Columbia School District #400

March in Burbank carries its own kind of rhythm and energy. You see it as our student-athletes head back outside for spring practices, as the lights stay on a little longer for evening events and meetings, and in classrooms where students are leaning into their learning with focus and determination. The days are stretching out, spring is just ahead, and there’s a steady rhythm to life in our community that feels both familiar and hopeful. We are now more than 60% of the way through the school year, and across our district students continue to grow and prepare for the months ahead.

As we step into this season, I want to express my sincere gratitude to our Columbia School District community for your support in passing both of our recent levies. The Educational Programs & Operations Levy passed with 60.74% voter approval, and the Capital (Technology) Levy passed with 60.51% voter approval. Those results, officially certified on February 20th, reflect a strong commitment to the future of our students and the continued strength of our community and schools.

The Educational Programs & Operations Levy helps sustain the daily experiences of our students by supporting staff positions, instructional programs, extracurricular activities, athletics, safety, and student services that are not fully funded by the state. The Capital (Technology) Levy ensures we can continue classroom technology, maintaining secure and safe facilities, supporting student devices, and protecting the infrastructure that keeps our schools operating efficiently. These are practical, meaningful supports that directly impact learning every single day.

In a community like ours, schools are not separate from daily life. They are part of it. Your support ensures that our students continue to have access to strong academics, extracurricular opportunities, safe environments, and the tools they need to succeed. We take seriously the responsibility that comes with that trust. Through it all, our priority remains clear: strong programs, meaningful opportunities, and the support our students need each day.

Looking ahead, the spring calendar is filling quickly. Spring sports are about to get started, performances and concerts are on the horizon, and we are already beginning preparations for graduation and end-of-year celebrations. The best part of the year is still ahead of us, and we look forward to seeing our community and celebrating the hard work of our students.

Thank you for standing alongside our schools and for continuing to invest in our Coyotes. We are proud to serve this community and grateful for the partnership that makes the work possible.

Go Coyotes!

Sincerely, Todd Hilberg,

Superintendent