Positively Pasco: Issue #189

Issue #189

April 1, 2024

Vea la versión en español del Boletín Informativo Positivamente Pasco aqui.

Because of the snow day in January 2024, Monday, May 6, originally marked as a school make-up day on the calendar, will now be a regular school day.

Please view the 2023-2024 school calendar (English and Spanish) on our PSD District Calendars webpage.

All Pasco schools, and the Booth Building, will be closed during Spring Break, which will take place from April 1-5, 2024. During this time, there will be no classes or administrative services available.

Regular operations will resume on Monday, April 8, 2024, when all schools and the Booth Building will reopen.

We wish all our families and community members a safe and enjoyable Spring Break!

For Pasco School District and our schools to continue to improve, we need to understand the perceptions of others about the job we are doing in providing a quality education for all our children. We are seeking your feedback through a 10-15 minute survey available now through Friday, April 19.

Access the survey link: EES-Family V4.0 Survey | QuestionPro Survey

• Choose your language preference on the opening page of the survey.

• Select your child’s school. If you have children in multiple schools, complete one survey per child.

• Complete the survey and click submit.

This feedback gives us valuable information to support our School Improvement Plans and all of our students.

We value your input as we strive to continue to improve our schools. Thank you for your feedback.

We’re excited to invite you to participate in the third round of the Online High School Boundary Survey beginning March 29. Your input is essential in shaping the future of our high school boundaries.

What to Expect:

• Different Scenarios: Explore updated high school boundary scenarios designed for your review based on feedback collected both in-person and first and second rounds of the online boundary surveys.

• Interactive Feedback: The online platform allows you to examine each scenario and provide comments on the strengths and challenges you observe.

• Available in Multiple Languages: The survey is accessible in English, Spanish, and Russian.

Open on March 29:

This survey will be available for your input beginning March 29 and close on April 19.

Next Steps:

Based on the community input collected in the third round of feedback, we plan to analyze our community feedback to best prepare Boundary Scenarios to present to the School Board for consideration.

Your Participation Matters:

By participating in this survey, you play a crucial role in the collaborative development of our high school boundaries. If you would like to participate in an in-person feedback opportunity, please view our full schedule on our Boundaries webpage.

You can also provide feedback during one of the following sessions:

In-Person Feedback Sessions

• Monday, April 8, 7 pm, Ochoa Middle School Library

• Tuesday, April 9, 7 pm, McLoughlin Middle School Library

• Wednesday, April 10, 7 pm, Stevens Middle School Commons

• Thursday, April 11, 7 pm, Ray Reynolds Middle School Commons

Zoom Feedback Sessions

• English Session – Zoom Link

• Spanish Session – Zoom Link

• English Session - Zoom Link

• Spanish Session – Zoom Link

Thank you for being an active participant in this important initiative.

For more information, contact Jake Stueckle.

We are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking opportunity in collaboration with the Washington Education Association (WEA) and Pasco Association of Educators (PAE) – the Teacher Residency Program for obtaining a fully licensed special education teacher endorsement.

If you aspire to become a special education teacher, this program is designed for you, whether you're a current Pasco School District employee, a community member, or someone with a bachelor's degree but not a teaching certificate. We're excited to offer up to four paid residencies to individuals selected by WEA/PAE/PSD to complete this year-long program.

Key Information:

• Eligibility: Applicants must already possess a bachelor's degree in any field.

• Application Deadline: April 12, 2024
  

You can also visit the WEA website for more details about the program and to apply online. Please get in touch with the Washington Education Association if you have any questions or need further information.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the field of education and make a meaningful impact on students' lives. We look forward to your potential involvement and encourage you to explore this incredible journey toward becoming a licensed Special Education Teacher.

For more information, contact Tracy Wilson or Bob Smart.

The construction of Sageview High School, located on Rd. 60 and Burns Rd., is well underway, and we're thrilled to share the progress with our community! View drone footage of the construction process on the PSD YouTube page.

• Auditorium Walls: The four walls of our state-of-the-art Auditorium are now standing tall, ready to host future performances and events.

• Main Gym Trusses: They are currently in the works. Installing the Main Gym trusses is a significant step towards creating a dynamic space for sports and activities.

• E-Wing Exterior: The exterior finish of the E-wing has commenced, giving the school a modern and sleek look. Upstairs, drywall is being installed, shaping the classrooms of tomorrow.

• Ongoing Concrete Pours: The foundation of Sageview High School is as solid as our commitment to education. Concrete pours are happening continuously to ensure a robust structure.

Opening Fall 2025: Mark your calendars! Sageview and Orion High Schools are scheduled to open their doors in the fall of 2025, bringing a new era of learning and growth to our community.

Want to stay in the loop and learn more about this exciting project? Visit our Bond 2023 website for all the details.

The 2024-2025 Calendar Art Contest has launched, and Pasco students in grades K-12 will have the chance to show off their creative abilities for a chance to win big! This year's theme is ‘Celebrating PSD Superstars’; students should create artwork that best represents this theme. Prizes include:

• One (1) Grand Prize Winner who will receive a $300 Visa Gift Card. Their winning art submission piece will be featured on the cover of the 2024-2025 Pasco School District calendar. In addition, it will also be on PSD’s website, social media, Pasco School Minute radio spot, and internal/external newsletters.

• Twelve (12) Winners will receive a $100 Visa Gift Card. Their winning art submission will be featured on their grade corresponding month in the 2024-2025 Pasco School District calendar. They will also be recognized on PSD’s website and social media platforms.

If you work in a school, please encourage students to participate. If you’re a parent, please encourage your child/children to participate! All entries are due by May 10, 2024.

The entry form and contest details can be found on the Calendar Art Contest webpage.

For more information, contact Cassie Galvez.

PSD is accepting applications for the 2024-2025 kindergarten Two Way Dual Language Program at various elementary schools. If you're an English-speaking Pasco resident with a first-time kindergarten student, this is a fantastic opportunity to embark on a bilingual educational journey!

Application Deadline: May 31, 2024

Eligibility: Open to English-speaking Pasco residents with incoming kindergarten students

Commitment: A six-year commitment is required

Parent Involvement: Active parent involvement is key

Applications can be picked up at all Pasco elementary schools or accessed on our Dual Language Program webpage.

We are thrilled to shine a spotlight on Grand Canyon University (CGU), a valued partner of Columbia River Elementary PEAK! Program, in this edition! Grand Canyon University consistently demonstrates its dedication to student success through various initiatives such as participating in STEM Night, contributing candy for Trunk or Treat events, treating teachers with goodies during conferences, and offering learning opportunities for staff about CGU.

Grand Canyon University embodies the true spirit of community engagement. Their proactive involvement mirrors the ethos of PEAK!, fostering enduring partnerships that directly enhance the educational experiences of Pasco students.

What is PEAK!?

Partners in Educating All Kids (PEAK!) is a distinctive business-to-school partnership program that formalizes collaborations between businesses, organizations, and Pasco schools. This program brings together community resources, support, and expertise to create enriching opportunities for Pasco students.

Learn more about PSD's PEAK! Program.

Our Spring Carnival was an absolute blast! With over 35 booths featuring our incredible PEAK! partners and Non-profit organizations, there was something for everyone to enjoy. From awesome giveaways to amazing performances by the Chiawana High School Dance Team and Mariachi Halcon del Rio, the excitement was evident! Families soaked up the sunshine while indulging in delicious food truck treats and playing fun student-led games. Thanks to all who came out to celebrate with us – it was an unforgettable day filled with community spirit and laughter!

We marked a milestone as we proudly celebrated our Pasco Transition Center (PTC)! We were honored to have the Pasco Chamber of Commerce, Tri-Cities Hispanic Chamber, and the City of Pasco join us for a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, March 21.

The PTC is vital in supporting our students receiving special education services ages 18-21 as they prepare for their futures, whether through competitive employment or other avenues. We're committed to creating meaningful connections for our students within the community and with local and state agencies.

Attendees witnessed firsthand the positive impact the PTC will have on the lives of our students. Together, we're paving the way to a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Learn more about the program by visiting the Pasco Transition Center webpage.

PSD’s Early Learning Center hosted VIP Day - an opportunity for community members and parents to visit specific Pasco schools to learn more about our district, schools, programs, and students.

Attendees learned about our new high schools, the boundary process, and all the wonderful preschool programs offered at the ELC.

Our guests were treated to a tour of the school, where they got an up-close look at the various classrooms and programs. But the most heartwarming moment was witnessing some of our incredible students showcasing their communication skills using tablets and icons.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this special day! We're proud to showcase the amazing work happening at The Early Learning Center.

Learn more about the Early Learning Center.

Thanks to The Literacy Connection grant, Ochoa Middle School welcomed New York Times bestselling author April Henry.

April Henry is renowned for her captivating Young Adult Thrillers, including hits like "Girl, Stolen" and "The Girl Who Was Supposed to Die." With 29 mysteries and thrillers under her belt, her visit brought a unique opportunity for students to interact with a celebrated literary figure.

During her visit, April led two sessions – an informative presentation about her life as a writer and an engaging writer's workshop with students. The event was thoughtfully structured, with 33 students attending the general session and 15 participating in an intimate writer's workshop.

Librarian Loria Kirsch ensured every attending student received a free April Henry book, nurturing our student body's love for reading and literature.

Thank you, April Henry, for inspiring our students and igniting their passion for storytelling!

Pasco's talented Delta High School alum, Brian Valencia, returned to his roots to celebrate Read Across America Day in a truly heartwarming way!

Brian, a junior at Central Washington University, recently launched his first children's book, "The Dog Who Barked...and Barked, and Barked...". This delightful story revolves around Nova, an adorable canine companion with an affinity for enthusiastic barking. Brian's visit includes reading sessions with our young readers, fostering a love for storytelling and inspiring the next generation of book enthusiasts. You can find the book on Amazon.

Congratulations, Brian, and thank you for coming home to share your book and love of reading with PSD students.

We are excited to share the highlights from the recent Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) State Leadership Conference held in Spokane, WA. Chiawana's FCCLA Chapter demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication, with ten outstanding students participating in various STAR events, including Interior Design, Early Childhood Education, Interpersonal Communications on Advocacy, Job Interviews, Hospitality and tourism, and repurpose and redesign.

Notable achievements include Nataly Alexa Cardenas securing the silver medal and qualifying for Nationals level 2 in Interior Design. Elliayana Morena, Brielle Fincher, and Lallie Yancey also achieved Gold and qualified for Nationals in Early Childhood Education.

This year, Nationals will be hosted in Seattle, WA. They are contacting our supportive community for assistance in getting these talented students to Nationals. Any contribution, big or small, will make a significant difference. As a token of gratitude, your business logo will be showcased on their social media platforms and student-designed FCCLA t-shirts.

Stay updated on all activities and events by following their Instagram and Facebook pages at FCCLAchiawana.

Contribute donations through SchoolPay.

For more information, contact Barbara Scully.

Superintendent Michelle Whitney presented our latest round of North Star winners with awards to acknowledge them for shining brightly in their profession and putting students first!

Congratulations to the following employees:

• Stefanie Harrison, Teacher, New Horizons High School

• Natalie Aguilar, Special Education Teacher, Angelou Elementary

• Elisabeth Copsey, Special Education Teacher, Angelou Elementary

• Dan Longmire, SPED Teacher, Angelou Elementary

• April Marone, Second Grade Teacher, Angelou Elementary

• Ana Soria, Head Custodian, Angelou Elementary

• Alicia Vera, Principal Secretary, Angelou Elementary

• Jody Dutcher, Paraeducator, Angelou Elementary

• Andrea Mejia, 1st Grade Teacher, Angelou Elementary

• Diana Cissne, Principal, Angelou Elementary

• Lora Fritz, School Psychologist, Angelou Elementary

• Michelle Whitney, Superintendent, Booth Building

• Kate Pentecost, Library Clerk, Angelou Elementary

• Gracie Valle-Chimal, Community Outreach Supervisor, Booth Building

• Veronica Reyes, Instructional Paraeducator, Frost Elementary

Superintendent Michelle Whitney has been honored as the recipient of the 2024 Women of Distinction Legacy Award from Washington State University Tri-Cities. This prestigious award recognizes Michelle’s enduring commitment to addressing local community needs, fostering social change, and mentoring the next generation of female leaders. It serves as a testament to her nearly three decades of unwavering dedication and significant impact on students, teachers, and parents in the Pasco community.

Michelle was celebrated during the Women of Distinction Award ceremony on Thursday, March 28 at the CIC Art Center on the WSU Tri-Cities campus.

Congratulations, Michelle, on this well-deserved recognition!

Support Pasco High School Bulldog cheer as they host their annual Spring Bazaar with over 40 small businesses within our community. Booths encompass various clothing, food, jewelry, antiques, and more.

Event Details:

When: April 27, 2024, 9 am - 3 pm

Where: Pasco High School Cafeteria and Gym, 1108 N 10th Ave., Pasco

For more information, contact Coach Missy.

Pasco School District’s Superintendent, Michelle Whitney, invites parents, community members, and employees to join her for an informal discussion about Pasco schools over a light breakfast.

Mornings with Michelle (light breakfast including coffee, juices, and pastries)

When: April 12, 7:30 – 9:30 am

Where: Starbucks on Court St., 2411 W. Court St., Pasco

Visit full details on the Superintendent Office webpage.

If you have volunteered your time to support Pasco students and schools, please join us during our PSD Volunteer Appreciation Event. We will recognize our volunteers for their dedication to Pasco schools and students.

When: April 18, 2024, 4:30–5:30 pm

Where: Pasco High School, 1108 N 10th Ave, Pasco

Light hors d'oeuvres and refreshments will be served.

Please RSVP on our website by April 10 or contact Ana Munguia.

Come out and enjoy the 10th Annual Virgie Robinson Spring Classic Golf Tournament. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, they welcome golfers of all skill levels to participate.

Event Details:

When: April 20, 2024

• 7 am Registration
• 8 am Playing Starts
• 1 pm Awards

Where: Sun Willows Golf Course, 2535 N 20th Ave, Pasco

Please visit the Virgie Robinson Memorial Scholarship Fund webpage for registration information.

Join us for a vibrant community event, El Día del Niño (Children's Day)/El Día del Libro (Book Day), at McClintock STEM Elementary.

When: Saturday, April 27, 2024, 11 am – 1 pm

Where: McClintock Elementary, 5706 N Road 60, Pasco

If you are a local business owner, we invite you to participate in this special day by setting up an informational booth highlighting resources from your business. Additionally, if your business is interested in contributing financial support (sponsorship), it will help us bring in exciting features like face painters, entertainment, and inflatable games.

For more information, contact Monica Rutter.

Each spring, our Pasco School District Plant Science, Floriculture, and Horticulture classes proudly unveil their greenhouses to the public for an Annual Plant Sale. This event showcases the diligent efforts of our students, who delve into plant propagation, genetics, fertilization, product design, and sales techniques as part of their curriculum. Aligned with the FFA, our program imparts crucial leadership and 21st-century skills to students. Proceeds from the sale bolster student involvement in FFA competitive activities. Throughout the sale, students gain invaluable experience in customer service while showcasing the results of their hard work.

Please save the dates for the upcoming plant sales:

Pasco High School Greenhouse

• Wednesday to Friday, April 24 - 26, from 10 am - 5 pm

• Saturday, April 27, from 9 am - 1 pm

Chiawana High School Greenhouse

• Friday, May 3, from 9 am - 5 pm

• Saturday, May 4, from 9 am - 3 pm

In partnership with the City of Pasco, we invite you to a Cinco de Mayo Weekend Celebration at Peanuts Park on the corner of 4th and Lewis.

Schedule of events:

• Saturday, May 4, 10 am: Parade

• Saturday, May 4, 12 - 8 pm: Student entertainment

• Sunday, May 5, 11 - 6 pm: Enjoy music from popular out-of-state bands.

For more information, visit City of Pasco or contact Gracie Valle-Chimal.

High School graduations are approaching. Here are the dates if you have someone graduating this June 2024.

• Delta High School, Thursday, June 6, 7 pm at HAPO Center, Pasco

• New Horizons High School, Friday, June 7, 7 pm at Edgar Brown Stadium, Pasco

• Chiawana High School, Saturday, June 8, 10 am at Edgar Brown Stadium, Pasco

• Pasco High School, Saturday, June 8, 6 pm at Edgar Brown Stadium, Pasco

April 15-19

April 17