Partner Spotlight: Wood River Middle School

The Communities for Youth Blaine County Initiative aims to spotlight partners on a quarterly basis. Featured partners are working on upstream prevention for youth well-being in their community. For April 2025, we are highlighting Wood River Middle School and their work on creating a stronger sense of belonging for students. 

Wanting to ensure that every student feels seen, valued, and connected, Wood River Middle School is working on several exciting initiatives that promote connection for students. Based on results from the Communities for Youth Well-being survey showing the importance of social connection for well-being in Blaine County students, as well as student feedback, observations in trends in student behavior, and discussions with staff and families, Wood River Middle School Principal Donna Pierson and her team felt that fostering a positive and inclusive school environment was crucial.

Principal Donna Pierson, Wood River Middle School

One upcoming initiative is the launch of the Ron Clark Academy (RCA) House System next school year. This system will provide every student with a “house” that offers mentorship, support, and opportunities for leadership. The goal is to foster positive relationships, encourage leadership, and connect students with peers and staff in meaningful ways.

“I'm most excited about the sense of belonging this will foster for our students. Seeing them support one another, celebrate achievements, and form friendships across grade levels will be truly impactful. I believe this sense of community will extend into their overall academic success as well. I'm also eager to see how this system empowers students to step into leadership roles and positively influence their peers,” said Principal Pierson. 

Wood River Middle School is also finding additional ways to strengthen student engagement and connection. This summer, school staff will continue training in Idaho Tiered Behavior Support, with staff attending additional training to enhance effective academic and behavioral instruction. They are also partnering with The Advocates to promote healthy relationships with the LiveRespect organization.  

Wood River Middle School staff are committed to supporting the well-being of their students.

Wood River Middle School leaders are excited for the changes and new opportunities for growth they will create for their students. Principal Pierson noted, “I believe that when students feel a deep sense of belonging, they are more likely to thrive in all aspects of their education. By strengthening our school’s connection with the broader community, we are preparing students to become engaged, compassionate, and confident individuals who will contribute positively to the world around them”. 

Principal Pierson and the dedicated staff at Wood River Middle School are committed to supporting the well-being of their students and creating an environment where all students can succeed. 

If you want to learn more about the work happening in Blaine County, reach out to community lead Sarah Seppa at seppas@slhs.org.

For more information on the Communities for Youth Blaine County Initiative please visit our

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