Superintendent Updates

5.1.25

Dear EHPS Parents,

I am writing to let you know about a situation that occurred in our community this morning.  You will likely hear about it in the news or on social media later today.

An EHHS Student on his way to school this morning was accosted by a resident who brandished a gun and threatened the student.   The student proceeded to the school where he informed school administrators.  Administrators contacted the student's parents and Law enforcement to report the incident.  Our SRO was involved in the investigation and the perpetrator has been apprehended by Sheriff's deputies and is currently in custody.  

There is no further threat to the community at this time.  The individual was not associated with the schools, and the incident took place outside of school hours and off campus. 

I would like to thank our school administrators for taking swift action and our SRO's for always being vigilant in keeping our kids safe.

Mr Rispens

4.18.25

Dear EHPS Parents,

Here’s your update from Superintendent Rispens.    

Music Fundraiser

THANKS to everyone who patiently waited at Papa Murphy’s Wednesday night.  The place was packed and the staff was overwhelmed with the awesome show of support from East Helena for our music program.  We appreciate your support!!!

FYI about the Measles

• Measles cases are now documented in 16 states and in Canada, including cases in Gallatin County and southern Alberta.   
• East Helena Public Schools is closely monitoring the situation and is coordinating with Lewis & Clark Public Health in the event we have cases here. If a student tests positive for measles, their doctor will report it to Lewis & Clark Public Health, which will in turn notify the district. The district will immediately notify all families in the affected school. 
• Students diagnosed with measles will need to stay home for 5 days after the rash breaks out, day zero being the day the rash appears. Families of students who are unvaccinated or undervaccinated will receive a letter asking them to stay home for 21 days from the date of exposure. 
• Measles vaccines (MMR) are available from your family physician and at local pharmacies. 
• Lewis and Clark Public Health has created a Measles tracking dashboard which can be found at this link.

No School, Monday, April 21

There is no school on Monday, April 21.  Enjoy the long weekend!

Prickly Pear Park Grand Opening

The East Helena Schools has had a successful partnership with the Prickly Pear Land Trust over the years.  Working together, we have helped create and preserve open space and trails for folks to enjoy.  Soon, the next great opportunity will arrive with the Grand Opening of Prickly Pear Park on May 1 at 4 PM.   The park is south of town between the old smelter property and the Kleffner Barn.  Here are the details:

Celebrate the opening of East Helena’s newest park with Prickly Pear Land Trust and East Helena School District! Join us on Thursday, May 1, at 4 p.m. at 1525 Rte 518. Enjoy barbeque, go on a scavenger hunt, wander the trails, and spot some wildlife. Leave Fido home, please! Prickly Pear Park will be closed to dogs in order to protect the habitats of the numerous bird species. Beginning May 2, the park will be open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

PTO Movie Night May 2

The EH PTO Movie Night is returning after a 5 year hiatus! It is scheduled for May 2nd at 6 PM at PPE. The PTO will provide popcorn and water. Details will also be posted on the PTO and School Facebook pages. 

Repeated Items

EPA Office Hours

Do you have questions for the EPA about soil contamination, yard replacement, the slag pile or anything else related to the superfund project?  Stop by Galaxy Roasting on Main Street  on Thursdays from 11:30 - 1:30 for EPA Office Hours.  EPA Staff will be on hand to meet with you and get you the information you need.

LittleLante’s Registration

Do you have a  child in your home who will be 4 years old on or before September 10, 2025?  it’s possible your child may qualify for the FREE LittleLante’s program at Eastgate School. to find out more about this high quality Early Childhood program, contact Eastgate School at 227-7770.

(Repeated item) Senior All Night Party Information

Did you know the Helena Senior All Night Party is a regional event for all high school graduates in the area?  The Senior All Night Party is not sponsored by any school district.  It is its own 501c3 and graduates from public and private schools in the Helena Area are invited to attend.  Parent volunteers are needed to help organize the party and help out.  If you’re interested in getting involved, you can email senioranp@gmail.com or call or text Aimee Grmoljez Shanight at 406-459-5958.  Sponsors and prizes donations are also needed.

(Repeated item) Help (STILL) Wanted!!!!!

The East Helena Public Schools is a great place to work!  Our employees have the incredible honor of working to create a positive environment for the children of East Helena to develop their full potential.  We are always looking for good people to come and help kids succeed.  Right now we have openings for:

• classroom paraprofessionals, 
• kitchen help (Food Service), 
• substitutes, and 
• custodians.   

Even if you cannot commit to a full schedule, we want to talk to you if you’re interested in helping out.  Stop by Central Office or give us a call at 406-227-7700 for more information.  You can find our application materials online at:  https://www.ehpsmt.gov/central-office/how-to-apply

LINKS

• Free/reduced Lunch Form
  • To submit an online application do the following:
  • 1. Click on the link:  Free & Reduced Lunch Online Application            
• 2. Click the RED Get started Button
• 3. Follow the prompts  - you will receive and emailed response after your application has been reviewed
• Bus Routes (UPDATED!)

THANKS!

Mr Rispens