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HSD News Round-Up

April 22, 2026 Round-Up

HSD News Round-Up April 22, 2026 Round-Up
HSD NewsRound-UpApril 22, 2026 Round-Up

Pictured: Hockinson High School Theatre Company concluded its 2025-26 season with "Shrek the Musical," and the show was a hit! This was the second year in a row that tickets sold out for closing night. Your support helps make HHS Theatre possible, providing an unforgettable experience to members of the cast, crew, and pit orchestra - and audiences, too. Thank you, Hockinson community!


The May 21 edition of the HSD News Round-Up includes information on district budget planning amid state funding reductions, an update on the HHS Skilled Trade Center, a look at the three contributors who are making this project possible, and much MUCH more! (Really!)

HSD News Round-Up HSD News Round-Up

May 21, 2026 | Memorial Day Weekend Edition May 21, 2026 | Memorial Day Weekend Edition

đź’ťHave a Happy Memorial Dayđź’™ and 4-day weekend! Reminder: No school on Monday, May 25 in observance of the Memorial Day holiday and no school on Friday, May 22 (designated snow makeup day...but there was no snow!). Classes resume Tuesday, May 26.

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HSD Planning Conservatively for 2026-27 Amid State Funding Reductions

In the most recent legislative session, the state significantly reduced Local Effort Assistance (LEA) and Transitional Kindergarten (TK) funding for schools across Washington. As a result, Hockinson School District is moving TK to a tuition-based model and making some difficult staffing decisions and budget adjustments.


HSD is taking a conservative approach to the 2026-27 school as next year’s financial and enrollment picture continues to take shape. Staff and family can expect to receive a more detailed update from Superintendent Steve Marshall next week.

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HHS Road Warriors Open State Soccer Tournament with a Win!

The HHS Boys Soccer Team traveled 538 miles on Wednesday and defeated host Pullman HS 2-0 in their opening game in the 2A State Soccer Tournament. The Hawks will return to the road this Saturday, this time traveling north to Bellingham to face Squalicum HS at 3 pm.


Round of 16 Game Summary: Thanks to stellar defense, the Hawks entered halftime tied 0-0. The HHS offense came alive in the second half with Makhai Velazquez (Ronan Cabebe, assist) scoring first. Brady Clark (Xavier Ayala, assist) added a goal to put the Hawks up for good 2-0. The Hawks defense shut out the Greyhounds to secure the 2-0 victory. Way to go, boys. Best of luck in the Quarterfinals!

Truck delivers steel construction materials for the construction of the HHS Skilled Trades Building.
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Building Permit Secured for HHS Skilled Trades Center

The HSD's application for a building permit to proceed with construction of the HHS Skilled Trades Building has been approved! This means that the building is on track to be unveiled later this fall. This skilled trades center will house Career & Technical Education courses for HHS students to receive training in high-demand fields, such as construction and plumbing.


Generous donations from local benefactors and volunteers are fully funding this building, bringing this opportunity to HHS students at no cost to the district. Read more about the HHS Skilled Trades Building here, and learn more about the three primary contributors to this project below.

Regional Awards Honor the Community Leaders Behind the HHS Skilled Trades Building

Local philanthropist Doug Greene, Jon Girod of Quail Homes, and Derek Huegel of Wolf Industries were recognized with regional awards this spring for their contributions to students across Washington state and here in Hockinson. Together, the three have played a key role in making the new HHS Skilled Trades Center, currently in its final planning stages, a reality. The facility is funded entirely through donations and volunteer support, and will expand opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in high-demand trade skills without the use of district funds.
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Jon Girod

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Doug & Heather Greene (with Supt. Steve Marshall)

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Derek Huegel

Photo of Tasha Hill, HSD's Board Certified Behavior Analyst and 2026 Real Hero
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Huegel, Hill Named "Live Here, Learn Here" Heroes

Identity Clark County (ICC) celebrated the dedication of school employees and volunteers who make a positive difference at area schools at its annual "Live Here, Learn Here" event on Tuesday, May 19. Among the honorees were Derek Huegel (see above) and Tasha Hill, who were recognized for their contributions to the Hockinson School District and the Hockinson community.


Huegel was recognized for volunteering as the project manager for a new Career Technical Education (CTE) building at HHS and for his organization and expertise in all phases of construction. Tasha Hill, who has served as the HSD's Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) for the past six years, was recognized for supporting staff and students as well as her positive demeanor and effectiveness with developing students' social and emotional skills. You can learn more about Huegel, Hill, and the "Live Here, Learn Here" award program here.

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From Kindergarten to Senior Year: Art Takes Center Stage in the HSD

On May 8, the Hockinson High School Commons transformed into an art gallery for the annual TK-12 Visual Arts Showcase. The exhibit featured paintings, ceramics, and other imaginative works created by over 100 students across all grade levels. Learn more here. Thank you, Hockinson families, for supporting our students and the arts with your levy dollars!
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Reminder: The 2026-27 School Calendar is Now Available

Planning ahead? View the school calendar for this upcoming year here. Mirroring this year’s schedule, it includes full-week breaks at Thanksgiving and President's Day. The calendar reflects feedback gathered from parents and staff.
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Hockinson Fun Days Returns May 29-30!

Hockinson Fun Days is a weekend full of community activities for all ages! Events include Friday night bingo at Hockinson High School, a Saturday pancake breakfast hosted by Fire District 3, the Fun Days parade, a country fair carnival, live music, local vendors, food, classic cars, and more. Free shuttle service will be available throughout the day on Saturday from Hockinson High School and Hockinson Heights Elementary. Learn more here.

Hockinson Students Honored by Cascadia Technical Academy

Two HHS students were recognized by Cascadia Technical Academy (CTA) earlier this week for their exemplary work in their respective programs. Teaching Academy student Leah Graves received the Distinguished Graduate Award, which honors "students who exemplify technical, academic, and employable skills at the highest level." Diesel Technology student Jesse Rosin was selected as a recipient of the Dennis Kampe Scholarship. This scholarship supports students who represent the very best of their program with post-graduation plans. Congratulations and good luck, Leah and Jesse!
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Leah Graves

Cascadia Teaching Academy

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Cacadia provides HHS students with career training in 20 programs

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Jesse Rosin

Cascadia Diesel Technology

Graduation🎓and Back-to-School Information🍎

Congrats, Class of 2026!

On Friday, June 12, HHS graduates will gather at the school's stadium for their graduation ceremony to close out their high school career with classmates, family, and staff. The Class of 2026 has laid the foundation for future success by contributing to a culture of kindness, determination, and hard work on the HHS campus. We look forward to seeing the great things that these Hawks accomplish!

Senior students and families: Please check out the Senior Info document for an overview of festivities and other important information.


HHES/HMS Students to Cheer on 2026 Hockinson Grads

On June 11, students at HHES will get a glimpse of the future at the annual HHS Grad Walk, when Hockinson seniors make a pre-graduation trip to HHES and HMS. Grad Walk is not only a time for high school seniors to reflect on their accomplishments over the past 13 years, but also an opportunity for elementary and middle school students to envision graduation as a future milestone.


Post-Grad Plans

Graduation for the HHS Class of 2026 is right around the corner! We're very proud of our graduates and are excited to watch our seniors embark on their next journeys. Seniors were invited to fill out a Google form to share their post-grad plans. Here is an overview of fall plans for the class of 2026:

  • 78% are attending a 2- or 4- year university
  • 9% are attending a trade school or apprenticeship
  • 7% are entering the workforce
  • 4% are joining the military
  • 2% are going on a church mission
Stay in touch with our HSD Facebook Page in the coming weeks as we will soon begin celebrating 5 graduating seniors and learn more about their individual post-grad plans each Sunday.


Middle School Promotion: Welcoming New Hawks!

Eighth-grade students at HMS open a new chapter of their student careers, preparing for high school at the 8th-grade promotion ceremony on June 16 at 6 pm. This is a free, ticketed event.


TK Graduation - Next Up: Kindergarten

On June 11 at 5 pm, the Class of 2039 will experience their first graduation. Join us in celebrating the academic and social growth that these young students have achieved this school year. Our Transitional Kindergarten program prepares students to enter kindergarten with confidence in the fall.



More HSD News More HSD News

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HMS Woodshop Students Attend the Oregon Tradeswoman Career Fair

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HHS Students and HMS 8th Graders Connect with 46 Local Employers, Schools, and Career Representatives at Annual Launch Fair

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Community Volunteers Needed for Senior Exit Interviews

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HMS Woodshop Students Build Bench for School Entry

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HHS & HMS Bands Brings the Music to the Hazel Dell Parade

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Soaring Past the Water Hazard: HHS Golfers' Accuracy Helps them Make the Cut

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HHS CTE Students Host 4th Grade Visitors for Toolbox Event

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Hockinson Football Jersey Now on Display at Big Al’s

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Mr. Kersey's "Danny Go!" Impersonation Wins Over TK Students

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HHS Band's Musical Tour of Southern California is Underway

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HMS Girls Track Wins SWMSL District Track & Field Title; Boys Place 3rd

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Application deadline extended for County Youth Leadership Summit

Upcoming Events - We've opened the lid on end-of-school events!

  • Fri. May 22: Designated Snow Make-Up Day - No School

  • Mon. May 25: Memorial Day - No School

  • Tues. May 26: School Board Regular Meeting 6 pm @ HCC and Zoom

  • Tues. May 26 & Wed. May 27: 5th Grade Science State Testing

  • Tues. May 26 - Fri. May 29: State Testing Make-Up @ HHES

  • Tues. May 26 - Fri. May 29: SBAC Math (10th) & WCAS (11th) Make-Up Testing @ HHS

  • Fri. May 29 & Sat. May 30: Fun Days

  • Mon. June 1: Citizens Advisory Committee 6 pm @ HSD and Zoom

  • Thurs. June 4: District Band Festival 6 - 8 pm @ HHS Gym

  • Fri. June 5: Hornet Fun Run @ HHES

  • Mon. June 8: Field Day @ HHES

  • Mon. June 8: HSD Budget Hearing and Regular Board Meeting 5 pm @ HCC

  • Thurs. June 11: TK Graduation at 5 pm @ HHES

  • Fri. June 12: HHS Graduation at 7 pm @ HHS

  • Tues. June 16: HMS Promotion at 6 @ HMS

  • Wed. June 17: Last Day of School - Early Release

  • Fri. June 19: Juneteenth - District Office Closed

Spring Sports Schedule available here.


ICYMI: In case you missed a previous newsletter, our Round-Ups are archived here!

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Contact Us

Email: justine.vazquez@esd112.org
Website: https://www.hocksd.org/
Location: 17912 NE 159th St, Brush Prairie, WA 98606, USA
Phone: (360) 448-6400

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