PASD Staff & Family Newsletter

Fall in Port Angeles Schools is one of my favorite times of the year. The halls are filled with the energy, enthusiasm, and curiosity of learning in action. I appreciate the dedication of our incredible teachers, administrators, and support staff in ensuring a smooth start to another successful school year. Our PASD team is excited to continue our work together to provide an exceptional learning environment for every student.

As we look ahead to the general election, I want to take a moment to remind our staff and local community about the important role you play in providing funding for personnel, programs, and services that fall outside of what is considered “basic education,” and therefore is not funded by the state. This November, Port Angeles Schools’ has two measures on the ballot that will shape the future of our district while maintaining consistent local tax rates: Prop 1: Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy and Prop 2: Port Angeles High School/Franklin Elementary School Bond.

Prop 1: EP&O Renewal Levy
Our EP&O levy is essential to maintaining the high-quality programs, staff, and services that our community has come to expect from the Port Angeles School District. The levy helps fund arts, music, athletics, and after-school activities, plus support services like special education and student counseling. The EP&O levy directly impacts our students and their ability to access a well-rounded education that goes beyond the basics to foster the development of the whole child.

Prop 2: PAHS/Franklin Bond
In addition to the EP&O levy, the district is also asking voters to continue funding for the next stage of our community-informed, long-term facilities plan. Prop 2: Port Angeles High School/Franklin Bond provides the funding necessary to make updates to two aging facilities, Port Angeles High School (PAHS) and Franklin Elementary. As our schools age, we must modernize them to meet the current and future needs of our students and staff. These improvements will create safer, more efficient, and adaptable learning environments, ensuring that our facilities match the exceptional quality of teaching and learning happening within them.

The Power of Our Community Support
As always, we rely on the partnership of our families, staff, and the greater Port Angeles community to help us continue delivering on our mission to provide a high-quality education for all students. Learn more about Prop 1 and Prop 2 ahead of the November election, and please remember to vote! Thank you for your ongoing support and the vital role you play in the success of our students.

With Gratitude,

Marty

We are thrilled to introduce the new assistant principal of Stevens Middle School. Wyndi Anderson is excited to join this amazing community of learners, educators, and families. She brings with her 20 years of experience in education with the Port Angeles School District, where she had the privilege of serving in various roles, including teacher, union leader, and most recently, Dean of Students.

PASD is excited to announce the launch of Peninsula Performs! for the 2024-2025 school year, a partnership between PASD and Field Arts & Events Hall. This arts-integrated program brings visual art, fiber art, theater, music, and dance to K-6 students at no cost to families or teachers, thanks to generous grants and donations. Running from October 2024 through May 2025, Peninsula Performs! offers on-campus art experiences led by professional teaching artists from the North Olympic Peninsula. All PASD elementary students are welcome to participate. Additionally, a limited, after-school art club is available at Stevens Middle School. Enrollment is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, contact Director of Education & Artistic Engagement​ Kayla Oakes.

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. Do you have a child who is ready to start their journey with the Port Angeles School District? Sign up for our Transition to Kindergarten program screening here. We’re excited to see these future leaders thrive!

To have a child considered for our Highly Capable Program, parents should complete the Highly Capable Referral Notice by November 15. The program serves K-12 students who excel in or show potential for advanced academic work. Qualifying students receive tailored instruction that fosters self-awareness, a love for learning, quality work skills, and critical and creative thinking.

Learn more about the program and referral process on our website.

Throughout October, our district celebrated resilience by celebrating the strength and adaptability of individuals and communities in overcoming challenges. Through events like a Science of Hope Public Watch Party, an Indigenous Peoples’ Day Poetry Reading, and Breaking the Silence Walk to commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month, community members came together to highlight the importance of building resilience in our lives and supporting one another in times of need.

In an effort to make positive connections with students, the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe Police Department visited Stevens Middle School this fall. They handed out stickers and chatted with students. They plan to visit Stevens on a regular basis this school year, and hope to make more positive connections with students!

Drew MacEwen and Emily Randal, candidates running for the 6th Congressional District (currently held by Derek Kilmer) visited Stacey Sanders' Classroom at the beginning of October. Both candidates noted that the students were kind and respectful and asked impressive questions!