New Kalispell elementary school in need of a name

As the first foundation walls have been erected on the south elementary school gym, Kalispell Public Schools has begun a nomination process to name the new school located on Airport Road.

The public is invited to nominate a person to name the new school after. The district is looking to continue naming its elementary schools after prominent people who have made history with their contributions to Montana.

The district’s five existing elementary schools are named after people of historical significance, including Sidney Edgerton, Cornelius Hedges, Lillian Peterson and Charles M. Russell. These historical figures did a variety of work, such as advancing support or proposals for national parks such as Glacier and Yellowstone or did important work as naturalists, botanists, attorneys, reporters, politicians, artists or state or county school superintendents.

The district has established the following guidelines for people to consider when nominating a person. The nomination should meet at least one guideline to be considered. The guidelines require that the nominee is a person who has contributed significantly to the development of the community; played a key role in supporting youth; given in service to communities, region and state; contributed in other positive ways in support of youth and community.

Nominations will be accepted through Oct. 13 for review in November. A board recommendation is expected to be presented on Nov. 14 with a final decision in December.

Nomination forms are currently available at the district central office, located at 233 First Ave. E. The form will soon be available online at http://www.sd5.k12.mt.us.

Completed forms may be mailed to Administrative Assistant Beth Kornick, Kalispell Public Schools, 233 First Ave. E. Kalispell, MT 59901. Forms may also be emailed to kornickb@sd5.k12.mt.us or faxed to 406-751-3416. Forms may also be completed online when available.

The new school is anticipated to open August 2018.

The south elementary is part of a $22.3 million elementary district bond issue approved by voters last fall. The facility is expected to accommodate about 450 students and help relieve overcrowding in the district’s other elementary schools.

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or hmatheson@dailyinterlake.com.