A new year at Southeast Valley
Students return to class as district welcomes 11 new staff
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GOWRIE -- Students across the Southeast Valley School District returned to class Wednesday, beginning the 2026-27 school year with new faces in classrooms and hallways across the district.
Southeast Valley welcomed 11 new staff members this year, including seven teachers, three associates and a new high school principal.
Kourtney Self began her first year as principal at Southeast Valley High School on Monday, bringing with her a path to education that began after nearly a decade of service in the United States Air Force.
"One of the most rewarding parts of that role was educating service members on legal matters and helping them navigate important decisions," Self said. "Through that experience, I discovered a passion for teaching, mentoring, and helping others grow with confidence."
As she begins her first year at Southeast Valley, Self said one of her primary goals is making sure students feel connected to their school.
"My biggest goal is for every student to feel seen, valued, and connected at Southeast Valley," she said. "I want every student to know there is at least one adult in the building who believes in them and is invested in their success."
Students at the Farnhamville Elementary School started the day with the annual flag raising. The students were joined by members of the American Legion Post 510 who not only helped the students to raise the flag, but also welcomed each student and staff member with high-fives and handshakes to start the school year.