Rolling into Community: GSD Hosts First-Ever Community Skate Night
The Gervais School District made history with its first-ever Community Skate Night, an event designed to bring students, families, and staff together in a fun and engaging atmosphere. With over 600 attendees, the night was a resounding success, featuring roller skating, crafting tables, a taco bar, and even a chance for community members to ask questions about the upcoming bond projects.
The inspiration for the event came from Superintendent Dandy Stevens, who attended a conference in October where she asked fellow small school district leaders how they successfully connected with their communities. One district shared that they had started a monthly skate night, which quickly grew to attract hundreds of people of all ages. Inspired by the idea, Dandy reached out to Julie Powers, a GSD staff member, who has a background in roller derby, to help bring the vision to life. Together, they organized the event, coordinating everything from skates to staffing.
The night featured a variety of activities to engage attendees. The football team managed the concessions, while staff members skated alongside students to assist beginners and keep the energy high. Crafting tables provided an alternative activity for those who preferred to stay off wheels, ensuring everyone could participate in the evening’s fun. Meanwhile, representatives from the district’s bond project—including the R&C Management Group, Arcadis Architecture, and Kirby Nagelhout Construction—were available to answer questions and connect with the community. All of these teams are instrumental in making the bond projects a reality, and having them present to engage with attendees and share insights on the upcoming developments was a win for the community!
Julie Powers emphasized the deeper mission behind the event, noting that strengthening relationships between the district and the community leads to better attendance and more meaningful conversations about important topics like drug and alcohol prevention. “We love the community outreach, and this has been a major mission for Dandy. Inviting the community into the building increases the likelihood of future involvement. People are more likely to return to a place they’ve already visited,” she shared. The event was also an opportunity for various student clubs to raise funds, further reinforcing the district’s commitment to community engagement. With a packed house and countless smiles, the night was a testament to Gervais’ ability to come together and support one another.
Cody Scherer of R&C Management Group, the district’s Owner’s Representative, praised the event: “We had such a great time at Gervais School District’s Skate Night! It was awesome to see so many students, parents, and community members come together for a fun night of skating, good food, and crafts. We also got to connect with local subcontractors and share in the excitement for the upcoming bond projects. This community knows how to come together, and we can’t wait to see their bond projects come to life.”
As the largest event Gervais School District has ever hosted, the success of Community Skate Night sets the stage for future gatherings. The district hopes to continue these types of events to foster strong connections with families and create a welcoming environment for all. With such an incredible turnout, it’s clear that Gervais is a community that values togetherness, and the district looks forward to building on this momentum in the future.
