K8 Community Memo
I was also fortunate to have a grandfather who owned a farm at Waitts Lake, where I learned early on the value of hard work and the satisfaction of earning a paycheck. At the time, I assumed that most of my peers lived a similar life.
It wasn’t until I began working with at-risk youth at the Spokane YMCA that I truly realized just how different my upbringing had been. And it’s a realization that deepened when I began teaching in Newport, Washington. I saw firsthand the hardships so many students face that extend far beyond the classroom. It became clear that my rural childhood, though modest, was not the same experience for many of the kids I now serve.
I have embraced my work in public education as a service to the community. Every day, I strive to support our students, staff, and families in meaningful ways. Unfortunately, some in our community judge our school—and my work—solely by test scores. Yes, our test scores are low, and I won’t shy away from that. But those numbers don’t tell the full story. Our kids are more than statistics—they are individuals, each with their own story, struggles, and strengths.
The dedication and commitment of our staff to our kids is nothing short of amazing. We know that strong reading, writing, and math skills are essential, and our team is working tirelessly to give students a solid academic foundation.
Our school isn’t just a place of learning—it’s a lifeline for many families. The work we do is deeply intertwined with the well-being of our community. Together, we face complex challenges, but we face them with a commitment to every child. Some need social-emotional support and mental health resources. Others need basic necessities—clean clothes and a warm shower—because they don’t have running water at home. Some struggle to stay warm in the winter as their camper provides little shelter from the cold. Others are navigating grief, living in fear of domestic violence, or dealing with the effects of addiction, abuse, and neglect.
Our school is the heart of this community. Every day, our staff stands together to serve and support all kids, no matter their circumstances. The needs here are deep and complex, and we take them on with unwavering commitment.
A recent community mailing focused only on our test scores. But if you want to understand our school, you have to see the whole picture. We are more than numbers. We are a team of dedicated educators, a safe haven for kids, and a cornerstone of this community.
The challenges we face are not easy, but they are not insurmountable. Please turn in you county ballet for the Replacement Levy.
Professional Learning Communities:
Our teachers, from Pre-K through 12th grade, are deeply committed to refining their practice to support student success. They collaborate regularly to design meaningful assessments, analyze student learning, and share strategies that help each child grow. By working together, they ensure that no student falls through the cracks—adjusting instruction, celebrating progress, and providing targeted support where it’s needed most. Their dedication to professional learning is a testament to their unwavering belief in the potential of every student.
Illustrative Mathematics Training:
Our K-8 math teachers are embracing a year of growth and professional learning through Illustrative Mathematics. They are deepening their understanding of the curriculum, refining instructional strategies, and exploring tools that enhance student learning. Through collaboration and ongoing training, they are strengthening their ability to guide students in developing mathematical reasoning, problem-solving skills, and a deeper conceptual understanding. Their dedication ensures that every student gains confidence and success in math.
Middle School Team Enhancing Learning:
Our middle school team is committed to fostering student growth through the Gradient Learning Platform, a Whole Student System designed to support both academic and social-emotional development. This grant-funded program provided our teachers with a week-long summer training in Chicago, equipping them with innovative strategies and tools to create a more personalized and engaging learning experience. Their dedication to this professional development ensures that students receive the support, structure, and encouragement they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
Para-educator Training:
Our K-8 para-educators play an essential role in student success, and they have committed to ongoing professional development to strengthen their skills. They have participated in training focused on cooperative recess play, behavioral interventions, and inclusionary practices. Their dedication ensures that every student, regardless of need, receives the best possible support in both academic and social settings.
MTSS Team
Led by Mrs. Zollman, our MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) team is a passionate group of teachers and para-educators focused on early intervention and data-driven decision-making. They work collaboratively to identify students who need additional academic or behavioral support and implement targeted interventions to meet those needs. Their commitment ensures that every student receives the right level of support at the right time, helping them thrive in our school community.
The Mary Walker School District is excited to announce the upcoming EP&O Levy Renewal Election on February 11, 2025.
If you’re not yet registered to vote, there’s still time to make your voice heard! Visit votewa.gov, or just click the link below, to register today.
