Once upon a time, the abacus was an essential tool for learning math—until calculators made it obsolete. Similarly, developing film at camera stores and renting VHS tapes were once commonplace but have since faded into history. Change is a constant, especially in education, where adaptation and innovation are crucial. Panhandle Alliance for Education (PAFE) has always supported the school district’s need to evolve.
In 2008, for example, LPOSD didn’t have a guidance counselor. Cindy Albertson and Dr. Meyer recognized the need and proposed that we fund the position. Jeralyn Mire stepped into that role, and after three years, the district took on the financial responsibility. Jeralyn still serves in that capacity today, with her work continuing to make a lasting impact.
This year, we listened again to the district’s needs, and it was clear that safety is a top priority for our community. In alignment with the district’s survey findings and the “One Trusted Adult” program, we had extensive discussions with our board and concluded that the best way we can support LPOSD and our community is by funding a third campus security officer. This role is crucial for ensuring safety and building meaningful connections with students who need them most.
When the school environment is secure, teachers can focus on teaching, and students can focus on learning.
Our two campus security officers have become like family members, as highlighted in the video below. However, more are needed to serve our district adequately. In addition to raising funds for early childhood literacy, teacher grants, and our residential carpentry program, we’re excited to announce this year’s strategic initiative: funding a third campus security officer.
Meet JD and Keith
JD McElroy and Keith Delahanty both bring extensive backgrounds in law enforcement to their roles. While security is their primary responsibility, they find that their job is equally about being counselors—trusted adults that students can rely on.
JD McElroy
“Safety starts with trust. When kids trust you, they come to you.”
As a former corrections officer, crisis response team member, football coach, and field training officer, JD is well-versed in interacting with students. This position allows him to combine all of his experiences into one essential role. He makes it a point to connect with students, learn their names, and engage with them in sports and games—all while keeping a watchful eye on the school’s perimeter. He aims to spot potential issues before they escalate into more severe dangers.
“Kids just want to be seen and heard but won’t always ask for it. It’s my job to be proactive.”
Keith Delahanty
“They say ‘safety first,’ but counseling and mentoring come before safety.”
Keith understands that a true sense of safety is achieved when every student in the district has someone they can turn to and be themselves with. He runs an after-school weightlifting program, working out with students, teaching them proper techniques, and providing a safe space for them to talk about their struggles. His office often becomes a refuge for 10 to 15 students at a time—students who need a place where they can be themselves and share what’s on their minds.
“It’s a tough age to be, and many students have difficult home lives, making it hard for them to find their place in school. My role is very one-on-one. Students need to feel seen and understood; many don’t get that at home. It’s up to us to be that outlet for them.”
In a school without someone like Jeralyn Mire, or without JD or Keith, it would be like trying to teach math with an abacus: obsolete. We thank our donors for making it possible to provide these vital roles in our district.
Our strategic initiatives, early childhood literacy programs, and teacher grants support Lake Pend Oreille School District educators in bringing creative and innovative programs to the classroom. Because they are teacher-led ideas and not mandated by outside parties, they have a far more significant impact on the students. If you’d like to support this, you can donate here.
