Students, staff and volunteers highlighted; board accepts retirements and community donations

The River Valley School Board used part of its March meeting to highlight staff and student accomplishments, accept retirements, and accept community donations.

In a community spotlight, the board thanked Dawn Jensen for her work in transportation during winter weather. Dawn, who identified herself as both a bus driver and a parent, said she appreciates the recognition and credited her team.

Student council vice president Lily Bower gave the student report, announcing a boba‑sale fundraiser ahead of spring break to raise scholarship money, a talent show planned for April, and multiple extracurricular achievements: the high school mock trial team finished sixth at state, and numerous art and music students advanced to regional and state contests.

On personnel, the board accepted the retirement of longtime language‑arts teacher Erica Baldwin and acknowledged the retirement of IT assistant Rocky Dobbins; both received thanks from board members and administrators.

The board also approved two gift resolutions. The first resolution accepted donations including $300 for the mock trial team and $250 for enrichment programs; that resolution passed on a roll call recorded in the transcript as seven yes, two no. A second set of smaller memorial donations for Project Lunchbox and the weekend backpack program (gifts ranging $25–$125, some anonymous) was likewise accepted.

What’s next: student activities and summer programming details will be finalized by administrators; retirement personnel actions will be processed according to district policy.