SHS/PGS Principal's Newsletter
September 2026 Edition
Meet Principal, Pachomius Schmidt
Hello Families – Happy beginning of the school year!
I’m excited to work with the students, families and staff at Sequoia High/Port Gardner/HS Online this year to provide an enriching experience for all students. The unique relationships that all our programs provide as a bridge between the school and families is one that I hear about while talking with people all over the Everett School District – our schools are held in high-regard. I’m proud to serve as the principal of these programs!
I started my journey in education nearly 25 years ago as an English and math teacher at schools in Seoul, South Korea and Shanghai, China. I frequently think back on those years and the great experiences I had while living abroad. After returning to the Pacific Northwest (where I was raised), I began teaching math in public schools and 6 years ago became an administrator. I feel lucky to be able to call myself an educator – being a small part in developing and growing our students in pursuing their future.
I look forward to working with you, your student, and the amazing staff!
Best,
Pachomius Schmidt
Principal
Sequoia/Port Gardner/HS Online
As the new school year gets underway, families are asked to review and update student information in ParentVUE.
Families can log in to ParentVUE, click "Online Registration," and select the "Annual Information Update Form." The process takes just a few minutes and helps ensure the school has current contact, health, emergency, and guardian information.
Keeping this information up to date helps us stay connected and support students throughout the school year.
Social and emotional learning (SEL) is critical for student success and this has never been more true than it is today. Students at SHS/PGS, Gr 3-5 & Gr 6-12 will be taking Panorama Social and Emotional Learning survey on a TBD date between September 28 - October 16, 2026. Information regarding the specific date will be sent home when it is decided.
The survey prompts students to reflect on their own actions and thoughts as well as their general experience at our school. Survey data will help school staff create a more positive school experience for all students as well as provide specific for support for students in need.
The results from these surveys will be shared with pre-approved adults who work closely with your children in the school. SEL data, alongside academic and attendance information, will allow adults to provide specific and targeted interventions as needed to support students succeeding at school.
The questions that students will answer are research-backed, valid and reliable. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Principal, Pachomius Schmidt or call the SHS or PGS office at 425-385-5100.
Use this simple tool to know when your student should stay home sick and when it is safe for them to attend school.
Please call the Attendance Line 425-385-5105 or access Synergy ParentVue to report your student's absence.
Registration for the World Language Assessment (WLA) is open now through Friday, October 2, 2026.
Students can earn high school world language credits in grades 7—12 if they can fluently write, read, speak, and listen in a language other than English! Click, World Language Assessment to learn more.
Registration closes Friday, October 2. Students register in their school office. The testing fee is $10 and is due at the time of registration. Testing will take place during the school day at their building.
For more information, please contact the SHS Grad Success Coordinator, Sarah Feinberg. You may also visit the World Language Assessment website
