A Message from Mr. Goggins

With the 2023/2024 school year in the books, and summer break halfway through it's time to reflect on what was and plan for what's to be. Last school year demonstrated some very positive shifts in both academics and culture. With the exception of a single demographic, the building saw an increase in academic achievement and a considerable decrease in behavior concerns and absenteeism. All of this is good news. The 2023/24 year also saw some great results in sports. While some of our teams rebuilt, others gave us some thrilling outcomes and excellent play. Spring brought us state placings in track and a historic run in the state tournament for the boy's varsity baseball team. The community support was amazing and appreciated.

Summer often brings some transitions and we are faced with saying goodbye to old friends and being introduced to new ones. The obvious ones, of course, are the departing seniors. This was an exceptional group and they will be missed. I have no doubt in their success as they move on in life. The other area is in staff. While retirement lured a legend in teaching out of the classroom in Mrs. Stacy Leiby, we thank her for her amazing 37 years at Maple Valley and wish her all the best. Others have found opportunities elsewhere as well, so we will welcome a few new fresh faces in the fall. One very encouraging trend is when we post an opening we receive a high number of quality applicants. In an era of teacher shortages nationwide, we have gotten quality applicants from all over the country, including Ohio, Iowa, and Texas. People want to work in the Valley and we are fortunate to have a good selection from which to choose. So, we welcome new staffers to the building, Bethany Westphall, Tara Whorely, Mitch Savage, Mike Gotliebsen, and Kaylee Thompson. Also new is the football coaching staff, the new regime’s focus on team culture is already paying off with a huge increase in participation. Sign-ups and early workouts demonstrate the highest numbers in almost a decade. It's a great start for Coach Harvey and his staff.

Academically, we will have new class offerings suited for students with college aspirations as well as students who need greater support. We are proud to be able to change with the times and provide greater opportunities for all of our students.

So as we endure the onslaught of “back to school commercials” I invite you to come to our open house, to a game, to a concert, or to an event. There is always something going on at school and the new year is just around the corner.

Best Wishes
Principal - Tim Goggins
Maple Valley Jr./Sr. High School