Every issue of Fly Together is a reminder that the most meaningful progress in Jasper County Schools begins with good people doing good work. In this winter edition, you’ll meet educators like Darleta Wagner, who believes the goal of education is to help children grow into good humans first; and Jessica Schackmann, whose story shows how purpose often emerges when we’re willing to improvise and trust our instincts. You’ll read about a program that proves a meal can be more than a meal, and about people who remind us that sometimes the best place to make a difference is right where we belong. Across every page, from sparks of inspiration to quiet perseverance, these stories share a common truth: Jasper County thrives when heart leads the way.

And this same spirit guides our next big step as a district. After years of careful planning, Jasper County Schools will begin bringing our pre-kindergarten and kindergarten programs from Ste. Marie to the Newton Elementary campus. For more than twenty years, leaders have explored this move. Now, we’re finally able to make it happen responsibly — using existing district funds, sales-tax revenues, and the state’s Energy Transition Grant. No referendum will be held, no bonds will be issued, and no taxes will increase because of this initiative.

This transition will shorten bus rides, create more learning time, and bring all our youngest students and teachers together under one roof. It’s a practical, forward-looking investment that honors both our past and our promise to the future.

Whether we’re talking about a new building, a new idea, or a new beginning, what matters most hasn’t changed: the people who care enough to make Jasper County stronger every single day. Together, we’ll keep finding ways to fly further — and fly together.

Joe Sornberger
Superintendent, Jasper County CUSD #1