stressed that the rollout must be organized and professional so the banners look clean and consistent.

Superintendent William Hiser and Edwards both emphasized that the new effort is not intended to overlap with or replace any booster club activities. They praised the booster club’s work and said all funds raised through the sponsorship plan would go solely toward enhancing athletic programs and expanding student participation opportunities.

On the academic side, Lundberg reported enrollment of 241 students, up from 221 last year, and daily attendance at 97 percent. LHS continues to focus on improving ACT performance with a Canvas-based prep course built by counselor Tawnya Teter to replace a costly external program. He also highlighted supports such as Saturday school, before- and after-school tutoring and targeted English and math labs.

Student body president Charlotte Bair gave a homecoming report, calling it a “great success.” She thanked the “band, cheer and dance teams, which all just helped contribute to the school spirit environment,” adding, “We’re super, super grateful for all of them.” She expressed hope that the homecoming parade can continue next year with added safety measures. Bair also talked about the success of the fundraiser for former LHS volleyball coach Stormy Jameson.

Transportation remains a challenge. Despite new advertising in the newspaper and on Facebook, the district has received no new bus driver applications. Hiser said recruitment efforts will continue and that he plans to contact recent applicants for other positions to gauge interest in driving.

Hiser also announced an e-scooter safety program for all middle school students on October 25. After a few close calls in town, the Lovell Police Department will partner with the district to deliver the training.

The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held Tuesday, Nov. 11, at 7 p.m.