Dear Students, Families, Staff and Community Members,

I hope the holidays were filled with cherished memories and time with loved ones.

The close of each year invites reflection upon the past year as well as a chance to think about our hopes and goals for the new year.

2023-As I reflect on this past year, I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to spend time with and learn lessons from our nearly 2,000 students. I relish the time I have visiting students in classrooms and buildings, watching them attend and lead assemblies, cheering them on as they participate in athletic events and musical performances and admiring their service to our community. Every one of them, from our very youngest preschooler to each graduating senior, has thoughtful questions, brilliant ideas and great hopes and dreams for the future. What do we, as adults, owe to all our students, regardless of where they are at on their educational journey? We owe them the opportunity to realize their academic potential, a safe place to grow socially and emotionally and ongoing community support as they graduate, become life-long learners and emerge as our future leaders.

One of my highlights as a superintendent has been listening and learning from our dedicated staff members. Regardless of their position in the district, each team member is centered on how to best lead and support student success. I am honored to be part of our Eatonville School District team and will continue to do everything I can to support each team member as, together, we fulfill the following promise.

Our Eatonville Promise:

Every student will be known, valued and supported.

2024-As we start this new year, we have people to recognize, successes to celebrate and important measures to consider. We also have a lot of work to do to make sure that students are achieving at the highest levels possible.

Recognition-January is School Board Appreciation Month. Our school board members set the policies for our school district and act as a vital link between our community and our schools. They build the future of public education.

I am very grateful for the warm welcome, the ongoing guidance and the unwavering support that I have received from our dedicated board members. Please consider sending them a message of gratitude for their countless hours of service.

Celebrations-After ten months of rigorous work, we have completed our five-year strategic plan. This plan was created by input and hard work from nearly 1,500 students, parents, staff and community members. The plan is currently with the graphics team and will be completed soon. Our strategic plan will be our guide and keep us accountable as we focus on student achievement. Our plan also includes the portrait of a graduate which identifies the skills, knowledge, attributes, and competencies necessary for a successful transition to life after high school. It aligns well with the requirements for graduation set force by the Washington State Board of Education while addressing our Eatonville priorities and values.

Important Measures-You may be aware that the school board unanimously voted to approve two funding measures for the February 13th election, largely based on the priorities established by over 300 students, parents, staff and community members who attended our community levy forum and/or completed our levy survey. Our goal is to make sure that voters have all the information that they need to make an informed decision on these measures. Voters passed our current two levies at the combined rate of $2.75 per $1000 of assessed value. We want our community members to know that in February they will be voting on measures that have a combined rate of $2.50 per $1000 of assessed value.

Please click this link to learn more about the election and to see answers to frequently asked questions about the replacement levies. Our levies fund everything that happens after the bell rings at the end of the day as well as many things that happen during the school day. If you have questions that are not answered on our website, feel free to reach out to me.

Summary-I am confident that 2024 will be a very productive year for our Eatonville students as we all pull together to support them along their pathway to academic success.

Eatonville Strong!

Mr. Jay Brower

Superintendent

Eatonville School District

Principal Allison Burslem and Teachers, Mrs. Struck middle school Science, Mrs. Howard Middle school CTE elective and Lisa Hoversten Art specialist, met with the team from Peninsula to share their work to make STEM instruction by highlighting, the oxygen cycle using outdoor experiences including trail access and hiking, agriculture and the gardens and math in the art classroom.

Mrs. Stephanie Struck has taken on new curricula this year combining current science kits with Project Lead the Way science modules to bring alive science lessons using the outdoor spaces for learning. Additionally, she is teaching a STEM elective. The students have engineered a fire pit and most recently created holiday presents for their families using power tools to include bird houses, wood coasters and signs.

When asked to recap Mrs. Struck stated, "I shared how my STEM class created a scavenger hunt centered around American Indian folklore on the trail across the street from our school. I shared pictures of the folklore animals exhibited along the trail. I also shared how students were currently in the process of making Christmas presents for their families. I brought a few examples like a bird house, coasters and a welcome sign for a front door. Students and parents signed safety contracts and students had to pass an oral exam detailing all the criteria for using the tools provided (wood burning pens, saws, drills, shovels, jigsaws, etc.).

We accomplished these tasks by using the PLTW parts A and B centered around using each step of the DESIGN process. We followed the steps outlined by identifying what projects we wanted to accomplish, how to prepare and execute your designs, how to follow criteria and constraints for the project, and how to determine the difference between needs and wants. We practiced working in groups to create plans, and concept maps. When problems arose, we discussed as a class how to solve the problem using the project evaluations and the needs and wants scoring system contained in the PLTW website.

When the visiting school members came to my classroom, I shared how my science class would be making a building out of spaghetti and marshmallow that could remain standing, holding 100 grams of sand and withstand a 9.0 earthquake. I demonstrated the shaker bin so students, and visitors knew what the project involved. This was very much a STEM activity from the Smithsonian Science Curriculum.

I also shared how I planned to use lesson 3 Penguin Habitat from the PLTW activity from Energy and Environment. I thought it would work since we were studying habitats and ecosystems using the Smithsonian MS Science curriculum, "Ecosystems and their Interactions."

Art Specialist, Lisa Hoversten, uses every opportunity to integrate math skills in art classes and sewing club.

Sarah Howard shared, “the GROW classes at CCA spent a week learning about taxes, at their request! We started with minimum wage, and how it varies from state to state and why, and calculated the gross amount that could be earned working eight, 40 hr weeks (a full time summer job). We followed that discussion with a lesson on what a W-2 form is, what they look like, who gets them, and where those numbers transfer to on a regular Form 1040. The students were shocked at the amount of money that could be earned in one summer.”

From there, Mrs. Howard jumped from the "employee perspective" to the "employer perspective" and discussed the cost of employing a team of people to make wreaths. They got to see the VAST difference between the estimated costs across the country (WA, MI, WV). We discussed the entire cash basis section of the Form 1040 Schedule F, which is the form submitted for agricultural operations. As much as possible, Mrs. Sarah Howard, makes every discussion come back to efficiency and costs. She states, “They've really caught on! Time and resources all cost something!”

School Board Appreciation Month is a fantastic time to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of school board members. They play a crucial role in shaping the educational environment, making decisions that impact students, teachers and the community.

Greetings to all members of our vibrant school community as we step into the promising year of 2024. January marks the onset of fresh opportunities and thrilling adventures, ripe with possibilities for growth, learning, and collaboration. It is with tremendous enthusiasm that we bring you some significant updates and highlights from the Eatonville Student Services.

The arrival of a new year signifies a chance for rejuvenation and advancement. As our students return from the holiday break, we encourage them to embrace the upcoming semester with fervor and determination. Let's inspire our students to delve into their new learning with eagerness, keeping themselves engaged, motivated, and open to novel experiences. Together, let's make this year a period of discovery, knowledge, and remarkable achievements.

Looking back at the accomplishments and resilience displayed by our students, educators, staff, and families throughout the past year, we take pride in the dedication and commitment shown in navigating challenges and embracing successes collectively.

As we venture into the new year together, let's continue nurturing a supportive and inclusive environment where each individual can thrive and realize their full potential. Your steadfast support and dedication play a pivotal role in shaping the success and growth of our students.

We hold immense pride in the accomplishments of our students and staff. Whether it's academic milestones, artistic endeavors, or athletic triumphs, we celebrate and commend the hard work and dedication exhibited by members of our school community.

Let's embrace this new year with optimism and a commitment to fostering an environment where all individual's achievements are celebrated and supported.

Wishing everyone a fantastic start to the new year!

Cristin Blaskowitz

Executive Director of Student Services & Assessment

Mrs. Honaker's class has been busy learning about different traditions for Diwali (Festival of Lights), Hanukkah (Festival of Lights) and Christmas! For Diwali, we hung lights in our classroom, then students made lanterns, fireworks art, rangolis and flower leis to decorate our classroom! For Hanukkah, students painted Dreidels and made star ornaments. For Christmas, students decorated our classroom tree, wrote holiday cards and made gifts for their families. Throughout all of these lessons, students have listened to stories and watched videos about each holiday and their traditions. It has been quite a learning experience!

We went on a couple community access trips! The first was a walking field trip to the Eatonville Post Office to mail holiday cards to their families! You just never know what you might see when walking through town! Students were learning to use the crosswalks and how to cross the street safely, pointed out and discussed different businesses and locations like the church (Baptist Church), the garage for fixing cars (MotorWorx), and the store (Center Street Junction, CSJ). We took a little walk through CSJ and were given a very impromptu tour of their donation room. Thank you CSJ!

As we walked toward the post office, a student noticed some slabs of meat hanging outside of Double T Meats. He pointed and asked "What is that?", so we walked over and were given a very enthusiastic explanation of each part of the quartered beef. Thank you, Jeff, for the demonstration! We couldn't pass up a learning opportunity. We made it to the post office where students mailed their cards.

Then the rain started, so we took a detour into the library! Students enjoyed playing in the children's area and looking at books until the rain passed. Thank you Eatonville Library for your hospitality! We can't wait to plan a regular visit with you. On the walk back to school, we were rewarded with a beautiful rainbow.

Walking Community Access in our small town is the BEST! Our second community access in December was to the Children's Museum of Tacoma. Students had a great time playing with all the interactive activities like water toys, building, neon writing wall, climbing apparatus, arts, crafts and more!

In a community like ours, gratitude flourishes in the connections we share, the support we extend, and the moments we treasure. It's appreciating the dedication of our educators, the curiosity and enthusiasm of our students. Let’s celebrate the gift of gratitude by acknowledging the small yet profound blessings that surround us every day—the kindness of a friend, the encouragement of a colleague, the beauty of learning, and the strength found in unity. Students have been sharing this month what they are thankful for by creating projects, helping one another out, and giving back to the community.

EES Preschool has been doing wonderful things all month. This month we focused on learning about traditions from all around the world. We learned about Hanukkah, Chinese Christmas, Las Posadas, Denmark Christmas, and many more. We created a craft, or did an event related to each holiday (Photos for pinatas for Las Posadas)

We also went to the Tacoma Children's Museum for a community access outing. Our kids had a blast riding the school bus (many for the 2nd time ever!), and playing in a new location. The kids have continued to talk about this and are now asking where else we may get to experience this year!

Our class made gingerbread houses as teams. Kids got to pick their team and worked together to decorate one house. They quickly learned teamwork would be the best way to get their goals to come alive! Staff voted on which house they liked best, and we used tally marks to determine which team won!

The Preschool at CCA has embarked on an exciting journey of learning phrases in sign language. Our aim is to actively incorporate sign language into our classroom activities and extend our support to a friend who is keen on learning it alongside us.

­In preparation for our Anti-Bullying Civility Forum, we are hosting a community listening session on:

• January 11, 2024
• Eatonville School District Office
• 9:00 – 11:00 am

Anti-Bullying and Civility Forum

• January 18, 2024
• Eatonville Middle School
• 7:00 -800 pm

­

Love and Logic – Parenting the Love and Logic Way

• Thursday Nights
• January 11th – February 8th
• 6:00 – 7:00 pm

The issue of bullying has persisted within school environments for decades, impacting students of all ages in various forms. We seek your valuable input on Bullying and Civility within the Eatonville School District. Your participation in the Anti-Bullying and Civility Forum survey will aid our preparations for the upcoming event on January 18, 2024 from 7pm-8pm at Eatonville Middle School. Please find the attached flyer for more details.

Please click here to participate in the survey. The survey welcomes participation from Eatonville Parents/Guardians, Staff, Students, and Community Members until January 5, 2024.

Furthermore, we will host a community listening session on January 11, 2024, at the District Office from 9:00 am to 11:00 am.

Your involvement in this community initiative is greatly appreciated. Should you have any inquiries, please feel free to contact us.

Thank you,

~Mrs. Blaskowitz

~Mrs. Meines

EMS Math Teacher, Mrs. Adams ran out of pencils for students to borrow and took matters into her own hands to fix the age-old issue of disappearing pencils!

She created a "Pencil War" between her class periods for the chance at a class party. In a week, her students brought in 10,128. Initially, she thought she would run pencil wars from Thanksgiving to winter break. But had to modify the end date to Dec 8th or 10,000 pencils whichever came first.

Parents and Caregivers: Local, In-Person Love and Logic parenting class coming up!

Offered by facilitator, Shannon Powell.

Never heard of Love and Logic? Read more, https://www.loveandlogic.com/)

Please contact Shannon Powell for questions or to sign up: bnspowell@yahoo.com.

There will be no school on Monday, January 15, 2024 in observance of Martin Luther King Junior Day.

All school offices and the district office will be closed.

With the weather getting colder, we want to ensure you are prepared for school delays and closures due to inclement weather.

As your student moves through the school year we want to ensure that you have all of the support your family needs to help it be a successful year.

Please see email addresses of our school counselors below:

EHS

• Maryann Barker: m.baker@eatonvilleschools.org

• Kirsten Saari: k.saari@eatonvilleschools.org

• Brenda Waugh-Reimer: b.waughreimer@eatonvilleschools.org

EMS

• Anisa Parks: a.parks@eatonvilleschools.org

CCA

• Deb Noble-Perry: d.noble-perry@eatonvilleschools.org

EES

• Jana McIlraith: j.mcilraith@eatonvilleschools.org

WES

• Kristin Bjorklund: k.bjorkulnd@eatonvilleschools.org

January can be a difficult time for many people. The hustle and bustle of the end of the year is done, finances can be tough, “everyone” is making resolutions, the weather is gloomy, etc. For high school students, this can be a stressful time as they are working hard to push through the end of the semester and preparing for their next semester classes. Younger students can sense the stress from their adults. There can be pressure to make major changes to our lives as soon as January arrives (i.e. New Year’s Resolutions). Instead, January is a month to focus on little changes that can help our mental well being (although this can be a focus throughout the entire year).

This January, pick one to two little things to focus on improving to help with your mental well being: staying or becoming active (a 10 minute walk after a meal, use a calming app for 2-5 minutes a day, talk to someone about your stressors)

Little Things Mental Health Campaign is recognized on January 1, 2024. Click here to learn more.

• Check in on yourself
  Before anything else, check in on yourself. Try to understand how your mental health currently is.

• Confide in someone
  If you are feeling conflicted or helpless, confide in a supportive loved one or counselor. You are not alone.

• Talk about it on social media
  Mental illness and mental healthcare are still somewhat taboo. If you are comfortable with it, talk about the topic on social media.

1. Severity
   

   A bulk of mental health issues are commonly mild to moderate, short-lived mental health conditions.

   
   

2. Gender
   

   Gender can play a role in the prevalence of mental illness, along with the manifestations of particular symptoms.

   
   

3. The impact of diet
   

   An individual’s diet can impact their mental health.

   
   

4. Sleep and depression
   

   Sleep disturbances are correlated with depression in individuals.

   
   

5. Social isolation
   

   Social isolation can be a catalyst for several mental illnesses.

   
   

• It encourages checking in on your mental health
  The Little Things Mental Health Campaign aims at improving individuals’ mental health. The campaign thus encourages people to check in on themselves.

• It empowers people to take care of themselves
  The campaign encourages people to do things to nourish their mental health. It’s incredibly empowering.

• It brings up the conversation about mental health
  Mental health is still a very taboo concept. The campaign sparks a conversation about mental health.

Superintendent: Mr. Jay Brower

Executive Assistant: Mrs. Ashley Farrens

District Office Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Email: communications@eatonvilleschools.org

Website: https://www.eatonville.wednet.edu
Location: 200 Lynch Street West, Eatonville, WA, USA
Phone: 360-879-1000
Facebook: facebook.com/eatonville.school.district
Twitter: @EatonvilleSD

Eatonville School District #404 will provide equal educational opportunity and treatment for all students in all aspects of the academic and activities program without discrimination based on race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged, veteran or military status, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, marital status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability.

The district will provide equal access to school facilities to the Boy Scouts of America and all other designated youth groups listed in Title 36 of the United States Code as a patriotic society. District programs shall be free from sexual harassment. Auxiliary aids and services will be provided upon request to individuals with disabilities.

Address: 200 Lynch St. W., Eatonville, WA 98328; Telephone: 360-879-1000

Title IX Coordinator, Section 504/ADA Coordinator & Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator: Cristin Blaskowitz, Executive Student Services. Email: c.blaskowitz@eatonvilleschools.org