Kettle Falls School District

In a continuing effort to share information regarding the incident at the Early Learning Center, we want you to know that the Kettle Falls School District will be conducting our own internal review of this situation. We are hiring an independent expert to review our policies, procedures and practices, report their findings and make recommendations. The review will begin once the criminal investigation completes the interview phase.  We want to remind everyone that any criminal investigations will be conducted by the Stevens County Sheriff’s Office. If you have any questions on student interviews or the investigation please reach out to them at 509-684-5296. If you have questions for the district please reach out to Julie Peterson at 509-738-6625, ext. 501.

KFSD speech team! Serving over 60 kids from preschool through high school to help remediate articulation, language, and fluency disorders. We also collaborate with physical and occupational therapists to provide a multidisciplinary approach for our most impacted students across the district.

Last night Superintendent Michael Olsen held a meeting for ELC parents.  We’d like to thank all the parents who attended and appreciate their thoughts, concerns and ideas to improve our communications and student safety.  We are already making improvements including hiring additional staff, maintaining a log for any student who needs restroom assistance, and implementing daily notes home to parents so that they are better informed about their students day. Other improvements will be coming as well. We do want to remind families that Nathan Ford did work in all of our building from November 28, 2022 to June 22, 2023. If you have any concerns regarding your child’s behavior or something they said, please reach out to Rural Resource’s Victims Services (509-684-3796) We will continue to provide information as appropriate. If you have questions regarding the investigation, please reach out to Stevens County Sheriff’s Office.

We would like to remind all Early Learning Center parents that we will be having a parent meeting tonight at 5:30 at the district office. Stevens County Sheriff’s Office will be on hand to help answer questions parents might have. The ELC has always complied with state child care licensing requirements. However, as an additional safety precaution today we will be opening another position at the Early Learning Center to further reduce the likelihood that a staff member would ever be alone with students. We can’t emphasize enough how important the safety of our students is for us.

Thank you for the interactions and questions on our previous post. It helps inform us what we should communicate with our community.  We will continue to answer questions as they arise.   We acknowledge we made a mistake in not communicating earlier about the incident at the Early Learning Center (ELC).  As a school district we follow legal guidelines concerning confidentiality and want to make sure we have accurate information to communicate. To increase our transparency and effectiveness we are reviewing our communication practices district wide.   Most importantly, within minutes of the reported incident, we removed Nathan Ford from the ELC to ensure the safety of our students.   There are  questions regarding Nathan Ford’s employment history with the Kettle Falls School District. He began subbing as a para educator in our district on November 28th, 2022. During this time, he passed every background check that our employees are required to pass. The duties of a para educator include classroom support, recess duty and crossing guard. On June 26, 2023, Nathan Ford was hired as a full-time employee of the ELC.   Last night we brought our ELC staff together and and brought in Rural Resources Victim Services to talk with our staff and offer additional support. The advocates from Rural Resources shared with the staff the importance of maintaining normalcy and schedules for the kids.  The Kettle Falls School District is also encouraging our staff to utilize Employee Assistance Program, a free program for staff offering counseling and other services.   We encourage all families needing support as a result of this incident to reach out to Rural Resources Victim Services. They have a variety of services to offer to families.  They can be reached at 509 684-3796   Michael Olsen, Superintendent will be holding an ELC parent meeting on Wednesday at 5:30 pm. Parents of ELC students will not be charged for the time they are not attending the ELC following this incident.   Other questions focused on what we are doing to keep kids safe? At the ELC we are always following licensing requirements and ratios set by the state. Those ratios require one adult to 10 children in the preschool age classrooms and one adult to 15 students in the school age classrooms. At the ELC we often have additional staff supporting our classrooms above the required ratios in each classroom. If a questionable behavior of a staff or student occurs, our staff are trained to report it to their immediate supervisor who reports it to District Office. This protocol was followed on Thursday.  An approved administrative staff will review  video footage as part of the investigation.     We want to remind everyone that criminal investigations  are  conducted by the Kettle Falls Police Department and the Stevens County Sheriff’s Office. If you have any questions regarding the investigation please reach out to them. If you have questions for the district please reach out to Julie Peterson at 509-738-6625, ext. 501.

On Thursday afternoon after 3:30 pm an incident occurred at our Early Learning Center (ELC). An ELC employee witnessed another ELC employee, Nathan Ford inappropriately kissing a female kindergarten student. An employee immediately reported the incident to the District Office which took quick action. Within 20 minutes of the incident, Nathan Ford was removed from the building. After his removal Kettle Falls School District reported the incident to the Kettle Falls Police Department, and within 2 hours he was arrested where he is still currently in custody. Nathan Ford is being terminated and will not be allowed on school district property. We are shocked and appalled by the actions of one of our employees. We are so sorry this happened. Our goal at Kettle Falls School District is to provide a safe, learning environment for our students. All our employees must pass a state and federal background check through the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. All employees of the Early Learning Center are also required to pass a second background check with Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families. Both of these background checks came back clear on Nathan Ford. Nathan also completed the required boundary invasion training, which is a required training for all school district employees. We will be reviewing and emphasizing our boundary invasion policies and see something, say something with all of our district staff. The Kettle Falls School District is fully cooperating with Kettle Falls Police Department and Stevens County Sheriff’s Office as they continue the investigation. The district is also reviewing ELC video footage looking for any additional concerning behaviors. If any new information is discovered, parents and law enforcement will be notified immediately. When a criminal incident occurs within our schools, local law enforcement conducts the investigations and interviews. If you have any questions on student interviews or the investigation, please reach out to the Kettle Falls Police Department or Stevens County Sheriff’s Office. As we continue to support our students, families and staff we are referring them to Rural Resources Victims Services. They can be reached at 509-684-3796. As information becomes available Kettle Falls School District will continue to update you. If you have questions for the district please reach out to Julie Peterson at 509-738-6625, ext. 501.

🎉 Celebrating National Girls and Women in Sports Day! 🏆 Today, we honor the incredible achievements and contributions of girls and women in the world of sports. From breaking records to shattering stereotypes, female athletes inspire us all with their dedication, passion, and skill. We are proud of all of our Lady Bulldog athletes!

In the vibrant world of early childhood education, art is more than just finger paint and crayons- it’s a dynamic tool for early learning and development. Art isn’t just about the end product, it’s about the process. As little hands dive into sensory experiences, children learn to make choices, solve problems, and gain confidence in their abilities. Plus, group art projects promote social skills, teamwork and sharing. Here at the ELC, art is an integral part of our daily learning.

Due to icy road conditions, the Kettle Falls School District will have a 2 hour late start today. No developmental Preschool today, and the Early Learning Center will open on time. Please drive safe today!

The school board position for Director District No. 3 in Kettle Falls will become vacant due to the resignation of Kat Snider, effective January 9, 2024. The remaining four members of the school board have the responsibility to appoint a replacement to serve until November 2025, when a director will be elected in the general election. To be considered for appointment, a person must be a Stevens/Ferry County registered voter and reside within the legal boundaries of Director District No. 3 Legal Description of Director District No. 3 Starting at the intersection of southern school district boundary and the Columbia River. Northerly through the Columbia River to Hwy 395. Southeasterly on Hwy 395 to Boise Cascade Rd. Southerly on Boise Cascade Rd to Old Kettle Rd. Meandering easterly on Old Kettle Rd to Juniper St. South on Juniper St to W Evergreen Dr. East on W Evergreen Dr to E Evergreen Dr. Southerly and easterly on E Evergreen Dr to S Oak St. North on S Oak St to E 6th Ave. West on E 6th Ave to S Meyers St. North on S Meyers St to E 3rd Ave. East on E 3rd Ave to North Hwy. Easterly on North Hwy to the school district boundary. Clockwise on the school district boundary to the point of the beginning. Any person interested in being appointed to the board needs to submit a letter of interest, including a brief overview about yourself and why you would like to be on the school board, addressed to Brett McKern, School Board Chairman, PO Box 458, Kettle Falls WA 99141-0458, by no later than February 15, 2024. Interviews and appointment of a Director will be the subject of the regular board meeting on February 26, 2024.

KFSD will have a two hour late start due to weather conditions. Please remember today is already a one hour late start, so it will be one additional hour. Start times: Elementary - 10:15 Middle - 10:10 High - 10:05 ELC will open at regular time with the ECEAP program following the late start schedule.

One safety feature that is used by the Kettle Falls School District is the Safe Schools Alert on the Kettle Falls School District website. This innovative reporting tool serves as a crucial component of the district's commitment to creating a secure learning environment for students and staff. The Safe Schools Alert Reporting System is designed to empower students, parents, staff, and community to report safety concerns or incidents quickly and anonymously. This streamlined process allows all stakeholders to play an active role in maintaining a safe and supportive educational atmosphere. Users can report bullying, harassment, suspicious activities, or any other potential threats in a manner that fosters a culture of open communication. Anonymity is a key factor in encouraging honest reporting, and Safe Schools Alert respects this by protecting the identity of those who submit information. Once a report is submitted, designated administrators can assess the situation and take appropriate action, whether it involves intervention, counseling, or collaboration with law enforcement. By embracing the Safe Schools Alert Reporting System, the Kettle Falls School District demonstrates a proactive stance in promoting safety, fostering trust, and creating an environment where students can focus on their education without fear. This robust reporting system not only bolsters security measures but also strengthens the collaborative effort between the school and its community to ensure a safe and nurturing educational experience. You can find the link to the Safe Schools Alert on the Home page of our website.

Kettle Falls School District will have a 2 hour late start today. There will be no developmental preschool, and the ELC will open for daycare at normal time. ECEAP students at the ELC will follow the 2 hour school late start.

Benefits of one-to-one technology in schools Incorporating educational technology into education plans, homework, and extracurricular activities has a positive effect on student engagement and participation. Introducing a one-to-one educational technology to our classrooms is a critical part of creating a dynamic and stimulating learning environment. This allows students to participate in school, the same way they participate in their personal and social lives. Students getting familiar with technology has the added benefit of preparing them for a more technology driven world and work environment. Using a one-to-one deployment of tech prepares them by making technology the norm in their daily life at school. One-to-one technology in schools makes a more equitable learning environment, and removes financial inequity as a barrier to learning. It ensures that all students have the resources that they need to receive an education.

The kids in our after school program had a great GOOEY time making colored salt dough. Each student received a recipe and using our math skills we worked together to cut the recipe in half. They then used their sense of touch to decide if their dough was too sticky or to dry and whether they should add more water or more flour. They each chose a color to mix into their dough and the end results were fabulous!

Congratulations to Anna Hume. She has been selected as the WIAA Athlete of the Week. 🏆 🎉 This award is designed to honor Washington’s best, and your performance certainly qualifies for this recognition. We know you spend a great deal of time and energy and that participation requires dedication and discipline. This recognition is a testament to your passion for your sport, and your contributions as an ambassador for your school and your community.

All dressed up and ready to relish the moment because it's hot dog day at the high school! ! 🌭🎉 Whether you like yours with mustard, ketchup, onions, or just plain, today's the day to enjoy a dog!

Science Adventures with our school age kids at the ELC this week! 🧪🔍 Tried a some experiments today with the kiddos—some worked, some didn't, but oh, the fun we had! 🎉 Whether it was mixing potions or testing theories, every moment was a learning experience. Remember, it's not about perfection, but the joy of discovery! 🤓

🎨✨ Our early learning students are igniting their creativity with a sparkling twist! 🎆 Using just a fork, they've crafted fireworks art that truly lights up the room. It's incredible to see such young minds transform everyday tools into masterpieces. Keep shining, little artists! 🌟🖌️

Please join Kettle Falls School District in welcoming the newest member of our team. Sean Kelly has joined us as our new security officer. Most recently, Sean has been supporting our community as a Kettle Falls Police Officer. He will be joining us after the holiday break. He will be primarily working between the elementary school and the middle school; while Matt, our other security officer, will be working primarily between the high school and middle school. However, they both will be supporting all four of our schools, as they will be present in our ELC as well. We are excited to add Sean to our student support systems!