9/27/24

As we reflect on the recent open houses across our schools, I want to take a moment to highlight the incredible value of these events in strengthening our partnerships with families. These open houses are much more than a chance to showcase our classrooms; they are essential opportunities for our staff and families to connect, communicate, and build the trust that is so vital to the success of our students.

When families feel welcomed and informed, it fosters a collaborative environment where we can work together to meet the needs of every child. The relationships we build during these early interactions lay the groundwork for the teamwork necessary to support student growth throughout the year.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our staff who went above and beyond to make these open houses a success. Whether it was preparing engaging presentations, staying late to answer questions, or creating welcoming and inclusive environments, your efforts did not go unnoticed. Your commitment to our students, their families, and our district as a whole continues to inspire me.

Let’s carry this momentum forward and keep working together to strengthen these partnerships as we move through the school year. Our collective efforts truly make a difference!

I would also like to update you on communications staffing. Tanner Zahrt has accepted a position as the Regional Manager of the College Success Foundation. Due to budget constraints, the Communications Coordinator position will not be replaced. Moving forward staff/community newsletters will be sent out at the beginning of each month.

Contact Casey McDonald for communications support or if you would like to share a story for social media and newsletter.

Email: cmcdonald@portangelesschools.org

Phone: (360) 565-3702

What is your role and location with the PASD?

My name is Officer Jason Hooper with the Port Angeles Police Department. I’ve been with PAPD for about three years. Before that, I was a Juvenile Corrections Officer with Clallam County Juvenile and Family Services for 14 years.

Where are you from?

I’m from Port Angeles and an alumni of Fairview Elementary, Roosevelt Middle School, and PAHS.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

Being able to impact the lives of my players in several different ways. Especially being able to help them stay academically eligible. This is something I have volunteered to do for years, and the fact that I can make a career of it is amazing to me. It is an honor to be Law Enforcement Officer and my favorite thing about it is working with our diverse and unique community and being a resource to help people when they need it. It’s equal parts exciting and exhausting and no two days are ever the same.

Anything you'd like to share about your family?

I’m the husband to an amazing wife who works in the Veterinary field in Port Angeles. We have two special boys who both attend Roosevelt. We love our animals and have two dogs, two cats, seven chickens, one bunny and one goldfish!

Do you have any hobbies?

My hobbies are spending time exploring and camping with my family. I also enjoy playing and listening to music.

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

If I could do one thing for a day, I would either go back in time to see Queen at Live Aid or meet George Washington or Abraham Lincoln.

What is your goal for this year?

My goal for this year is to reinforce the relationship and build trust between the schools and the police department by being visible and accessible to students, parents, teachers and district personnel.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In ten years, I hope to still be serving my community with the Police Department and exploring the country with my family.

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

A fun fact about me: I played drums in a punk rock band when I was in high school and throughout my youth. Also, I love history, especially the history of our area.

Anything else you'd like to share with your co-workers?

I’m honored and excited to be the next School Resource Officer. I’m looking forward to meeting and working with you all and your students. I encourage you to reach out to me if you have any questions, comments or concerns.

Explore Port Angeles High School this fall!

Don’t miss our fall facilities tours at Port Angeles High School! Explore the campus, learn about the 30-year capital facilities plan, and hear about November 5 ballot projects, including replacing Franklin Elementary and renovating PAHS.

• Thursday, October 17, 6:00 PM
• Thursday, October 24, 6:00 PM

Each tour lasts 45 minutes and includes a Q&A session. Space is limited—RSVP to Casey McDonald!

Email: cmcdonald@portangelesschools.org

Phone: (360) 565-3702

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)! We celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities, including educators like Helen Keller and Temple Grandin, who show that disabilities are no barrier to success. Let’s continue promoting inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive. Learn more: www.dol.gov/NDEAM

Our youngest learners are starting their school journey, building key skills to prepare for Kindergarten. Early childhood learning plays a vital role in future success, helping students grow socially, emotionally, and academically. We’re excited to see these future leaders thrive!

Click here to learn more about the Transition to Kindergarten Program: https://www.portangelesschools.org/.../transitional...

This month, we celebrate the strength and adaptability of individuals and communities in overcoming challenges. It’s a perfect time to highlight the importance of building resilience in our lives and supporting one another in times of need. We are excited to share an upcoming event from our friends at the Clallam Resilience Project

Join us for the Science of Hope Public Watch Party! Monday, Oct 7th, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM (+ bonus debrief) Port Angeles Senior & Community Center

328 E. 7th Street, Port Angeles

They will be distributing Resiliency Kits for free (while supplies last), so don’t miss out!

This event is part of the Clallam Resilience Project, which is dedicated to creating a supportive and resilient community. For more details about Resilience Month and how to get involved, visit Clallam Resilience Project or email: clallamresilience@gmail.com.

Let’s come together and foster resilience in our community!

Don't miss out on these opportunities for your classroom and school buildings. The applications can be found below.

Clallam County School Retirees Association - Due December 1

1. CTE Science Equipment Grant
2. Teacher/Classroom Mini-Grants

Port Angeles Education Foundation Grants - Due October 3

On September 30th, we stand with communities nationwide to honor Indigenous children impacted by residential schools. Orange Shirt Day reminds us that "Every Child Matters", and we're committed to fostering understanding and respect for all students.

Join us by wearing orange and learning more about this important day. For more information, visit www.orangeshirtday.org.

• PAHS Open House - September 24, 6 PM
• Seaview Open House - September 25, 5 PM
• Franklin Open House - September 26, 5: 30 PM (grades K-3), 6:00 PM (grades 4-6)
• School Board Meeting - September 26, 5 PM, Lincoln Center
• Orange Shirt Day - September 30
• Roosevelt Open House - October 3, 5 PM
• Dry Creek Open House - October 3, 5:30 PM
• Jefferson Open House - October 3, 6 PM
• LHS Open House - October 9, 5 PM
• School Board Meeting - October 10, 5 PM, Lincoln Center
• PAHS Homecoming Game - October 18, 6:30 PM, Civic Field
• PAHS Homecoming Dance - 8 PM, PAHS Gym
• PAHS Fall Band Concert - October 22, 7 PM, Auditorium
• PAHS Fall Orchestra Concert - October 23, 7 PM, Auditorium
• PAHS Fall Choir Concert - October 24, 7 PM, Auditorium
• October 29 - November 1: Parent-Teacher Conferences (1/2 day for students)
• November 11: Veterans Day (No School)
• November 27: 1/2 day for students - NO LATE START
• November 28 & 29: Thanksgiving Holiday
• Dry Creek Winter Concert - December 3, 6 PM
• Franklin Orchestra Concert - December 5, 6 PM
• PAHS Holiday Concert - 7 PM
• December 23 - January 3: Winter Break

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, Rhonda Kromm, 905 W. 9th Street Port Angeles, WA 98363, (360) 457-8575, rkromm@portangelesschools.org.