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/
Please come out and watch the Sunburst Arts sponsored musical play Hadestown this weekend! Our local teen lead theater troupe Stagedivers has been working extremely hard to deliver this to you all. This ambitious musical, Hadestown (Teen Edition) is a story about the Greek gods set in an industrial version of the underworld. The Fates are there too, and the Workers, and Hermes the Storyteller, with dark, bluesy music and themes of toil, poverty, escape, rescue, shifting love, a changing world, and classic tragedy. Even if musical theatre isn't your thing, come support our young people! 2 shows, April 17 at 7:00pm and April 18 at 3:00pm in the Lincoln County High School Auditorium. Adults only $8, and free for students.
Bond ballots are being mailed out this week to registered voters in the Eureka Elementary School District. Do you still have questions about the upcoming school bond election? Please consider attending the community meeting today April 14 at 6:00pm in the Middle School Library. We will be discussing construction plans, costs, tax impact, and any other questions you may have. We will have computers set up and we will help you determine your exact tax impact of this bond. Get informed on this crucial decision on the future of our school buildings. We will record the meeting and post on the bond website. Can’t make these, please feel free to contact Joel Graves at jgraves@teamerueka.net, or visit him at your convenience at school. He is also available every Thursday from 11:45-1:00 at the “Soup with the Supe” at Von’s Cafe. Please visit the school bond website https://eurekabond.teameureka.net for more information as well. Thank you!
Superintendent’s Corner: A Grateful Community Conversation
As we continue moving forward with discussions around the upcoming school bond, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to our community.
Over the past several weeks, I have had the opportunity to connect with many of you in a variety of settings—community meetings at the school, local board and civic group meetings, and during our weekly Soup with the Sup gatherings. What stands out most to me is not that we all agree on every detail, but that we are willing to come together and have meaningful conversations about the future of our schools.
These discussions have been thoughtful, respectful, and filled with genuine care for our students and our community. While there have certainly been questions—and at times differing perspectives—that is exactly what a healthy community should look like. Progress is built through dialogue, and I am grateful to live and work in a place where people are willing to engage in that process.
Whether this bond ultimately passes or not, the conversations we are having right now are incredibly important. They help us better understand one another, identify shared priorities, and work toward solutions to the challenges we face. That kind of engagement is what strengthens a community over time.
I also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our staff and board members who have dedicated countless hours to this effort. From planning and preparation to attending meetings and answering questions, their commitment to our students and schools has been evident every step of the way.
Finally, I want to recognize the parents and community members who have volunteered their time, shared their perspectives, and helped move this process forward. Your involvement matters, and it is deeply appreciated.
Eureka has always been a place where people care deeply about their schools and their community. I am thankful to be part of these conversations with all of you.
—Joel Graves
Superintendent, Eureka Public Schools
As we continue moving forward with discussions around the upcoming school bond, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to our community.
Over the past several weeks, I have had the opportunity to connect with many of you in a variety of settings—community meetings at the school, local board and civic group meetings, and during our weekly Soup with the Sup gatherings. What stands out most to me is not that we all agree on every detail, but that we are willing to come together and have meaningful conversations about the future of our schools.
These discussions have been thoughtful, respectful, and filled with genuine care for our students and our community. While there have certainly been questions—and at times differing perspectives—that is exactly what a healthy community should look like. Progress is built through dialogue, and I am grateful to live and work in a place where people are willing to engage in that process.
Whether this bond ultimately passes or not, the conversations we are having right now are incredibly important. They help us better understand one another, identify shared priorities, and work toward solutions to the challenges we face. That kind of engagement is what strengthens a community over time.
I also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our staff and board members who have dedicated countless hours to this effort. From planning and preparation to attending meetings and answering questions, their commitment to our students and schools has been evident every step of the way.
Finally, I want to recognize the parents and community members who have volunteered their time, shared their perspectives, and helped move this process forward. Your involvement matters, and it is deeply appreciated.
Eureka has always been a place where people care deeply about their schools and their community. I am thankful to be part of these conversations with all of you.
—Joel Graves
Superintendent, Eureka Public Schools
6th grade recycled and repurposed art and craft show
It’s not too late! There are several upcoming opportunities to learn more, ask questions, and see the facilities firsthand before the school bond ballots are mailed on April 15. We have a Community Meeting on April 14 in the Middle School Library. This is a chance to hear details, get clarity, and ensure you have the information you need to make an informed decision. On April 19, we have Facility Tours scheduled during Spruce Up Eureka. Elementary and Middle School facility tours will run every 30 minutes starting at 10:00 AM. Walk through the buildings and experience the current conditions firsthand. Superintendent Joel Graves is also available to visit during Soup with the Supe. Come see him each Thursday from 11:30-1:00 at Vons. Want to understand your personal impact? Text BOND to (406) 319-8901 to receive a personalized estimate of what a “yes” vote would cost based on your property’s taxable value.
Your vote matters—make it an informed one.
Your vote matters—make it an informed one.
We are launching 'Lion Bytes'. Short insights focused on child development and student growth.
Click the link to learn more.
https://www.apa.org/topics/children/kids-unstructured-play-benefits
Early Learning (4yr old) Roundup is April 24th!
Register now at
https://bit.ly/EarlyLearnEureka
Eureka Elementary is planning a Half-Day Early Learning Classroom for qualifying 4-year-old students for the 2026–2027 school year.
This classroom is designed as an early intervention program to help children build strong foundations before kindergarten.
Register now at
https://bit.ly/EarlyLearnEureka
Eureka Elementary is planning a Half-Day Early Learning Classroom for qualifying 4-year-old students for the 2026–2027 school year.
This classroom is designed as an early intervention program to help children build strong foundations before kindergarten.
Superintendent’s Corner: Clearing Up Questions on the Bond Proposal
In response to some concerns regarding the current bond proposal being an elementary-only proposal, rather than a combined high school and elementary district effort, I wanted to take a moment to clarify a few important points.
There are some understandable questions about how facilities are used, who benefits, and how decisions are being made. I appreciate those questions and the opportunity to provide clear, factual information.
First, shared use of facilities goes both ways.
Our middle school students—who are part of the elementary district—regularly utilize spaces owned by the high school district, including the music room and auditorium. Likewise, high school students utilize the CTE (shop) facility. This has long been a practical and cooperative approach that benefits students across grade levels. It is a fair and equitable exchange of space that allows us to maximize the use of our existing resources.
Second, the bus barn primarily serves elementary students.
While our transportation system supports all students, the overwhelming majority of bus riders are elementary and middle school students. Most high school students drive themselves to school. The bus barn is essential infrastructure that directly supports the daily operations of the elementary district.
Third, this plan improves efficiency, safety, and saves taxpayer dollars.
The current CTE facility and bus barn are outdated, inefficient, and present safety concerns. These structures will need to be removed to make room for the new elementary building. By incorporating this into the project plan, we can construct the new facility without displacing students during the process. Avoiding that displacement saves taxpayers thousands of dollars and minimizes disruption to student learning.
Finally, this plan has been carefully reviewed for fairness and legality.
All aspects of this proposal have been reviewed with our bond counsel, Dan Semmens of Dorsey & Whitney LLP, to ensure that everything we are proposing is both legally sound and fair to taxpayers.
We understand that questions around fairness are important, and we welcome them. Our responsibility is to be transparent, thoughtful, and fiscally responsible as we plan for the future of our schools. Every decision being made is with the goal of serving our students well while being mindful of our community and taxpayers.
As always, I encourage anyone with questions to reach out or attend one of our upcoming meetings. The next community meeting is scheduled for April 14 at 6:00pm in the Eureka Middle School. My door is always open for you to come and visit, or come see me at the Soup with the Supe each Thursday from 11:30-1:00 at Vons Cafe. These conversations matter, and I appreciate the opportunity to be part of them.
In response to some concerns regarding the current bond proposal being an elementary-only proposal, rather than a combined high school and elementary district effort, I wanted to take a moment to clarify a few important points.
There are some understandable questions about how facilities are used, who benefits, and how decisions are being made. I appreciate those questions and the opportunity to provide clear, factual information.
First, shared use of facilities goes both ways.
Our middle school students—who are part of the elementary district—regularly utilize spaces owned by the high school district, including the music room and auditorium. Likewise, high school students utilize the CTE (shop) facility. This has long been a practical and cooperative approach that benefits students across grade levels. It is a fair and equitable exchange of space that allows us to maximize the use of our existing resources.
Second, the bus barn primarily serves elementary students.
While our transportation system supports all students, the overwhelming majority of bus riders are elementary and middle school students. Most high school students drive themselves to school. The bus barn is essential infrastructure that directly supports the daily operations of the elementary district.
Third, this plan improves efficiency, safety, and saves taxpayer dollars.
The current CTE facility and bus barn are outdated, inefficient, and present safety concerns. These structures will need to be removed to make room for the new elementary building. By incorporating this into the project plan, we can construct the new facility without displacing students during the process. Avoiding that displacement saves taxpayers thousands of dollars and minimizes disruption to student learning.
Finally, this plan has been carefully reviewed for fairness and legality.
All aspects of this proposal have been reviewed with our bond counsel, Dan Semmens of Dorsey & Whitney LLP, to ensure that everything we are proposing is both legally sound and fair to taxpayers.
We understand that questions around fairness are important, and we welcome them. Our responsibility is to be transparent, thoughtful, and fiscally responsible as we plan for the future of our schools. Every decision being made is with the goal of serving our students well while being mindful of our community and taxpayers.
As always, I encourage anyone with questions to reach out or attend one of our upcoming meetings. The next community meeting is scheduled for April 14 at 6:00pm in the Eureka Middle School. My door is always open for you to come and visit, or come see me at the Soup with the Supe each Thursday from 11:30-1:00 at Vons Cafe. These conversations matter, and I appreciate the opportunity to be part of them.
