Mission     Vision     Philosophy     Legend of the Wampus Cat

Welcome to Clark Fork!

Clark Fork is located in the eastern portion of Bonner county, and the community includes the tallest peak in the Cabinet Mountains - Scotchman - at 7,009 feet.  The school mascot is the Wampus Cat, and the school colors are royal blue and gold.

The Legend of the Wampus Cat

The quiet town of Clark Fork is home to one of the most enduring legends of Bonner County - the Wampus Cat.  The fearsome feline has been the trademark of Clark Fork High School for 57 years - ever since the school's basketball team adopted the carnivorous cat as its own.  But the tale of the Wampus Cat is rooted in legends of the Indians who once lived in the Clark Fork valley.

The Indians who lived in the valley told of a wild cat that was often seen stalking its prey along the banks of the Clark Fork River.  The cat resembled a cougar, except for a ball-like formation at the end of its tail.  some stories of the cat reported that the ball was covered with sharp quills, or spikes.

When the cat approached his prey, he would begin to swing his tail striking down his victim.  The slow, but deadly cat was given the name "Wampus Cat" by the Indians.  Like the Wampus Cat of original legend, the Clark Fork Jr/Sr High Wampus Cat has become known as a fierce contender in battle and a sure conqueror of its prey.

Written by Clark Fork resident Shirley Dawson Crawford,
in honor of the area's legend of the Wampus Cat

School Mission: Cats C.A.R.E.

Building confidence in self through respect and empowerment. 

School Vision:

We are a caring community striving toward absolute excellence in each individual.

School Philosophy:

·   Encourage emotional, intellectual and moral qualities in individuals.
·    Promote excellence and instill the importance of academic achievement.
·    Model mutual respect between all stakeholders: community, staff, and students.
·    Foster and celebrate the belief in self.

Belief Statement:  Cats C.A.R.E.

Character, achievement and respect empower students to succeed.