Cherrydale Primary School
Cheetah Newsletter February 25 , 2026
From the Principal
Happy Wednesday Cherrydale Families!
This week, we are proud to celebrate Public Schools Week and the incredible community that makes our school such a special place to learn and grow.
We are especially excited to share the strong growth we are seeing in both literacy and math from our fall to winter diagnostic assessments. Our students are making meaningful progress, and that growth reflects their hard work, perseverance, and commitment to learning each day.
This success would not be possible without our outstanding teachers and paraeducators, who bring dedication, expertise, and heart to their work. They create engaging classrooms, build strong relationships with students, and provide the support needed for every learner to thrive.
We also want to extend our sincere appreciation to our families. Your continued support, encouragement at home, and partnership with our school make a tremendous difference. Together, we are building a strong foundation for our students’ success.
Thank you for being such an important part of our school community — this week and every week!
Warm Regards,
Christine Firth, Principal
February:
2/23-2/27 - Fire Department Visits
March:
3/4 - ACE Day (early release 2:35)
3/10 - Spring Picture Day
3/11 - ACE Day (early release 2:35)
3/14 - PTA Lakewood Bookstore Takeover
Around the School
Team USA Athlete & Olympic Strength Coach Visit Cherrydale
Last week, Ms. Lyons’ class was excited to welcome special guests, Amanda Bird and Jason Hartman!
Amanda was a member of the USA Skeleton National Team from 1998–2006, competing in the fast-paced winter sport of skeleton. During her career, she earned many honors, including being named the 1999 U.S. Bobsled Push Champion, receiving the 2002 Rookie of the Year award, and winning a silver medal at the 2003 U.S. Junior National competition. She is also a four-time Empire State Games gold medalist. Amanda later served as Director of Marketing and Communications for USA Bobsled/Skeleton from 2007–2022 and had the opportunity to work at four Winter Olympic Games.
Jason served as a strength coach at the Olympic Training Center in Lake Placid, NY. In 2014, he received the Order of Ikkos medal. The Order of Ikkos gives podium athletes the opportunity to recognize coaches who have supported their journey to the Games. This medal was presented to Jason by Olympic silver medalist Steve Langton, who won silver in the four-man bobsled event at the 2014 Olympics.
Students were especially excited when Amanda brought her racing suits and sled to share with the class. They loved asking questions and learning about aerodynamics, g-forces, and the science (and thrill) behind the sliding sports.
Thank you, Amanda and Jason, for inspiring us to believe in ourselves and never give up!
From the Office
Spring Picture Day March 10th
This is a reminder that Class Picture Day is coming up on March 10th with Class Act Portraits.
Picture Day is a time-honored tradition for our school. Every student will be photographed in a group with their classmates.
If you would also like an individual Spring picture, please return the paper flyer that was sent home with your student or scan the QR code to respond online. There is no purchase required – you can view your student’s individual pictures first and then decide if you like them!
Remember to Dress Your Best and Bring Your Smile!
Health & Attendance
All planned absences should be reported to the office. Please submit the Planned Absence Request form at least one week prior to the first day of the absence. This advance notice allows teachers adequate time to prepare assignments and materials so your student can stay on track while away.
Cherrydale office phone: 253.983.2500
Cherrydale office email: cherrydaleoffice@steilacoom.k12.wa.us
Cherrydale PSQ: Cherrydale Office / Attendance Secretary
Feb & March at a Glance
Lakewood Bookstore Takeover 3/14
Volunteer 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 clearance 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
February'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!
Community Events
Pi Day At The Science Dome 3/14
Shamrock Run & Walk 3/15
Puzzle Competition 3/21
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