Hatchet Happenings

The Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents (IAPSS) proudly

recognizes a distinguished group of school superintendents who have

successfully completed the EPIC (Educators Preparing Inspired Change) program—Indiana’s premier leadership development initiative designed to equip top school leaders with advanced tools in executive leadership, systems thinking, strategic innovation, and organizational management.

The EPIC program, tailored exclusively for sitting superintendents with three or more years of experience, prepares seasoned leaders with the strategic mindset and leadership competencies needed to navigate complex challenges, drive measurable results, and deliver a strong return on investment for their districts.

“EPIC is not just a professional development program—it’s an investment in the future of public education leadership,” said Dr. Robert Taylor, Executive Director of IAPSS. “Graduates of this program are better prepared to navigate the evolving demands of their roles and lead with vision, clarity, and impact.”

Continue reading on our website:

The April 2025 issue of Civil Municipal magazine highlights Washington Community Schools, emphasizing the district's commitment to preparing students for the future through purposeful innovation.

Washington Community Schools focuses on STEM education, career readiness, and overall student success, aiming to equip learners with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

Check it out here: https://businessviewmagazine.com/civil-municipal/apr-2025/281/

Washington High School students learn about the dangers of social media from a parent who lost a child to a social media challenge.

Joanne Bogard's son Mason was only 15 when he set his phone to record himself participating in the Blackout Challenge, a dangerous social media trend which encourages kids to choke themselves until they lose consciousness.

Mason was found by his family the next morning. He spent a week on life support and died a week later. It was only when his parents looked at his phone that they discovered what had happened.

His mother, Joanne Bogard, now works tirelessly to spread awareness of the dangers of social media and youth and successfully lobbied the state of Indiana to help pass an Internet Safety Bill, named Mason's Education Act.

She encouraged students to think carefully about the consequences of their actions and to reach out to adults in their lives for help. "Your life is about more than just you; it includes the people who love and care for you," Bogard shared.

This year, we proudly honor our outstanding staff for their dedication and exceptional commitment to our students every day.

At each monthly school board meeting, we will highlight staff members who have been nominated for exemplifying the highest standards of excellence.

Thank you to Tim Cochren from (@habiglaw) Habig Injury Law for supporting our staff and providing each nominee with a $50.00 Amazon gift card and Yeti Tumbler!

Read the nominations here:

NEW THIS YEAR - REGISTRATION REQUIRED!!

Washington Community Schools Sodexo Food Service is pleased to provide FREE breakfast and lunch meals for all children 18 and under over the summer, no matter what school district they attend.

Registration is Required for Sun Meals to Go. You only need to register once before your first meal pick up. Please click the button below to visit our website to compete the registration form prior to your first meal pick up of the season.

May 27 - June 6, 2025:

SUN MEALS: OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - Congregate Lunch at Washington Intermediate served from 11:00 - 12:00. Use the main entrance.

June 10 - July 29, 2025:

SUN MEALS TO GO: WCS will be distributing non-congregate meals out of the High School at Gate 4 between 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm each Tuesday. At this meal pick-up we will provide breakfast, lunch, and milk for 5 days for each child in your home. Only parents or legal guardians may pick up meals. If you are not registered, children must be present. If you are not registered, children must be present.

See our website for a list of summer opportunities for your child. Check back often as more camps are added!

In-Person Registration

July 15, 2025, 1:00 - 7:00 pm
July 16, 2025, 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Online Registration for returning students begins July 15, 2025. Your Skyward login information will be emailed to you.

The first day of school is Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Tour the school, find your classes and locker, teachers are not present

Upper Elementary

July 31 & August 1
3:00 - 5:00 pm

WHS & WJHS

July 29: 12:00 - 3:00 pm

July 30: 5:00 - 7:00 pm (JH Parent Meeting 6:30 pm)

July 31: 9:00 am - noon

Before school starts families can tour the school, drop off school supplies, meet your teacher

Washington Primary PK

August 1: 5:00 - 6:00 pm

Washington Primary 1st Grade

August 4: 5:00 - 6:00 pm

Washington Veale Elementary

August 5: 5:30 - 6:30 pm

Washington Intermediate

August 5: 6:00 - 7:00 pm

After school starts, tour the school and meet your child's teacher

Washington JH

August 13: 5:00-6:00

Washington Upper Elementary

August 13: 5:30-6:30

Washington HS

August 13: 6:00 - 7:00 pm

Washington Primary Kindergarten

August 14: 4:30 - 6:30 pm

Washington Primary is implementing a Staggered Start Schedule to provide a smooth and supportive transition for our youngest learners.

Benefits

• This schedule facilitates a smoother transition to kindergarten with smaller groups on alternating days. Student stress is reduced with more staff available to help students find their classroom, navigate the cafeteria, and get home safely.
• Staff can build stronger relationships with students and meet student's needs.
• Staff will conduct initial assessments to ensure an informed class placement.
• Smaller groups allow students to explore the environment and feel safe without being overwhelmed by a larger group.
• Reduced parent traffic at arrival and dismissal is safer and more managable for staff and students.

Bus transportation will run as normal each day.

May 23 - Last Day of School

May 24 - Graduation, 10:00 am

May 27-June 6 - Summer Lunch at Washington Intermediate, 11:00 -12:00

Jule 10-July 29 - Summer Meal Pick up Every Tuesday from 4:00 - 5:30 pm at WHS

July 15 - In-Person Registration 1:00 - 7:00 pm

July 16 - In-Person Registration 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

August 6 - First Day of School