District newsletter
Big Lake Elementary students explore STEAM with hands-on experience
Big Lake Elementary School students dove into the world of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) Friday, thanks to a visit from the STEAM Museum, sponsored by the school's Parent Group. The school gymnasium was transformed into a hands-on learning center, where students explored a variety of interactive exhibits. From controlling robots and experimenting with a giant Operation game to uncovering artifacts in a prehistoric playground, each station offered a unique opportunity to learn through play and creativity.
Brought to Big Lake by Mobile Ed Productions, the STEAM Museum featured activities designed to introduce real-world applications of science and technology. At the science stations, students explored principles of magnetism, circuits, and electricity through the use of tools like Ferrofluid and the BuzzWire game. With the rapid advancement of technology, students also had the chance to work with humanoid and programmable robots, as well as experiment with virtual reality goggles.
The engineering stations encouraged teamwork and problem-solving as students constructed archways and programmed robots.
The connection between art and science was highlighted at a station where students powered an art machine by pedaling a stationary bike.
Mathematics was incorporated into various challenges, such as designing structures and experimenting with geometry. The hands-on approach allowed students to see how math can be used in practical and creative ways.
HiCap students explore math and culture at Big Lake and Mary Purcell
Last week marked the end of Sedro-Woolley School District's Highly Capable Program teacher Elli Gildnes's first rotation at Big Lake and Mary Purcell elementary schools. The program focused on both verbal and quantitative skills, introducing students to French counting, mental math, and beginner expressions. HiCap students also practiced writing equations and explored hexaflexagon art. In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, students studied MesoAmerican math, specifically Mayan math, and worked with the Nepohualtzitzin, an ancient MesoAmerican calculator.
Congratulations to Ruth Richardson, Sedro-Woolley School District’s Public Information Officer, for her achievements in the Washington School Public Relations Association (WSPRA) annual awards competition. Ruth received an Award of Merit in the Special Purpose Publication category for districts with less than 10,000 students, recognizing her "Understanding School Finance" publication.
Additionally, she earned Honorable Mention for her Social Media Campaign highlighting the Class of 2024. These awards reflect the district's dedication to family and community communication within our district.
Interested in becoming a bus driver? The Sedro-Woolley School District Transportation Department is offering a paid bus driver training class starting November 18!
Before the class begins, make sure to complete your Online Job Application and all related forms.
For more details, contact the transportation department at 360-855-3504.
Join us in ensuring safe and reliable transportation for our students!
Nominations Open for the 2025 Sedro-Woolley School District Community Recognition Awards
The Sedro-Woolley School District is accepting nominations for the annual Sedro-Woolley School District Community Recognition Awards. We'd like to invite you to nominate individuals whom you think deserve any of the esteemed awards. It is a great opportunity to acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and innovation of those who have significantly impacted our community.
The nomination categories are:
- Hall of Fame — To honor SWHS students who excelled athletically, an individual who has achieved distinction as a former student-athlete.
- Hall of Fame — To honor SWHS students who excelled academically an individual who has achieved distinction as a former student.
- District-Wide Recognition — Acknowledge current exemplary efforts within the school system that goes beyond typical measures of accomplishment.
- Memorial Recognition — To honor posthumously an individual who has rendered outstanding service to the community or demonstrated loyal support for the Sedro-Woolley School District.
- Community Recognition — An individual who has rendered outstanding service to the community or demonstrated loyal support for the Sedro-Woolley School District.
Monday, November 4 marks the end of the first quarter for our middle and high school students. Remind your students to finish strong! Turn in any missing work as soon as possible!
Tips for secondary students to find success in their classes:
Stay Organized: Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of assignments, tests, and important dates. Review it daily to stay on top of work.
Set Goals: At the start of the second quarter, set specific, achievable goals for each class. Whether it's improving grades, participating more, or mastering a challenging topic, having clear goals will help students stay focused.
Establish a Study Routine: Designate a specific time and quiet place for studying each day. Consistency will help reinforce good study habits and ensure students are prepared for upcoming tests and assignments.
Review Class Notes Regularly: Don’t wait until the night before a test to review notes. Go over them weekly to reinforce and identify any areas where extra help may be needed.
Use Online Resources: Take advantage of online tools, such as educational videos, practice quizzes, and websites, to reinforce your understanding of subjects. Many teachers also provide additional resources!
Practice Self-Care: Ensure students are getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and taking breaks when needed. A healthy body and mind contribute to better focus and academic performance.
Get Involved: Encourage students to participate in class discussions or organized study groups. This can make learning more enjoyable and meaningful.
Communicate with Teachers: Encourage students to keep an open line of communication with their teachers. If they’re unsure about an assignment or concept, don't hesitate to ask questions or request clarification.
Reflect on Progress: At the end of each week, encourage your student to take a few minutes to reflect on what went well and what they could improve. Adjust strategies as needed to stay on track.
Encourage your students to incorporate these tips to build a successful second quarter and finish the school year strong!
Make sure to deposit your ballot in an official drop box by 8 p.m. on November 5. Sedro-Woolley's ballot box is located at the Sedro-Woolley Post Office (in the alley between Eastern Ave and Metcalf), 111 Woodworth Street.
Other ballot box locations can be found on the Skagit County auditor's website.
Join us for a combined Veterans Day Parade on November 8 at 10:10 a.m. as we honor our veterans! The parade route takes students from the entrance of Central Elementary School down Talcott Street, to Third Street to State Street and then loops through downtown Sedro-Woolley on Metcalf to Ferry Street and back to Central. An educational assembly will be held at both schools after the parade. The Sedro-Woolley High School marching band will join the parade (Please note: students will return to the high school in time to ride buses home). The parade will be led by the Sedro-Woolley police and fire departments.
Presented by Sedro-Woolley RISE, United General District 304, and Central Skagit Library
Sedro-Woolley teens, get ready to roll the dice! Sedro-Woolley RISE, United General District 304, and Central Skagit Library are hosting a Teen Game Night at Central Skagit Library from 6–8 p.m. November 20. Bring your friends for a night of board games, Nintendo Switch, snacks and fun! This event is free, but permission slips are required to participate.
Sedro-Woolley RISE is a volunteer coalition committed to enhancing the health and wellness of our community by addressing risk factors that contribute to youth substance use and other challenges. The coalition includes youth, parents, schools, businesses, healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and more, working together to create a safer, healthier environment for Sedro-Woolley. RISE operates through a partnership with Sedro-Woolley School District and United General #304, supported by Washington State Community Prevention and Wellness Initiative and the federal Drug Free Communities grant.
Join us for a night of fun and games, and help support the wellness of our community!
Cascade Middle School will host its annual Turkey Trot on November 27th at 9:50 a.m.
A Turkey Trot is a fun run or walk event traditionally held around Thanksgiving, often on or just before Thanksgiving Day. The term "Turkey Trot" comes from the holiday's association with turkeys.
At Cascade Middle School, the Turkey Trot is a longstanding tradition for seventh and eighth graders and school staff. Taking place the day before Thanksgiving, the students and staff run from the school's parking lot near Township Street/McGarigle Road to the intersection of McGarigle Road/Fruitdale Road and back. It’s a festive event with a school band playing at the start and finish lines. The Turkey Trot provides an opportunity for the school community to celebrate the holiday spirit.
Join the Sedro-Woolley Fastpitch Program December 7 in the Sedro-Woolley High School cafeteria for their annual pasta feed (directly after the Sedro-Woolley Christmas Parade). Tickets will be pre-sold (or sold at the door) for $10 each, or 5 dinners for $45 family deal. Pasta dinner includes pasta, sauce of choice, salad, bread, drink and dessert.
For tickets or more information, contact coach Maddie Jones at 360-855-3043 or by email at mjones@swsd101.org.
The design should include:
- Sedro-Woolley, Washington.
- No current date.
- It should consist of no more than three colors.
- It can include local scenery such as background (trees, mountains, eagles, etc.).
Your drawing must be turned in by Thursday, February 20, 2025. It can be mailed to PO Box 712, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 or dropped in the mail slot on the Loggerodeo door at 727 Murdock Street (next to the Sedro-Woolley Museum).
Questions? Contact sedrowoolleyloggerodeo@frontier.com or call 360-770-8452.
The Loggerodeo consists of these events:
- Carnival
- Parades
- Fireworks
- Pie-eating contest
- Street dance
- Chainsaw carving competition and beard contest
The Loggerodeo reserves the right to use submitted designs as advertising on different media. The design may need to be modified as to the graphics. The name of the winner will be included in the program and announced at different venues.
Please note, the Loggerodeo T-shirt designs are separate from the Sedro-Woolley Rodeo.
Reminders for Sedro-Woolley High School Games
As we gear up for games at Sedro-Woolley High School, we want to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Please keep the following reminders in mind:
- CMS Students: Cascade Middle School students must be accompanied by a paying adult to attend games. Admission is $5 for CMS students and $7 for adults.
- Clear Common Areas: Keep walkways free to maintain safety.
- No Substances: Alcohol, drugs, smoking, and vaping are prohibited on all school grounds, including parking lots.
- Re-Entry: Students will not be allowed to leave and re-enter the venue.
- No Bags or Backpacks: Large bags and backpacks are not allowed. Small purses for personal items are permitted but subject to search.
- No Outside Food, Beverages, or Balls: Please do not bring outside food, drinks, or balls into the game.
Thank you for helping us keep our school events safe and enjoyable for everyone!
Log Your Digital Box Tops
Many of our schools are collecting box tops... digitally! Just scan your receipt and earn money for your school!
The Sedro-Woolley School District has a preschool, seven elementary schools, one middle school and two high schools, averaging more than 4,100 students during the 2023-2024 school year. We proudly serve Sedro-Woolley and its smaller surrounding communities.
Email: swsdcoms@swsd101.org
Website: https://www.swsd.k12.wa.us/
Location: 801 Trail Road, Sedro-Woolley, WA, USA
Phone: 360-855-3500
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SedroWoolleySchoolDistrict/
Superintendent — Dr. Miriam Miralles Mickelson
Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning — Brian Isakson
Exec. Director, Educational Support Services — Anthony Smith
Exec. Director, Human Resources & Student Support — Daniel Lee
Director, Student Support — Michael Schweigert
Public Information Officer – Ruth Richardson
Transportation Director – Tracy Gugel (360) 855-3504
Food Service Director – Allison Johnston (360) 855-3515
Facilities & Maintenance Director – Michael Stephens (360) 855-3505
