

PASD Staff & Family Newsletter
Updates on our schools and community - March 2025

Message from Superintendent Brewer
Dear Port Angeles Community,
We are thrilled to announce that construction at Stevens Middle School is officially underway! With our civil work bids due Thursday, April 3, we're excited to take the next steps in this important project that will help shape the future of our school community.
To mark the start of this exciting journey, we will be hosting a Groundbreaking Ceremony on Saturday, April 12 at 10:00 AM. We invite everyone to join us as we celebrate this milestone and the bright future ahead for our students, staff, and families.
Following the ceremony, earthwork is set to begin on-site in May. We look forward to keeping you updated on the progress as we move forward with this exciting project!
Stay tuned for more details and thank you for your continued support of the Port Angeles School District.
Let’s build something great together!
Sincerely,
Marty Brewer, Superintendent
A Message from Incoming Superintendent Michelle Olsen
Dear Port Angeles Community,
I am honored to serve as the next superintendent of the Port Angeles School District, continuing the great work of our schools to support our strategic plan and ensure every student is a successful learner. Port Angeles has been my home for the past 23 years, and I deeply love this community and our schools. My journey in the district began in 2002 as the principal of Jefferson Elementary, followed by Roosevelt Elementary in 2012 and Dry Creek Elementary in 2019. Leading these schools gave me invaluable experience in supporting students, collaborating with educators, and working closely with families—experiences that have prepared me well for this new role. In 2020, I transitioned to the role of assistant superintendent, which allowed me to collaborate with staff, families, and community partners in new and meaningful ways. Through these experiences, I have gained a deep understanding of the needs, challenges, hopes, and dreams of those we serve. I am excited to build upon these relationships as we continue working together to support all students.
As I prepare for a smooth transition into my new role on July 1, I look forward to the exciting work ahead, particularly our three major capital projects: Stevens Middle School, Franklin Elementary, and Port Angeles High School. These projects are an investment in the future of our students and community, ensuring that our schools remain vibrant and supportive learning environments. I am eager to listen, learn, and collaborate as we move forward together, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve in this capacity. Port Angeles is a special place, and I am excited about the future we are building together.
Sincerely,
Michelle Olsen, Assistant Superintendent
Celebrating Classified Employees Week (March 3-7, 2025)
We would like to take a moment to recognize and celebrate the incredible contributions of our classified employees—the dedicated professionals who keep our schools running smoothly and ensure that our students have a safe, supportive, and enriching environment in which to learn.
From the moment a student steps onto a school bus to the care taken in preparing meals, maintaining our buses and facilities, supporting technology, assisting in classrooms, and keeping our offices running efficiently, classified employees are the backbone of our district. They work behind the scenes and on the front lines, ensuring that every aspect of our schools operates with excellence.
Classified staff members are more than just employees; they are mentors, problem-solvers, caregivers, and role models. Their dedication does not go unnoticed, and their impact is immeasurable. Our students succeed because of the strong foundation these individuals provide each day.
On behalf of the Port Angeles School District, we extend our deepest appreciation to our classified employees. Your hard work, professionalism, and commitment to our schools and students are truly valued.
Thank you for all that you do!
Celebrating AmeriCorps Week (March 9-15, 2025)
Each year during AmeriCorps Week, we recognize the commitment of AmeriCorps members and alums by highlighting the extraordinary impact AmeriCorps makes across our nation every day.
AmeriCorps Week is a time to salute AmeriCorps members and alums for their service, thank AmeriCorps community partners, and communicate AmeriCorps impact on communities and on the lives of those who serve.
PASD AmeriCorps Members for 2024-25 School Year:
- Mykey Ortero
- Clara Sullivan
- Lynne McDonald
- Dan Sullivan
- George Sullivan
- Makayla Micheal
- Darbey Martin
Port Angeles High School Students Experience Government in Action in Olympia
Fifty Port Angeles High School students from Stacy Sanders’ Eastern Washington University (EWU) Civics class recently had a unique opportunity to see government in action during a visit to the Washington State Capitol.
During their trip, students observed both the House of Representatives and the Senate in session, witnessing the legislative process firsthand. They also had the chance to meet with several state senators, gaining valuable insights into the workings of government and the importance of civic engagement.
This hands-on experience brought their civics education to life, reinforcing classroom learning in a meaningful and memorable way. It was a day filled with exploration, education, and inspiration—one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on these future leaders.
Jefferson Elementary Celebrates the Installation of a Little Free Library!
Jefferson Elementary School is now home to a brand-new Little Free Library, a project years in the making and a true testament to community collaboration!
This initiative began with a grant proposal written by Mary Van Dyke of the Michael Trebert Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution (MTC-DAR) and was generously funded by Hartnagel Building Supply. From there, it became a hands-on learning experience for students across the district. Stevens Middle School Civic Club students developed leadership skills through proposal writing and presentations, while Port Angeles High School shop students, under the guidance of teachers Rob Edwards and Lucy Edwards, built the structure.
After months of teamwork, the community came together for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Jefferson Elementary. Students celebrated by creating bookmarks and embracing the joy of reading. A special thanks goes to retired shop teacher Tim Branham for painting the library and the Port Angeles School District Maintenance Department for installing it.
Congratulations to Jason Gooding – Community Awards 2024 Educator of the Year!
The Port Angeles School District is proud to celebrate Jason Gooding, school counselor at Lincoln High School, for being named the 2024 Port Angeles Community Awards Educator of the Year!
Jason’s unwavering dedication to his students is truly inspiring. As a counselor, mentor, and advocate, he provides the guidance and support that empowers students to overcome challenges and build brighter futures. His impact extends far beyond academics—he fosters resilience, confidence, and hope in every student who walks through his door.
Please join us in congratulating Mr. Gooding on this well-deserved recognition!
Port Angeles Child Find Screening – March 21, 2025
Join us for a free developmental check for children ages 3-5 to identify any issues affecting learning, growth, and development, and to help parents understand their child's strengths and weaknesses. For more information or to schedule a screening, please contact the Port Angeles School District's Special Services Department at 360 565-3740.