Incline Middle School students just wrapped up the first quarter of this year’s Exploratory Program—a signature initiative that turns learning into doing. Now in its third year, the program gives every student the chance to dive into real-world, hands-on experiences that build confidence, teamwork, and practical skills.

This fall’s lineup was as diverse as it was inspiring. Students explored Culinary Arts, Fiber Art, and Financial Literacy, hit the lanes in Bowling, and took to the pool for Swimming. Outdoor enthusiasts tackled Mountain Biking and Tennis, while construction-minded teams painted Bear Boxes and built Dog Houses—projects that blend engineering, design, and community service. Leadership and a class at the public library rounded out the offerings, helping students strengthen communication, organization, and collaboration skills.

A special thanks goes out to the many community members and local Rotary volunteers who shared their time and expertise to make these projects possible. Chuck Meyer (1), Chuck Meyer (2), Ginny Lewis, Ed Yarish, Greg Simvoulakis, Pam Sheldon, Lu Sweeney, and Valerie Kuchulis all rolled up their sleeves to mentor students in the Dog House build, teaching practical construction skills while reinforcing teamwork and problem-solving. Their involvement continues to show how much our community invests in its young people.

Look for the finished dog houses around town! The IMS class built four of them, which will be displayed throughout the village during November. In collaboration with the Pet Network, the houses are also being used to collect donations for Pet Shelter Awareness Month. In December, two of the houses will be donated to the Liberty Dogs program in Reno, and the other two will be raffled off to help fund future IMS Exploratory projects.

Submitted by Incline Education Fund, Mary Danahey, 09/09/2025

As the 2025–26 school year kicks off, each of Incline Village’s public schools has exciting news to share.

Incline Elementary School
Incline Elementary is thrilled to welcome new principal Sarah Zabel. Principal Zabel brings a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to student learning, and a passion for building a positive school environment where every child feels supported and inspired. She believes strongly in the power of community and already has a number of family-friendly events in the works—so stay tuned for some fun opportunities to get involved.

Incline Middle School
The hallmark Exploratory Program is rolling out fresh offerings this quarter, giving students the chance to try new skills and experiences both in- and outside the classroom. Current options include: Culinary, Bowling, Financial Literacy, Construction, Textile Arts, Mountain Biking, Bear Box Beautification, Swimming, Tennis, Leadership, and Mentoring. These hands-on explorations not only spark curiosity but also build creativity, teamwork, and confidence.

Incline High School
At Incline High, Principal Cahill is celebrating a strong start to the year. The school has already hosted its Back to School Night and Club Fair, and Homecoming is just around the corner—don’t miss the football game on Friday, September 19, and the student dance on Saturday. In addition, IHS has launched an exciting new after-school Theater Program that will count for PE credits. This marks the return of drama to the high school, with a fall production already in the works.

From new leadership to fresh programs, Incline’s public schools are off to an inspiring start. Here’s to a year of learning, connection, and community spirit!

Sneak Peak of Summer LIVE.WORK.PLAY. Magazine feature, written by Mary Danahey – Timely Article

A little more than two years after its acquisition, the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe continues the legacy of Sierra Nevada University – a stunning campus offering educational and community partnerships. 

“We’re using this beautiful campus in ways that benefit not just students, but the local community and the global environment,” said Jeff Thompson, the University’s executive vice president and provost.

Here are a few of the new, engaging projects and programs on the campus this summer. 

A Voice for the Region

This spring, KUNR, Northern Nevada’s NPR affiliate station and partner of the Reynolds School of Journalism, opened a broadcast studio on campus. “Incline can be seen as a news desert,” said Dr. Gi Yun, dean of the Reynolds School. “We want to help fill that void.” 

KUNR will provide more consistent coverage of the North Shore. It will also support student journalism opportunities. 

“KUNR is committed to covering the Northern Nevada and Eastern Sierra region,” said Brian Duggan, general manager of KUNR. “Incline Village and the broader Lake Tahoe community is a critical part of that coverage area.” 

Monster Fish Comes to Tahoe

Giant catfish and sawfish, and a Payara with saber-like fangs—these are a few of the freshwater creatures featured in Monster Fish: In Search of the Last River Giants, a new exhibition on the ground floor of the Tahoe Environmental Research Center.

With four massive fish models—including a 14-foot Amazonian arapaima, the exhibition engages visitors of all ages and is a launchpad for science and community engagement.

“This is a perfect complement to the University’s growing presence and impact at Lake Tahoe,” said Dr. Doug Boyle, interim vice provost and dean at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe. “Through Monster Fish, we are creating a vibrant hub that connects the public with our research and educational mission, from local waters to global conservation.”

Co-created by National Geographic and biology professor Dr. Zeb Hogan, the exhibition is part of the University’s freshwater science and outreach efforts. 

Admission to Monster Fish is free; all are welcome. 

A New Showcase of Tahoe’s History

Another exciting development is the new galleries by Foundation Professor of Art Peter Goin. Slated to open fully in the Prim Library building this fall, Goin’s immersive multimedia experience will include large prints from his recent book, Stopping Time:A Rephotographic Survey of Lake Tahoe.

Visitors are invited to explore and reflect on the Tahoe Basin’s history and how our perceptions of the landscape have changed over time. 

Strengthening Community Connections

This summer, more than 60 organizations will host events, retreats and conferences on the Lake Tahoe campus, including the annual Lake Tahoe Summit luncheon, a key gathering for local and federal leaders focused on sustainability.

“Lake Tahoe is one of the world’s most precious places,” Provost Thompson said. “We are strongly committed to protecting its environmental, cultural and community assets—and delivering on our promise to be a good neighbor.”

Visit unr.edu/lake-tahoe for more information on upcoming events, programming, and other campus news.

The stage is set, the lights are warming up, and the excitement is building as the Incline Star Follies prepares to dazzle audiences once again! Mark your calendars for May 2 and 3, 2025, and grab your tickets now for this heartwarming community cabaret at the Duffield Theater at Incline High School.

Celebrating its 22nd year, the Incline Star Follies is more than just a show — it’s a vibrant showcase of local talent, featuring students, teachers, and community members in an unforgettable blend of music, dance, and comedy. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time attendee, this beloved tradition offers a night (or afternoon!) of laughter, entertainment, and genuine hometown spirit.

Show Dates & Times:

• Friday, May 2: 6:00 PM & 8:30 PM
• Saturday, May 3: 1:00 PM (Matinee), 6:00 PM & 8:30 PM

All performances will be held at the Duffield Theater at Incline High School. Tickets are available online now at Incline Star Follies Tickets.

This annual event does more than entertain — it unites the community while supporting local education. All proceeds go directly to Incline Elementary, Incline Middle, and Incline High School through the Incline Education Fund. And thanks to the generosity of the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation, every dollar donated will be matched up to $26,500, doubling the impact of your support.

Don’t wait — shows often sell out quickly, and this year’s performances are sure to be the most memorable yet. Get your tickets, bring your friends and family, and be part of a tradition that celebrates creativity, community, and giving back.

Tickets and donations available now at: Incline Star Follies

Let the lights shine and the stars rise — we’ll see you at the Follies!

Submitted by Mary Danahey of Incline Education Fund

Incline Elementary School

IES hosted the SWEP Science Festival last week. (SWEP=Sierra Watershed Education Partnership)  Students rotated through hands-on activity stations designed to deepen their understanding of STEM concepts.  Later that evening, Family Science Night extended the excitement, allowing students to share their discoveries with their families through interactive exhibits and experiments led by SWEP staff and volunteers. 

Incline Middle School –  Congratulations are in order for the winners of the annual IMS Spelling Bee! 6th Grade: Luca Groza (1st), Hector Toc (2nd), Ellie Johnson (3rd) 7th Grade: Harper Rudd (1st), Isabela Buscanan-Fernandez (2nd), Caleb Carsmen (3rd) 8th Grade: Sophia Groza (1st), Nicholas Pannone (2nd), Francisco Jones (3rd)

Incline High School – Athletic Highlights (from last week): The Track & Field team had a record-breaking weekend. The Highlanders split between two major meets and absolutely crushed it – setting a total of 30 personal bests.  Freshman phenom Shelby Erickson added 2 more school records to her collection, in the 800m and 1600m.
The Boys Golf Team came out swinging with a tournament win at Eagle Valley! Senior Sam Lager and junior Lucas McDonald both shot a stellar 81, with solid performances from Anthony Donohue (85), Neils Day (88), Trent Racich (92), and Dylan Zuvic (111). Great teamwork and focus! The Swim team dove into competition on Friday, putting up a strong fight against South Lake Tahoe in an exciting meet filled with standout performances from Sady Kelly, Jayden Medoza, Ava Hane,Ashley Siminov, Sarah Mayr, Olivia Kranz, and William Arrison.

From Incline High School Principal Cahill: 3/17/2025

? Ski Team Success! This past week, we celebrated our Boys and Girls Ski teams at their banquet, and we’re still in awe—our Boys team brought home THREE State titles, while our Girls team earned the runner-up spot! ?? Congratulations, Highlanders!

? A Huge Thank You to Our Boosters! The Crab Feed was a smashing success, and for the first time, Incline Bowl was transformed into an incredible event space! With the overwhelming generosity of our community, we hit the $125,000 matching donation goal from the Dave and Cheryl Duffield Foundation! Their continued support elevates our school in ways beyond words, and we couldn’t be more grateful. ?

?‍♀️ History in the Making! Our inaugural Incline Gymnastics Team recently competed at the Grand Sierra Resort for a state title! Their strength, skill, and determination are nothing short of inspiring, and we are so proud of their first season!

⚾? Spring Team Athletics Update:

• Baseball & Softball teams notched key victories this week—way to go!
• Boys Golf hit the course for their first tournament of the season, placing 3rd overall! Sam Lager shot an 80 and Lucas MacDonald an 82—a great start as the team gets into full swing! ⛳