Dear Cardinal Families, Friends, and Community,

It is with heartfelt pride that I welcome you to the very first issue of Inside The Nest, Forrestville Valley’s new semi-annual magazine. This publication will be our way of celebrating the people, traditions, and programs that make our district extraordinary, while strengthening the connections we share with one another as a community. It’s wonderful to see how many of our Cardinal family share alumni roots!

In these pages, you’ll meet many of the individuals and programs whose stories define the Cardinal spirit. You’ll be inspired by teacher and mentor Krista Carlson, whose leadership embodies dedication to both her students and colleagues. You’ll see how alumni like Alexia Ulses and Olivia Johnson have returned home to serve the district that shaped them, and how alumni musicians Kristin Crase and Travis Cunningham are carrying on Forreston’s proud tradition of harmony in our classrooms and community

You’ll also read about the ways our community sustains and strengthens our schools. Scott Drake has come full circle as an alum, teacher, coach, and foundation leader, while Chip Braker, longtime band director, now lends his voice as school board president. Our district’s agricultural roots shine in stories of Justin Myers, who carries on his family farm and FFA legacy, and Kelley Parks, who brings passion and persistence to agricultural education.

The lifeblood of Forreston runs through countless acts of quiet service. You’ll meet Barb Engelbarts, whose behind-the-scenes work ensures our schools run smoothly, and Dave Gesin, whose mentorship—along with a community of supporters—has lifted Forreston students for more than two decades. You’ll also see the impact of everyday heroes like bus drivers Marsha Birkholz and Dan Miller, who are truly “teachers on wheels” for the students they greet each day. And we celebrate the steadfast care of paraprofessionals Lucia Heitter and Becky McCoy, a “dynamic duo” whose decades of service at the junior high leave a legacy of support and encouragement

This issue also reminds us of the courage and resilience within our youngest Cardinals. Third grader Averyl “Avy” Bradley’s story shows us strength in every step. Her joy and determination are a lesson to us all.

Together, these twelve stories reflect who we are: a community that values hard work, creativity, resilience, and above all, care for one another. They remind us that the Cardinal spirit is not only about achievement but about lifting one another higher.

As you read this inaugural issue, I hope you feel the same pride I do in our district. Thank you for being an essential part of Forrestville Valley’s story. Whether you support us from the sidelines, in the classroom, on the farm, or simply through your everyday encouragement of our students, you are the reason we can thrive.

With gratitude and excitement,
Sheri Smith

Superintendent, Forrestville Valley CUSD 221