Superintendent Brower Newsletter

Staff Training & Professional Growth

Our staff is leading the way with new tools and training designed to inspire students:

• Teachers received hands-on training with Interactive Panel Boards, now installed across the district and explored ways to responsibly integrate technology through School AI.

• Paraeducators deepened their skills in Positive Behavior Supports, helping us meet students’ academic and social needs.

• Bus drivers completed their in-service training and are ready for another safe, successful year. Remarkably, our transportation team has maintained 18 consecutive months without a single canceled route—that’s 100% commitment to our students and families.

• CCA Teachers were trained in August on new environmental education teaching practices. CCA is officially launching Year 1 of its nature-based program following a successful pilot year. This program takes learning outdoors as much as possible, giving students opportunities to explore, discover, and grow through meaningful experiences in the natural world while deepening their connection to the local environment. We are grateful for the school board’s support as we embraced this new approach.

Safety & Community Partnerships

At our Welcome Back Day, we were honored by the Kids Heart Challenge and the American Heart Association, with a generous $25,000 investment from Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital. This gift will:

• Replace AEDs and provide CPR/AED certifications,

• Supply 10 CPR training kits (including 100 mannequins) for hands-only CPR training, and

• Support the development of a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan.

These resources ensure our schools, staff, and students are better prepared in the event of an emergency.

Summer Successes

This summer, 52 elementary students participated in tutoring that blended academic support with social-emotional growth. Thanks to our staff and generous donors, these students entered the new school year with additional academic skills, confidence and momentum.

School Board Focus

At their annual retreat, our School Board directors reviewed the district’s strategic plan and adopted goals for 2025–2026:

• Goal 1: Academic Excellence – Clearly communicate expectations and celebrate multiple measures of student success.

• Goal 2: Preparation for Life – Provide pathways for career exploration and skill development to prepare students for the future.

These goals align with our mission: Eatonville schools inspire lifelong learners by providing opportunities for growth and academic achievement in a respectful and caring environment.

Celebrating Student Growth

Our focus on academic achievement and attendance last year yielded impressive results. For example, science proficiency rose from 48% to 67% in 5th grade, and from 34% to 54% in 11th grade. Our English Language Arts (ELA) progress was likewise impressive! I want to thank our students and parents for supporting our efforts to improve attendance, contributing to our remarkable academic success. These gains highlight the power of high expectations paired with strong support. This year, we will build on those successes while adding a stronger emphasis on math.

Looking Ahead

As we begin this school year, I am filled with pride for all we’ve accomplished together and excitement for what lies ahead. Whether through the dedication of our staff, the leadership of our board, the support of our families, or the partnerships of our community, Eatonville continues to demonstrate what it means to be Eatonville Strong.

Thank you for your trust, your support, and your belief in our students. Together, we are building a future rooted in excellence and community strength.

With gratitude,

Jay Brower
Superintendent
Eatonville School District

As Superintendent Brower mentioned, the Eatonville School District Board of Directors has identified two key goals to guide our work and support student success.

These goals reflect our ongoing mission of Excellence in Every Classroom, Every Building, Everywhere.

Our School Board Directors and Superintendent Brower gathered in Ashford at the Mount Rainier Administrative Building for the annual School Board Retreat.

They dedicated the day to important initiatives, planning for the upcoming school year, revisiting the district’s strategic plan, and realigning their focus on the School Board goals for the 2025-2026 school year.

With a renewed sense of purpose and teamwork, they are ready for a great school year ahead!

Our amazing bus drivers are already hard at work! They have had several days of in-service, receiving the training and support they need to keep our students safe on the road every day. Their dedication is second to none and it shows!

Over the last 18 months, we’ve had ZERO canceled routes. That’s 100% commitment to getting our students where they need to be, on time, every time.

Thank you to our transportation team for going the extra mile, literally!

Eatonville Middle School staff and student leaders proudly welcomed our incoming 6th graders at Warrior Camp in August. It was a fantastic turnout with 97 of our 127 future Warriors in attendance!

Students spent the day learning what it means to be a Warrior and the importance of PRIDE Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Discipline, and Excellence. Working together in groups, they created posters representing these values, which will soon be displayed in the hallways to inspire all students on the first day of school.

The day also included learning lunch expectations, enjoying snacks, and tackling the ever-important challenge of mastering locker combinations. To wrap up, students gathered in the gym for a Q&A session, followed by a fun pep assembly dance lesson led by Leadership students.

It was a day filled with energy, teamwork, and Warrior spirit. We cannot wait to welcome our 6th graders back for Open House and the first day of school!

Columbia Crest Academy’s very own 5th grade teacher, Mr. Antonson has been named the Ohop Grange Teacher of the Year, nominated by his students for challenging them academically while building strong connections and providing exemplary teaching.

We are so proud of you, Mr. Antonson!

On August 26 and 27, over 250 dedicated teachers, paraeducators, administrators, and leaders from every school and department in our district came together for two days of professional learning and collaboration. Educators explored a variety of topics including how to use their new interactive panel boards, PBIS, Panorama, iReady, and the new High School and Beyond Plan system. By investing in our educators’ growth, we are committed to creating the best learning environment possible for our students. After all, when we learn and grow, our students do too!

My name is Betsy Bamford, and I’ve been proud to call the Eatonville area home for over 23 years. For the past 8 years, my family and I have lived on a small farm tucked between Elbe and Mineral. We love the peace of the countryside, the open hay fields, and the space it gives us to care for our four-legged and feathered friends. Life on the farm fits us well—we’re a family that thrives in the outdoors.

Dan and I have been married for 24 years, and he has spent the last 30 of them serving as a professional firefighter in Pierce County. Together, we’ve raised two wonderful children who have grown up right here in the community. Our daughter Grace, now almost 22, graduated from Eatonville High School in 2022 and recently earned her Bachelor of Science degree in ecology. Our son Cole is almost 19, he graduated from Eatonville High School last year, he has plans to follow in his dad’s footsteps and become a firefighter.

From the very beginning, our family has been deeply involved in Eatonville’s schools and community. When Grace started kindergarten, I was a stay-at-home mom and jumped in to volunteer wherever I was needed. One of my favorite places to help was the outdoor education program at Weyerhaeuser Elementary with Mr. A. It wasn’t long before I was jokingly told I should just work there—and so I did! In 2011, I began subbing in a variety of roles: office, custodian, assistant cook—you name it. It was in the kitchen, though, that I found my path. I was hired as an assistant cook at Eatonville Middle School in 2013 and later became the Head Cook at Eatonville High School in 2019, where I continue to serve today.

I’m a strong believer in the power of nutritious food and the difference it can make in a child’s day. My own journey with food allergies, sensitivities, and autoimmune issues has inspired me to focus on wholesome, healthy meals—food that not only tastes good but fuels growing bodies and minds. I’m committed to sourcing ingredients locally whenever I can and making gradual changes that prioritize health, balance, and flavor in the school kitchen.

Whether I’m hiking with our three labs—our black lab, chocolate lab, and our granddog Duke—or gardening in the sunshine, I’m most at home outdoors. That love for the natural world carries over into everything I do, from how I cook to how I live. I’m excited for what’s ahead and grateful for the chance to serve the families of Eatonville. I can’t wait to keep feeding your kids and helping them grow strong, happy, and healthy.

Welcome back to a new school year! We hope you have had a restful and enjoyable summer. On behalf of the entire Teaching, Learning and Technology Department, I want to express our excitement for the year ahead and our unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience for every student in our district.

The past year was a testament to our community's dedication to learning. As we saw positive increases in student proficiency in Science and ELA Smarter Balance Assessment scores. As we begin the 2025-2026 school year, we will continue to focus on building upon student success by fostering a rigorous and engaging learning environment for all. We look forward to partnering with you to make this a productive and successful year for our students.

Please reach out if you have any questions at email s.keeley@eatonville.wednet.edu Sally Keeley Ex. Director.

This Year's Academic Spotlight: Preparing Students for the Future

Our Focus for the Year: Key Instructional Priorities

As we embark on a new academic year, we are excited to share our key instructional priorities aimed at enhancing student learning and success.

1. Differentiated, Responsive Math Instruction: We are committed to providing tailored math instruction that meets the diverse needs of all learners. Our goal is to increase student proficiency by ensuring that every student receives the support they need to thrive.

2. Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS): This year, Eatonville will be developing a District MTSS team dedicated to improving student engagement and achievement. Our Building Leadership Team, along with teacher teams (Professional Learning Communities), will closely monitor and implement evidence-based instructional strategies to effectively close learning gaps.

Igniting Innovation: Diving into New Technologies during August Training days!

Our staff participated in Professional Learning Days that focused on essential skills for educators, ensuring they were well-equipped for the new school year. Newline Interactive boards will be new in our classrooms this year. This technology will inspire students to actively engage in learning with the Newline high-performance interactive display solution with seamless integration with Google Apps will enhance instruction by providing easy access to Google Classroom, Google Drive, and other Google applications. Here are just a few of of the interactive board assets for teaching and engaging students Interactive board intro.

Basic Board Functions: Educators will learn to navigate the home screen, switch between various input sources (such as connected laptops), and adjust display settings to maximize the use of technology in their classrooms.

Newline Whiteboard: Hands-on experience was provided with the interactive whiteboard. Teachers learned basic controls, page navigation, and the use of various pen and eraser tools to enhance their teaching methods.

Classroom Management Tools: Teachers utilizing tools that improve classroom activities and student engagement. This includes features such as timers, traffic light signals, and spotlight tools for effective classroom management.

Content Creation: Educators learned how to import existing educational materials, including PDFs and slides, and enhance them with annotations and interactive elements to create more engaging lessons.

Engage Cloud Platform: The training covered the features of Newline’s cloud-based whiteboard, designed to support in-person and remote learning environments. Key capabilities were explored to assist educators in utilizing the board to engage students.

Additional Platform training included:

SchoolLinks: This platform provides valuable insights and resources for career readiness and skill development, allowing educators to better prepare students for their future pathways. High school staff engaged in the new high school and beyond system.

Panorama Education: Focused on improving student outcomes, Panorama offers tools for gathering feedback and data to enhance teaching practices and student engagement. Our elementary staff learned more about whole child data and MTSS.

iReady Training:
During the training, educators engaged in an in-depth exploration of the iReady platform, emphasizing its role in intervention and standards mastery. Middle school teachers learned how to utilize iReady’s diagnostic assessments to identify individual student needs and tailor interventions accordingly. The training highlighted strategies for leveraging personalized learning pathways and standards mastery assessments to support student growth and mastery of key standards, ultimately enhancing academic outcomes for all learners.

These Professional Learning Days are designed to empower educators with the skills and tools necessary to foster an engaging and effective learning environment for all students.

Parent Reminder: Use of Technology and SchoolAI require the One and Done Opt in form to be completed by parents. If you have any questions please contact your building principal.

Welcome back to a new school year! The Student Services Department is excited to partner with you as we begin another year of growth, learning, and collaboration. Our team is committed to supporting the academic, social-emotional, and behavioral success of every student in our district.

Programs We Support:

• Special Education

• Developmentally Delayed Early Childhood Program & Child Find

• Multilingual and Native Education

• Highly Capable Program

• Section 504 & ADA Coordination

• Civil Rights and HIB (Harassment, Intimidation & Bullying) Compliance

• Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordination

• Title IX Coordination

• Social-Emotional Learning, Mental Health, Counseling, and Behavior Supports

• School Safety

• Nursing

• McKinney-Vento & Foster Care

• Attendance

• Discipline

Dracy McCoy – Executive Director of Student Services
200 Lynch St. W. / PO Box 698, Eatonville, WA 98328
Phone: (360) 641-1809 | Email: d.mccoy@eatonville.wednet.edu

Tonya Roebuck – Special Services Executive Assistant
200 Lynch St. W. / PO Box 698, Eatonville, WA 98328
Phone: (360) 641-1807 | Email: t.roebuck@eatonville.wednet.edu

We are here to answer questions, provide resources, and ensure that every student feels valued and supported. Please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Here’s to a successful and inspiring school year ahead!

While returning to school can be exciting for many students, it can also be a nerve-wracking time for others. Below is a resource for families to build strategies to manage anxiety while attending school.

• Is your child missing school due to anxiety? (Attendance Works)

If you have questions and/or need supports, please contact Student Services at (360)641-1809. We are here to help!

The Eatonville School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, disability, or age in its program or activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The Eatonville School District offers classes in many career and technical education program areas: Agriculture, Business Education, Skilled and Technical Education, Arts, STEM and Health Science under its open admissions policy. For more information about CTE course offerings and admissions criteria, contact Kelly Powell, CTE Director at k.powell@eatonville.wednet.edu. Lack of English language proficiency will not be a barrier to admission and participation in career and technical education programs. The following people have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Dracy Mccoy Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator 200 Lynch St. W./PO Box 698 Eatonville, WA 98328 (360)641-1809

The Eatonville School District values multilingualism and views the cultural and linguistic diversity of our students as an asset that makes each classroom, school, and the whole district stronger, more innovative and better prepared for a global society. Our staff is committed to providing high quality education programs designed to ensure students from all backgrounds are served in an equitable and inclusive environment.

In Washington state, the qualification process for the ML program begins when a parent or guardian enrolls their child and completes a Home Language Survey. If the returned survey indicates that a language other than English was the first language learned or is currently used by the student, then his/her English language proficiency must be assessed. The WIDA (World Class Instructional Design and Assessment) is the language proficiency test used in Washington schools. This assessment measures a student’s English language knowledge and skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The WIDA language screener is used to determine initial eligibility for the ML program. Continued eligibility is based on the annual WIDA ACCESS summative assessment. For additional information regarding the WIDA ACCESS please visit the website at https://wida.wisc.edu/

Under state and federal law, all parents have the right to information about their child’s education in a language they can understand.

Title IV Regulations | Chapter 28A.642 RCW | Chapter 392-190 WAC

For requests to speak with a school staff member regarding interpretation/translation services, please contact:

Tonya Roebuck

Special Services Executive Assistant

200 Lynch St. W./PO Box 698

Eatonville, WA 98328

(360)641-1807

t.roebuck@eatonville.wednet.edu

At Eatonville School District, we believe every student deserves a safe and respectful learning environment. Our discipline approach focuses on teaching expectations, reinforcing positive behavior, and supporting students in making responsible choices.

We use strategies such as Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), restorative practices, and individualized supports to help students learn from mistakes and grow. Families are encouraged to review the student handbook for information about behavior expectations, attendance, and safety policies. Serious concerns, such as bullying, harassment, or threats, are addressed promptly and in accordance with district policy and state law.

Tips for a Successful School Year

• Review school expectations together. Take a few minutes to look over the student handbook or code of conduct as a family.

• Focus on attendance. Being at school every day and on time builds strong habits.

• Talk about respect and safety. Encourage your child to treat others with kindness and report any concerns.

• Communicate early. Reach out to teachers or Student Services if questions or challenges arise.

• Celebrate positive choices. Recognize and praise responsible behavior and effort.
  
  

We are here to answer questions, provide resources, and ensure that every student feels valued and supported. Here’s to a safe, successful, and inspiring school year!

Our Eatonville High School Life Skills students recently had the opportunity to visit Take the Wheel Driving School in Eatonville, where they explored the importance of driver safety, learned basic vehicle maintenance skills, and discussed responsible driving habits.

A special thank you goes to owners Luis and Tracy Marin for opening their doors to our students and creating such a supportive, hands-on learning experience. Their commitment to helping young drivers succeed made this trip both fun and educational.

This year at Eatonville School District, we’re embracing the theme: Strive for 5—aiming for every student to be at school all 5 days each week. Because when students attend consistently, they don’t just keep up—they thrive.

Regular attendance helps students build academic skills, form strong relationships with peers and staff, and develop positive habits that set them up for lifelong success. Your child’s presence each day matters, and together, we can make every moment count.

We’re committed to providing a supportive and engaging environment—and with your partnership, we can help every student Strive for 5 and stay on the path to success!

September 11, 2025 marks 24 years since the tragic events of September 11, 2001. As we pause to remember, we honor the lives lost and extend our thoughts to the families and communities forever impacted by that day. Let us come together in reflection, unity, and hope for a peaceful future.

We invite you to come together as a community on Saturday, September 13, 2025, for Eatonville’s 9/11 Day of Service & Remembrance—a day to celebrate, unite, and serve. This year’s event holds special significance as we mark the 100th anniversary of Officer Dolar LaPlant’s passing, Eatonville Police Department’s only fallen officer. We will gather to honor his sacrifice, recognize the service of all first responders, and then roll up our sleeves to serve our town together.

Event Schedule:
Eatonville High School Flagpole
9:00 AM – Ceremony of Remembrance
In partnership with the South Pierce County Historical Society and local first responders.

Service Projects Across Eatonville
Immediately following the ceremony, volunteers will join service teams to support projects that strengthen and beautify our community.

Volunteer Appreciation BBQ Lunch
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM

Methodist Church, 185 Mashell Ave N, Eatonville, WA 98328

Enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch sponsored by R&B Barbecue as our way of thanking all volunteers.

This is a day for the entire community—individuals, families, churches, businesses, and organizations—to stand united in remembrance and hope. Whether you join us for the ceremony, lend a hand on a service project, or share a meal at the luncheon, your presence will make a difference.

Let’s come together to honor the past and invest in the future of Eatonville. We hope to see you there!

Every September 17, we celebrate the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787—a foundational moment in our nation’s history. The Constitution not only outlines our rights and freedoms, but also serves as a guiding framework for democracy, justice, and equality.

In our schools, we take pride in educating our students about the principles that have shaped our country. From classroom lessons to discussions on civic responsibility, today is a great reminder of the importance of being informed, engaged citizens.

Let’s honor this day by reflecting on the values that unite us as a community and a nation.

Did you know that completing the Free and Reduced Lunch application not only supports your child but also benefits our entire school community?

Complete the application online today using a computer only (cell phones are not compatible) through Skyward Family Access if you meet the income requirements below. Or request a paper copy at your child’s school.

USDA Child Nutrition Program Income Guidelines

Effective July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026

Families may qualify for free or reduced-price meals if their household income is at or below the amounts listed:

• Household of 1: $28,953 per year ($2,413 per month)
• Household of 2: $39,128 per year ($3,261 per month)
• Household of 3: $49,303 per year ($4,109 per month)
• Household of 4: $59,478 per year ($4,957 per month)
• Household of 5: $69,653 per year ($5,805 per month)
• Household of 6: $79,828 per year ($6,653 per month)
• Household of 7: $90,003 per year ($7,501 per month)
• Household of 8: $100,178 per year ($8,349 per month)
• For each additional family member, add $10,175 per year (about $848 per month).

At the Eatonville School District Staff Welcome Back Day, we were honored to celebrate four remarkable individuals for their outstanding contributions to our district and community.

Congratulations to this year’s Award of Distinction recipients:

• Dr. Hugh William “Bill” Butler (Class of 1956)

• Dr. Gloria Lowe (Class of 1998)

• Harrison Christian (Class of 1958)

• Ronald Gay Curtis (Class of 1968)

These awards celebrate their exceptional achievements, service, and the lasting positive impact they have made on others. Whether through professional excellence, humanitarian service, community investment, or ultimate sacrifice, each honoree serves as an inspiring role model for our students and a testament to the values we hold dear.

Originally created in 2010 and recently revived, the Award of Distinction honors the accomplishments of Eatonville graduates and serves as an inspiration for current students.

In addition to these honorees, we also paid tribute to nine Eatonville graduates who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II.

Special thanks to The Williams, Fountains, Nordstroms, and other members of the committee for bringing this award back to life. Your dedication ensures that the legacy of our graduates continues to inspire future generations.

Let’s give Dr. Butler, Dr. Lowe, Harrison, and Ronald a round of applause for their well-deserved recognition! 👏🎉

From September 15 to October 15 we join communities across the nation in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. This is a time to honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. The month-long observance recognizes the rich traditions, vibrant stories, and enduring influence of people whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. We invite our students, staff, and families to take part in activities and learning opportunities that highlight and celebrate this important part of our nation’s heritage.

Below are the prices for the 2025-2026 season:

ADMISSION PRICES

• Adults: $7.00
• Children (5-12): $3.00
• Seniors (62+): $3.00
• Active Duty Military (w/ID): $5.00
• Children Under 5: FREE

• Students (No ASB): $7.00
• Students (w/ ASB): FREE

We were incredibly fortunate to enjoy a delicious meal provided by Kumar from Karama Indian Restaurant. His generous donation was just what our teachers needed to recharge and continue their learning with full hearts (and stomachs!) on August 27. Kumar’s kindness and generosity are deeply appreciated, and we are so grateful to have such a wonderful community partner.

On August 26, ESD staff gathered on the front lawn of Eatonville High School for our annual district-wide staff photo. This year, our theme is Strong Roots. Stronger Community and what better way to capture it than standing together inside the shape of a tree!

Everyone wore matching blue t-shirts generously donated by our partners at TwinStar Credit Union. A huge thank you to them for their continued support of our schools and staff.

Photo credit: Erik Swartout, using his drone to capture this moment.

Special thanks to Mr. Moeller for coordinating the staff line up and Principal Birklid for creating the tree outline.

Congratulations to our incredible Eatonville School District staff who are being recognized for their years of dedicated service! Your commitment to students, families, and our community is what makes ESD such a special place.

35 Years of Service

Kathy Bloom (EHS)

30 Years of Service

Cathy Kerr (EHS)

25 Years of Service

Erik Danielson (EMS)

Tonya Fuhrman (EMS)

Shannon Hirska (EHS)

20 Years of Service

Carolyn Cameron (District)

Deann Zachary (EHS)

Jennifer Carey (WES)

Bonnie McNicol (Administration)

15 Years of Service

Jean David (EES)

Michael Lasher (EHS)

Melanie Rodewald (EHS)

Jennifer Root (WES)

Allison Burslem (Administration)

10 Years of Service

Amber Brandt (CCA)

Heidi Mulcahey (District)

Kari Agnew (District)

Jana McIlraith (EES)

Jenny Wyrick (EES)

Matt Wyrick (EES)

Lisa Wolfe (EHS)

Rita Adams (EMS)

Anne Hatler (WES)

Karrie Sepich (WES)

Lindsay Fitzer (Administration)

5 Years of Service

Catherine Golden (EES)

Caitlyn Stinson Diess (EES)

Bonnie Thomas (EHS)

Jennifer Brand (WES)

Mary Simons (WES)

Michael Laughlin (WES)

We are so grateful for the passion, talent, and care you bring every day. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of our students and inspiring excellence across our district!

Superintendent: Mr. Jay Brower

Executive Assistant: Mrs. Cassie Froud

District Office Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Email: communications@eatonvilleschools.org

Website: https://www.eatonville.wednet.edu
Location: 200 Lynch Street West, Eatonville, WA, USA
Phone: 360-879-1000
Facebook: facebook.com/eatonville.school.district
Twitter: @EatonvilleSD

Eatonville School District #404 does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.

• Title IX Coordinator, Section 504/ADA Coordinator & Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator: Dracy McCoy, Executive Student Services. Email: d.mccoy@eatonville.wednet.edu Address: 200 Lynch St. W., Eatonville, WA 98328; Telephone: 360-879-1000
• Title IX inquiries may also be directed toward the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR).
• Information about the nondiscrimination and sex-based discrimination policies and grievance procedures, and how to report a concern or complaint, linked here.