New Kalispell Public Schools Superintendent Mark Flatau is a proponent of open dialogue and transparency.

To promote that open dialogue between the district and community members, he invites people to sign up for a Superintendent Social. 

“This was something that I did nine years ago and it proved to be successful in a sense that people appreciated it. It provided me with a variety of dialogue and input,” Flatau said.

Flatau said the Superintendent Social is meant to be a casual gathering to talk about what’s going on in Kalispell Public Schools.

“Depending on what the group wants, they can hear from me; they can ask questions; or if there’s a particular concern I will listen, take notes and try to research that as best as I can and get back to them,” Flatau said.

While he has been making the rounds of civic groups, Flatau also wants to reach out to people who may not belong to a specific club or group. Flatau said he is willing to meet people where they are — in their homes and neighborhoods.

“Continued community support is an essential, critical component of any strong public school system and we have to continue to build on our strengths in that area,” Flatau said. “We also have to continue to demonstrate to our community that we’re doing the job we should be doing — we’re demonstrating school achievement and that we’re accountable for their tax dollars and how we spend them.”

People may call 751-3434 to arrange a Superintendent Social.

“If you put the coffee on I’ll bring the cookies,” Flatau said.

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or by email at hmatheson@dailyinterlake.com.