1/26/24

On Monday, I had the privilege of accompanying Stacey Sanders’ EWU Civics class on a visit to the State Capitol. Ms. Sanders coordinated a remarkable experience for our students, facilitating meeting with the Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, Senator Javier Valdez, State Treasurer, and our local representatives. Witnessing our students’ knowledge, inquisitiveness, and eagerness to contribute positively to our state filled me with great pride.

Throughout the day, our students posed insightful questions, leaving a lasting impression on each legislator and state officer they interacted with. The impressive nature of their engagement even prompted one observer to remark, “These are really high school students?” I extend my gratitude to Ms. Sanders for providing this invaluable opportunity to the students at PAHS and for graciously inviting me to be a part of it.

Say hi to Melissa! Melissa has taken on the new role of principal at Stevens Middle School.

Melissa with her husband Devin and son Liam

Where are you from?

I was born in Germany and have lived in Colorado, Alaska, and Idaho before moving to WA in 2002.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

My favorite thing about being a principal so far is being able to help shape school culture. We now have some new committees to continue building our staff and student morale and improve our family outreach. I’m also excited about our monthly assemblies, PBIS reward events, and all the great things kids are doing in athletics right now. Our Open House was also a success! The overall feeling and mood of the building is positive. I work with the best staff on the planet!

Anything you'd like to share about your family?

My husband was born and raised in Sequim. He is a police officer there. My son is a senior at PAHS. He will be studying abroad next year and then hopes to attend Westpoint of the Naval Academy. I have 2 dogs (Dixie – a bully mix & Axel – a mastiff/lab) and 3 cats (one of which is known for treeing raccoons).

Do you have any hobbies?

I love to read. This year, I set myself a 40 book challenge. I’m currently at 30. I also

If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be?

A perfect day would be one where I was with my family camping, going to live sporting or music events, or traveling.

What is your goal for this year?

My goal for this year is to successfully survive my first year as principal of SMS, being able to look back and see positive gains, and look forward to next steps. I’m also being very intentional about boundaries, trying to create some sort of work/life balance. What I model is what I expect from staff – family first…and take time for yourself. The work will always be there.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see myself right where I am. 😊

What is a fun fact that most people don’t know about you?

I was the dance team captain in high school…and I lettered in journalism. I initially planned to study communications/journalism, because I wanted to be a foreign correspondent or investigative reporter.

Reminder, PASD schools will be closed for students next Monday, January 29th for semester break. School is back in session Tuesday, January 30th.

***This is a non-work day for teachers, paraeducators, and Level I Secretaries. All other staff should report to work.

***Check with your supervisor if you have any questions.

Six Port Angeles High School juniors were awarded with STAR Awards by Soroptimist International of Port Angeles – Noon Club on January 19, 2024 at Joshua’s Restaurant.

The Criteria for Selection Include:

• Effort and willingness to work in the subject area

• Success in the subject area

• Passing in all subjects with above average grades in the subject area

• Extracurricular activities in the subject area are not required, but may be considered

OSPI published a roadmap to guide the implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Washington’s schools, making Washington the fifth state in the nation to publish state-level guidance on AI use in its public schools.

Buy your tickets and help us celebrate the best of Port Angeles!

https://business.portangeles.org/.../2023-port-angeles...

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• January 29 - No School
• February 19 - Presidents Day Holiday - No School
• March 8 - Snow Makeup Day - School in Session
• April 1-5: Spring Break - No School

Port Angeles School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Port Angeles School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination: Title IX Coordinators, Civil Rights Compliance Coordinators: Scott Harker, 905 W. 9th Street Port Angeles, WA 98363, (360) 457-8575, sharker@portangelesschools.org, for Section 504/ADA Coordinator, Dr. Rachel Summers, 905 W. 9th Street Port Angeles, WA 98363, (360) 457-8575, rsummers@portangelesschools.org.