The first bell of a new beginning

Doctor’s Note

There’s a special kind of magic in the first days of school. An energy that hums through the air, carried on the crispness of a Montana morning. 

Picture this: a splash of golden and purplish hues in the sunrise that illuminates Anaconda, casting light on waking streets. A young student, backpack snug and shoes double-knotted, walks eagerly to the bus stop, a sense of pride in their step. Parents and caregivers wave goodbye, travel mugs in hand, hearts full of hope. 

Students gather at the corner, trading summer stories. Buses arrive and doors swoosh open, a chariot of possibility, ready to carry them toward new friendships, fresh notebooks, and the next chapter of learning. 

Every Copperhead counts. School is about learning, yes, and it’s also about belonging, about being seen, known, and inspired. To reinforce that sense of belonging, encourage your child to get involved. Let’s work together to increase our participation rates in athletics and activities. 

The first day of school is Aug. 27 for students at Fred Moodry and the Junior/Senior High School. On Aug. 27-29, Lincoln families will have the opportunity for individual meet and greets with their child’s teacher, and their first full day will be Sept. 2. All schools will host an Open House between 3:30-6:30 on Aug. 26. 

With school comes athletics and activities. As we think about a new year, let’s ask, who do we want to be this year? How do we want to show up? We are a community full of pride, honor, and sportsmanship. 

With sportsmanship comes a role we must choose to play. For each event, there are four roles: those of player, coach, spectator, and referee. Each of those roles comes with expectations, and each person can only play one role at a time. How will you show up each day in support of your child, competitor, and Copperhead? 

There are clear spectator guidelines that all fans will be asked to follow that coaches will review during pre-season athletics and activities meetings. An important addition to the handbook: the 24-hour rule. No attendee shall approach a coach of any type after a game or practice within 24 hours of the event. 

We are in the business of teaching and learning. Sometimes, the gift of time gives us perspective on both of those goals. Let’s model behavior that inspires. Let’s show our Anaconda pride. Let’s hold each other up academically as we enter this school year.

Here’s to a year of pride, promise, and Copperhead success. Let’s make it positively unforgettable. 

I’d love to connect with you. 

I will be hosting In the Loop with the Supe every week. This informal gathering is open to anyone in the community to say hi, share thoughts on the district, and introduce yourself. I will be at different businesses or events each week with time set aside to meet the community. 

Here is my August schedule: 

• Saturday, Aug. 9, 1-2 p.m., Smelterman’s Day. Find my table at Kennedy Commons!  

• Tuesday, Aug. 19, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Lincoln families, this is your PTA meeting, and I will be there with a brief message, to answer questions, and hear plans for a great school year. 

• Wednesday, Aug. 20, 4-5 p.m. Jordi’s. Ten percent of the proceeds will go towards the Lincoln Playground remodel. 

• Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2:45-3:30 p.m. Anode Designs. Then I will be stopping by all the schools for their Open Houses (3:30-6:30 p.m.)

Athletics Reminders

• Practice begins Aug. 15 for varsity athletics. Look for information from the schools and coaches on practice times and pre-season meetings. 

• 1st home football game: Friday, Aug. 29. 

• Volleyball kicks off in St. Ignatius on Saturday, Aug. 30 (1st home match on Sept. 9). 

• Want to be involved and support our students? Join Booster Club! Look for information on our newly-refreshed website and in the mail soon! 

If you are interested in hosting an In the Loop with the Supe session, email me at trehbein@anacondaschools.org. Looking forward to a great future! 

You can also follow our social media. 

• Instagram: the_anaconda_supe

• Facebook: The Anaconda Supe

Note: Dr. Rehbein will write a monthly column, Doctor’s Note, to keep the community informed, engaged, and connected to Anaconda Public Schools. This column is more than updates – it is a window into our shared purpose and the progress we will make together for our students. 

Dr. Rehbein's column runs the first Friday of each month and includes the monthly schedule for finding Dr. Rehbein at In the Loop with the Supe.