SBLSD News
June 6, 2024
Sumner Rotary presents $35K in scholarships to SHS, BLHS seniors
Offering scholarships to SBLSD students since 1977, the Rotary Club of Sumner continued the tradition at their June 4 club meeting, when they presented $35,000 in scholarships to 14 seniors from both Sumner and Bonney Lake high schools.
We very much thank Sumner Rotary for their ongoing and generous partnership in education, helping seniors graduate ready to pursue a promising future.
Congratulations to the following seniors in earning scholarships:
Keep an eye out for this MMS student’s traveling artwork
Mountain View Middle School 6th grader Jyothsna Sree Rao Lakavath was recently selected as the grand prize winner of this year’s Pierce Transit Art Contest!
Jyothsna’s artwork was selected out of 17 submissions for the overall grand prize, which means her art will be displayed on the side of a bus and featured in the September/October 2024 edition of South Sound Magazine, in addition to on a poster throughout the Pierce County Library System during the month of June.
Of Jyothsna’s artwork, one judge said: “Very creative way to show people, two types of Pierce Transit's services, and a variety of destinations. Nicely done!”
Keep an eye out for Jyothsna’s amazing artwork when you’re traveling Pierce County!
Celebrating students committed to becoming educators
Congratulations to the 25 Teaching Academy students from Bonney Lake and Sumner high schools who were recognized for their pursuit of becoming educators at a badge ceremony on June 5.
Teaching Academy is a CTE class offered to students who are interested in entering the field of education. Through Teaching Academy, students learn the techniques of teaching, how to create lesson plans, learn about instruction, and apply those skills out in the field as part of an internship.
Students in Teaching Academy also take a state-required paraprofessional test that can automatically guarantee them an interview if they apply for a para position with SBLSD. Further, students who complete Teaching Academy and graduate from college with a teaching degree will also be guaranteed an interview for a teacher position with our District.
Congratulations:
Retirees honored for commitment, accomplishment
June is not only a momentous month for our seniors, but also for retiring staff members! Among our 18 retirees, we had 11 who attended the district’s Retirement Celebration on June 3 at Lakeridge Middle School.
We thank all of our retirees for their steadfast commitment and amazing accomplishment in reaching this meaningful milestone. We are grateful for your years of service with SBLSD and your dedication to supporting our nearly 10,000 students.
Congratulations to Matthew Baker (21 years), Nancy Burrington (33), Shannon Francisco-Papcun (20), Laurie Hobert (19), Mary Jarvis (7), Jake Jones (10), Linda Kolano (20), Jeannie Larberg (16), Marion Leach (7), Tony Ono (3), Michael Osborn (19), Rebecca Purser (9), Aaron Riddle (24), Rick Schoengarth (17), Paula Stickley (37), Carol Stumpf (37), Jerry Turner (32), and Cheryl Wilcox (6).
Calendar reminders
Last day of school early dismissal: June 18
The last day of school, Tuesday, June 18, is a half-day, early dismissal. Here are the dismissal times by school. Please note that breakfast will be available, but lunches will not be served.
Middle and High Schools: 10:25 am
Crestwood, Daffodil Valley, Liberty Ridge, Maple Lawn, Victor Falls: 11:40 am
Early Learning Center: 11:50 am
Bonney Lake, Donald Eismann, Emerald Hills, Tehaleh Heights: 12:15 pm
District buildings closed June 19
In observation of Juneteenth, all SBLSD buildings will be closed on Wednesday, June 19.
Free lunches for children this summer; benefits available
The District is offering free hot lunch for all children 18 years and younger throughout the summer at Daffodil Valley Elementary. The lunches must be enjoyed inside the school building.
Details:
June 24 - Aug. 15, Monday through Thursday*
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Daffodil Valley Elementary (1509 Valley Ave., in Sumner)
*No meal service July 4 due to the Independence Day Holiday.
Summer food benefits
SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) is a new federal program that will provide qualified students with $120 to purchase groceries while school is out this summer. For more information and how to apply, visit our website.
SBLSD featured in state school board association publication
In November, we shared the exciting news that our school board was named Board of the Year (large district) by the Washington State School Directors' Association. Now, others are learning more about why our school board earned the distinction. Check out this feature article in WSSDA’s Direct news magazine for ways our school board leads with a focus on the district’s promise to every student.
In case you missed it, watch this video to hear from three school board members who describe the district’s important work around the Teaching Academy, equity, partnerships and more.
June is Pride Month
Sumner-Bonney Lake School District is proud to celebrate and recognize June as Pride Month. This observance aligns with our mission to know, value, and support all students and staff. By honoring Pride Month, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment where everyone can thrive. Together, we embrace diversity and champion the spirit of acceptance and unity. View events and resources.
High school spring sports report
Our high school student-athletes racked up an impressive list of records, standings and post-season finishes for dance, baseball, fastpitch, golf, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, and track and field. Check out the spring sports season wrap-up, which includes teams, individuals, coaches and scholastic information.
After publishing last week’s newsletter, we learned about additional accomplishments for BLHS girls track athlete Latham West, who also earned first in the 1600 at the league meet, and she broke the BLHS record for the 3200 with a time of 10:26:18 at the district meet.
Job of the Week: Speech Language Pathologist
We are seeking five Speech Language Pathologists (SLP) for next school year. The role of an SLP encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities aimed at supporting students with communication disorders. From providing communication intervention to assessing communication skills, SLPs serve as a valuable resource within the school community. View the SLP job announcement and job description. We have many other job openings — view the complete list.
School Board: June meeting info
The public is invited to attend School Board study sessions and meetings, which are held both virtually and in person. Dates, times and locations are subject to change.
Board meeting: June 12 | 6 pm | Central Office Boardroom (1202 Wood Ave)
Virtual meeting link (passcode: 793576)
Register for in-person or virtual public comment (Deadline to sign up: Noon, June 11)
Submit comments online (School board reviews online submissions by noon the day prior to board meetings. These are not read aloud at the meeting, but are included in meeting minutes.)