Chinook School District advertised a vacancy on May 28 for an elementary school principal. After four years in that leadership role at Meadowlark Elementary School (MES), Jonathan Martin will be moving on in an effort to be closer to his parents and family, who live in the Bitterroot Valley, as well as to continue to grow professionally. He has interviewed in the Missoula County School district and has also applied for a position in Polson.

"When I announced at the end of year assembly on May 24 that I will not be returning to Chinook next year, there were a lot of emotions as I said goodbye, but I am excited for my next new adventure," Martin said.

As he reflected on his time as MES principal, Mr. Martin talked with pride about several programs that he initiated or continued to develop. For example, he started the Montana Behavior Initiative (MBI) at MES four years ago when he arrived, and on May 23, the school received notification of their "Exemplar School" status. A component of the Office of Public Instruction's Multi-Tiered Systems of Support, MBI is a positive behavior support program that develops the attitudes, skills and systems necessary to ensure that each student leaves public education and enters the community with social and academic competence.

The MBI established an awards process to recognize teams and schools who meet exemplary standards for promoting positive school climate and school safety. The contributions to making a difference must be significant and carry evidence of demonstrated change. On an award spectrum of Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum, MES will be presented with Silver Status during the Best Practice and Recognition Exposition which will take place in Bozeman on June 17-20.

"I could really see a positive change in the culture of the school. This group of sixth graders made such positive role models and leaders. The MBI student leadership team (SLT) was effective in making projects happen. This SLT has to be my favorite of all time," Martin reported.

Another program about which Martin spoke fondly was the Gifted and Talented Program. Serving in the role as the Gifted Education Coordinator, he expanded what was already in place, working with high learners and forming reading groups with students who have a love for learning. About this group, Martin said, "Their love for learning is infectious. For four years, I have worked with the same students whose higher level thinking is evident in their questions. This was especially obvious on our field trip to Helena and the Governor's Office. As they sat in the governor's chair or toured the Capitol and science museum, they posed questions that made it easy to envision them as the next lawyers, doctors, and governors."

A third accomplishment Martin described were the safety protocols and measures that he has helped the district to implement. Under Martin's leadership, the MES now has a fully fenced playground where children can play safely during recess. There are also additional metal murals in the works to mask large glass window areas, as a tool for increasing security. In the case of an emergency, the school uses the Standard Response Protocol, and Martin expressed confidence about MES's lock down drills. He further outlined the ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) Training that provides preparation and a plan for how to more proactively handle the threat of an aggressive intruder or active shooter event. According to Martin, ALICE Training option-based tactics have become the accepted response, versus the traditional "lockdown only" approach.

Finally, Martin increased outdoor learning and opportunities for place-based field trips. "Our teachers put together some amazing field trips, and partnerships with various organizations that promote a connection with nature further enhanced student learning," he stated. "Place-based education makes learning relevant."

"We've had fun over these last four years. There is a culture of sharing at MES. We would celebrate our achievements during all-school assemblies every other week. I've had the pleasure to work with a passionate staff. A love for learning shines through from the staff to the students," Martin reflected.

When asked what advice he might share with his predecessor, Martin named several tips:

• "Get to know your staff and students and enjoy them;

• Trust your staff;

• Learn the culture of the place, the needs of the students, and the support resources available;

• Make it your goal to be present every day.

Although it might be tempting to sit in the office and focus on the paperwork aspect of the job, a principal needs to be present in the classrooms, hallways, and lunchroom."

Jonathan Martin

Besides this legacy, Martin will be leaving an award-winning district, one he helped to sustain and to build.

Several other people will be leaving the school district, as well. Mrs. Rose Stuker and Mrs. Bobbi Weinheimer are retiring. Furthermore, Mrs. Bridget Metcalfe, Mrs. Anne-Marye Ymzon, Mr. Bryce Weinheimer, and Mrs. Leann Haider are all moving on to new adventures.