Newsletter
Superintendent Update
Bond and Levy Update
Recently, we spent a full day interviewing three architectural firms as we take the next steps toward designing our future school facilities. Each team brought thoughtful ideas, a clear vision, and a deep understanding of how to create spaces that support student learning.
What stood out most was the balance of creativity and practicality. The firms spoke about designing buildings that are not only inspiring, but also functional, efficient, and aligned with our long-term needs. It was an energizing process, and it reinforced just how significant this moment is for our community.
The phrase “generational opportunity” came up more than once during the day. That really stuck with me. We are in a position to make transformational improvements to our school facilities, and that’s something we can take pride in.
At this point, we are conducting reference checks and moving toward selecting a firm. Once selected, we will begin contract negotiations, with the goal of bringing a recommendation to the Board for approval at an upcoming meeting.
Following that, we’ll begin developing our educational specifications. This is an important step where our staff will have the opportunity to provide input on the design, helping ensure that our new facilities reflect the needs of our students and the way we deliver instruction.
There is still a lot of work ahead, but this was an exciting and meaningful step forward. I’m grateful for the team who helped lead this process and for a community that continues to invest in the future of our schools.
Attendance Matters
As we head into the final stretch of the school year, attendance continues to matter more than many people realize. Even missing just a couple of days each month can add up and impact learning, especially this time of year when classes are building toward end-of-year goals and transitions. Strong attendance isn’t just about academics, it’s a life habit that sets students up for success well beyond school.
A couple simple things can make a big difference during this final push: keep daily routines consistent (especially bedtime and morning routines), and try to schedule appointments and trips outside of the school day whenever possible. Let’s finish strong together and make every day count between now and the last day of school.
Qmlativ Family Update
Skyward Qmlativ Family access is now available. Thank you for your patience!
Please see the resource page on our website linked here. These resources will help you with logging in to your new updated family access account.
Health and Wellness Update
FREE On-Site Sports Physicals
FREE On-Site Sports Physicals – Sign Up Today- More Spots Added!
White Salmon Valley School District is partnering with Skyline Health to offer FREE Sports Physicals at the White Salmon School District’s Health and Wellness Center.
Available dates:
Tuesday, May 26 | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (during the school day)
Saturday, May 30 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
If you plan to participate in sports next year, we encourage you to sign up for a free physical. This is a great opportunity to ensure your paperwork is current and that you are cleared to participate in athletics.
Reserve your spot by signing up here.
For questions, please contact:
Katie Rixon, Health and Wellness Coordinator
📞 (509) 493-1970 Ext. 279
✉️ Katie.Rixon@whitesalmonschools.org
Brandi Nelson, Athletic Secretary
📞 (509) 493-1970 Ext. 201
✉️ Brandi.Nelson@whitesalmonschools.orgHealth & Wellness Family Fair
🌿 Bring the whole family out for a day of fun, learning, and connection!
Join us at the Health & Wellness Family Fair on Friday, May 15 from 3–5:30 p.m. at Rheingarten Park. 💚
Discover valuable resources and activities for all ages, including:
✨ Summer camps & youth sports
✨ Affordable medical care & mental health support
✨ Early childhood education & child development
✨ Family bonding activities & safety skills
✨ Community wellbeing & nutrition assistance
This is a great opportunity to connect with local organizations and support your family’s health and happiness!
2026 Community Wellness Survey - Community Prevention & Wellness Initiative
We are interested in your opinions about youth substance use in our community. Your responses will help inform and improve prevention programs for our youth.
School News
State Champions ---Again!
Our Knowledge Bowl team has done it—BACK-TO-BACK STATE CHAMPIONS! We couldn’t be more proud of their incredible achievement, dedication, and teamwork.
From the send-off pep rally to an amazing performance in Wenatchee, this team proved once again that they are the best of the best. Congratulations to Kiki Barkhimer, Graham Beck, Anders Daly, and Sylvia Pimley, and coach Omar Sankari on an unforgettable victory! Way to represent and bring home another title!
Kindergarten Music Performance
Whitson kindergarteners brought The Dot to life in a beautiful performance full of creativity, confidence, and heart. Through song and marimba, they celebrated making their mark, being themselves, and shining in their own unique way.
Family Math Night
6th Annual Math Play Event
Wed. May 6th
6:00pm - 7:30pm
(Whitson Gym)
Play and explore math with your family and learn fluency games. There will be lots of hands on fun, food, music, and take home games. It will be fun for the whole family.
Spanish speaking volunteers and games available.
ALL AGES WELCOME!