As part of the community service portion of Teen Day , some of Mrs. Pacella's high school students planned a fun, hands-on lesson with Mr. DeShazer's 5th-grade students. They taught a lesson about the water cycle by making bracelets! It was a great opportunity for our younger students to learn from older peers while creating something memorable. Thank you to the high school students for sharing their knowledge and making science come to life!
Eureka Lions Sports is looking for head coaches for the upcoming school year! We are currently seeking Head Coaches for Boys Wrestling and Softball. Do you have a passion for mentoring students and making a positive impact in the lives of young athletes? We would love to hear from you! Interested applicants should email a letter of interest, resume, and coaching experience to Athletic Director Chad Dunn at cdunn@teameureka.net. Eureka Public School District #13 is an Equal Opportunity Employer. GO LIONS!
Thank you to our own Katie A, for your incredible work you do each day to support communication, learning, and student success. Your patience, creativity, and dedication make a lasting difference in the lives of our students, teams, and families.
The LCHS Spring is this
Tuesday May 19 from 5-8:00pm. Come check out projects our students have been working on all year. We will be showcasing work from Art, Music, Wood Shop, Welding, Biology, Fiber Arts, Culinary, Robotics, Native Agriculture, and Spanish. Snacks and refreshments available for purchase, and music starts at
5:30. Hope to see you there!
Our LCHS welding students have been working and practicing on their welding skills, and we are proud to say that we have had multiple students earned welding qualifications from FVCC. Congrats to Wyatt W-Flat, Hunter G-Flat, Brandon C-Flat, Gabi W-Flat, and Joe S-Vertical Up. Keep up the great work!
The 7th Grade CTE class is hosting a community event on Wednesday, May 27 from 3-4 pm outside the Eureka Middle School Gym
Issue 7 - Lion Bytes
Click the link to learn more.
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature
Bicycle Safety Rodeo TODAY after school!
Eureka Elementary is planning to offer a HALF DAY Early Learning Classroom for qualifying 4 yr old students for the 26-27 school year. This program is designed to strengthen early literacy, math readiness, language development, and social-emotional skills to better prepare students for Kindergarten.
We are running another Roundup this Friday, May 15th from 1-3pm. Scan the QR code or go to https://bit.ly/EarlyLearnEureka
We are running another Roundup this Friday, May 15th from 1-3pm. Scan the QR code or go to https://bit.ly/EarlyLearnEureka
Issue 6 - Lion Bytes
Click the link to learn more
https://unitedthroughreading.org/the-incredible-impact-of-reading-aloud-to-children/
To the Team Eureka Community,
While we are certainly disappointed in the outcome of the bond election, I want to sincerely thank every person who took the time to become informed, ask questions, attend meetings, volunteer, advocate, and ultimately participate in the process. Regardless of how individuals voted, community engagement matters, and I deeply appreciate the respectful conversations and involvement we have seen throughout this effort.
I especially want to recognize the many staff members, parents, board members, and community supporters who worked tirelessly over the past several months. From organizing meetings and sharing information to simply having conversations with neighbors and friends, your commitment to our students and schools was evident every step of the way. Public education is strongest when people care enough to be involved, and this community showed that in abundance.
Although this result was not what we had hoped for, our mission does not change. Eureka Public Schools will continue to serve our students and community to the very best of our ability each and every day. We will continue providing meaningful opportunities for students through programs like Career and Technical Education, helping students gain valuable skills for the workforce and future careers. We will continue investing in opportunities for our youngest learners as we expand services through our new early learning program for four-year-olds. And we will continue focusing on the academic, social, and emotional growth of every student who walks through our doors.
The challenges facing our facilities do not disappear today, but neither does our commitment to finding solutions and doing what is best for kids. Team Eureka has always been resilient, hardworking, and student-centered, and that will continue moving forward.
Thank you again to everyone who participated in this process and for your continued support of our schools, staff, and students.
While we are certainly disappointed in the outcome of the bond election, I want to sincerely thank every person who took the time to become informed, ask questions, attend meetings, volunteer, advocate, and ultimately participate in the process. Regardless of how individuals voted, community engagement matters, and I deeply appreciate the respectful conversations and involvement we have seen throughout this effort.
I especially want to recognize the many staff members, parents, board members, and community supporters who worked tirelessly over the past several months. From organizing meetings and sharing information to simply having conversations with neighbors and friends, your commitment to our students and schools was evident every step of the way. Public education is strongest when people care enough to be involved, and this community showed that in abundance.
Although this result was not what we had hoped for, our mission does not change. Eureka Public Schools will continue to serve our students and community to the very best of our ability each and every day. We will continue providing meaningful opportunities for students through programs like Career and Technical Education, helping students gain valuable skills for the workforce and future careers. We will continue investing in opportunities for our youngest learners as we expand services through our new early learning program for four-year-olds. And we will continue focusing on the academic, social, and emotional growth of every student who walks through our doors.
The challenges facing our facilities do not disappear today, but neither does our commitment to finding solutions and doing what is best for kids. Team Eureka has always been resilient, hardworking, and student-centered, and that will continue moving forward.
Thank you again to everyone who participated in this process and for your continued support of our schools, staff, and students.
Superintendent’s Corner: Why Public Education Matters—for All of Us
In recent years, there has been increasing discussion at the state and national levels about redirecting public tax dollars toward private education options, including private schools and homeschooling. While I fully respect the rights of families to choose the educational path that best fits their children, I believe it is critically important that we also take a step back and reflect on why strong, well-funded public schools remain essential to the success of our communities.
Public education is one of the few institutions designed to serve every child—regardless of background, income level, ability, or circumstance. Here in Eureka, our schools are more than just places where students learn math and reading. They are where relationships are built, where students discover their passions, and where we prepare the next generation of workers, parents, and community leaders.
In rural communities especially, public schools are the backbone of the town. They are often the largest employer, a hub for activities and events, and a source of pride that brings people together. Friday night games, concerts, student led theatre, and community gatherings all center around our schools. When we invest in public education, we are investing directly in the vitality and sustainability of our community.
There is also an important financial reality to consider. Public schools operate under strict accountability measures. We are required to serve all students, including those with special needs, and to provide transportation, meals, and a wide range of services that private institutions are not always obligated to offer. When public funds are diverted away from public schools, those responsibilities do not go away—but the resources to meet them are reduced. That creates a strain on the very system that serves the majority of our children.
It is also worth noting that in communities like ours, access to private education options is often limited or nonexistent. Redirecting public dollars in ways that primarily benefit larger population centers can unintentionally disadvantage rural students and families. Strong public schools help ensure that all children—no matter where they live—have access to quality educational opportunities.
This is not about creating division. Families who choose private or homeschool options are making decisions they believe are best for their children, and that deserves respect. However, public education remains the foundation upon which our broader system is built. If that foundation weakens, the impacts are felt far beyond the classroom.
At Eureka Public Schools, we are committed to providing opportunities for every student—whether that’s preparing for college, entering the workforce, or pursuing careers in the trades. From our classrooms to our Career and Technical Education programs, we strive to meet students where they are and help them succeed.
Investing in public education is not just an educational issue—it is a community issue, an economic issue, and ultimately, an investment in our future.
When we support our public schools, we are supporting all kids, all families, and the long-term strength of the place we call home.
—Joel Graves
Superintendent, Eureka Public Schools
#TeamEureka
In recent years, there has been increasing discussion at the state and national levels about redirecting public tax dollars toward private education options, including private schools and homeschooling. While I fully respect the rights of families to choose the educational path that best fits their children, I believe it is critically important that we also take a step back and reflect on why strong, well-funded public schools remain essential to the success of our communities.
Public education is one of the few institutions designed to serve every child—regardless of background, income level, ability, or circumstance. Here in Eureka, our schools are more than just places where students learn math and reading. They are where relationships are built, where students discover their passions, and where we prepare the next generation of workers, parents, and community leaders.
In rural communities especially, public schools are the backbone of the town. They are often the largest employer, a hub for activities and events, and a source of pride that brings people together. Friday night games, concerts, student led theatre, and community gatherings all center around our schools. When we invest in public education, we are investing directly in the vitality and sustainability of our community.
There is also an important financial reality to consider. Public schools operate under strict accountability measures. We are required to serve all students, including those with special needs, and to provide transportation, meals, and a wide range of services that private institutions are not always obligated to offer. When public funds are diverted away from public schools, those responsibilities do not go away—but the resources to meet them are reduced. That creates a strain on the very system that serves the majority of our children.
It is also worth noting that in communities like ours, access to private education options is often limited or nonexistent. Redirecting public dollars in ways that primarily benefit larger population centers can unintentionally disadvantage rural students and families. Strong public schools help ensure that all children—no matter where they live—have access to quality educational opportunities.
This is not about creating division. Families who choose private or homeschool options are making decisions they believe are best for their children, and that deserves respect. However, public education remains the foundation upon which our broader system is built. If that foundation weakens, the impacts are felt far beyond the classroom.
At Eureka Public Schools, we are committed to providing opportunities for every student—whether that’s preparing for college, entering the workforce, or pursuing careers in the trades. From our classrooms to our Career and Technical Education programs, we strive to meet students where they are and help them succeed.
Investing in public education is not just an educational issue—it is a community issue, an economic issue, and ultimately, an investment in our future.
When we support our public schools, we are supporting all kids, all families, and the long-term strength of the place we call home.
—Joel Graves
Superintendent, Eureka Public Schools
#TeamEureka
Reminder, your school bond ballots are due back to the county elections office by May 5, 2026. Any ballots received after that date will not be accepted. Make sure to sign and include your birth year on the indicated spot on the envelope before you return. The elections office has informed us that some are not doing this. (They are contacting those who did not and providing directions on what you will have to do). The elections office also suggests mailing by April 27 to guarantee the ballots will arrive to them in time. There is no local drop off for these. The school asked for one, but were told it would strictly be a mail in election. Afraid your ballot will not get there in time? You can always drive to Libby during the week to drop off at the elections office. Did you not get a ballot and thought you should have? Please contact the Lincoln County Elections office ASAP. Thank you.
Happy Earth Day and Earth Week! Our AP Environmental Science class recently took a field trip to Glacier National Park, where they met with park rangers and explored a variety of topics. Students participated in a citizen science survey on huckleberries and learned about phenology, climate, and weather—and how their observations can support ongoing research by scientists and park staff. Thank you to the Glacier Park Rangers for providing such an engaging and valuable learning experience!
Issue 4 - Lion Bytes
Click the link to learn more.
https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/children.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/children/
Over the past several months, much of the conversation surrounding our school bond has centered on facilities, costs, and long-term planning. While those are important topics, I want to take a moment this week to focus on something at the heart of this proposal—Career and Technical Education (CTE) and the opportunities it creates for our students and our community.
Career and Technical Education is not just another program in our schools—it is a pathway to meaningful, productive, and rewarding careers. For many of our students, learning a trade is not only a better fit than a traditional college route, it is a pathway that leads directly to success.
Across our country—and right here in Montana—we are facing a significant shortage of skilled trades workers. Electricians, welders, HVAC technicians, carpenters, and mechanics are in high demand. At the same time, many of the individuals currently working in these fields are nearing retirement. This creates both a challenge and an opportunity.
As educators, we have a responsibility to prepare students for all successful futures—not just one. For too long, public education has leaned heavily toward promoting a four-year college degree as the primary goal. While college is absolutely the right path for many students, it is not the only path—and it is not the best path for every student.
Some students thrive when working with their hands, solving real-world problems, and creating something tangible. These students deserve just as much encouragement, training, and opportunity. In fact, when students are engaged in work they enjoy, they tend to become more motivated, more skilled, and ultimately more successful.
The truth is, careers in the trades can be incredibly rewarding—both financially and personally. Many skilled trades offer strong wages, job security, and the satisfaction of building and maintaining the very communities we live in.
Here in Eureka Public Schools, we are proud of the CTE opportunities we currently offer. Our students are gaining hands-on experience in robotics, welding, HVAC, basic woodworking, and CNC design. These are real-world skills that translate directly into careers.
However, our current facility limits what we can do.
As part of the proposed bond, we are planning for a new Career and Technical Education facility that will serve both middle school and high school students. This is important. Early exposure matters. When students have the opportunity to explore these skills at a younger age, they can begin identifying their interests and strengths sooner—and build on them throughout their school years.
This new facility is not just about a building—it is about expanding opportunities. It will allow us to:
Grow and modernize our current programs
Introduce additional trades and career pathways
Provide safer, more efficient learning environments
Better prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce
Ultimately, investing in CTE is an investment in our students, our local economy, and the future of our community.
Whether our graduates choose to attend college, enter the workforce, or pursue technical training, our goal remains the same: to ensure every student leaves our schools prepared for success.
Career and Technical Education is a critical part of that mission—and one we are committed to strengthening for years to come.
As always, I appreciate the thoughtful conversations, questions, and engagement from our community as we work through these important decisions together.
—Joel Graves
Superintendent, Eureka Public Schools
Career and Technical Education is not just another program in our schools—it is a pathway to meaningful, productive, and rewarding careers. For many of our students, learning a trade is not only a better fit than a traditional college route, it is a pathway that leads directly to success.
Across our country—and right here in Montana—we are facing a significant shortage of skilled trades workers. Electricians, welders, HVAC technicians, carpenters, and mechanics are in high demand. At the same time, many of the individuals currently working in these fields are nearing retirement. This creates both a challenge and an opportunity.
As educators, we have a responsibility to prepare students for all successful futures—not just one. For too long, public education has leaned heavily toward promoting a four-year college degree as the primary goal. While college is absolutely the right path for many students, it is not the only path—and it is not the best path for every student.
Some students thrive when working with their hands, solving real-world problems, and creating something tangible. These students deserve just as much encouragement, training, and opportunity. In fact, when students are engaged in work they enjoy, they tend to become more motivated, more skilled, and ultimately more successful.
The truth is, careers in the trades can be incredibly rewarding—both financially and personally. Many skilled trades offer strong wages, job security, and the satisfaction of building and maintaining the very communities we live in.
Here in Eureka Public Schools, we are proud of the CTE opportunities we currently offer. Our students are gaining hands-on experience in robotics, welding, HVAC, basic woodworking, and CNC design. These are real-world skills that translate directly into careers.
However, our current facility limits what we can do.
As part of the proposed bond, we are planning for a new Career and Technical Education facility that will serve both middle school and high school students. This is important. Early exposure matters. When students have the opportunity to explore these skills at a younger age, they can begin identifying their interests and strengths sooner—and build on them throughout their school years.
This new facility is not just about a building—it is about expanding opportunities. It will allow us to:
Grow and modernize our current programs
Introduce additional trades and career pathways
Provide safer, more efficient learning environments
Better prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce
Ultimately, investing in CTE is an investment in our students, our local economy, and the future of our community.
Whether our graduates choose to attend college, enter the workforce, or pursue technical training, our goal remains the same: to ensure every student leaves our schools prepared for success.
Career and Technical Education is a critical part of that mission—and one we are committed to strengthening for years to come.
As always, I appreciate the thoughtful conversations, questions, and engagement from our community as we work through these important decisions together.
—Joel Graves
Superintendent, Eureka Public Schools
Notice of Regular Board Meeting on April 20 at 6:00pm in the LCHS Library.
We are launching 'Lion Bytes'. Short insights focused on child development and student growth.
Click the link to learn more.
https://thefamilydinnerproject.org/about-us/benefits-of-family-dinners/
