Superintendent Brower Newsletter

What a small world! In September, Superintendent Brower ran into former Eatonville School District Superintendent Mike Martin (1986–1991) in West Seattle of all places. They had a wonderful time reflecting on the excellent education Eatonville students received back then and how that tradition continues today.

Their conversation highlighted the dedication of Eatonville’s staff and the tremendous support our students receive from the community.

Superintendent Brower shared how proud he is to be part of Eatonville and to work alongside such incredible people.

At Eatonville School District, we believe strong partnerships with families are key to student success. Parent-Teacher Conferences are an important time to connect, celebrate progress, and set goals together.

There will be no school for all P–12 students on Thursday, October 23 and Friday, October 24 to allow for conferences. Please watch for communication from your child’s teacher or school with details on how to schedule your conference time. We look forward to meeting with you and working together to support your child’s learning journey.

The school year is underway — and with it comes fresh energy, new opportunities, and the continued commitment of teachers, administrators, families and leaders who show up for young people every single day. Every fall reminds me of something I know to be true:

The adults who dedicate their lives to helping students thrive, are capable of remarkable things.

It’s easy to see what feels heavy in education. But the real story is in what’s working. It’s in the small acts of connection, the brave risks students take — and the quiet, consistent ways educators make a difference.

In my experience, principals and educators have been the leaders who carry communities forward. And this year will be no different.

Here’s what our staff promote for students as the school year unfolds:

• You shape possibilities.
  Every choice to focus on what’s working creates momentum for change.

• You set the tone.
  A classroom culture rooted in connection ripples far beyond our walls.

• You choose your perspective.
  Seek out the stories of schools building solutions and watch how hope grows.

Hope thrives in our classrooms, nurtured by the dedication of parents and teachers who support our students every day. Your commitment shapes the hallways our children walk and strengthens the communities we build together. Thank you for being an essential part of this journey.

With gratitude,

Sally Keeley

Our school culture is focused on high academic expectations, fostering student ownership of their academic success, and developing problem-solving skills and resilience. We believe in GROWTH—engaging students through challenging learning opportunities while encouraging perseverance throughout the learning process.

Strengths in English Language Arts (ELA)

1. High Foundational Knowledge:

• 70.0% of students demonstrate foundational grade-level knowledge in ELA, indicating strong basic literacy skills.

2. Proficiency Rates:

• A significant percentage of students are achieving levels 3 and 4 on the SBA assessments, with specific proficiency rates:

• 5th Grade ELA: Solid percentages in Levels 3 and 4.

• 7th Grade ELA: Also showing growth with increased proficiency rates.

3. Positive Growth Trends:

• Consistent improvement in ELA performance across different grades, showcasing an upward trend in student achievement.

Strengths in Science

1. Strong Foundational Knowledge:

• 65.0% of students have foundational knowledge at or above grade-level in Science, reflecting solid understanding of scientific concepts.

2. High Performance Levels:

• 67% of 5th graders achieved levels 3 and 4 on the SBA assessments, indicating a strong grasp of scientific principles and applications.

• 54% of 11th Graders reached Levels 3 and 4, indicating a solid understanding of advanced scientific concepts.

Engagement in Science

The district's commitment to STEM education is evident through various innovative programs. At the middle school level, Project Lead The Way provides hands-on science experiences that enhance student engagement and proficiency. In elementary schools, Mystery Science offers interactive lessons that captivate young learners and can be taught in the outdoor environment as noted at our nature based school, Columbia Crest Academy. Additionally, Career and Technical courses, Cyber Security and the introduction of Wildlife Biology at Eatonville High School this year further enriches the curriculum, providing students with unique opportunities to explore ecological principles and conservation efforts. These strengths highlight the district's commitment to academic excellence.

Math Focus

As we move forward, it is our commitment to focus on math instruction K-12 this year to increase student proficiency. A math adoption team will begin to research evidence based materials and high leverage strategies to best meet student needs. With the continued support of our educators, students, and community, we anticipate even greater achievements in the coming years.

For more detailed data or specific inquiries, please feel free to reach out to Sally Keeley, s.keeley@eatonville.wednet.edu

Engaging Minds: Effective Math Strategies for Parents to Inspire Student Success

Seven Strategies for Tackling Math Word Problems:

Purpose of Math Word Problems

Math word problems are powerful tools for learning because they help students with the following:

• Making sense of information

• Fostering critical thinking

• Applying problem-solving skills to real-world situations

They require students to read carefully, hold and manipulate multiple pieces of information, identify what’s relevant and apply the correct mathematical concepts-all at the same time. This can be overwhelming for many students.

How You Can Help: Strategies for Supporting your Child with Math

Parents can play a crucial role in enhancing their children's math skills. Here are some effective strategies:The good news is there are simple and effective ways to support your student in building confidence with math word problems. Here are a few strategies to try:

1. Read the Problem Together: Encourage your student to read the problem out loud. Hearing the words can help them process the information and more clearly focus on important details in the text.

2. Share What You Know: After reading the problem, ask your student “what do you know?” This helps them articulate the key information provided in the problem. It also gives you a window into how they’re interpreting the text. Follow-up questions like “What else do you know from the problem” are also great ways to encourage a student if they are struggling to identify sufficient information.

3. Identify What the Problem is Asking: Next, ask your student: “What is the problem asking us to figure out?” Have your student point out the part of the text that tells them what they need to solve. Highlighting or underlining this information is another helpful strategy during this step. This builds comprehension and helps students focus on what they need to do.

4. Restate the problem in their own words: Ask your child to paraphrase the problem. Putting it into their own words can deepen their understanding of the task and make it feel less intimidating.

5. Break it down/ Key Word Strategies: Help your student identify the meaning of key math vocabulary (e.g. fewer, increases, how many more). This step reduces cognitive overload so students have to hold less information in their brain. Encourage your students to do the following:

1. Highlight or circle key words

2. Write down simple definitions

6. Visualize the problem: Encourage your student to draw pictures, create diagrams, or use number lines. Visual models make abstract concepts more concrete and can help them organize their thinking.

7. Growth Mindset: Remind students that making mistakes is a part of the learning process. Helping your students engage in conversations about their thinking builds resilience and problem solving skills. If they feel stuck, ask open-ended questions like:

1. What do you know so far?”

2. What are you wondering?”

3. “What might be a good next step to try?”

4. When they get stuck- encourage a growth mindset by asking student what they know or what they wonder- having student be able to engage in conversation about

With consistency, encouragement, and these simple strategies you can help your student feel more confident and capable when tackling math word problems.

Assistant Principal Allison Meines, highlights a way for teachers to recognize and build on student strengths, identify resources, and take a proactive approach to student support, through a 7-period schedule.

After analyzing data with staff, Mrs. Meines, and teaching staff went to work to group students and identify needs. Students who needed extra support in reading and math were scheduled to get what they needed in intervention support classes.

At the same time intervention teachers attended a deeper dive into learning the iReady standards mastery and intervention tools for instruction; enrichment teachers explored the new, Project Based Learning Teach platform.

In Project Based Learning (PBL) students work on a project that requires creativity, critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and collaboration – all crucial skills for future success. Staff jumped in and learned the new PBL platform, each identifying the focus for their enrichment class.

There are four phases to each project that students will be engaged in:

1. The launch (entry event and driving question)

2. Building knowledge and skills

3. Developing products and answers to the driving question

4. Presenting products and answers to the driving question

Students embraced the challenge of shifting from traditional instruction to a project-based approach. Opportunities for learners range from deepening student engagement to building social-emotional connections and community partnerships, PBL classrooms became an energized space of discovery and collaboration. And the biggest outcome of all? A powerful shift in how students see themselves—as capable, curious learners.

Mrs. Meines’s drive and instructional leadership is appreciated by staff. She will be teaming up with the new principal, Mr. Justice, Sept. 29, 2025.

Title I, Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. It is a federal program that provides financial assistance to states and school districts to meet the needs of educationally at-risk students. The goal of Title I is to provide extra instructional services and activities that support students identified as failing or at-risk of failing the state’s performance standards in math, reading and/or writing.

You have the right to request regular information or meetings about Title I programs. Please contact your school’s principal or the Teaching and Learning Department at any time.

Schools receiving Title I funds (2025-26): Columbia Crest Academy, Eatonville Elementary, and Weyerhaeuser Elementary.

Schoolwide Model

The schools listed above use the school-wide model. Our schoolwide programs take the form of a comprehensive strategy designed to improve all educational programming. The primary goal is to ensure that all students, particularly those who are low-achieving, meet and exceed the learning goals defined by state academic standards.

The Learning Assistance Program (LAP) offers supplemental services for K–12 students scoring below grade-level standard in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics. These services focus on accelerating student growth to make progress towards grade level and addressing barriers preventing students from accessing core instruction. They may include academic readiness, skill development or behavior support. The intent is for LAP-served students to increase academic growth during the time they receive services.

In the 2025-26 school year, all five of Eatonville School District schools received LAP funds to support Literacy and/or Math.

Please provide your feedback in the survey linked in the top of this section of the newsletter.

• Communicate – Stay informed & respond to all communications from the school or district.

• Set an example – Show your student that education is important by reading & attending parent/teacher conferences & school events.

• Volunteer – Spend time at your student’s school and help with extra-curricular activities.

• Learn – Help your student with classwork, homework, and future education plans.

• Get Involved – Join school/parent organizations, school improvement teams, parent advisory Councils, and other parent committees.

• Collaborate – Participate in parent activities with other families. Know & use local community resources (such as libraries, universities, community centers, etc.) to better identify and access services for your student & family.

You can help your student’s success! For ideas, tips & parent guides; visit OSPI’s website.

October is recognized nationally as Disability Awareness Month and Dyslexia Awareness Month. This month provides an opportunity to honor the strengths, talents, and contributions of individuals with disabilities, while also raising awareness about the barriers that students may face in accessing education and opportunities.

In Eatonville School District, we are committed to creating inclusive learning environments where every student feels supported, valued, and empowered to succeed. By fostering understanding and acceptance, we can build a culture of belonging for all.

Families are encouraged to join in this effort by engaging in conversations with their children about empathy, respect, and celebrating differences. Together, we can ensure that our schools reflect the values of inclusion and equity for every learner.

Like a lot of professional fields, Special Education has its own special terms and acronyms. Educators and service providers use these terms as shortcuts, and sometimes they forget that not everyone knows what they mean. When you don’t understand what a professional is saying, ask for an explanation. Usually the person you are talking with will be happy to help you understand.

Below are some of the most commonly used acronyms and the terms they stand for.

• FAPE: Free Appropriate Public Education—a right of all children in the U.S.
• IDEA: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. This is the federal law that guides special education and Early Childhood Intervention.
• SDI: Specially Designed Instruction (a.k.a. Special Education).
• Prior Written Notice: Documentation districts are required to provide to parents on every action the district proposes as part of a special education referral, evaluation or IEP.
• ADA: Americans with Disabilities Act.
• FERPA: Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. This is the law that governs the disclosure of information in educational records.
• LRE: Least Restrictive Environment. The requirement in Special Education law that disabled students must be educated to the maximum extent appropriate in a regular classroom with typically-developing peers.
• IEP: Individualized Education Program
• SLD: Specific Learning Disability.
• EBD: Emotionally/Behaviorally Disabled.
• ADD/ADHD: Attention Deficit/Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
• ABC: Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence.
• FBA: Functional Behavioral Assessment.
• BIP: Behavioral Intervention Plan.
• ECE: Early Childhood Education.
• SLP: Speech/Language Pathologist.
• OT: Occupational Therapist.

Although brief, this list of abbreviations should provide a basic background to the most common terminology. Please feel free to ask if you have any questions.

Occupational therapists are concerned with a person’s ability to participate in daily living activities or life “occupations” to the fullest of their ability. In the school district, occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants are part of the education team and help children fulfill their roles as students. OTs in the school setting support a student’s ability to engage in educationally relevant daily tasks such as academics, recess, lunch, self help skills, and preparation for post high school living. OTs may achieve these goals by working with the student to gain skills such as strength and flexibility, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills. They also work with teachers and educational staff to modify or adapt activities to improve the student’s access, participation, and independence with school related tasks.

School-based occupational therapy services are determined through the IEP process for students who are eligible for special education. Occupational therapists complete assessments and work with the IEP team to determine what is needed for the student to achieve maximum success in the educational environment. They work with the team to determine services, supports, modifications, and accommodations that the student requires to access their education. If the student is found to be eligible for OT services in the school setting it is included in their IEP.

Eatonville School District provides services to assist in evaluating and identifying students ages birth to 21 with suspected disabilities and who reside within our boundaries.

If you:

• Have questions about whether your student has a disability

• Are concerned about your infant, toddler, or preschooler's development

• Know your student has a disability and are looking for appropriate educational services

• Would like to know how to help your school age student succeed in school

You can contact your student's teacher or school psychologist. You can also contact the district's Special Education office at (360)641-1809 for assistance. Any student, whether or not enrolled in school, may be referred for a special education evaluation by parents, district staff or other persons knowledgeable about the student. The school team will invite you to a meeting to discuss your concerns and devise a plan of action.

Eatonville School District will hold a Child Find screening for ages

3-5 years old

October 23, 2025

9-3 pm

Your child is eligible for a FREE developmental screening if they are:

• Ages 2 years, 10 months to 5 years old (after August 31)

• Not enrolled in an Eatonville School District program

• Reside within the Eatonville School District boundaries

What happens during a Child Find screening?

The purpose of a Child Find screening is to identify issues that may affect your child’s learning, growth and development. The screening also helps parents identify their child’s strengths and weaknesses.

During the screening your child may stack small blocks, cut with scissors, draw, count, name colors, jump, run and have fun!

After the screening, someone will talk to you about the results of the screening and you may be given suggestions, a referral for more testing, or scheduled to have skills rechecked later. You will have a chance to ask any questions about your child’s development. The whole process takes approximately 45 minutes.

Please call Student Services at (360)641-1809 to schedule an appointment.

Mrs. Mim’s students enjoying specialists and the sun​shine during lunch time and students from Eatonville Middle School LINKS program learning about collaboration during a SEL lesson. They had to work together to successfully fly the plane.

Dracy McCoy – Executive Director of Student Services
200 Lynch St. W. / PO Box 698, Eatonville, WA 98328
Phone: (360) 641-1809 | Email: d.mccoy@eatonville.wednet.edu

Tonya Roebuck – Special Services Executive Assistant
200 Lynch St. W. / PO Box 698, Eatonville, WA 98328
Phone: (360) 641-1807 | Email: t.roebuck@eatonville.wednet.edu

We are here to answer questions, provide resources, and ensure that every student feels valued and supported. Please don’t hesitate to reach out!

October is recognized nationwide as Bullying Prevention Awareness Month, a time to emphasize the importance of creating safe, supportive learning environments for every student. Bullying—whether verbal, physical, social, or online—can have lasting effects on a child’s academic success and emotional well-being. As a district, we are committed to addressing bullying through prevention, education, and intervention.

Throughout the month of October, Eatonville schools will:

• Highlight kindness and respect during classroom lessons, advisory activities, and school-wide events.

• Promote digital citizenship, teaching students safe and respectful online behavior.

• Encourage students to be upstanders by speaking up, supporting peers, and reporting concerns.

• Families play an important role, too! You can support your child by:

• Talking openly about what bullying looks like and feels like.
  

• Encouraging your child to report concerns to a trusted adult at school.
  

• Modeling positive conflict resolution and empathy at home and in the community.
  
  

Together, we can ensure our schools are places where every student feels safe, respected, and connected.

Please visit: https://www.eatonville.wednet.edu/district/harassment-intimidation-and-bullying to learn more about reporting harassment, intimidation and bullying.

Each year, from September 15th through October 15th, the nation observes Hispanic Heritage Month to honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. The celebration begins on September 15 to coincide with the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, and it was officially expanded to a month-long observance by Congress in 1988.

This month serves as an important reminder of the lasting impact Hispanic and Latino communities have had on our nation—through leadership, innovation, art, literature, music, and countless other contributions that enrich our society. Eatonville School District will be incorporating activities and learning opportunities throughout the month to help students celebrate and reflect on this important part of our shared history and culture.

Families are encouraged to join in the celebration by exploring books written by Hispanic authors, listening to traditional music, trying new recipes, and learning about the diverse cultures and traditions that continue to shape our communities. By honoring these achievements and experiences together, we build respect, inclusion, and belonging for all.

As your student moves through the school year we want to ensure that you have all of the support your family needs to help it be a successful year.

Please see email addresses of our school counselors below:

Counselor Contacts

EHS

• Maryann Baker: m.baker@eatonville.wednet.edu

• Kirsten Dill: k.dill@eatonville.wednet.edu, k.kralick@eatonville.wednet.edu

EMS

• Anisa Parks: a.parks@eatonville.wednet.edu

• Kylee Meysenburg: k.meysenburg@eatonville.wednet.edu

CCA

• Kylee Meysenburg: k.meysenburg@eatonville.wednet.edu

EES

• Jana McIlraith: j.mcilraith@eatonvilleschools.org

WES

• Allysen Lindstrom: a.lindstrom@eatonville.wednet.edu

October is recognized as National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and early intervention. Mental health screenings are a simple and effective way to identify concerns such as depression, anxiety, and stress before they become overwhelming.

As a school district, we encourage students, families, and staff to prioritize mental health just as they would physical health. Early support can make a significant difference in a student’s well-being, academic success, and overall quality of life. Families who have questions or would like resources are encouraged to reach out to their school counselor/social worker or Student Services for support and connections to community resources.

Together, we can reduce stigma, promote open conversations, and ensure every member of our school community has access to the help they need.

Eatonville School District is proud to recognize October as Disability and Dyslexia Awareness Month. This month provides an opportunity to celebrate disability history, increase understanding, and promote positive attitudes in our schools. By fostering respect, awareness, and inclusion, we create equal opportunities for all students to thrive.

Together, we can build a culture where every individual is valued, supported, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.

Eatonville FFA shined at the Washington State Fair this past weekend, bringing home top honors in livestock judging, showmanship, and herdsmanship. Congratulations to Leah, Annika, and the livestock judging team for their outstanding achievements.

Highlights include:

• Leah earned 1st Place Individual in Livestock Judging (out of 100+ competitors), Grand Champion Beef Showmanship, Reserve Champion CrossBreed Breeding Gilt, and multiple top placings in hog and steer classes.

• Annika received a Blue in Senior Dairy Showmanship, earned Grand Champion with her heifer “Heidi,” and Blue Ribbons in demonstrations.

• As a chapter, Eatonville FFA was named Champion for both Beef and Dairy Herdsmanship with perfect scores every day, and the Livestock Judging Team placed 5th out of 26 teams.

Way to go Eatonville FFA for proudly representing our community at the highest level!

Over 800 hours of service were given in Eatonville for the 9/11 Day of Service & Remembrance! Together we honored lives lost, thanked our first responders, and united in serving our neighbors.

Thank you to everyone who made this day meaningful!

October is full of tricks and treats, but missing school is one trick you don’t want to play! Every day you show up, you’re building knowledge, friendships, and fun memories. Stay present, because attendance is the real treat this month. Remember… it’s spooky to be absent!

Big news for our school community! The CCA boiler replacement project is officially complete and passed inspection on September 5.

Thanks to the support of our voters who approved last year’s Capital Levy, we’ve been able to make this critical upgrade. Our old boiler was failing, and now we have a new energy-efficient boiler that will keep our building warm and cool while also reducing energy costs .

To stretch levy dollars and be fiscally responsible, we secured a $40,000 Freeze Prevention Grant, covering most of the cost:

• Total Cost: $65,000
• $40,000 Grant Funding
• $25,000 Capital Levy

A special shoutout to Aries Mechanical Inc. for their high-quality work. Project Manager Ted Day and Installer Darrell Uhls (who has ties to our schools and community) worked diligently to meet the grant deadline so our school could qualify for funding.

We are grateful to our community for making projects like this possible. Together, we are building a stronger future for our students!

Did you know that completing the Free and Reduced Lunch application not only supports your child but also benefits our entire school community?

Complete the application online today using a computer only (cell phones are not compatible) through Skyward Family Access if you meet the income requirements below. Or request a paper copy at your child’s school.

USDA Child Nutrition Program Income Guidelines

Effective July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026

Families may qualify for free or reduced-price meals if their household income is at or below the amounts listed:

• Household of 1: $28,953 per year ($2,413 per month)
• Household of 2: $39,128 per year ($3,261 per month)
• Household of 3: $49,303 per year ($4,109 per month)
• Household of 4: $59,478 per year ($4,957 per month)
• Household of 5: $69,653 per year ($5,805 per month)
• Household of 6: $79,828 per year ($6,653 per month)
• Household of 7: $90,003 per year ($7,501 per month)
• Household of 8: $100,178 per year ($8,349 per month)
• For each additional family member, add $10,175 per year (about $848 per month).

For parent volunteers who plan to support multiple schools, only one volunteer application is required for district-wide approval. Please submit your application and show your driver’s license at the school where you will spend most of your time. That school will begin the process to grant you access across all schools in the district.

Superintendent: Mr. Jay Brower

Executive Assistant: Mrs. Cassie Froud

District Office Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Email: communications@eatonvilleschools.org

Website: https://www.eatonville.wednet.edu
Location: 200 Lynch Street West, Eatonville, WA, USA
Phone: 360-879-1000
Facebook: facebook.com/eatonville.school.district
Twitter: @EatonvilleSD

The Eatonville School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, creed, religion, color, national origin, immigration status, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, homelessness, disability, neurodivergence, or the use of a trained dog guide dog or service animal and provides equal access in its program or activities to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The Eatonville School District offers classes in many career and technical education program areas under its open admissions policy. For more information about CTE course offerings and admissions criteria, contact the district’s CTE Director, Kelly Powell at K.Powell@eatonville.wednet.edu. Lack of English language proficiency will not be a barrier to admission and participation in career and technical education programs.

The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies:

• Name and/or Title: Dracy McCoy, Executive Director of Student Services
• Address: 200 Lynch St. W., Eatonville, WA 98328
• Telephone Number: (360)641-1809
• Email: d.mccoy@eatonville.wednet.edu

Eatonville School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, creed, religion, color, national origin, immigration or citizenship status, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, homelessness, disability, neurodivergence, 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:

Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator

• Name and/or Title: Dracy McCoy, Executive Director of Student Services
• Address: 200 Lynch St. W., Eatonville, WA 98328
• Telephone Number: (360)641-1809
• Email: d.mccoy@eatonville.wednet.edu

Section 504/ADA Coordinator

• Name and/or Title: Dracy McCoy, Executive Director of Student Services
• Address: 200 Lynch St. W., Eatonville, WA 98328
• Telephone Number: (360)641-1809
• Email: d.mccoy@eatonville.wednet.edu

Title IX Coordinator

• Name and/or Title: Dracy McCoy, Executive Director of Student Services
• Address: 200 Lynch St. W., Eatonville, WA 98328
• Telephone Number: (360)641-1809
• Email: d.mccoy@eatonville.wednet.edu