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Excellence in Education 2020
Annual Report
As I prepare this message, our community is in a “stay at home” order from our governor requiring all of our schools closed so that we can continue to protect the health and well-being of everyone threatened by the COVID-19 pandemic. This unusual and difficult time in our collective history has highlighted the importance of our sense of community, the connections we have with one another, and the critical role our public schools play for so many of us. I commend all of the teachers, staff and District leaders for their ability to continue to meet the needs of our students and families and deliver quality education, meals and other additional services for an extended period of time.
Great Falls has always been a very generous community and the Foundation has been overwhelmed by the number of businesses and individuals who have generously donated in support of the school food pantry programs during this period. These donations go a long way in keeping our disadvantaged students fed during this difficult time.
It is so appropriate that we have selected the theme of “connections” for our publication this year. The Foundation is so proud of the many connections we have throughout the District and the community; however, we would like to focus on the very important connections we have associated with the Great Falls High Consumer Technology Education Center (CTE). The Oakland and Thayer families provided significant donations to enhance the learning and programs associated with the CTE. Both families have been active in our community for many years as local business owners, supporting local causes and have had generations of family members attend and graduate from Great Falls High. They recognize the importance of providing tools that will train students for employment in well-paying jobs. The Oakland family gift purchased state-of-the-art equipment for the auto, welding and wood shops to train students in these important industries. The Thayer family gifts were dedicated to the Culinary Arts Department training students for work in restaurants and commercial kitchen facilities.
We are grateful for the long established connections with these two families, as well as the connections with hundreds of other donors, who believe in our mission to enhance the high-quality teaching and life-long learning in our public schools.
Sincerely,
Karen Brandvold Chair, Great Falls Public Schools Foundation
Mission Statement“The mission of the GFPS Foundation is to enhance high-quality teaching and life-long learning for students in Great Falls Public Schools by funding innovative educational programs and scholarships.”
CMR Scholars ..................2-9 PGEC Achievers .............9-11 GFHS Scholars .............11-18 Scholarships ......................19 Teachers of the Year .....20-21 Discovery and Innovation Grants .........22-25 GFH Career and Technical Wing .............26-27 Toyota Truck Raffle ............28 Donor Lists ...................29-36
Publication made possible by support from BNSF Railway and D.A. Davidson & Co.
Board of DirectorsKaren Brandvold, ChairDrew Blewett, Vice ChairPeggy Tremper, TreasurerGerry Jennings, SecretaryAndrew Davidson, Immediate
Past Chair
Joanie AgamenoniJared BrownLinda CaricaburuJeff GrayKyle HerdaStacey LamyAnne MartinezJon McCartyLaura MerchantJane Gregoire NewmackNancy O’BrienDoug SexeSteve SkaerJean SmithBob StingleyBrion TorgersonAshley WhitneyTom Moore, Superintendent
PublishersDave Crum, Lyndsay Lettre,
and Terry Oyhamburu
EditorsLinda Caricaburu, Darcy
Crum, Gerry Jennings and Anne Martinez
PhotosLarry Beckner, John Godwin
and various teachers in the District
Cover photo: Great Falls High student, Kolby Mackenstadt, working in the new CTE automotive shop supported by the Oakland Family. (photo credit – John Godwin)
CMR Scholars ..................2-9 PGEC Achievers .............9-11 GFHS Scholars .............11-18 Scholarships ......................19 Teachers of the Year .....20-21 Discovery and Innovation Grants .........22-25 GFH Career and Technical Wing .............26-27 Toyota Truck Raffle ............28 Donor Lists ...................29-36
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 1 ▪
2019 Distinguished Scholar from CMR, Marissa Bosley, at the GFPS Foundation Excellence in Education Ceremony.
2020 Distinguished Students and EducatorsTeachers are the educational foundation to student learning. In recognition of that, each year the Great Falls Public Schools Foundation has top-rated seniors select two individuals who made a difference in their educational career. Sometimes the person who most inspired or made a difference isn’t a teacher, but worked in the educational arena as a counselor, coach or other position providing critical support. Students select one person from high school and one from elementary or middle school.
Distinguished Scholars from C.M. Russell and Great Falls High Schools were selected based on academic achievement, GPA and rigorous coursework.
Teachers, counselors and administrators selected Distinguished Achievers from Paris Gibson Education Center based on academics, leadership,
achievement, service and overcoming obstacles.
The Foundation is pleased to honor our 34 outstanding students and the 68 inspiring individuals who helped support, mentor
and challenge them to be the best they can be.
*Please note, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we were unable to get pictures of our students and teachers together.
C.M. Russell High SchoolStudent: Emma BergmanParents: Brad and Billi Bergman
Memorable experiences: I have so many good high school memories including participating in homecoming activities, running cross country and three half marathons with the team, as well as playing in orchestra and traveling for our annual tours.Plans after high school: Attend MSU to study architecture or engineering.Distinguished Educator: Tess Jacobs, artSchool: C.M. Russell High SchoolWhy: Ms. Jacobs goes out of her way to make her students’ artistic visions a reality. She embraces ideas and supports us in finding materials. I’ve learned much in her classroom and was lucky to be her student. I know that in all regards she is a distinguished teacher.Distinguished Educator: Deborah Lins, 5th grade
School: Meadowlark ElementaryWhy: Ms. Lins changed my perspective on reading. Her use of voices and sound effects while reading sparked my love of stories. Until that point reading was difficult, but her passion helped me discover a love for books. She made a huge impact on my life and that of countless other students.
Student: Jessica ByrneParents: Pat and Anita Byrne
Memorable experiences: I loved being a part of high school swimming and tennis teams. I built amazing friendships the past four years that will last a lifetime and had so many great experiences that when looked back on, will always make me smile.Plans after high school: Attend the University of Mary in the pre-medicine program to obtain a degree in biology.Distinguished Educator: Ed McNamee, swim coachSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: Mac changed my life by strengthening my work ethic and swimming ability, and making me more confident and a better leader. His intensity during practices and meets shows how much he cares for us.
I am grateful that he was my coach during my high school career.Distinguished Educator: Ann Stevenson, 3rd gradeSchool: Meadowlark ElementaryWhy: Mrs. Stevenson was a kind and challenging teacher. She recommended me for the ECS program, which pushed me to think at a higher level, and she always offered extra help on math problems when I was struggling. I loved her class and enjoyed going to school every day.▪ 2 – www.gfpsfoundation.org
Student: Grace CarrParents: Chris and Alicia Carr
Memorable experiences: My memories include participating in student government activities, showing support at sports events, being a part of The Stampede newspaper, competing in BPA, playing basketball and building new relationships.Plans after high school: Attend UM to major in journalism and take computer-related courses.Distinguished Educator: Beth Britton, journalism and newspaperSchool: C.M. Russell High SchoolWhy: Ms. Britton has been a supportive advisor and mentor to me since my freshman year. She helped me develop my passion for journalism and pushed me to be my best every day. I am greatly appreciative of her efforts to help me become the best writer, editor and leader I can be.Distinguished Educator: Everett Hall, 6th grade and ToastmastersSchool: Sacajawea Elementary (Retired)Why: Mr. Hall is one of my biggest inspirations. He has a welcoming and supportive personality and always wants the best for his students. He helped me find my voice and always encourages me to go outside my comfort zone. I am eternally grateful for his impact on my journey.
Student: Hailey FinchParents: Andrew and Colleen Finch
Memorable experiences: Some favorite experiences were traveling for state basketball with the pep band sophomore year and seeing the boys win state, being chosen for drum major, and experiencing the camaraderie that developed between my peers during our years of discussion-based classes.Plans after high school: Attend MSU to study earth sciences. I also plan to participate in music in some way at college.Distinguished Educator: Christine Sundly, geologySchool: C.M. Russell High SchoolWhy: Mrs. Sundly developed my passion for the earth sciences beyond what I already held and helped me see a plausible path for my future. She saw potential in me that I hadn’t considered, and she opened up so many doors. Even if I do not end up with a career in geology, I know it will remain a passion.Distinguished Educator: Lauree Wenger, bandSchool: Meadowlark Elementary (Retired)Why: Music is such a huge part of my life and my high school career that I honestly do not know where I would be without it. Mrs. Wenger started me on this path and encouraged me to not only be a great musician, but to be myself. She is an amazing teacher and an even better person. www.gfpsfoundation.org – 3 ▪
Student: Aspen LuceroParents: Charlie and Heather Lucero
Memorable experiences: My best experience came from playing soccer. It caused me to make friends with so many people that I otherwise may never have met. Moments during team bonding, bus trips and goofing around during practice will always be among my favorite memories.Plans after high school: Attend the Honors College at MSU to major in chemical engineering.Distinguished Educator: Chris Hibbert, AP chemistrySchool: C.M. Russell High SchoolWhy: Mr. Hibbert is always there for any student. He comes to school before dawn and opens his class to any student who needs a place to work. He wants his students to succeed, and he goes more than out of his way to assure they do so. He teaches in a way that makes chemistry comprehensible.
Distinguished Educator: Brian Dues, social studiesSchool: North Middle SchoolWhy: Mr. Dues’ class was the most fun; he even used Oreos and oranges to teach about tectonic plates and why the globe is drawn the way it is on a map. His game of Silent Ball was the game and even kids from other teams would join in. For extra credit he let me perform a song about the Boston Tea Party.
Student: Max MagersParents: Mark and Carie Magers
Memorable experiences: I will remember just showing up into Mr. Packer’s 7th period math lab during my open class time. He said I was not allowed, but I still did it. A group of about five and Mr. Packer would talk, pole vault, make posters, throw mini food parties and occasionally do math.Plans after high school: Attend MSU to study accounting, financial engineering and civil engineering.Distinguished Educator: Brenda Lowry, counselorSchool: C.M. Russell High SchoolWhy: Ms. Lowry always made time for me, even with her busy schedule. Throughout high school she always challenged me. Her mantra was: a “B” in honors class is more valuable than an “A” in a regular class if you are in there to grow. She always supports me.
Distinguished Educator: Lacee Shanahan Lewis, 1st gradeSchool: Sunnyside Elementary (previously West Elementary) Why: Mrs. Shanahan is one of my all-time favorite teachers. I will never forget giving her a big poster that my class made when she was gone one day that said “Class of 2020.” It had all of my classmates’ handprints and names on it. Now it’s 2020; I’m happy to have had her as part of my education.
▪ 4 – www.gfpsfoundation.org
Student: Madeleine MayerParents: Daryle Mayer and Anne Duncan
Memorable experiences: Participating in sports like swimming was a huge part of high school for me. The team was so welcoming, and they became my family. I will cherish memories of participating in powderpuff football for homecoming and being involved in French Club. Plans after high school: Attend Valdosta State University in Georgia to major in health sciences. I plan to become a paramedic and to further excel in trauma medicine to help those in need.Distinguished Educator: Erica Davis, FrenchSchool: C.M. Russell High SchoolWhy: Madam Davis brings joy to her classroom every day. Since I first sat in her classroom my freshman year, she made learning French light-hearted and fun. I look forward to her class. She makes personal connections with her students, and I will miss her.Distinguished Educator: Debbie Kelly, 1st gradeSchool: Loy Elementary (Retired)Why: Mrs. Kelly looked at her students as if they were her own children. She always had a smile on her face and a positive attitude. She made learning so much fun. I will always have a special place in my heart for her because she taught me to love learning.
Student: Jayla MitchellParents: Shawn Mitchell and Tanya Mitchell
Memorable experiences: Although high school wasn’t everything I imagined it to be, through mutual classes and interests I have made unexpected friendships that I expect to extend long after high school.Plans after high school: I plan to get my undergraduate degree in cello performance at UM.Distinguished Educator: Steve Olson, orchestraSchool: C.M. Russell High SchoolWhy: A teacher who can impact your life outside of the subject they teach is someone who has truly succeeded at their job. Mr. Olson has been an incredible influence to me over the past four years. He taught me dedication, work ethic and responsibility. I am forever grateful to have had him as a teacher.Distinguished Educator: Elizabeth Quinby, orchestraSchool: North Middle SchoolWhy: I have never kept in touch with a teacher longer than I have with Mrs. Quinby. Not only did she push me into the career field that I will be studying, she stuck with me through the thick and thin of the past six years. I don’t know where my life would be headed without her.
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 5 ▪
Student: Andrea NewbroughParents: Mark and Jill Newbrough
Memorable experiences: My favorite memories include being a spirit leader, a student government representative, a DECA state officer, a member of BPA and a multiple state qualifying high jumper. I will forever remember what it is like to bleed gold and green while cheering on the Rustlers.Plans after high school: I plan to study biochemistry on a premedical track.Distinguished Educator: Brad Packer, honors algebra, trigonometrySchool: C.M. Russell High School (Former)Why: Mr. Packer taught me that hard work – whether inside the classroom, on the track or in life – pays off in the end. His difficult but enjoyable math class shaped my education through words of wisdom and sarcastic remarks. He supported me and created a connection that will last forever.
Distinguished Educator: Callie Ross, 3rd gradeSchool: Riverview ElementaryWhy: Mrs. Ross was a continuous supporter of my education at an early age. Her class developed my love for learning, and many memories still resonate from that year. Mrs. Ross’ ability to individualize her students’ work shows her passion for teaching. All these years later, that star still means so much!
Student: Gail ParambiParents: Varghese Parambi and Sonia George
Memorable experiences: Being part of the tight-knit tennis team allowed me to form not only treasured memories but prized, strong friendships. Bus rides with the perennially rambunctious group were fantastic opportunities to become closer to one another.Plans after high school: Attend Princeton University for my undergraduate studies and remain involved in activities like tennis, orchestra and research.Distinguished Educator: Christi Virts, medical preparatory educatorSchool: C.M. Russell High SchoolWhy: Mrs. Virts is a dedicated, passionate teacher with infectious enthusiasm for sharing the medical field with her students. She inspired me to pursue a state leadership position with HOSA, our health career student organization, in which I drew upon her lessons of developing a work ethic and autonomy.
Distinguished Educator: Mary Somerfeld, scienceSchool: North Middle SchoolWhy: Mrs. Somerfeld is an earnest science teacher whose zeal for the subject is clear and contagious. Participating in Science Bowl and Science Olympiad under her direction gives students the skills to direct their study and be successful. Attending the National Science Bowl with her was a highlight.▪ 6 – www.gfpsfoundation.org
Student: Quinn SolteszParents: Rob Soltesz and Elizabeth Shea
Memorable experiences: I’ll never forget staying at school until eight at night finalizing The Stampede newspaper, traveling around the state with my club mates and advisor for BPA, and scrambling in student government every year to put together a float for homecoming.Plans after high school: Attend University of Southern California to study entertainment business and pursue a graduate degree in entertainment law. Distinguished Educator: Burke Allen, AP U.S. historySchool: C.M. Russell High SchoolWhy: Mr. Allen helped me realize a love for history, and he encouraged my love of film. His class was not only challenging and engaging, but it allowed my worldview to develop. In addition, his dedication to education and the success of his students is unmatched.Distinguished Educator: Stacie Skawinski, 6th gradeSchool: Meadowlark ElementaryWhy: Ending elementary school in Mrs. Skawinski’s class prepared me for middle school and life. She’s the reason I can do math somewhat proficiently. Her classroom was a great place to explore any subject, and she created a friendly and encouraging environment.
Student: Andrew StevensonParents: Nate and Desiree Stevenson
Memorable experiences: My most memorable experiences are science bowl competition in Billings, bus trips with the soccer team and working at Griz Biz at North Middle School.Plans after high school: Attend Utah State University for undergraduate school, before pursuing a higher degree in computer engineering.Distinguished Educator: Jeremy Comstock, EnglishSchool: C.M. Russell High SchoolWhy: Mr. Comstock’s class is one I’ll remember for the rest of my life. It is comparable to an amusement park because of how fun and exciting it is to be in the room. He makes his lessons exciting, fun and helpful. He is creative and inspiring. His class was the best part of my sophomore year.Distinguished Educator: Dennis Mora, historySchool: C.M. Russell High SchoolWhy: It’s been a while since I had Mr. Mora, but I still hold him in the highest regard. Mr. Mora put in the work for his classes and it was evident in his classroom. I was always excited for class during freshman year. He pushed me to do my best and to keep learning on my own even outside of class.
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 7 ▪
Student: Peter WilderParents: William and Elizabeth Wilder
Memorable experiences: My memorable experiences were the times I spent with my friends in all my various classes, from German to chemistry. There are so many throughout my years here that I can’t narrow it down to any one favorite.Plans after high school: I plan on going to Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia to become a Catholic priest, perhaps becoming a chaplain or teacher in addition to diocesan.Distinguished Educator: Anne Bulger, GermanSchool: C.M. Russell High School (Retired)Why: Frau Bulger encouraged me every step of the way through my first three years of high school and taught me so well in German. She was always supportive and helpful whenever I needed it. I was very lucky to have her as a teacher for three years, although a fourth year would have been nice.
Distinguished Educator: Lisa Frank, Spanish School: Great Falls High School (previously North Middle School)Why: Profe Frank was a fun teacher who always kept the class interesting. She was very caring and helpful to her students and was very good at integrating Spanish into the class.
Student: Kenai WilsonParents: Kendal and Peggy Wilson
Memorable experiences: I am glad to have played football and run in track. I will forever be thankful for the bonds I was able to make with my teammates and friends. I will never forget the hours spent in the weight room working, laughing and growing with those wonderful people.Plans after high school: I plan to go to college and major in chemistry and later find a career in the field.Distinguished Educator: Aric Hagen, health/PESchool: C.M. Russell High SchoolWhy: Mr. Hagen as a teacher and coach was a blast, but the many hours he put in outside of the regular school day sets him apart. Whether after school or in the summer mornings, he was in the weight room making us better players, teammates and brothers. He is always there for us when things are tough.
Distinguished Educator: Andrew Nagengast, artSchool: C.M. Russell High School (previously North Middle School)Why: I had a blast in Mr. Nagengast’s class. I remember loving to work with the clay and that I made a set of cups. Mr. Nagengast pushed us to create something that we would love and be proud of. While in his class for only a quarter, I left having a full school year’s worth of knowledge.▪ 8 – www.gfpsfoundation.org
Student: Braden YounkinParents: Kevin and Becky Younkin
Memorable experiences: I’ll remember the great, hilarious experiences during cross country and track, and the fun senior year electives, learning skills I never thought I’d learn, along with having the best teachers I could ask for. Along with my good friends, they made school a great experience.Plans after high school: I plan on majoring in mechanical engineering at MSU.Distinguished Educator: Steven Skaer, AP calculusSchool: C.M. Russell High SchoolWhy: Math was not always my strong suit, but I could always get help from Mr. Skaer. He made the two most stressful years of math very fun. I could always come in and review material I didn’t understand, and then I would be able to perform extremely well for the tests.Distinguished Educator: Lainie Warneke, Gifted EducationSchool: Riverview Elementary SchoolWhy: Ms. Warneke always pushed me to be my best, whether at a speech competition or at the STEM expo or just in daily life. She helped me build a passion for learning during my younger years.
Student: Katherine BeiseckerParents: Jeffrey and Jennifer Beisecker
Memorable experiences: The experience at Paris I always think of is when I won an all-expense paid trip to Washington D.C. through Jobs for Montana Grads (JMG). Sadly, we could not make it to the conference. So JMG classmates and I ate pizza and watched them announce the winner online. Mr. Komick also made a shirt for me that said “She Won”.Plans after high school: I plan on attending UM Western in Dillon to get a degree in elementary education. I’d like to come back to Great Falls and teach third or fourth grade.Distinguished Educator: Yenta Jaques, businessSchool: Paris Gibson Education CenterWhy: In the two years I have been at Paris Gibson I have grown from an insecure person to a strong, independent woman, and I owe most of the progress to Mrs. Jaques. She holds me accountable and sets high standards for me. Without her I wouldn’t even be close to the Katie I am today.Distinguished Educator: Keith Davey, EnglishSchool: East Middle SchoolWhy: Seventh grade was a very tough year for my mental health. Mr. Davey had a hand in helping me through my struggles. He was a person I trusted when I did not trust many. His room was a safe place and he made me laugh when no one else could. I want to say that he’s a big reason for my success.
Paris Gibson Education Center
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 9 ▪
Student: Zak DoyleParents: Charles and Melissa Doyle
Memorable experiences: Memorable for me were having meaningful conversations with Marji McClellan after a really hard day, learning how to shoot a bow without a sight with Mr. Uecker, and learning a new instrument with Rikka Walters.Plans after high school: I plan to attend college to study engineering.Distinguished Educator: Marji McClellen, attendanceSchool: Paris Gibson Education CenterWhy: Marjie’s involvement in my life at school has been an outstanding asset for me. I was always afraid of opening up and sharing my thoughts and feelings, but she taught me that sometimes it can be highly beneficial to speak openly about myself. I wouldn’t be who I am without her influence.
Distinguished Educator: Kirsten Dige, 4th gradeSchool: Lincoln Elementary Why: Ms. Dige was the first teacher I had in Montana. She was a vital member of my education because she helped spark my passion for math and science. She taught me to think critically about my situation, even if no one else did. Ms. Dige helped lay the foundation for my educational career.
Student: Cassandra FitzgeraldParents: Mark and Jennifer Fitzgerald
Memorable experiences: All of my memorable experiences are of my art, photography and driver’s education classes with Mr. Olson, and Ms. Lencioni’s classes. I loved the environment in these classes. It made me incredibly happy and kept me focused on what I needed to get done.Plans after high school: I’ll continue working at McDonald’s, saving up my money to someday open my own coffee shop and I will keep caring for my niece, Karoline.Distinguished Educator: Jerry Olson, photography, art, driver’s edSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: I had Mr. Olson for all the years I attended Great
Falls High. Every day I went into his class it was incredibly fun and informational. He showed me learning can be fun. He also taught me to not give up if something is not going your way.Distinguished Educator: Christine Lencioni, LiteracySchool: Paris Gibson Education CenterWhy: Ms. Lencioni is a teacher who will listen to students, show them love, and support. She has a lot going on in her life, but she has been there for me while I am dealing with the death of my sister. She makes sure that I stay on track. ▪ 10 – www.gfpsfoundation.org
Student: Dani Tachiinii HardestyParents: Michael Hardesty and Carmen Crawford
Memorable experiences: I was nervous my first day coming to Paris as a junior. But once I met my advisor, Curtis Valladolid, my butterflies were gone. I remember Curtis walking me and my new best friend around to introduce us to all the teachers, “These young ladies share something very special in common. They’re both Navajo and Blackfeet.” Same line said to every teacher!Plans after high school: Attend MSU to major in political science. I want to go to law school in Missoula and eventually enlist into the Montana National Guard or the Air Force.Distinguished Educator: Curtis Valladolid, student advisorSchool: Paris Gibson Education CenterWhy: Mr. Valladolid is more like a grandpa I never had. He is charismatic and a kind and gentle soul. He genuinely wants the best for all kids and I’m proud to have him as my advisor. I’ll miss his cheesy jokes and him teasing the “bones” family.Distinguished Educator: Drew Uecker, PrincipalSchool: Paris Gibson Education CenterWhy: Mr. Uecker helped my cousins Lana, Hank, and Keedn and he told me about the amazing things they offer at PGEC. Mr. Uecker’s vibes were always good and kind. I appreciate everything he does, not only for me, but for all the kids. He’s made such an impact on my life.
Great Falls High School
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 11 ▪
Student: Margaret BellParents: Dave and Kara Bell
Memorable experiences: I’ve loved every minute in the classroom, cheering in the student section, and participating in pep assemblies, homecoming and extracurricular activities. Thanks to those around me from faculty to friends, I’ve turned so many wonderful moments into long-living memories.Plans after high school: Attend the University of Montana Davidson Honors College in pursuit of a double major in political science and philosophy and hopefully law school afterwards.Distinguished Educator: Niki Amo, yearbookSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: Mrs. Amo is the kindest and goofiest person. She works beyond her contracted hours and classroom load to make everyone feel appreciated, cared for and noticed. Mrs. Amo has redefined to me what it means to be a fun and kind-hearted person and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.Distinguished Educator: Lori Edwards, kindergartenSchool: Sacajawea Elementary (previously Loy Elementary)Why: Although kindergarten was 12 years ago, Mrs. Edwards has supported me since my very first year in her class. Not only did she teach me the alphabet and how to read, but I had a strong introduction to my first educational experience, which I believe is why I’m where I am today. She is compassionate and nurturing, and I am beyond thankful to her.
Student: Katherine BiddleParents: Russell Biddle and Deborah Garrity
Memorable experiences: Some of my favorite memories come from the bus trips for volleyball. There was never a dull moment with my teammates and friends. I also will always remember the eventful time when the Flat Earth Society went ghost hunting in the auditorium.Plans after high school: I plan to go into nursing, studying at MSU. After gaining some work experience, I’d like to become a nurse practitioner.Distinguished Educator: Scott Smart, Algebra I HonorsSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: Mr. Smart deserves the world. He treats every one of his students like they are his own children. Taking his class my freshman year is what set me on the honors track and made me realize I could be successful in high school.
Distinguished Educator: Terry Flanagan, math and historySchool: Our Lady of LourdesWhy: At first, I was scared to death of Ms. Flanagan because of her stern reputation and my own academic insecurities. But I soon found out that she was an amazing teacher and would make a great impact on my education, especially heading into high school. She pushed me harder than any other teacher I’ve ever had.
Student: Joel BonillaParents: Victor and Leslie Bonilla
Memorable experiences: I cherish the memories I made while on the swim team for four years, especially the hard work and dedication I had to exhibit to improve myself. I also loved having fun at prom and being selected Prom King.Plans after high school: Attend MSU to study mechanical and biomedical engineering.Distinguished Educator: Edward McNamee, AP government, sociology and coachSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: Mac forced me to understand what it takes to improve myself and to help those around me better themselves. He also taught me how to better understand the world around me with thought-provoking discussions.
Distinguished Educator: Erin Telleen, 5th and 6th gradeSchool: Chief Joseph ElementaryWhy: Mrs. Telleen taught me that learning is fun and it is always important to learn more. She also helped me to appreciate the time that we each have with the people around us.
▪ 12 – www.gfpsfoundation.org
Student: Melena BruskotterParents: Mark and Elizabeth Bruskotter
Memorable experiences: My favorite experiences at Great Falls High included playing four years of volleyball with my friends and teammates and staying involved by participating in clubs such as Student Council, National Honor Society and Graduation Matters.Plans after high school: Attend MSU to study biology. I hope to later work in the medical field.Distinguished Educator: Julie Easton, FrenchSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: Mrs. Easton is the kindest person I have ever met. She always says hello to her students while passing in the hallway and makes sure that everyone in her class is doing okay. She made learning French very enjoyable.Distinguished Educator: Jennifer Newman, EnglishSchool: East Middle SchoolWhy: Mrs. Newman was my volleyball coach in 7th grade and I was a classroom aide for her when I was in 8th grade. Her kindness and positive attitude helped me get through middle school. I am extremely grateful for everything she’s done for me.
Student: Kyndra BuglioneParents: Joe Buglione and Stacy Dolderer
Memorable experiences: My favorite experiences at Great Falls High included participating in cross country and track all four years, being in the music program, discovering my passion for art, challenging myself with AP classes and competitions, and joining the swim team my last year of high school.Plans after high school: Attend MSU to pursue a degree in architecture. I hope to experience many opportunities and keep my positive attitude and encourage others throughout every day.Distinguished Educator: Bob Stingley, swimming, cross country coachSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: In the four years that I spent with Mr. Stingley on the cross country team, he pushed me to work harder and to achieve my goals, including goals that don’t pertain to running. He always makes room for a little laughter throughout every difficult day.Distinguished Educator: Amy Harrell, 6th gradeSchool: Lincoln ElementaryWhy: Mrs. Harrell believed in me from the very beginning. Without her encouragement I wouldn’t have had the motivation to participate in honors classes. She cared a lot about her students and she made English fun, even when it was not my best subject.
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 13 ▪
Student: Turner BurchardParents: Ashby and Jacquie Burchard
Memorable experiences: I have endless memories of high school, including being student body president and a school board representative. I’ll remember competing in debate, DECA, the Principal’s Cup and academic Worldquest, also playing the bassoon and saxophone, NHS and homecoming.Plans after high school: Attend MSU Bozeman as a Presidential Scholar, studying computer science.Distinguished Educator: Chris Crocker, advanced chemistrySchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: Mr. Crocker is a fantastic educator. He taught me more about chemistry, life and every subject imaginable than any other teacher. Throughout it all he kept up his incredible intelligence and humor, making his class the one I looked forward to attending every day.
Distinguished Educator: Hal Hugg, musicSchool: Morningside ElementaryWhy: Music is a huge part of my life, and Mr. Hugg is to thank for almost all of it. He encouraged me, challenged me and never let me give up. Many memories of him will stay with me, especially when he took extra time and effort to convince me to play the bassoon.
Student: Brianna EdwardsParents: Martin and Sarah Edwards
Memorable experiences: My favorite memories of high school include being a part of the theater crew and participating in the homecoming shows and parade. I will remember cheering on my peers at sporting events and for those in high school plays.Plans after high school: Attend MSU to either pursue a degree in nursing or microbiology.Distinguished Educator: Christine Baroch, EnglishSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: Although I only had Mrs. Baroch this past year, she challenged me and helped me improve my writing abilities immensely. She acknowledges and pushes her students’ individual growth, and she is always an extremely inviting and friendly presence. Distinguished Educator: Julie Delgado, 5th grade
School: Sunnyside ElementaryWhy: I am forever thankful to Mrs. Delgado for providing me with comfort and a place to belong during the majority of 5th grade. She made a huge difference in my life. She strengthened my self-confidence and gave me the mutual respect of someone who really cared.
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Student: Samantha FaulknerParents: Byron and Erin Faulkner
Memorable experiences: My most memorable moments in high school were senior prom, attending sporting events, making lifelong friends and being taught by the most wonderful teachers, all of which will continue to benefit me in my educational career far into the future.Plans after high school: Attend the Honors College at MSU to study chemical engineering.Distinguished Educator: Suzanne Sturges, SpanishSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: Professor Sturges brings so much enthusiasm when teaching Spanish that her class was always the highlight of my day. Her warm spirit could brighten anyone’s day and her methods of teaching were so phenomenal that she made learning a whole new language a breeze.Distinguished Educator: Diane Moog, 3rd and 4th gradeSchool: Montana School for the Deaf and BlindWhy: Not only is Ms. Moog a kind-spirited teacher, she is also one of the sweetest people I’ve met. When I was faced with the challenge of switching to a public school, she took me under her wing and offered me the best guidance to make sure I was fully prepared to take on anything.
Student: Jorgia HawthorneParents: Brad and Jen Patera
Memorable experiences: Being involved in extracurricular activities like soccer, basketball and National Honor Society, I fully experienced being part of the Bison Family. Some of my favorite memories are playing at state basketball and cheering for others from the student section.Plans after high school: I plan to attend either the University of Montana or the University of Washington to major in biology on a pre-med track, and later attend medical school. Distinguished Educator: Jerry Schmitz, varsity girls basketball coachSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: Playing for four years under Mr. Schmitz had a profound influence on me. He taught me qualities and mindsets that will benefit me in the future. The most valuable lesson he taught me is to love what you do and truly believe in those around you. Distinguished Educator: Bill Salonen, former principalSchool: Morningside Elementary (Retired)Why: Mr. Salonen had a far-reaching impact on my educational career. He advocated for me to skip kindergarten and be placed into the gifted education program instead. He allowed me to be who I am. Without his early help, I may not have become the strong student and leader I am today. www.gfpsfoundation.org – 15 ▪
Student: Benjamin HeldParents: Brian and Judy Held
Memorable experiences: The opportunity to get to know great teachers and friends along with events like dancing to Happy Days, being honored as homecoming king, playing for the Bison under the Friday night lights, dressing up for crosstown and homecoming week themes are among my favorite memories.Plans after high school: I plan to attend college in Montana and follow the pre-med track toward an ultimate goal of becoming a psychologist and working in Montana.Distinguished Educator: Sean Donnelly, social studiesSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: Dr. Donnelly is one of the kindest people I ever met. Between Chuck Norris, funny jokes and on-point accents, his classroom was always one of my favorite places. Whenever we pass in the hall, we had
conversations about sports and current events. His presence always made my day better. Distinguished Educator: Luis Carranza, health enhancementSchool: Great Falls High School (previously East Middle School)Why: Mr. Carranza wasted no time by helping create an early morning weightlifting group. He was a fun teacher, but able to keep students in check. He inspired me and helped me realize the benefits of putting in extra effort. This lesson is something I carry with me, and it has helped me immensely.
Student: Ian JohnsonParents: Kendall and Lisa Johnson
Memorable experiences: My best memories are playing in the pep band at basketball games, performing with symphonic band, traveling throughout the state to compete in speech and debate, performing dissections in biology and enjoying many lab assignments in my science classes.Plans after high school: Attend the MSU Honors College. I will enroll in programs to study abroad and earn my bachelor’s degree in biology. After, I’ll begin a career, further myself in the field and earn a doctorate.Distinguished Educator: Robert Truax, human bioSchool: Great Falls High School (Retired)Why: Mr. Truax was one of the first teachers I interacted with who genuinely wanted to help students succeed. He
was always available and willing to give advice when approached, and his upbeat nature was inspiring. His enthusiasm about biology drove me to pursue a career in biological sciences. Distinguished Educator: Daniel Rediske, scienceSchool: East Middle SchoolWhy: Mr. Rediske was the first to teacher draw my interest in science. His ability to communicate and explain subjects kept me from becoming discouraged, and his class was deeply engaging. His positive and “out there” attitude drove me to succeed and to eventually pursue science as a career.
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Student: Stephanie KowalParents: Jeffery Kowal and Jennifer Besel
Memorable experiences: In elementary school I remember playing sharks and minnows, acting in plays, and getting a black eye. In middle school I played in the symphonic band, learning to play and tune correctly. Then in high school watching sports, playing softball, singing in Delphian and Rhapsody.Plans after high school: I plan to attend either MSU or UM and major in sociology, so I can join the FBI.Distinguished Educator: Samantha Stevens, health and weight trainingSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: Ms. Stevens is a cool teacher who goes with the flow and is fun. For four years she helped and encouraged me as my softball coach. Whenever I need someone to talk to, she is there to listen and give good advice. I look up to her, she is my role model and a role model to many other students. Distinguished Educator: Patricia Stratton, 3rd gradeSchool: Sunnyside ElementaryWhy: Ms. Stratton is my favorite teacher from elementary school because of the vibrant energy she showed in the classroom and how kind she was to all of her students. She took a special interest in me, before we were very close. Her outgoing personality and fun nature made me want to do my best in school.
Student: Taylor RadonichParents: Paul and Bonnie Radonich
Memorable experiences: My most memorable experiences include speech and debate, marching and pep bands and BPA. I also have a passion for the study of chemistry and calculus. I was involved with National Honor Society, and my Bison pride will forever live within me.Plans after high school: Attend MSU to attain a degree in chemical engineering.Distinguished Educator: Aaron Brien, algebra II, trig honors and AP calculusSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: I love math classes. Mr. Brien is an excellent teacher who goes above and beyond for his students. His knowledge of algebra and calculus and his ability to convey it to his students is second to none. He always makes time to help students who are struggling in his classes. Distinguished Educator: Margaret Houge, 5th gradeSchool: Lewis and Clark Elementary (Retired)Why: Mrs. Houge was an excellent teacher who understood the abilities of her students. She helped me advance in my studies of math. She was instrumental in developing my early love of math and science.
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 17 ▪
Student: Sarah RiceParents: Benjamin and Jessica Rice
Memorable experiences: My favorite memories include going on tour for choir and attending choral music festivals with choir pals. I also enjoyed running cross country because I learned how to endure, and my team was full of fun people.Plans after high school: Attend MSU to major in nursing and minor in environmental horticulture.Distinguished Educator: Darcie Aakre, honors EnglishSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: Mrs. Aakre is tranquil, down-to-earth and witty. She is a glowing orb of happiness and light. Something I really admire about her is her mindfulness and her ability to be compassionate toward her students.Distinguished Educator: Lisa Shull, orchestraSchool: East Middle School
Why: Mrs. Shull is one of the sweetest human beings I ever met. She has the warmest smile and the largest heart. Orchestra was my favorite class of the day because of the positive atmosphere Mrs. Shull created for her students.
Student: Elliot RobertsParents: Kyle and Carmen Roberts
Memorable experiences: My most memorable experiences were the trip I took to the American Prairie Reserve to see the work being done to Montana’s ecosystem and the annual Yellowstone trip the science department takes where we get to learn the science behind one of our national parks.Plans after high school: Attend the University of North Dakota to major in commercial aviation and minor in Chinese language and culture. I hope one day to become a Delta Airlines captain and live in Seattle with my family.Distinguished Educator: Michelle Brown, mathSchool: Great Falls High SchoolWhy: When I started in Mrs. Brown’s class, I wasn’t enjoying math very much; by the end of the year that had
completely changed. This year I had the opportunity to have an open period after lunch, but instead I took statistics, and enjoyed all of it. She has pushed me, but always helped me.Distinguished Educator: Sandy Brown, 1st and 2nd gradeSchool: Lewis and Clark Elementary (Retired)Why: I was so lucky to have Mrs. Brown for both 1st and 2nd grades. She was an amazing teacher who helped push me much farther and faster than any other teacher I had in elementary school. She allowed me to learn at my pace and helped me become a better person.
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Angela McLean Nagengast
Bertha Feaster Memorial
Bison Family
Blewett Family
Blythe Brandvold Award for Academic Excellence
Carl Straight
CMR Class of ’18 Green and Gold
Dave Nebel Memorial
David and Patty Van Tighem
Dean Riggin Memorial
Diane Dailey Memorial
Dustin Parker Memorial
Earl and Maudene Stice
Ed Warren Education
Eidel Family
First Interstate Bank
Francis Kirwin
Frank and Arlene Osborne
Fred and Vasilia Grasseschi
George W. and Kathleen Tracy Memorial
GFH Class of ’66
GFH Class of ’84
GFH Class of ’87 True Blue
GFH Class of ’89 Bison Spirit
GFPS Foundation Art
Graduation Matters
Great Falls Farmers’ Market
Great Falls Leadership
Gus Bannon Cross Country
Heisey Teacher Fund
Hinz Memorial
Hopkins Family
Hoppock Memorial
Indian Education
Jack and Rosann Johnson
Jake Arntson Teammate of the Year Memorial
James and Miriam Weitz Memorial
Janie Nicholson Education
Jaraczeski Family
Jeannette Garver
Jennifer Joy Astrin Memorial
Jennings Family
Joe and Nettie Ogrin
Kathleen Bowman Memorial
Kelly Johnson Memorial
Langevin Family
Lillian M. Knudson-Johnson
Lowell Hults
Mark Hoard Memorial
Modesto “JR” Rosales Memorial Music
Lowry Family
Montana Project
O.C. Seltzer Art
Palm Appreciation
Parson
Phil and Stella Palm
R.Lee and Grace Shockley Memorial
Ron and Becky Nelson CTE
Ross Johnson Memorial
Rudi Sabo Memorial
Sam’s Hope Memorial
Samantha Sipes Memorial
Sandy Weber Heath Memorial
Schoesser Memorial
Sister’s United
Spirit of ’58
Steve Olson Orchestra
Todd Miller Memorial
Tolmie
Treacy Giesler Memorial
Tyson Nimmick Memorial
Wilford and Lillian Lemire
Wright Memorial
Scholarships Managed by the GFPS FoundationGreat Falls families and organizations generously donate scholarships to graduating seniors. The Foundation takes pride in managing and awarding these funds to best reflect the wishes of the donors and the needs of students. This year, almost $322,000 was awarded in scholarships managed by the Foundation. The donor-funded scholarships are:
2019 GFH Jennings Family scholarship winners Zach Schermele and Hadlee Bleskin pictured with Chuck and Gerry Jennings.
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 19 ▪
At BNSF, we know investing in education is important. We know the future of our economy
and our state depends on creating a skilled workforce, and we are committed to schools and communities across Montana. We are so
proud to partner with the Great Falls Public Schools Foundation in honoring these two
outstanding educators with the Teacher of the Year Award.
Each will receive $2,500 to use for continuing
education or classroom enhancements.
TEACHER OF THE YEARCongrats to the outstanding educators of 2020!
Beth BrittonJournalism and English TeacherC.M. Russell High SchoolMs. Britton has been teaching for 16 years. During her tenure she has taught courses in the Journalism/Publications department as well as English courses. She and her students receive considerable recognition for their work on the Stampede newspaper and Russellog. In 2019, the University of Montana Journalism department named the Stampede the best in the state. Her principal said, “It is because of this commitment that Beth establishes exceptional relationships with her students.” Since 2015, Ms. Britton has served as President of the Montana Journalism Educators Association (MJEA). She is a dedicated, quality educator making a difference in students’ lives.
Callie Ross3rd Grade TeacherRiverview ElementaryMrs. Ross has been teaching for 15 years and has been at Riverview for the past four years. She states, “The most important thing I can give my students is the best 3rd grade experience possible that will leave a lasting impression when they leave my classroom.” She is a passionate educator and a true believer that education provides opportunities. Her principal stated, “Parents have mentioned at length the impact Mrs. Ross has had on their children. Mrs. Ross teaches like a great coach. She models the skills. She provides the opportunity for her students to practice, and builds their confidence.” Mrs. Ross is an innovative teacher, always looking for new methods to enhance education.
TEACHER OF THE YEARCongrats to the outstanding educators of 2020!
Preschool / ElementaryConnecting to MathBrenda Michelotti, Longfellow Elementary, $1,335The grant provided funding for specialized materials for teaching mathematical skills to at-risk students.
Culinary ClubTammy Osentowski, Giant Springs Elementary, $1,000Funds purchased ingredients and equipment for an after school culinary cooking club that helps reinforce math skills.
Differentiated Reading ComprehensionRyan Faulk, Riverview Elementary, $696Funds provided eight sets of twelve novels of varying reading levels to target a diverse range of reading comprehension skills.
Engaging LiteracyBrenda Michelotti, Longfellow Elementary, $2,200The grant provided extended reading comprehensive materials to engage reluctant readers and give more lessons to accommodate specific challenges of students.
2019-2020 Discovery Grants Discovery Grants foster classroom innovation. The program supports teachers in providing new materials or experiences without dipping into their own pockets. Discovery Grants range from $500 to $3,000 and are available at all schools. In 2019-20, a total of $37,777 was awarded to the recipients listed below.
I Love This LifeTheresa Busch, Sacajawea Elementary, $840Motivational speaker Luc Swensson kicked off the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program. The grant allowed students to use interactive diaries to help build confidence.
Preschool A-ZZZzzzColette Getten, GFPS Preschool, $3,000The grant purchased quality nap cots and storage to support learning for preschool children.
Preschool Core VocabularyTiffani Fox-Sunchild, GFPS Preschool, $2,024Materials were purchased to create, implement and motivate students and staff to use core vocabulary to increase language and communication skills for students.
Tchoukball – International Game UnitKelly Norris, Giant Springs Elementary, $1,520Two sets of tchoukball were purchased to help students develop athletic prowess and mental agility.
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THINK! Out of the BoxPatrick Jewell, Riverview Elementary, $1,300Problem-solving lock boxes were purchased for students to engage in teamwork and higher-level thinking to solve problems and obtain clues in their work to unlock the boxes.
Tumblebooks.comSusanne Halley, Lincoln Elementary, $559Funds provide a school subscription to an online resource that provided thousands of audio books for students in a safe and secure space.
Middle / High SchoolButte Geology Field TripMatt Krahe, Great Falls High, $2,844The grant funded a field trip for geology students to visit the World Museum of Mining, Montana Tech Mineral Museum, Granite Mountain Speculator Mine Memorial and the Berkeley Pit in Butte.
Computer Science Independent StudiesStacy Dolderer, Great Falls High, $3,000Funds provided an online subscription to Code High School, which offers curriculum for computer programming, cyber security and virtual reality.
Learning Outside the LinesAmy Gilbertson, Paris Gibson Education Center, $434Funds purchased a variety of learning tools to help students practice and master fine motor and visual motor skills.
Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art Field TripCortni Harant, Great Falls High, $1,200The grant funded trips to Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art for visual arts students to see works of art, experience the impact of presentation, and prepare a written critique of the art.
Planting the Seed of EntrepreneurshipPat Volkmar, North Middle School, $2,000The grant supported summer Ram Enterprises/Grizz Biz in providing students the opportunity to run a business by making, marketing and selling products at various events.
Science OlympiadBeth Thomas, Great Falls High, $2,376The funds financially assisted 15 students to prepare, travel and compete in Montana State Science Olympiad Competition.
Take a BowElizabeth Quinby, North Middle School, $1,590The grant provided 10 viola and 10 cello bows for North Middle School Orchestra students to produce quality music and make student musicians more successful.
DistrictArtist in ResidenceDusty Molyneaux, Music and Art Dept., $4,800The funds were used to support a unique collaborative experience as a Paris Gibson Square Museum artist visited and worked with all 12 art teachers and students across the district.
GFPS Patriot Marching BandDusty Molyneaux, Music and Art Dept., $2,556The grant helped assemble and prepare a marching band comprised of student musicians from both CMR and GFH to perform community outreach in the July 4th parade.
Great Falls Symphony 4th Grade Youth MatineeDusty Molyneaux, Music and Art Dept., $2,500Transportation funding was provided to allow all GFPS 4th graders to attend a spring matinee performance of the Great Falls Symphony.
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 23 ▪
Middle SchoolStanding Desks for At-Risk StudentsNorth Middle School, Clinton Toppel, $4,680The grant purchased standing desks for academic intervention students. They are designed to improve memory, expend energy and increase focus.
High SchoolCross Disciplinary Celebration of Native American MonthGreat Falls High, Cortni Harant, $3,238The Great Falls Dahl Gallery displayed and celebrated Blackfeet artist Lyle Omeasoo’s work to kick off Native American Month.
G2 – Geology GaloreGreat Falls High, Beth Thomas, $3,728The grant provided a field trip opportunity for freshman students to learn directly from natural formations of the Richest Hill on Earth, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Crystal Park.
2019-2020 Innovation Grants Innovation Grants reward creativity and collaboration. The grants are to individual teachers, groups of teachers or other school partnerships enhancing education through collaboration. Innovation Grants range from $3,000 to $10,000. In 2019-20, the Foundation awarded a total of $73,653 to the recipients listed below.
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Digging the Digital AgeCMR High, art department, $9,724This grant created a mobile laboratory of six Surface Pro laptops for use by 250 art students in areas such as graphic design, photo editing, art history and research.
Velocity Technology UpgradeEast Middle School, Velocity team teachers, $9,995A mobile station of 32 Chromebooks and headsets was purchased to allow interactive math, English, social students and science education for 130 7th grade students at East Middle School.
Holocaust and Compassion EducationGreat Falls High, Mary Dea, $9,960This project provided students and community members an opportunity to meet and listen to a living Holocaust survivor, Pete Metzelaar. Students followed up by creating a physical representation of what compassion means to them.
Get Your Game OnAll high schools, Stacy Dolderer and Drew Uecker, $10,000This grant funded collaboration with a local business to provide specialized education and computer science training through video game design classes. Clubs were established at all three high schools and students gained real-world experience in digital game design.
Paris Ukulele Music ExperienceParis Gibson Education Center, Rikka Walters, $2,500Funds purchased ukuleles to provide an enriching and innovative learning experience at Paris Gibson Education Center, which has no formal music program.
STEAM Infusion – 3D Printing ClayCMR High, Andrew Nagengast, $9,827The grant allowed purchase of a unique 3D printer that uses clay as its printing medium. The device is used as an art enrichment tool.
Tiny HomeAll high schools, Mark Yaeger, $10,000This grant helped fund purchase of materials needed to construct an eco-friendly tiny home by building trades students from all three high schools. Once built, the tiny home will be sold and proceeds will fund future tiny home construction projects.
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 25 ▪
Private Donations Support Career and Technical EducationConnecting the historic Great Falls High School building to the newer southern campus was the most ambitious construction project funded by local voters through the school bond issue.
The Hub, as the connector is known, opened in the fall of 2019 and features a new entrance for the school, offices, cafeteria and seating, along with all new classrooms for career and technical education. The only thing missing was equipment for those classrooms.
Two generous local families stepped in to fill the void.
The Oakland family, owners of the City Motor Company and longtime supporters of the GFPS Foundation, donated $500,000. The money purchased state-of-the-art equipment for the automotive shop, welding shop and wood shop.
The gift was especially poignant for Kenneth Vanlieshout, vocational technology department head. He is a former City Motors employee and knows firsthand how the new equipment will help translate into career-ready job skills.
“This gift is really something special,” he said. “It allows our students to work with the same equipment they’ll use once they’re on the job. Most high schools and even some colleges don’t have anything like this. We are so grateful to the Oakland family – they are truly outstanding.”
Bob Oakland, center, stands with his family. From left to right: John Thomas, Richie Whitney, Cooper Thomas, Kris Houtonen, Ashley Whitney, and Aja Thomas. (photo credit - Larry Beckner)
▪ 26 – www.gfpsfoundation.org GFHS Welding student, Estin Flamand.
The donation was made by Bob and the late Gladyce Oakland on behalf of their family, including daughter Kris Houtonen and her daughter Ashley Whitney; and late daughter Leslie Thomas, her husband John Thomas and their son Cooper Thomas. All of the family members attended Great Falls High.
Meanwhile, the school’s family and consumer science department received its own much-needed gift. The Thayer family donated a combined $100,000 for the culinary arts center for commercial kitchen equipment. The Thayers – Gene and Jane, their son Greg and daughter Janie Thayer Ward – gave $50,000. Their family business, Montana Milling, gave $50,000. They all attended Great Falls High.
Greg’s wife, Trina, was formerly a culinary arts teacher. Being in the grain business, the family appreciates the work done by culinary students and the need to train them for future careers.
“We feel very strongly that educating our children is a top priority,” said Gene Thayer. “Our gift allows students to leave school ready to go right into the workforce, if that’s what they choose.”
By the end of 2019, local families and businesses had given a total of $3,431,545 to enhance schools built, added on to, or refurbished by the bond issue. The Foundation continues to solicit donations as we work together to create the best possible teaching and learning environments for our schools.
Greg and Trina Thayer and Janie Thayer Ward (front left) pictured with GFHS Culinary students and teachers.
GFHS Culinary students in the new state of the art kitchen.
GFHS Woodworking student, Shane Borger.
New ovens in the GFHS culinary kitchen.
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 27 ▪
Debbie Nicholls of Great Falls was the most recent winner. The second place $1,000 gift card donated by North 40 went to Mark Rothwell, also of Great Falls.
The Foundation is immensely grateful to City Motors and the Oaklands for continuing this program. Since it began in 2013, the raffle has raised a total of $828,104. Virtually every dollar raised goes into school programs or student activities.
Purchasing a ticket is an easy way to support student groups and the work of the GFPS Foundation. We encourage you to join us!
WIN THIS TRUCKA very exciting halftime event unfolds at the Great Falls High and C.M. Russell High cross-town football game each fall: the “Win This Truck” drawing.
The GFPS Foundation’s eagerly anticipated event caps off four months of student groups selling raffle tickets for a new Toyota pickup donated by City Motor Company and the Oakland family. They’ve generously provided vehicles for seven years.
More than 60 groups – from sports teams and PTAs to music programs and cheer squads – sold 13,584 tickets last year. Of the $135,840 raised, $75,312 went to the groups selling tickets. The remainder stays with the Foundation to fund our grant and education programs.
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Now in our tenth year, the Foundation is a trusted partner in building on our community’s proud tradition of strong public education. We support innovation and excellence in the classroom and beyond. Join us in that effort by making your gift today. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Tax ID 27-2577990
The Foundation appreciates all gifts. If you would like more information about the Great Falls Public Schools Foundation, would like to contribute, or talk to us about making estate gifts, contact Dave Crum at 406-268-7340 or [email protected].
A Decade Strong
406 AttorneysAAUW Great FallsAccess FitnessJames and Susan AdolphsonAdvanced Litho PrintingAdvantage Insurance AgencyJoanie AgamenoniMike and Rebecca AgamenoniAgamenoni and Frank Court
ReportingJeff and Kerry AlbrechtTerry and Daryl AlbrechtTom and Barb AlbrechtAlice Lee Lund Charitable TrustCathy AllenKatie AllenTravis AlmosFred and Vicky AndersonJulie AndersonNorman and Marcia AndersonAnderson Zurmuehlen and Co.Mark AndrewsThomas and Carole AnglandAnonymousScott and Alesha ArensmeyerRoger ArntsonAssociation of Presbyterian
WomenJill AustinJohn and Susan AveryAudy and Anne BaackGeorge BakerJill BakerLinda BallewMartin and Sharon BannonChristine BarochReed and Carissa BassettCindy BastianJeff BeattieJohn Bebee and Kim SchulkeMolly BeckShelli BeckDrake BeckerMargaret BeckerCarol BeddesBeef O’Brady’sAnn BenderLexie Benedict
Benefis Health SystemSteve and Linda BennettsSharon BennyhoffHarry BergKaye BergmanDennis and Jamie BettsBighorn Outdoor SpecialistsBig Mouth BBQBeau and Raean BilbreyMarcia BirkenbuelDarcy BirkoskiKathleen and Donald BisgardKaren BishopBison Football ParentsGerry BlackmanRodney and Ana BlakeDrew BlewettBennett BlissDianna BlissShannon BlocherPeggy BloomfieldBNSF RailwayBNSF Railway FoundationBoeing CompanyRachel BohannonLorinda and Gene BollwittCarrie BoysunBozeman Spirits DistilleryKaren and Benny BrandvoldKenneth and Blythe BrandvoldLisa and Martin BraunBrennan Heating and CoolingBrilz Court ReportingKerry and Bob BronsonE. Marie BrownJared and Anne BrownMichelle BrownSarah BrownJeriAnn BrowneRon and Marlene BrumfieldMark BruskotterTawni BryanJulie BryantRyan BuffingtonChana BuntonJennifer BuntonAshby and Jacquie Burchard
Ryan and Diane BurkeTheresa BuschCaren ByerlyClyde and Carol ByerlyLila ByersCalumet Refinery, LLCEleanor CannanSamantha CaouetteLewis and Sasha CardLinda Caricaburu and Brad
Talcott Norvil and Avalyn CarlsonGail CarterAngela and Daniel CasmierDennis CastleCentral Montana Lock and SafeKenneth Chapman Jr.Edward ChebulJared and Michelle ChenowethDonald and Helen CherryCherry Creek RadioChicago TitleAlouette ChicoineDorothy ChordCarl and Roxanne ChristoffersonChurch, Harris, Johnson and
WilliamsCity Motor CompanyCity-County Health DepartmentRick and Sherri ClarkClear Creek CounselingNash ClevelandCMR Class of 1999CMR Class of 2018CMR FootballColdwell BankerElizabeth ColgroveBrett and Lacey ColvinHelen ComerDennis and Janis ConnerConner and Marr, PLLPConnie Mathews Insurance LLCJames ConroyKeri ConterGayleen CooleyCorder and Associates, LLCJeremy Cosby and Ashley
Speelman
Lauralie CraneCheryl CrawleyCredit Associates Inc. William and Carol CrewsCripple Creek CasinoJennifer CrismanLaura CristCrist DentalChris CrockerBrian and Jordan CrosbyDave and Darcy CrumPaul CulbertsonSandra CummingsShianne CurreyD.A. Davidson CompanyOrzlia DahlmanDahlquist RealtorsBoyd DaileyDan DaileyJerome DaileyDoug DarkoAndrew and Wendy DavidsonIan and Nancy DavidsonDavidson Family FoundationGary and Kathy DavisTodd and Nadine DavyDaniel and Ellette DayJames and Mary DeaCarolyn DeevyDavid DeevyDoug DeffeGary and Sue DeGooyerLisa DemallieRobert DeMarinoTiffany DevereauxCharles DeweyBob and Sue DickensonArthur and Sharon DickhoffJamie DoanDodson Public School DistrictRyan and Andrea DoerrTony DolackTanya and Edward DomserDan and Linda DonovanJessica DouglasDuBois MillsBrian Dues
Donor ListThe list below includes gifts received January 1, 2019 through December 31, 2019.
Please check these lists for recognition of your gifts. While we make every effort to get ensure accuracy, occasional errors occur. If you find we omitted or misspelled your name, please call Dave Crum at 406-268-7340 to allow us to apologize and correct the records. We want to correct even minor errors. Thank you again for your generouse gift.
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 29 ▪
Tom and Cynthia DuffyChristopher DunlopCara DunnDiedri DurocherSandra DustDustin Young Real EstateMary DutroTayler DuvallDannelle DykeJulie EastonEric and Doris EckensteinErney and Ann EdwardsJoel EdwardsCyndie EinanMark and Jody EkstromJeremy and Tahran ElderElectric City Roller GRRRLZSusan EllisonEmbark Credit UnionEmployees of City Motor Co
Friendship FundBryan EnglandRobert and Rebecca EngumSteve and Debra ErwinJon and Whitney Von EschenStacy EverhartVicki and Harold EversonExit JK RealtyKim and Linda FagenstromFaith CenterFamily ConnectionsWilliam and Nancy FarrarFarstad OilEve FatzJean FaureFaure Holden Attorneys at LawLeAnn Galt FeisthamelRob FerrisPhyllis and Alan FigarelleJim and Debbie FilipowiczSandi FilipowiczFirst American Title CompanyFirst Interstate BancSystem
FoundationFirst Interstate BankFirst Presbyterian ChurchTammy FishClarice FlanaganJustin and Melissa FlatenFlawless Auto BodySarah FlemingEllen ForslundLee and Dody FosterFox Farm Dairy QueenJames FrahmFraternal Order of EaglesDebi Friese
Beckie FrisbeeFloyd and Dolores FrisbeeFrontier Physical TherapyPaula Brandon FryLinda FullerCassandra FurrRoy and Madonna FurthmyreLacey GallagherRick and Karen GartzkaEmilio GarzaJulie GarzaKaitlin M GeerMark GelernterGeneral Distributing Co.Sydne GeorgeGeorge GeraniosAli GettenGFH Boys BasketballGFH Class of 1978GFH FootballGFH WrestlingSheila GieslerJoanne GinterLindsey GodwinStephanie and Thad GoetzAmber GonserGrant GonserKathy GoodmanShan GouldBryce and Sara GraftJared and Heather GrayJeff and Mary GrayRandy and Nora GrayGreat Falls Area Chamber of
CommerceGreat Falls Association of
RealtorsGreat Falls ClinicGreat Falls Farmers’ MarketGreat Falls HighGreat Falls Police Protective AssociationGreat Falls RealtyGreat Falls Society of ArchitectsGreat Falls Symphony
AssociationGreat Falls TribuneGreat Falls VoyagersAlexis GreenNathan GregierGregoire Real EstateAnnette GregoryCraig and Denise GreshamJudy GretchDavid GreytakHolly GriffinMitzi Griffin
Robert GriffithMarilyn GrimesRachel GrimshawSteven GroutKaren GroveCorey GundersonJarrett GundlachJennifer GundlachDebra GygerChristopher GygiBret and Susan HagelShannon and Matt HagelJustin HagerMarianne HaighElijah Haines and familyPat and Lisa HalcroDarreck and Heather HaleAnitra HallBruci Ann HallJerry W HallThomas and Marilyn HallBill HalversonBonnie HamanMarilyn HamerMike HannulaDarlene HansenLoyal HansenJean HansonCortni HarantKaren HarantBarbara HardyErica HarpNiki HarrisJane HashleyTom HayesJennifer HazeltonCurtis and Michelle HeathHeisey FoundationBrian and Judy HeldMindy HenderL. HendersonMarilyn and Dick HensleyTom HeringHeritage InnBruce HeunRuth HillHimcoKelly HitchcockTom and Ruth HlavnickaAshlee LaCasse and Logan
HodkeJuanita HogensonHoglund’s Western WearHoliday Inn Convention CenterMargie HollandPaul and Linda Holland
Holman AviationGregg HoltKathy and Larry HolumHome Builders Association of
Great FallsDoreen HoosonOrville HooverBrian and Stacy HopkinsKris HoutonenCraig Hovda and Shellie WeitzHoward’s PizzaMonte and Jolynn HowseDanny and Joyce HoytDebra and James HuberPatricia HuberHulteng Inc.Jill HuntTanya HuntingtonRobert and Heather HustonMarilyn IversenJ and K Real Property
ManagementKassie JacksonKathy and Kurt JacksonHeidi JacobsenKristen JacobsenCynde JacobsonStacie JarrellJeffrey S. Ferguson Law OfficeReanna JenkinsChuck and Gerry JenningsMike and Stephanie JenningsPeter and Elizabeth JenningsAllan JeskaRuth JewettAnna Johns BleskinBridget JohnsonDonna JohnsonDorica JohnsonFloyd JohnsonKatie JohnsonNobby and Betty JohnsonRachel JohnsonSheri JohnsonSusan JohnsonEdward JoneesAnita JonesRussell and Theresa JonesKen and Julie Ann JorgensenMike and Debbie JudgeJocelyn JuelfsSteven JusticeWanda KangasKathleen Bowman Scholarship
TrustShirley KeilFrances Keith
▪ 30 – www.gfpsfoundation.org
Ty KellerRick and Donna KelloggRussell KelloggBob and Sheila KellyDeborah KellyWiley KendleJeffrey and Joan KesslerKFBBKay KieferRobert and Sonja KingMark and Judy KlemencicSheleen KloppelValerie KlosGene and Bonnie KnightRandall and Sheryl KnowlesJody KnutsonGary KohoutekMark and Patty KohoutekShari KohoutekNicole KojetinSteve KomacBrenda KornickNikita and Sandra KoulichkovCraig and Gwen KowakMatt and Stacey KraheLucille KrajacichTerri and Ray KrenikAnnette KroppKRTVMichael and Heather KubasMichael KubasRay KummerLindsey KunkelJerry KuntzLa Quinta Inn and SuitesTammy LaceyLadies AuxiliaryMary LagendorffRoberta LambDale LambertKody and Jennifer LambertJim and Mary LarsonToni LarsonDavid LarweckErica LatrayDr. Richard and Lorena LauritzenMorgan and Mindy LeachTheodore and Betty LeckbandKendra LeeGail LemeurDiana and Martin LeonardJames and Sharon LepardTodd and Heidi LepardJohn and Gail LewisNancy LewisBucky and Carrie LindstrandPaul and Sharon Lindstrom
Madeline LinnellLiteracy OutreachCarol Ann LittleBrad LivingstonLoenbroColette LonginKay LopuchJanice LorangJeff and Becky LorioBrian and Patricia LoucksMonte and Cindy LoveMarie and Gary LowryLinda LydiardM and D ConstructionLuke and Kelli MacDonaldJack MacekMacKenzie River PizzaMacmax Inc Winston PublishingJan MaderEric MadsenCarie MagersGeorge MaherJackie MainwaringMary Jane MalsamRichard MarbergCarol MarinoMarshall OrthodonticsLarry and Anne MartinezWinter MartinezMichael and Jennifer MartynDr. David and Sally MathersPeggy MatteucciGarri MauchMaxstone Marble and GraniteDiana MayerNancy and Bob MaynardSanford and Gene McAllisterKevin and Linda McCaffertyDiana and Scott McCallumJon and Rhonda McCartyJames and Rose McCarvelMichael and Sienna McClearyGavin and Katie McClueyRagen McClueyGary and Opal McConnellCatherine McDonaldDawn McelhennyDr. William and Juanita McGregorJanis McGregorMary McGregor and Eric SchultzDan and Kristen McGuireSusan McIntyrePat and Sharon McKittrickMcKittrick Law FirmHarold and Nanette McLaughlinGary and Barbara McManusMeadowlark PTA
Morgan and Jace MedvecLora MehaffeyKenneth MeskeStan MeyerAndrea MikuleckyMiller FamilyRobert and Carole MillerDayton MisfeldtHarry MitchellModerne CabinetJack and Kim MolloyDan MoltzanMontana Community
FoundationMontana Federal Credit UnionMontana MillingCalvin and Sharla MooreCory MooreTom and Rhonda MooreLynda and Jim MorinRoger MorrisonMorrison-MaierleRachel MosleyJamie MossJack and Jody MurrayAndrew NagengastGordon and Betty NaylorBob and Marsha NebelRosemary and Jim NeilsenMichelle NelsonRon and Becky NelsonTom NelsonJan NeremBarry and Jane NewmackJeff and Nichole NewtonSharlee NicholDebbie NichollsDoug and Paige NicholsonStuart and Janie NicholsonThomas NicholsonJo Ann NiemeyerBrad and Peg NimmickDonald NimmickGary and Pamela NimmickJoshua NimmickRobert and Gwen NimmickTrevor and Samantha NimmickNMS MusicKen NolandKenwood NordquistElisabeth NorthNorth 40Northside Dairy QueenNorthwest Pipe FittingsNorthWestern EnergyCraig and Gwen NowakTony and Christina Nunez
Deborah OakesBob and Gladyce OaklandLeona OberNancy O’BrienLisa O’ConnorAustin OdegardDawn O’LearyLaurie O’LearyDick and Debbie OlsonSteve OlsonWhitney OlsonOptimist Club of Great FallsJanell O’RourkeMichelle OrrMichael and Michele OsweilerOur Saviors LutheranRyan PachekPacific Northwest Regional
Council of Carpenters Pacific Steel and RecyclingKelly PaladinoFrank PalakovichMegan PancichDebbie ParchenKay Dell ParrattKelly ParsonsDoris PascalDaneen PateBrian and Patty PatrickEd PattersonRonald PattersonJohn PaulTim and Carol PaulBridgette PenceNathan PerryJennifer PerrymanDon and Donna PetersenEngra PetersenKathy PetersonMichael and Kaye PickingDaniela PinneoDorothy PitcockMichael Platt and Aimee Ameline Dale and Dianne PohleBill Polk Jr. Clint PorterMegan PorterApril PoseyColonel Frank PoucherPrairie Mountain BankProperty Development Company
Inc.Public Drug CompanyWillie and Melissa PyetteBonnie RamboKatrina RamstadKandi Rasmussen
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 31 ▪
▪ 32 – www.gfpsfoundation.org
Richard and Marvene Raunig
Lyna RavndalDavid RayRBC Wealth ManagementCallie and Jeffrey ReardenDavid and Amanda
RedenbaughWaddell and ReedGloria ReevesJennifer ReicheltArlyne ReichertRobert ReichertHank and Rosalie ReimersChris and Cindy ReiquamDawn ReitzMichael ReitzSusan ReppeResidential Appraisal
ServiceSheila RiceJoshua RidgewayJulie RidgewayJudy RiesenbergMelissa RiphenburgRoadhouse DinerKatelyn RobbinsAmy RobertsRyan and Sarah RobinsonJose and Renee RodriguezClaire RoehmWendy RoehmTraci RomsaRotary Club of Great FallsBeverly RountreeBetty RowtonRussell Country FCUPatrick and Lynn RyanSam’s Hope FoundationMark SamsonCandice San MiguelLisa SappLauree SaylerKaren SchaeferRod SchlechtKim SchlosserTiffany and Wade
SchneiderAmy SchoenenBrett and Jacie SchoenenArthur and Elizabeth
SchroederLorie Jean SchultSchulte’sSchulte Dirk AgencyDale and Judy SchwankeDavid ScotsonBecca Scott
See You Succeed LLCRyan and Leslie SeltzerSteve SeltzerSerendipity Mobile BotiqueSuzanne and Stan SeverinLayne ShanahanDouglas ShawverChristine and Autumn
SheldonDennis and Cynthia
ShepherdRonald and Carol ShipleyRobert and Margaret ShortShortgrass Web DevelopmentShowdown MTKay ShullAnnie SimkinsRajinder SinghTerri SivumakiPatty SkawinskiPatricia SlettenDave and Jackie SlovakKen SmallAshley and Michelle SmithBob SmithDwight and Norma SmithMichael and Jean SmithRae and Jeremy SmithGary SorumKaren SouthersLillian SpangenbergDavid SpauldingKaren SpencerLois SpencerStephen SpencerHarold and Judith SpildeSTARadioWilliam SterlingChristy StevensSam StevensJim and Mary StichterFrank and Lois StimacBob StingleyChance StoneTimothy and Mara StreetBillie StuffSuzanne and Sean SturgesGary SudenDanette SukutKay and Dan SullivanMark SullivanSunrise Presbyterian ChurchSusanne and Kenneth
SutherlandJack and Heather SwansonTaco Treat of Great FallsBelinda TadejDiana Talcott
James TalcottNikki TauchusJessica TauleJudith TaylorPamela TaylorWyman and Delilah TaylorTaylor’s Auto MaxTeriyaki MadnessKathy and Lyall TeschWayne TharesGene and Jane ThayerThe Farmer’s Daughter FibersThe General Mills Foundation Hometown Grantmaking Program The Grey Family FoundationThe Last Straw BistroThe Natural TouchThe Palm TreeBryan ThiesBeth ThomasSusan Thomas and Ken KohoutekTina ThomeCarol ThompsonKenneth and Terry ThompsonMonte and Lisa ThompsonTerry ThompsonBrandi and Michael ThorneMyrna ThurberDwain TillemanLynn TobinBrion and Tammy TorgersonGlen and Peggy TremperJoan TroppmannCorrine TuckerNancy TullyLaurie and Jim TurnerRuth UeckerUgrin, Alexander and Zadick, PCAllen and Diana UnghireUnited MaterialsUnited WayUniversal AthleticsLuke and Jillian UrickUS Bank Employee (Anonymous)Vallejo FamilyDave and Patty Van TighemKathy Van TighemLinda Van TighemNick and Katie Van TighemGunnar and Mary VandermarsIvey VandermissenJustin and Michelle VavraSharon VirginRoy and Diane VolkPeggy VollrathRobert and Norma VylasekJay Wall
Gary WallaceKathy WannerWarehouse FlooringMary WarnerEd and Sue WarrenKerry and Tafta WatsonRaymond and Susan WatsonGail WeberJames and Jane WeberDenise WegnerRobert WeigeltDr. Candace WeinsteinRoger and Renae
WeisenburgerDean and Donna WesterWestside Family DentalPerrie WhiteWhitefish Mountain ResortAshley WhitneyCasey WhyteKathleen WildaGeorge and Margie WillettLarry and Becky WilliamsMary Clare WilliamsSara WilliamsSharon WillitsWillson Real EstateRichard and Paula WilmotMarie WilsonRonald WinterWendy WolfSusan WolffJoel WolvertonLynn WordalLorraine WursterRussell WutzkeKindra YoungJessa YoungersToni and Bob ZadickJudy Zeman and familyCassie ZimmsZoo MontanaMichael and Sarah Zook
Nikki Ritland Brian and Jordan CrosbyTara Rosipal Sara WilliamsCallie Ross Brian and Jordan Crosby Candice San MiguelWendy Ruff Beau and Raean BilbreyPatrick Ryan Dan and Kristen McGuireKim Sangray Sheri JohnsonMegan Schaak John PaulAngela Schei Jennifer Crisman Christine SheldonDiane Seder Shannon and Matt HagelJon Seekins Bryce and Sara GraftAnnie Simkins Carol ShipleyJeremy Smith Sara WilliamsRae Smith Dannelle Dyke Allison Stenberg Dannelle Dyke Julie Stenzel Jessica Douglas Diedri DurocherShawna Storm Diedri DurocherDave Strand Molly BeckKirstin Swartz Jessica Douglas Diedri DurocherAndrea Thares Brian and Jordan CrosbyKristal Thunstrom Brian and Jordan CrosbyLori Vinson Garri Mauch Rae and Jeremy SmithKristi Wasson Jessica DouglasTim Webb Drake BeckerKevin Westie Elijah Haines and FamilyLeann Williams Lexie BenedictKatie Yeisley Ali GettenEmily Zimmerli Lexie Benedict Jennifer Crisman
Suzanne Kaul Nathan GregierBrittany Keeler Elijah Haines and FamilyMary Kay Keller Ryan and Andrea Doerr Cassandra FurrRuss Kellogg Diedri DurocherBrooke Knowles Russell and Theresa JonesCindy Schroer Kohut Molly BeckCathy Kuntz Jerry Kuntz Tammy Lacey Linda CaricaburuTawnya Hinojosa Lauver Rae and Jeremy SmithLinda Lawson Rae and Jeremy SmithLexa Loch Elijah Haines and FamilyJanice Lorang Diedri DurocherGrandma Anna Mae Lexie BenedictDeidre Martinko Dannelle Dyke Nicole Matoon Nicole KojetinBeth McWilliams Rae and Jeremy SmithHolly Molyneaux Diedri DurocherAshley Moore Ali GettenSasha Moore Belinda TadejFelicia Morgan Jessa YoungersHolly Neibauer Cassandra FurrLindsey O’Brien Vallejo FamilyRachel O’Neill Rajinder SinghJenny Painter Diedri DurocherMegan Pancich Brian and Jordan Crosby Michael and Sarah ZookMary Proud Brett and Jacie SchoenenAmber Rausch Nicole Kojetin Morgan and Jace MedvecMichael Reitz Sara Williams Dawn Reitz Dan and Kristen McGuireJeff Rieger Brian and Jordan Crosby
Emilio Garza Sara WilliamsCourtney George Nikki TauchusMeghan Grady Kindra YoungHailey Gregoire Michael and Sarah ZookLisa Gregory Ashlee LaCasse and Logan
HodkeJennifer Gunter Candice San MiguelCarey Hamrick April PoseyMisty Handa Christine SheldonAmy Harrell Caren Byerly Luke and Kelli MacDonald Miller FamilyLonda Hart Jamie MossAngie Henneberg Garri MauchAndrea Hirose Robert DeMarino Sheri JohnsonLori Hoff Jack and Kim MolloyDennis Hogan Brian and Jordan CrosbyAnna Horton Nicole KojetinKatharine Howard Kindra YoungPaula Hruska Ragen McClueyShantelle Hutchinson Brian and Jordan CrosbyBobby Ingalls Elijah Haines and Family Ragen McClueyKristen Jacobsen Sara WilliamsBen Jaques Jessa Youngers
Riki Johnson Brett and Jacie Schoenen
Gold Star Recognition AwardsNames in bold are teachers or school staff honored by community members for their work.
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 33 ▪▪
Teresa Baker Megan Pancich Michael and Sarah ZookSara Barker Jeff and Becky LorioJeri Beck Sara WilliamsBilli Bergman Kindra YoungShannon Boyer Winter MartinezJayci Braaten
Caren Byerly Luke and Kelli MacDonald
Miller FamilyMeghan Brenna Brian and Jordan CrosbyAnde Brinka Mindy Hender Jessa YoungersDarcy Bronec
Sara WilliamsRebecca Brown
Sara WilliamsErin Butts Linda CaricaburuCindy Clark Garri MauchKimberly Clark Belinda TadejCharity Clark Dannelle Dyke Lindsay Cline Justin Hager Christine and Autumn SheldonRachel Cutler Rae and Jeremy SmithTerri Dahl Jack and Kim MolloyJoan Dailey Talcott FamilyJody Davis Rajinder SinghMary Dea Carol ShipleyLuke Diekhans Brian and Jordan Crosby Candice San MiguelKristen Dige Luke and Kelli MacDonald Ivey VandermissenLinda Donovan Rajinder SinghJessica Douglas Belinda TadejBrian Dues Dan and Kristen McGuireTayler Duvall Garri MauchCourtney Francetich Jessica DouglasStephanie Frank Bryce and Sara Graft
Richard Achatz Tammy Lacey
Jeannette Achenbach Tammy Lacey Tom Moore
Claire Louise Addrienne Tammy Lacey
Renee Allen Tammy Lacey
Virgil Alme Kathy Van Tighem
Sandra Arehart Tammy Lacey
Jake Arntson Beverly Rountree
Dave Audet Tom Moore
Judith Audet Tom Moore
Annette Bain Tammy Lacey
Ruth Barrett Tammy Lacey
Jay Baumberger Robert Reichert
Gary Beck Tammy Lacey Brian and Patty Patrick
Jackline Brawley Tom Moore
Lee Busch Theresa Busch
Patty Cadwell Tammy Lacey
Kenneth Chapman Tammy Lacey
Dianna Clausen Tammy Lacey
James Colla Tammy Lacey
Memorial Donations
▪ 34 – www.gfpsfoundation.org
Christine Baroch Brian and Judy Held
Bailey Brandvold Steven Grout
Bryar Brandvold Steven Grout
Karen and Benny Brandvold Loyal Hansen
Michelle Brown Brian and Judy Held Kathy Van Tighem
Anne Bulger Margie Holland Jane Newmack
Luis Carranza Brian and Judy Held
Ellie Crum Steven Grout
Molly Crum Steven Grout
Tom Cubbage Craig and Gwen Kowak
Terri Dahl Kenneth Meske Jane Newmack
Joan Dailey Brian and Judy Held
Ian and Nancy Davidson Dean and Donna Wester
Andrew and Wendy Davidson D.A. Davidson
District Administrators Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of MT
Scott Donisthorpe Brian and Judy Held
Tom and Cindy Duffy Raymond and Susan Watson
Merrick Family Mitzi Griffin
Steve and Colleen Garness Kathy Van Tighem
Cindy Gordon Brian and Patty Patrick
Jeff and Mary Gray Randy and Nora Gray
Randy and Nora Gray Jeff and Mary Gray
Lori Hoff Jane Newmack
Kurt and Kathy Jackson Dave and Jackie Slovak
Tierra Jorgensen Ken and Julie Ann Jorgensen
James Kizer Tom and Cynthia Duffy
Cathy Kuntz Jane Newmack
Tammy Lacey Karen and Benny Brandvold Career and College Readiness Team Gail Carter Arthur and Sharon Dickhoff Elementary Principals Ellen Forslund Marilyn Hamer Patricia Huber Chuck and Gerry Jennings Paul and Sharon Lindstrom Brian and Patricia Loucks Dr. David and Sally Mathers Kenneth Meske Jack and Jody Murray Jane Newmack Nancy O’Brien Don and Donna Petersen Michael and Kaye Picking Ronald and Carol Shipley Dwight and Norma Smith Wyman and Delilah Taylor Ed and Sue Warren Anonymous
Janet Mader Brian and Judy Held
Carole McKittrick Jane Newmack
Michelle Meredith Jane Newmack
Rhonda Moore Jane Newmack
Stu and Janie Nicholson Doug and Paige Nicholson
Jennifer Nimmick and Jeff Greene Edward Chebul Susan Ellison Clarice Flanagan Tom and Ruth Hlavnicka Craig Hovda and Shellie Weitz Rick and Donna Kellogg Mark and Patty Kohoutek Shari Kohoutek Monte and Cindy Love Gary and Pamela Nimmick Joshua Nimmick Trevor and Samantha Nimmick Jennifer Reichelt Chris and Cindy Reiquam Ryan and Sarah Robinson Arthur and Elizabeth Schroeder
Calleigh Orr Michelle Orr
Serena and Laurel Palmer Kenwood Nordquist
Shannon Reimers and Hank Booth Hank and Rosalie Reimers
Randy Remsen Jane Newmack
Betsy Rogstad Jane Newmack
Scott and Susan Sanford Tom and Cynthia Duffy
Shelli Lavinder Schwalk Jane Newmack
Maureen Scott Jane Newmack
Lyall Tesch Jane Newmack
Kathy Tesch Jane Newmack
Kasi Thompson Carol Thompson
Dave and Patty Van Tighem Linda Van Tighem Nick and Katie Van Tighem
Rob Truax Jane Newmack
Sue and Ray Watson Thomas and Cynthia Duffy
Dean and Donna Wester Ian and Nancy Davidson
Dan Wilkins Jane Newmack
Honor Donations
William Cooney Jeff and Mary Gray
Don Cramer Tammy Lacey Tom Moore
Randy Dahley Tammy Lacey
William C. Dains Tammy Lacey
Barry J. Day Tammy Lacey
Keith Decker Tammy Lacey
Joan Deffe Brian and Patty Patrick
David Delcomte Tom and Rhonda Moore
Sandra Dellw Tammy Lacey
Alice Abby Deevy David Deevy
Richard Devich Tom Moore
Tony Dolack George Baker
Lorraine Doll Tammy Lacey
Vivian Drake Tammy Lacey
Connie Edwards Joel Edwards
David Enfante Tammy Lacey
Dr. Don Engrom John and Susan Avery
Velma Falcon Tammy Lacey
Sharon Finney Larry and Becky Williams
Jack Fisher Nathan Perry
Shirley Fitzgerald Carl and Roxanne Christofferson
Richard Forster Tammy Lacey
Rena Foster Tom Moore
Charles Franzen Tammy Lacey
James Frisbee Tammy Lacey
Ronald Frost Marianne Haigh Tom Moore
Mary Galvin Tom Moore
Charles Gardner Kenneth Meske
Virginia Gerhart Tammy Lacey
Marsha Gerke Dave and Darcy Crum
LeeAnn Getten Lacey Gallagher
Jolene Goodover Jeffrey Gray Deborah Kelly Tammy Lacey Carol Shipley
Donald Gray Tammy Lacey
Michael Greely Dayton Misfeldt
Margaret Severance Grey Eleanor Cannon William and Nancy Farrar Jeff and Mary Gray Randy and Nora Gray Kelly Hitchcock Joan Troppmann Nancy Tully Dr. Candace Weinstein Donald and Helen White Family
William Griffin Tammy Lacey
Jervis Gritzner Tammy Lacey
Laurence Allen Gunther Tom Moore
Henry Gurnsey Tammy Lacey
Tom Haigh Marianne Haigh
Brent Hall Colonel Frank Poucher
Daniel Snow Hall Tom Moore
Ralph Halverson Bill Halverson
Dick Hein Tammy Lacey
Eugene Hering Dave and Darcy Crum Tammy Lacey Tom Moore Brian and Patty Patrick
Michael Heuth Tammy Lacey
Kathryn P. Hinkle Tammy Lacey
Homer Holman Brian and Patty Patrick
Sharon Hoover Orville Hoover Tammy Lacey
Rosie Horgan Tom Moore
Patricia Hruska Tammy Lacey
Jim Hunter Judy Zeman and Family
Jack Huotari Tammy Lacey
Mike Huston Craig and Denise Gresham Kenwood Nordquist Brian and Patty Patrick
Mr. Isaacs Carolyn Deevy
Neva Jackson Tammy Lacey Janice Nerem
Sandie Jaeger Tammy Lacey
Pauline Jefferson Tammy Lacey
John Kelly Lorinda and Gene Bollwitt Ron and Marlene Brumfield Tammy Lacey
Sheila Kemmer Tammy Lacey
Randy Koch Tammy Lacey
John Kranick Jeff Gray Frances Keith Roberta Lamb Janis McGregor Tom Moore Janice Nerem Larry and Rebecca Williams
Ronald Krattiger Tammy Lacey
Kathie Kummer Ray Kummer
Jim Kunka Thomas and Marilyn Hall Kenneth Meske Dale and Dianne Pohle Ronald and Carol Shipley Beth Thomas
Raymond Kynett Tammy Lacey
Earl “Ben” Lamb Roberta Lamb
Carole Lamont Tom Moore
Bob Langevin Dave and Darcy Crum Karen Spencer
Nancy Lanier Tammy Lacey
Roger Larson Toni Larson
Lyle Larson Tom Moore
Dale Long Tammy Lacey
Connie Lucero Tammy Lacey
www.gfpsfoundation.org – 35 ▪
Sharon Maher Anderson Zurmuehlen & Co. Kathleen and Donald Bisgard Lisa and Martin Braun Linda Caricaburu and Brad Talcott Faith Center Donald and Helen Cherry Erney and Ann Edwards Mark and Jody Ekstrom Vicki and Harold Everson Pat and Lisa Halcro Barbara Hardy Paul and Linda Holland Danny and Joyce Hoyt Donna Johnson Mark and Judy Klemencic Shari Kohoutek Nikita and Sandra Koulichkov George Maher Gary and Opal McConnell Roger Morrison Dorothy Pitcock Dale and Judy Schwanke Suzanne and Stan Severin Jim and Mary Stichter Roger Morrison Trust Allen and Diana Unghire Justin and Michelle Vavra Robert and Norma Vylasek
Dorothy Marberg Richard Marberg
Patricia Marlowe Tammy Lacey
Ken Mathern Ryan and Leslie Seltzer
Stephen Lee McManus Tom Moore
Marty Mikelsons George Baker
Jim Miller Jan Nerem
Phil Moore Tammy Lacey
Harvey Niemi Carl and Roxanne Christofferson
Tyson Nimmick Tom and Barb Albrecht Sarah Brown Lila Byers Angela Casmier James Conroy Sandra Cummings Eve Fatz Gary Kohoutek John and Gail Lewis Cory Moore Calvin and Sharla Moore Donald Nimmick Robert and Gwen Nimmick Frank Palakovich Susan Reppe Kay Shull Susan Thomas and Ken Kohoutek Peggy Vollrath
Gladyce Oakland Kerry and Bob Bronson Dave and Darcy Crum
Leslie Oakland Fred and Vicky Anderson Thomas and Carole Angland
Linda Caricaburu and Brad Talcott Gail Carter Dan Dailey Tom and Cynthia Duffy Gregg Holt Kevin and Linda McCafferty Sheila Rice Stephen Spencer Roy and Diane Volk
Richard Olson Tammy Lacey
Jerriane O’Hara Tammy Lacey
Matthew Michael Orrantia Tammy Lacey
Tamie Pachek Theresa Busch Meadowlark PTA
Jim Pascal, Jr. Doris Pascal
Paul Perry Nathan Perry
Aaron Peterson Marilyn and Dick Hensley
David Pidcock Tammy Lacey
Ardith Preble Tammy Lacey
Jean Price Tammy Lacey Janice Nerem Brian and Patty Patrick Larry and Becky Williams
Melvin Price Tammy Lacey
Rosellen Quamen Janice Nerem
Doug Ray Tammy Lacey
Ronald Raymond Tom Moore
John Reed Tammy Lacey
Dr. Roger Reichert Arlyne Reichert
Lorraine Richards Tammy Lacey
Harry Richardson Tammy Lacey
M.A. Roberts Diana Talcott
Don Rose Gary Sorum
Larry Rowton Betty Rowton
Paul Rubino Tammy Lacey
Rachael Rust Tammy Lacey
Audrey Sabo Kathy Van Tighem
Patricia Scotson David Scotson
Mary Severns Larry and Becky Williams
Bob Sletten Patricia Sletten
Margaret Smith Tammy Lacey
Audrey Olson-Stafford Janice Nerem
Jenny Sullivan Tammy Lacey
Arden Sunwall Dave and Darcy Crum
Donna Tarantino Carrie Boysun
Shirlee Thiebes Diana Talcott
Fred Thiel Tammy Lacey Glen and Peggy Tremper
Bill Tremper Dave and Darcy Crum GFPS Foundation
Sharian Turnquist Tom Moore
John Tymeson Tammy Lacey
Mary Valacich Kenneth Meske
William Van Alstine Tammy Lacey
Rod Van Heel Tammy Lacey Rae Smith
Scot Vance Cindy Bastian Julie Bryant Mary Dutro Debi Friese Annette Gregory Doreen Hooson Heidi Jacobsen Susan Johnson Steven Justice Sharlee Nichol Kathleen Wilda
Clara Vannoy Tammy Lacey
Marlene Walden Kathy and Kurt Jackson
Corbin Wheeler Tom Moore
Joy Wheeler Tom Moore
Helen Severance White Eleanor Cannan
Wilfred Willert Tammy Lacey
Robert Woodmansey Jim and Mary Larson
Carolyn Wrobel Tammy Lacey
Winona Wynia Tammy Lacey
Geoffrey Zandhuisen Tammy Lacey
Muriel Zeren Tom Moore
Aleta Carpenter’s grandmother Tammy Lacey
Jessica Wald’s grandmother Tammy Lacey
Brittany Wilson’s grandmother Tammy Lacey
Christopher Hibbert’s mother Tammy Lacey
Shaun Hammatt’s father-in-law Tammy Lacey
Sheree McKinley’s grandfather Tammy Lacey
▪ 36 – www.gfpsfoundation.org
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