Merge is smooth

When the Custer School District Board of Education voted to merge the sixth, seventh and eighth grades into the elementary and high schools, many knew there would be challenges to face.

“Coming into the school year, we all realized this isn’t the ideal setting to move junior high kids into,” said Dr. Paul Anderson, high school principal. “This was a cost-cutting move and we do save quite a bit of money.”

While some issues have come up, Anderson said staff and students have adjusted well.

“Both the students and staff have done a great job adapting,” he said. “With the first five weeks of school, there have been some issues but we’ve handled them. It’s an adjustment, but I’m pleased with everything, especially the staff.”

Mindy Knudson-Dooley believes students and teachers are adjusting well.