SUPER MONDAY

A motivational and informational morning message from Superintendent Willis

Week 9 ~ October 7th, 2024

Super Monday Message

As we have now moved into October, you have probably noticed the chill in the air and the changing colors, but you might not have noticed another inspiring event that happens every year. Each year the little Monarch butterflies across the United States and southern Canada make their way south for the winter. When you see one, consider that butterfly might have already traveled over a thousand miles and might still have over a thousand miles to go.

The migration of the Monarch butterfly is inspiring for a number of reasons. What makes it so remarkable is the sheer distance, the fragility of the butterflies, and the fact that none of the migrating insects have ever made the journey before. The butterflies that travel the greatest distance will endure about 3,000 miles. Imagine an insect that can be killed by just about anything making such a long journey, and then consider that the butterfly has never made the trip before.

The Monarch butterflies that travel south for the winter are the great grandchildren of the Monarch butterflies that traveled north for the summer. A typical summer butterfly will only live for 2 to 6 weeks, but the migrating generation will live for up to 9 months. They will make the journey to Mexico, California, or Florida, endure the winter, and then return the next spring. The next migration will be carried out by their children’s grandchildren. Imagine humans that travel south for the winter living for 500 years, while those that don’t migrate live to be 82.  

It is still one of the mysteries of science exactly how the butterflies know where to go, or even that they know they need to go. Some scientists believe there is innate genetic programming that helps them instinctively know when it’s time to go and how to make the journey. It’s not like they just get lucky and head the right direction, many of the butterflies end up in the exact same grove of trees in Mexico that their great grandparents were in the year before. 

The migration of the monarch butterfly is a powerful symbol of perseverance, endurance, and the strength of natural instincts. We all know how tough our ancestors were, they accomplished great things and endured many hardships. But maybe you’re the generation that needs to go the distance. You have what you need even if you don't know where it comes from. You have unlimited potential. Start the journey on the best week 9.

Super High Fives

Just a couple of the awesome recent accomplishments that need a big thank you. 

• A super high five to the parents and community members that have provided public comment on the school district bond for elementary schools. We’re grateful for their thoughtful input and feedback.  
• A super high five to Heather Fautin, Russ Lee, and Shauna Bagley. They are great leaders and need an extra thank you during school principals month. We are grateful to have them and grateful for all they do for our students.

Other Super Information

• Voter Information Pamphlet
• Fall Sports Calendar 2024
• 2024-2025 School District Calendar
• Truth-In-Taxation Hearing Presentation
• Latest Elementary Schools Design Draft
• New Elementary Schools Information

Super Weekly Schedule