North Gem News
These notices can be found, along with more information about North Gem Schools, at sd149.com.
Superintendent’s Letter
Dear North Gem Community,
Happy Holidays! We hope your Winter Break was both enjoyable and rejuvenating. As we return to school and embark on the second semester, we find ourselves with an opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments of the past year and identify areas for improvement as we move forward together.
One of our standout achievements this semester is the remarkable progress of our K-3 students in reading. I-Station reading scores show that 87% of our K-3 graders are reading at proficiency. This is an outstanding milestone that speaks to the dedication and effort from every level—our school board, teachers, students, and parents. This achievement is truly something the entire North Gem community can take pride in.
In addition to our reading success, we are equally committed to improving math practices and scores across all grade levels. While this is an ongoing process, we’ve already begun to see positive results in a short time. I am optimistic about the direction we are headed and look forward to seeing continued growth in this critical area.
Winter sports are also in full swing, and we’re thrilled to support out boys and girls basketball teams, as well as our wrestling team. These activities not only foster teamwork and school sprit but also highlight the dedication of our student-athletes and coaches.
As we approach the coming months, preparations for ISAT testing will begin. We encourage everyone to stay engaged and focused as we aim for continued academic growth. Additionally, with winter weather upon us, please be mindful of road conditions and plan accordingly to ensure the safety of all.
It is truly a privilege to work alongside the exceptional staff and students here at North Gem. Together, we are building a strong foundation for success, and I am grateful for the support of our incredible community.
Here’s to a wonderful second semester filled with growth, achievement, and collaboration.
Sincerely,
Kyler Miller
Superintendent, North Gem Schools
Counselor’s Message
Dear North Gem Students, Families, and Community,
As we reflect on the holiday season and all the joys and traditions that come with it, I want to wish everyone a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year. I hope your holidays were filled with warmth, happiness, and time spent with those who matter most. As we begin the second semester of the school year, let’s carry the spirit of the season with us—embracing new opportunities, setting fresh goals, and supporting each other as we work toward success.
The upcoming semester will bring some exciting opportunities for our students, particularly for juniors and seniors. We are planning college visits to BYU-Idaho and Utah State University. These visits will give our students a chance to explore higher education options and gain insights into the college experience. I strongly encourage juniors and seniors who are interested in these visits to sign up, as it’s an invaluable opportunity.
Seniors, as you continue to work toward graduation, remember that now is the time to focus on your future plans. Keep working on your Idaho LAUNCH applications, complete your FAFSA forms, and think about what comes next for you after high school. If you need any assistance with these tasks, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I’m here to help and support you in any way I can. Together, we can ensure that you’re prepared for the next chapter.
We are already halfway through the school year, and it’s natural for motivation to dip as we move into the new year. However, I want to remind everyone that success is determined by the effort you put in. Grades and achievements reflect hard work and determination more than any natural talent. Remember, consistent effort and strong work ethic will outshine talent alone. It may be tempting to slack off, but now is the time to buckle down and finish strong. Keep pushing forward, stay focused, and you will see the results of your hard work.
As we begin 2025, let’s also make a commitment to kindness and respect. This is the perfect time to make new friends, strengthen existing relationships, and lift others up. Never miss an opportunity to show someone you care. By treating each other with respect, supporting one another, and focusing on the good around us, we can build a positive, welcoming culture at North Gem where everyone feels valued and can find success.
I’m excited to see all that this new year holds for each of you. Let’s make it a great one!
Best wishes for a successful 2025!
Sincerely,
Walter Eiman
Counselor
North Gem School District
Lunch Fund Request
The North Gem School District 149 requests that parents please be aware of the balance of their children’s lunch account. The state requires that the district keep the balance of a student’s account in the positive.
The school asks that parents do not ask the Child Nutrition Department to break the rules of the USDA. The district asks that parents please make a reasonable effort to pay any negative lunch balances that students may have.
Fees
North Gem also reminds students and parents to pay any fees that may be owed to the school in the additional areas of athletics and yearbook fees, among others. Pre-school fees for the first semester are due the first week back, 1-9-25. Second semester fees are due by March 6. Parents can contact the school to make arrangements for any and all fees which are
outstanding.
Cheer mini Camp
The North Gem High School Cheerleaders and Coaches will be hosting a Cheerleader mini camps for boys and girls from Pre-K through 5th grade. The camps will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on January 10 and 17. The group will perform at the boys basketball game at 7:00 p.m. (the girls game will be at 5:30 p.m. that day).
A $30 fee covers the camp cost, as well as a cheer shirt and bow/sweat band.
North Gem Cheer can take cash, Venmo, or check. Coach Brenda Barnes can be contacted at 208-547-7782, and Coach Camille Yost at 208-852-6471.
Jobs
North Gem is hiring for the following positions: Part time para professional (emphasis on math), substitute paraprofessionals, substitute bus drivers, substitute custodial workers, substitute teachers, and substitute food service workers. Contact the school at 208-648-7848 for more information about applying.
