District administrators corner

by Loren Glasbrenner,  River Valley School District Administrator  There is an ancient African proverb that goes, “It takes a village to raise a child.”  And the River Valley community is a great example of this.  We are proud to annually recognize businesses that support our students. This past Friday at the football game, the River Valley School Board honored five local businesses that have been awarded recognition by the Wisconsin Association of School Board (WASB) for supporting  schools.  Within the state of Wisconsin, approximately 55 businesses have been recognized this year, with five being selected each year from the River Valley School District. This year those honored were: 1. River Valley Clinic/Sauk Prairie Healthcare — The River Valley Clinic/Sauk Prairie Healthcare have supported the River Valley School District in a number of ways. The district has had a long relationship with Sauk Prairie Healthcare and the athletic trainer for River Valley High School’s teams.  In addition, the River Valley Clinic has provided a medical advisor for decades.  Their expertise and support during the COVID-19 pandemic has been invaluable.  Dr. Masaru Furukawa has been available for questions, advice, and meetings whenever asked. 2. Spring Green Fire & EMS — The Spring Green Fire & EMS have brought an ambulance to every football game for as long as anyone can remember.  They have also provided support and guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic.  EMS chief Derek Miller has also helped to coordinate vaccination clinics for students and staff.  His knowledge and advice have been crucial in helping to keep our community safe. 3. Jewell Associates Engineers — Jewell Associates Engineers has been a local partner in many projects throughout the River Valley School District, including leading a major drainage project during the summer of 2021.  Jewell has also allowed numerous employees to coach athletics from the youth to varsity level.  This community involvement is greatly appreciated and is an example of how a local group can add so much beyond the assigned job.  Thank you to Paul Kardatzke and his incredible team. 4. M & W Fabrication & Repair — M & W has partnered with River Valley High School’s Youth Apprenticeship and School to Work program for the last six years.  They have provided students with experience in the many areas of fabrication and repair, but primarily with heavy equipment and diesel mechanics.  We have had many students utilize the knowledge, advice, and expertise to gain on-the-site experience for life after graduation.  Our hat goes off to Chad and Nathan McGlynn. 5. Meadows Assisted Living and Memory Care — The Meadows has been a partner with River Valley High School’s Youth Apprenticeship and School to Work program for years. They have provided many students with positive experiences, primarily in the area of nursing.  Again, many students seeking jobs, training, or a future in healthcare often learn locally first.  We are proud of the efforts coordinated by Raeann Marten and her team as they share this knowledge with our students. The River Valley School District greatly values these partners in education and appreciates their continued support of our schools.  These experiences allow our staff and students an incredible opportunity.