Please join us to celebrate 

100 YEARS OF IRVING

1925 - 2025

100 Years of Courage

Irving Bears Open House 

Wednesday, April 23 | 6:00 - 7:30 PM

911 N. Grant

Please join us in congratulating Simplot Inspirational Teacher of the Year finalist, David Beckstead. Mr. Beckstead teaches band at Irving Middle School.

This year, the Simplot Education Council received 2,377 nominations for 398 teachers in Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25. Finalists will be featured daily through Thursday, May 9, 2024. Three Simplot Inspirational Teacher Awards will be announced on Friday, May 10, 2024 – one for a teacher at the elementary, middle and high school levels. In addition, 5 finalists have been selected for each category and each will be awarded a $100 check. The Simplot Inspirational Teacher Award Recipients of 2024 will each be presented a $500 check on behalf of the Council.

“Mr. Beckstead is not just a teacher, he is so much more than that. He is a friend, an amazing band instructor and more.  He is by far my favorite teacher at Irving Middle School.  He has made me and our band really good and not just with hard practice. He has made me want to go to school every day. He doesn’t just stand in front of the class and teach, he will play right along with us.  He also jokes with us and befriends us.  He has been such an inspiration to me.“ Luke M.

“Not many teachers can both be funny and t4each real life lessons while making our band sound amazing.  He pushes us to reach for the stars.  He ensures we practice with periodic tests, but they are very achievable but really push us to work hard.  He allows us to try new pieces of music and values our opinions when selecting new pieces. The best thing about him is his goofy personality, he can get the whole class laughing intensely.  I deeply believe that Mr. Beckstead is the best candidate for this award. Gordon M.

Please join us in congratulating Simplot Inspirational Teacher of the Year finalist, Philip Gardner. Mr. Gardner teaches 8^th grade Science at Irving Middle School.

This year, the Simplot Education Council received 2,377 nominations for 398 teachers in Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25. Finalists will be featured daily through Thursday, May 9, 2024. Three Simplot Inspirational Teacher Awards will be announced on Friday, May 10, 2024 – one for a teacher at the elementary, middle and high school levels. In addition, 5 finalists have been selected for each category and each will be awarded a $100 check. The Simplot Inspirational Teacher Award Recipients of 2024 will each be presented a $500 check on behalf of the Council.

“Mr. Gardner is a funny teacher who is very kind and a good listener. He will tell jokes with us but always teaches us in a way that is eat to understand.” Madison O.

“Mr. Gardner was the most kind and relatable teacher I’ve ever met. He taught everything in a fun way and he had great taste in music. He knew how to make learning fun.” Ricky H.

“I think Mr. Garner deserves this award because he is a great teacher and makes all of his lessons interactive and fun.” Nathan H.

“I remember my first day in his class. He was so funny and cheerful. He made his class fun. I used to get so excited to show up to his class, he never had a mean bone in his body. I looked up to him, he was a safe place for me whenever I was down. I am glad he was my teacher.” Scotlynn C.

In an exciting effort to enhance student well-being and academic performance, Irving Middle School (IMS) recently introduced a novel program known as Ride for Focus (R4F), a program that uses cycling as a tool in the classroom to get kids moving, help increase learner motivation and focus, and improve their well-being. The innovative initiative promotes the physical and mental health of learners through the integration of cycling into their daily routines. 

The program launch included the delivery of a fleet of Specialized bikes and helmets thanks to a program grant submitted by myself and Natasha Lattin, a health teacher at IMS. Irving is only the second Idaho school to receive the grant, which is awarded nationwide. 

Lattin will incorporate the program into her flex health class during the fall and spring trimesters.

By combining exercise, outdoor activities, and mindfulness practices, R4F seeks to provide learners with a holistic approach to education. The program extends beyond intellectual development to enhance learners’ overall well-being while enabling them to achieve more.

Ride for Focus is designed to address the growing concern of sedentary lifestyles among learners, which can lead to various health issues and impact their ability to concentrate and learn effectively. The program centers around the idea that physical activity has a profound impact on cognitive functions and emotional well-being. By incorporating cycling and mindfulness into the school day, Irving Middle School aims to provide learners with an opportunity to rejuvenate their minds and bodies, leading to improved focus, reduced stress, and increased academic engagement.

The implementation of R4F at Irving Middle School involves several key components, such as cycling decisions and mindfulness practices. A growing body of research has shown the program can yield numerous benefits for both learners and the school community, like improved enhanced focus and concentration, stress reduction, physical health, a sense of community, and lifelong skills.

Riding For Focus was developed by Outride, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of youth through cycling. Outride’s Riding For Focus program, Research, and community grants harness the benefits of cycling for the cognitive, socio-emotional, and physical well-being of youth and their communities. A R4F grant provides schools with everything needed to get 7th-8th grade learners riding, including bikes, helmets, teacher training, and curriculum. Irving Middle School joins over 225 middle schools across the US and Canada that have implemented the program, impacting over 50,000 students annually.

The implementation of Ride for Focus at Irving Middle School signifies a groundbreaking step toward prioritizing learner well-being alongside academic achievement. By integrating cycling and mindfulness practices into the school day, Irving Middle School is not only addressing the challenges posed by sedentary lifestyles but also fostering a culture of holistic development. As the program continues to unfold, it has the potential to serve as a model for other schools seeking to create well-rounded educational experiences that empower learners to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Heart rate tracking indicates students can reach half of their daily activity levels in a 50–60 minute R4F class. Outride’s applied research has found that 87% of students report having fun in Riding for Focus, even those who typically don’t like school or PE class. The program also gets new kids on bikes. On average, 10-20% of students at a school don’t know how to ride a bike before the program. By the end of R4F, students who didn’t know how to ride feel confident riding bikes!

The program also aligns with the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District’s year-long focus on how Every Day Matters when it comes to being in school and teaching learners skills to be more successful in their day to day lives.

Irving’s staff would like to give Barrie’s Ski and Sports a HUGE shout-out for being incredibly generous with their time and bike expertise! Businesses or community members interested in supporting this program may contact Irving Middle School.

Congratulations to the robotics team at Irving Middle School. These students won the regional competition and are headed to state to compete against other teams across the state. These students have worked hard to accomplish their goals. This is a great example of the dedicated learners that we have at IMS and the wonderful opportunities that learners have here at IMS. Way to represent IMS! Congratulations to all those robotics team members and their coach Dustan Brown. Idaho State Journal highlighted this in the most recent edition.   

The Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 and Irving Middle School is excited to invite the community to celebrate a century of education, memories, and milestones at a special open house event in honor of Irving’s 100th anniversary. The celebration will take place on Tuesday, April 23, 2025 from 6:00p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Irving Middle School, located at 911 N. Grant Ave., Pocatello.

The open house will highlight a rich history of learning and growth, featuring displays from each decade since the school opened its doors in 1925. Former students, staff members, and community members are warmly invited to attend, share memories, and reflect on the enduring impact of Irving Middle School.

We’re incredibly proud to reach this milestone, said Stuart Johnson, principal of Irving Middle School. “Irving has always been more than just a building—it’s a place full of stories, pride, and tradition. It’s been amazing to hear from former learners and staff about their experiences here.”

Currently home to approximately 730 sixth through eighth grade learners, Irving continues its mission of fostering academic excellence and a strong sense of community. As part of the celebration, current learners will serve as tour guides, offering visitors a look at the school’s past and present.

School officials have connected with alumni across generations to gather stories and memorabilia that will be featured during the open house. Displays from every decade will showcase cherished items such as yearbooks, uniforms, photos, and letterman jackets—offering a rich visual timeline of Irving’s 100-year journey.

“We’ll have displays from every decade,” Johnson noted. “It’s been incredible to see the differences between the decades—each one tells a unique part of Irving’s story.”

Johnson added that former students, administrators, and teachers are all welcome. “This celebration is for everyone who has been a part of Irving over the past 100 years,” he said.

Advantage Plus Federal Credit Union has once again demonstrated its commitment to the community by sponsoring the purchase of new scoreboards for all four middle schools in Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25. This generous contribution strengthens the long-standing partnership between Advantage Plus and District 25, underscoring a shared mission to support local learners, schools, and the greater Pocatello and Chubbuck communities.

The upgraded scoreboards have been installed in the gyms at Franklin, Hawthorne, Irving, and Alameda Middle Schools, enhancing the experience for student-athletes, coaches, families, and community members who use the facilities year-round. These gyms also serve as key venues for City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation programs, making the impact of this donation even more far-reaching.

We’re proud to support our public schools and the vital role they play in bringing people togethersaid Jarod Brown, Chief Lending Officer of Advantage Plus Federal Credit Union. “These gyms aren’t just for PE class or sports teams—they're community hubs. Whether it’s a Saturday morning youth basketball league or a middle school volleyball game, these spaces foster connection, pride, and opportunity.”

Tonya Wilkes, Director of Athletics and Student Support Services for PCSD 25, expressed her appreciation for the continued partnership: “Advantage Plus has consistently gone above and beyond to support our schools. These new scoreboards represent more than just equipment—they reflect an investment in our learners and in the heart of our community. We are incredibly grateful for their continued partnership.”

Advantage Plus Federal Credit Union’s continued investment in District 25 reflects a deep belief in empowering the next generation and ensuring students and families feel supported both in and out of the classroom.

For more information about Advantage Plus Federal Credit Union and their community partnerships, visit www.advantageplusfcu.com.

#MoreTogether

The Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 February C.A.K.E. Award, which stands for Character, Attitude, Kindness, and Encouragement, has been awarded to two outstanding learners. Congratulations to River McGregor and Cash Gugleman. River is a 5th-grade learner attending Gate City Elementary, and Cash is an 8th-grade learner attending Irving Middle School.

River was nominated by his teachers, Ms. Kallie Lopez. In her nomination letter Ms. Lopez wrote, “River is truly one of the most thoughtful and deep thinkers I have ever met. I learn a lot from my students, just as much and probably even more than I teach them, but I have learned a tremendous amount from River. We often do a ‘tell them why they're awesome’ day in class. What I mean by this is I randomly pull a name stick for each student and they then have to write that student a note to tell them why they are awesome. When we are done, they stand up and read aloud to the class and to that student why they are awesome. When River reads his note about the student I gave him, I have never ever heard something more beautiful and profound. For example, he wrote this to one of his classmates: ‘Dear ____________ I wish I could put every reason why you're terrific on one sticky note. (there are too many reasons.) But I can say this you are truly remarkable. Someone as terrific as you comes once in a lifetime... Thank you ____ I'm so glad you're in my class. Continue to be awesome buddy!’ Who wouldn't want a note like that?! He goes above and beyond to make his classmates, and anyone he meets, feel special and seen. We all can learn a lot from River and I am so thankful I've gotten to be a part of his journey this year! His future is so tremendously bright!”

Cash was nominated by, Mr. Sean Andersen. In his nomination letter, Mr. Andersen wrote, “Cash consistently demonstrates an exceptional attitude toward learning and a genuine commitment to supporting those around him. Each day this year he has arrived at school with a positive attitude. His enthusiasm for learning is contagious, and he actively seeks out ways to inspire and uplift his classmates. What truly sets Cash apart is his unwavering kindness and empathy. Whenever a classmate is struggling, he is always the first to step in with encouragement and support. His willingness to go above and beyond to create a classroom where all his classmates can feel welcome and supported is truly amazing.”

River and Cash were recognized at the Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. Our Partner for this award, Johnson Family McDonald's, provides each learner and their nominators with a gift card, along with $50 to purchase books for the school’s media center in the recipients’ names.

PCSD 25 believes a safe, supportive, caring and respectful environment is critical to student learning. The District Education Foundation, in partnership with McDonald’s, supports the Learner-of-the-Month C.A.K.E. Award to recognize students who show great character. The district recognizes one elementary learner and one secondary learner from October through May. Nominations for the C.A.K.E. Award are submitted by a teacher who has observed the nominee’s behavior, and are approved by the school’s
principal.

The Pocatello/Chubbuck School District (PCSD 25) is proud to announce that it has achieved the highest graduation rate among the state’s 10 largest school districts. Last spring, an impressive 92.1% of PCSD 25 learners graduated on time, surpassing the statewide average of 82.3%.

This achievement is a testament to the district’s dedication to educational excellence and the success of its learners. PCSD 25 stands out among its large district peers for its continued commitment to providing learners with the tools, resources, and support they need to graduate.

PCSD 25’s continued success serves as a model for other districts in the state, proving that when schools, communities, and families work together, learners can achieve great things.

Cassie Atwood, PCSD 25’s curriculum coordinator, said, “The district's high graduation rate is a direct reflection of the unwavering dedication of our educators, staff, and support systems, who are committed to meeting each learner where they are.”

Atwood added, “The increase in our graduation rate highlights our holistic, hands-on approach to track and monitor each learner’s progress, while providing personalized support necessary for every child to not only thrive but also confidently take the next step toward a successful future.”

In addition to this achievement, PCSD 25 also leads Idaho's largest school districts in teacher retention, reaching a remarkable 91% retention rate for the past two years. This consistent retention rate reflects the district's ability to foster a supportive and collaborative environment for educators, ensuring that learners receive a high-quality education from a dedicated and experienced teaching staff.

"We are incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication demonstrated by our learners, staff, and community," said Dr. Douglas Howell, Superintendent of PCSD 25. "These achievements are the result of a collective effort to create an environment where students can thrive, and we will continue to focus on both academic excellence and teacher retention as essential components of our district's success."

Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 is the leading choice for local education, consistently demonstrating excellence in both learner success and educator satisfaction. In addition to leading the state in graduation and teacher retention rates,  PCSD 25 also offers innovative learning opportunities, including 25 Career-Technical Education pathways to prepare students for thriving careers, and above-average ISAT scores in English, math, and science. With a focus on comprehensive support for all learners, the district provides a well-rounded education that fosters both academic and personal growth.

For nearly 140 years, PCSD 25 has been committed to providing the highest quality education in a safe, supportive, and caring environment. Guided by our motto—Think MORE, Learn MORE, Be MORE Together—PCSD 25 is more than a school district; it is a community of schools, including parents, teachers, staff, educational partners, and community members, all dedicated to the power of learning, fostering strong relationships, and achieving greatness together to best serve the educational needs of local children.

The Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 December C.A.K.E. Award, which stands for Character, Attitude, Kindness, and Encouragement, has been awarded to three outstanding learners.

Congratulations to Adyson and Taysom Jaramillo, the first twins to receive this honor! The twins are 5th grade learners attending Syringa Elementary. Congratulations also to Crue Lopez, a 7th grade learner at Irving Middle School, for being recognized with this exemplary award. 

Adyson and Taysom were nominated by their teachers, Ms. Andrea Gulden and Ms. Cindel Vasquez. In their nomination letters they wrote, “This year, Adyson and Taysom Jaramillo, who are twins and have always been in the same class until now, were placed in separate rooms for the first time. Adyson is with Mrs. Gulden, and Taysom is with Ms. Vasquez. While it was a new experience for them, both siblings have continued to shine brightly and make a significant impact in their respective classrooms.

In Ms. Vasquez's class, Taysom has emerged as a beacon of encouragement. He consistently supports classmates who are struggling, reminding them to persevere and never give up. His kindness extends to everyone, and he leads by example, fostering a spirit of teamwork and a positive attitude that inspires his peers to do their best. 

Meanwhile, in Mrs. Gulden's class, Adyson's presence is equally remarkable. She is always ready to lend a hand and help anyone in need, often stepping in without being asked. Her kindness knows no bounds, and she has made an effort to befriend new students, ensuring everyone feels welcome and accepted. Adyson's actions encourage others to follow her lead and strive for their best. 

Though both Adyson and Taysom were initially nervous about being separated, it is clear that they have each brought their unique strengths and positive qualities to their new environments. We are grateful to have such wonderful learners, each contributing to positive, supportive, and welcoming atmospheres in our classrooms.”

Crue was nominated by, Ms. Tammy Parker. In her nomination letter, Ms. Parker wrote, “I would like to nominate Crue Lopez for this award. I am a para that gets the opportunity to work with English Learners in our district. I had a student who was new to our country and was able to understand very little English. He traveled from Irving to Hawthorne to attend ELS class with other peers who are learning the English language. Crue had a few classes with this same student at Irving. I found out that Crue had started to talk using a translator to this student.

Crue also started to use Duolingo at home on his own free time to become better at communicating with the ESL student. Crue also made flash cards at home with the Spanish word and the English word on the back to practice his knowledge. This effort was not something that was asked or assigned to Crue. He chose to do this on his own to help the ESL student be able to communicate easier. He also was a friend to the ESL student, which is something that is not easy when you speak different languages. I feel like this effort by Crue is a real example of what this award is all about, which is going above and beyond what is expected to help someone. I hope that this nomination will be considered and that Crue Lopez will be honored by receiving this award.”

Adyson, Taysom and Crue were recognized at the Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. Our Partner for this award, Johnson Family McDonald's, provides each learner and their nominators with a gift card, along with $50 to purchase books for the school’s media center in the recipients’ names. PCSD 25 believes a safe, supportive, caring and respectful environment is critical to student learning. The District Education Foundation, in partnership with McDonald’s, supports the Learner-of-the-Month C.A.K.E. Award to recognize students who show great character. The district recognizes one elementary learner and one secondary learner from October through May. Nominations for the C.A.K.E. Award are submitted by a teacher who has observed the nominee’s behavior, and are approved by the school’s principal.