Cherrydale Primary School
Cheetah Newsletter December 18, 2025
From the Principal
Happy Wednesday Cherrydale Families!
As we reflect on the first part of the school year, we are incredibly proud of all that our students have accomplished. From new friendships and academic growth to classroom celebrations and school-wide learning, it has been a joy to watch our students learn, grow, and thrive. Thank you to our families for your continued support and partnership—it truly makes a difference.
As we approach Winter Break, we want to remind families that there will be no school from December 22 through January 2. During this time, the school office will also be closed. We look forward to welcoming students back when school resumes on Monday, January 5.
As we wrap up the first part of the school year, we are so grateful for our students, families, and staff who make our school such a special place to learn and grow. We wish you a joyful, restful holiday season filled with warmth and togetherness. We can’t wait to begin the new year refreshed and ready for all that 2026 has in store!
Warm Regards,
Christine Firth, Principal
FlashAlert
From time to time throughout the school year, weather may force a change in the normal operating routine of the district. We will make every effort to adhere to the established school calendar, however the safety of students and employees is the highest priority.
FAQs can be here which will help clarify how decisions regarding school closure or delay of school are made, and how they will be communicated.
December
January 2026
1/5 - Welcome back
1/8 - ACE Day (early release 2:35pm)
1/14 - ACE Day (early release 2:35pm)
1/19 - No School MLK Day
Around the School
Word Collector Tree
In Library, our students have been reading The Gift of Words by Peter H. Reynolds. Each paper slip on our Word Collector’s Tree represents an inspiring word for the holiday season. In the story, Jerome gathers meaningful words to share with his community—just as our Cherrydale students have done. Look how our Word Collector’s Tree has grown!
From the Office
A note from the Highly Capable Program teacher, Mrs. Hannah Engstrom:
Every December there is a window of opportunity specifically for kindergarten students to apply for the district’s Highly Capable Program. Any family is welcome to apply. Students who qualify may have advanced academic skills, display an abundance of creativity, or are amazing thinkers. Application forms are found on the district’s website on this page: Highly Capable Program. Applications are due December 19, 2025. Evaluation and testing will be completed in January, 2026. If you have any questions about the program feel free to contact me via Parent Square or email at hengstrom@steilacoom.k12.wa.us.
Will you be moving over Winter Break?
Please take a moment to fill out our withdrawal form.
Health & Attendance
When your student will be late, leaving early, or absent altogether, please notify the office.
If the Tardy, Early Release or Absence is due to an appointment, please bring a note from the doctor's office.
That's A Wrap 2025
Winter send off Volunteers needed
December At-A-Glance
Volunteer Reminder and Opportunities
We would love to have you volunteer, if you are a new parent to the district or first time volunteer, please click on the link to get signed up to volunteer. Please submit your completed application at least two (2) weeks before the expected volunteer service start date. Volunteer status is valid for 2 years.
Have questions about volunteering in SHSD?
Contact Shsdvolunteers@steilacoom.k12.wa.us
WATCH D.O.G.S. - email: cherrydalewatchdogs@yahoo.com
Cherrydale PTA - email: CherrydalePTA@gmail.com
Counselor's Corner
December's Character Trait of the month
Love & Logic Articles From Our Counselor
For interesting and helpful information on a variety of topics, click Love & Logic.
Would picking up a weekly bag of non-perishable groceries help your family? To participate on Cherrydale's Weekend Grocery Program, send a ParentSquare message to Lanae Olson (Cherrydale's School Counselor) or leave her a voicemail at
253-983-2504. Click here to see original post.
Looking for a way to help others? Click Steilacoom Food Pantry and Caring for Kids
A big thank you to all of the PeaceBuilders "Helping Others" in our community!
School Menu
Click to view menu on website (scroll down to find the current month) or you can print the attachment below.
Sodexo December Newsletter
Helpful Links
Follow Cherrydale on Facebook
Follow SHSD on Instagram
Cherrydale Primary School
Phone: (253) 983-2500
Email: cherrydaleoffice@steilacoom.k12.wa.us
Website: https://www.steilacoom.k12.wa.us/
Location: 1201 Galloway Street, Steilacoom, WA, USA