November 2025

Dove Creek Families:  

As we enter the Thanksgiving season, I am pleased to share recent instructional, student, and programmatic highlights from across the district. This fall continues to reflect strong student engagement, dedicated staff effort, and meaningful progress toward our Bulldog Way initiatives.

Instructional & Program Updates

RTI Development: Middle school teachers Shellie Russell, Becky Short, and Jenna Tuseth attended the RTI @ Work conference in Idaho Falls to strengthen intervention practices and refine RTI implementation.

Elementary Reading Curriculum: Elementary teachers continue the rollout of the new reading curriculum with fidelity. An implementation coach visited this month to provide observation, support, and professional feedback.

Character Education: Our Bulldog Way focus on grit and positivity has guided student activities and classroom conversations. A recent picture scavenger hunt at the middle and high school levels encouraged teamwork, resilience, and positive community interaction.

Student Achievements & Recognitions

Students of the Month

Riley Jack – Riley is an academically driven student whose consistent politeness and respectful behavior make her a positive example in the classroom.

Kara Harrington – honored for her growth, perseverance, kindness, and strong self-advocacy in the classroom.

Teammate and Activity Member of the Month

High School Teammate:  Teagan Larimore – A supportive leader who always encourages his teammates.

Middle School Teammate:   Champ Gardner – A patient teammate who consistently helps younger players.

Activity Member:  Mason Forst – A responsible FFA leader who keeps his chapter organized and on track.

Bulldog of Character

Evie Stowe - for responsibility, grit, high-quality work, and respectful conduct.

Olivia Edwards – for conscientiousness, leadership, academic excellence, and kindness to peers and staff.

Knowledge Bowl: Middle school placed 1st at Ignacio; High School placed 3rd of 9 teams at Ignacio.

FFA Public Speaking:

Hayden Forst – District Creed Speaking Champion, 2nd Overall in Four Corners Invitational Creed Speaking Contest, advancing to the State Creed Speaking Contest.

River Mikhail – 2nd Place District Creed Speaking

Mason Forst – 2nd Place District Prepared Public Speaking

Additional strong performances by Bryson Dixon, Mykaela Fury, and Jonathan Davis

Athletics – Fall Season (2025–26):

Football: 4–5 overall | 2–3 league

Volleyball: 4-17 overall | 3-8 league

Staff Recognition

Staff Members of the Month

Devon Lane – for exceptional commitment to agricultural education, FFA leadership, and hands-on learning.

Angela Beanland – for leading schoolwide SEL lessons, supporting STRONG trait instruction, enhancing elementary culture, and being a strong performer in the classroom.

Instructional Excellence:

Katti Gardner – hands-on, high-engagement science instruction.

Lori Willey & Maegan Rockwell – Learning and excelling in Title I through effective intervention practices and data analysis.

Operational Support:

Kitchen staff (Kylee Sitton, Kellie Halper, and Becky Young) - ensured uninterrupted meal service while providing support to a teammate.

Bobby Taber - provided outstanding cross-department assistance, including support for the Christmas program.

Community Engagement

Marketing students and Janesse Garcia created professional materials for the district’s Banner Program, demonstrating creativity and communication skills.

Student Council and Janesse Garcial hosted a successful community blood drive, promoting service and civic responsibility.

Cassie Burnham worked hard to educate students about the importance of Veteran’s Day.  The elementary students had lunch with several veterans and the whole school participated in a Veteran’s Day assembly.

Closing Note

As Thanksgiving approaches, I extend my sincere gratitude to our students, staff, families, and community partners. Their dedication and support continue to make Dove Creek Schools a strong and caring environment for learning. I wish all a safe and joyful holiday season.

Take care,

Principal Forst