Board Recognizes Retirements and Service
The Montague Area Public Schools Board of Education meeting on April 13 reflected both transition and appreciation, as district leaders acknowledged several longtime staff members preparing to retire.
Those recognized included Zach Burmeister, maintenance coordinator, Tricia Coppess, secondary teacher with 26 years of service, Paula Nuttall, Title I paraprofessional with 14 years, Jim Perreault, middle school principal with 12 years, Michelle Pulver, administrative assistant, and Tina Whiting, elementary teacher with 26 years of service.
Together, the group represents a wide range of roles that have supported students both inside and outside the classroom, from daily operations to instructional leadership.
The board emphasized the lasting impact these individuals have had on the school community, noting that their work has helped shape the experiences of countless students over the years.
The moment underscored a key theme of the meeting: change is coming, but it is built on a strong foundation of experience and commitment.
Literacy Focus Signals Long Term Academic Strategy
As part of their regular principal reports, Jennifer Stoneman, principal of the Montague Area Childhood Center, and Sandie Lundquist, principal of RRO Elementary, shared an update on the district’s ongoing implementation of the Bookworms literacy program.
The program reflects a shift away from memorization based learning toward deeper language understanding. Students are learning word patterns, syllables, and structure to build lasting reading skills rather than short term recall.
Stoneman and Lundquist explained that the goal is not just stronger readers, but more thoughtful ones. By engaging with real literature, students are encouraged to see themselves in stories while also gaining perspective on others’ experiences.
The update also emphasized the district’s broader focus on developing both academic skills and emotional awareness, as students build comprehension alongside empathy.
Student Voice Takes Center Stage
A highlight of the evening came from middle school students in the Hope Squad, who shared their efforts to support mental health awareness.
The group described initiatives such as stress relief activities, community building events, and outreach efforts designed to help students feel seen and supported. One event alone drew more than 80 participants, demonstrating strong peer engagement.
Their presentation brought a human element to the meeting, showing how student led efforts are shaping school culture in meaningful ways. It also reinforced the district’s growing focus on student well being alongside academics.
Mrs. Hain with two members of the middle school Hope Squad
High School Updates Highlight Student Achievement and Milestones
Following the Hope Squad presentation, Montague High School Principal Christy Thommen shared updates during her meaningful minute, highlighting a busy and important stretch of the school year.
Among the highlights, Thommen recognized the high school choir for earning a Division 1 rating at festival, marking a notable achievement for the program.
She also outlined the district’s upcoming state testing schedule, including SAT, PSAT, MSTEP, and WorkKeys assessments, noting a shift toward online testing that has streamlined the process for students and staff.
Thommen pointed to several upcoming events that reflect both tradition and community connection. Prom is scheduled for April 26 at The Back Forty at Double JJ, while the district’s Ride with Pride vehicle, donated by Twin Cities in Whitehall, will be awarded on May 8.
She also shared that Montague will host a state band festival on April 22, bringing students and visitors from across the region into the district.
Ride with Pride vehicle, donated by Twin Cities in Whitehall
Facilities, Safety, and Community Preparedness
Several updates focused on district infrastructure and preparedness.
The board discussed ongoing work related to property easements, utility upgrades, and drainage improvements across district sites. While technical in nature, these updates point to long term planning aimed at maintaining safe and functional facilities.
In addition, the district approved an agreement with the Red Cross to allow school buildings to serve as emergency shelters if needed. This positions Montague schools as a key resource during potential community crises.
Key Decisions Shape the Year Ahead
The board took action on several items that will directly impact students and staff in the coming years.
2026–27 School Calendar Approved
The calendar largely mirrors previous years, maintaining a balance between instructional time and breaks. However, adjustments to parent teacher conferences aim to improve accessibility and participation.
Fire Protection Upgrades Considered
The board approved moving forward with potential upgrades to fire protection systems at district buildings. The investment is intended to improve safety and provide more precise system monitoring.
Chromebook Purchase Approved
A purchase of 275 Chromebooks was approved ahead of schedule, saving the district an estimated 22,000 dollars due to rising costs. The devices will support instruction and assessment as part of an ongoing technology rotation plan.
What This Meeting Signals Moving Forward
While much of the meeting included routine approvals, the larger takeaway is clear.
Montague Area Public Schools is balancing immediate operational needs with long term investments in learning, safety, and student support. From literacy improvements to mental health initiatives and infrastructure planning, the district is positioning itself for both stability and growth.
As the school year moves toward its conclusion, the focus now shifts to implementation and impact, particularly how these decisions will shape the student experience in the months and years ahead.
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