Superintendent's Message for December 2025
Dear Southwest Valley Families and Community,
Winter has officially arrived at Southwest Valley, and with that comes important reminders and ongoing updates regarding our work as a district. In the short term, we do not plan to utilize virtual learning days. If we experience an extended stretch of late starts, early outs, or school cancellations, this option may be readdressed. For now, a cancelled day of school will be just that — a cancelled day. Messages are typically sent prior to 6 a.m. on the day of school for delays or cancellations, with 90 minute notices for early release. IF a decision is made the evening before school, the message will be communicated by 9:00 p.m. As always, we encourage families to make the best decision for their child. If you feel conditions are unsafe for travel, you may choose to keep your child home.
For the 2026-27 school year Southwest Valley Middle and Junior Varsity football teams plan to compete in 8 man football. Roster sizes and injuries have led to limited opportunities to hold competitions in recent years. Changes in conference and opponents' decision to move to 8 man football leave limited options for opposing teams in the area. The football field in Villisca will be updated to allow for the change and all competitions will be held there for middle school and junior varsity. The Timberwolves Varsity team will continue to compete as an 11 man team in the state mandated district.
As mentioned in my previous Superintendent’s Message, we have established 4 committees that will focus on continuous improvement and collaboration across our schools.
- Student Learning and Experiences - working on vertical and curricular alignment across grade levels, as well as evaluating the alternative program at the high school.
- Buildings, Grounds, and Image - plans are moving forward to update the phone system in Villisca and complete the resurfacing of the track in Corning.
- Finance Committee - utilizing line-item budgets and projection models to help prepare the district for future financial needs and sustainability.
- Personnel and Culture/Climate - exploring strategies being used by other districts to attract and retain high-quality teachers, along with considering new and innovative ideas to support our staff and students.
We have a need for bus and van drivers, as well as substitute teachers and paraprofessionals. If you or someone you know may be interested, please contact the district office for more information.
Our middle school and high school winter athletic seasons are officially underway. Best of luck to all of our student-athletes, coaches, and teams as they represent Southwest Valley!
Thank you for your continued support of Southwest Valley as we move through the winter season together. We hope our students, staff, and families enjoy a restful and rejuvenating winter break. We are excited to welcome students back on Monday, January 5, as we begin the second semester together.
Warm Regards,
Joe Erickson
Superintendent
Southwest Valley Schools
