Positively Pasco: Issue #187
February 5, 2024
Participate in the Online High School Boundary Survey
We're thrilled to share that our Online High School Boundary Survey is now open, and we're eager to hear your thoughts! Your input is a vital part of shaping the future of our high school boundaries.
What to Expect:
Different Scenarios: Explore various high school boundary scenarios designed for your review.
Interactive Feedback: The online platform allows you to examine each scenario and provide comments on the strengths and challenges you observe.
Available in Multiple Languages: The survey is accessible in English, Spanish, and Russian.
Open Until February 13:
This survey will be available for your input until February 13.
Feedback Cycles:
Your valuable insights will drive the process. After gathering initial feedback from both the online survey and in-person sessions, we'll incorporate changes and present new versions of the scenarios. We plan to have at least three cycles of feedback, with updated scenarios being available for feedback on February 28 and March 28.
Your Participation Matters:
By participating in this survey, you play a crucial role in the collaborative development of our high school boundaries. If you would like to participate in an in-person feedback opportunity, please view our full schedule on our Boundaries webpage.
Thank you for being an active participant in this important initiative.
Discover Delta: Family Information Sessions for 8th Graders
Attention families with 8th graders interested in learning more about Delta High School! We encourage you to attend a Family Information Session.
When: February 7 and 8 at 6:30 - 8 pm (families only need to attend one session)
Where: Delta High School, 5801 Broadmoor Blvd., Pasco
These sessions will feature a presentation about Delta High School's STEM-focused education, collaborative learning environment, industry-grade projects, and how Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics are woven into every subject.
After the presentation, Delta Student Ambassadors will be available to lead school tours, providing you with a firsthand look at their unique educational offerings. Additionally, computers will be available for families who wish to fill out an application. The application deadline for Delta High School is February 12th at 3 pm.
Visit Delta's website for more information or to apply.
For more information, contact Community Engagement Manager Heather Hoppe at 509-416-7860, ext. 5927.
Scholarship Opportunity for Seniors
The League of Women Voters of Benton and Franklin Counties is delighted to announce the availability of two $2,000 scholarships for students graduating from public high schools in Benton and Franklin Counties.
Eligibility Criteria:
Students must be graduating in the Spring of 2024 from a public high school in Benton or Franklin Counties, WA.
To apply, students need to submit an essay of 500 words or less, addressing the theme: "What it Means to You to Be an Informed Voter."
Submit an application online.
For more information, please contact the League of Women Voters.
PEAK! Partner Spotlight: Pasco Kiwanis
In this edition, we're thrilled to highlight Pasco Kiwanis, a dedicated PEAK! Partner making a significant impact at Frost Elementary School. Pasco Kiwanis collaborates with Frost Elementary in various ways, primarily through their involvement in the K-Kids Club and the initiation of the "Read to Me-Lee Conmigo" reading program.
In the "Read to Me-Lee Conmigo" program, Kiwanis members devote their time to reading to 1st and 2nd-grade students twice a week for an hour. The commitment doesn't stop there—students who complete their reading hours by the end of the month earn the chance to take a book home as a well-deserved prize.
Pasco Kiwanis exemplifies the essence of community engagement and literacy promotion within our schools. Their proactive involvement reflects the spirit of PEAK!, fostering partnerships that directly benefit Pasco students.
What is PEAK!?
Partners in Educating All Kids (PEAK!) is a distinctive business-to-school partnership program that formalizes collaborations between businesses, organizations, and Pasco schools. This program is designed to bring together resources, support, and expertise from the community to create enriching opportunities for Pasco students.
Learn more about PSD’s PEAK! Program.
Celebrating National School Counseling Week
National School Counseling Week is February 5 - 9, a time for us to recognize the tremendous impact school counselors have in guiding students toward academic achievement, social and emotional growth, and career and college planning. They work with students, families, staff, and the community to create a culture where all students can realize their full potential.
Thank you to all of our PSD school counselors for the care you extend every day to help Pasco students succeed. While we take this week to acknowledge our counselors, we appreciate and honor them every day!
School counselors will be recognized during our February 27 board meeting.
Cesar E. Chavez and Dolores Huerta Poster Contest
The League of Latin American Citizens Tri-Cities Council (LULAC) invites students to participate in the 2024 Cesar E. Chavez & Dolores Huerta drawing Poster Contest. All entry forms with artwork must be submitted before April 12.Winners will be honored on Saturday, April 24, 2024, at Columbia Basin College's Gjerde Center at 6 pm.
The guidelines and entry form information can be found on the LULAC page.
For more information, contact Gabriel Portugal at 509-420-0596.
Ochoa Middle School and Livingston Elementary Teams Triumph in First Lego League Qualifiers, Earn Spots in State Championship
In a field of 30 teams at the largest First Lego League qualifier in Tri-Cities, two exceptional Pasco teams rose to the top. LivBots, comprising 14 fourth and fifth graders from Livingston Elementary, and Rockets, a team of 6 sixth graders from Ochoa Middle School, secured their positions in the State Championship at Eastern Washington University.
The December qualifiers witnessed intense competition, with over 130 Pasco students participating. Despite the challenges, the LivBots and Rockets not only secured their spots in the State Championship but also earned specialized awards. The Livingston LivBots were named as Robot Design Awards Finalist for their outstanding knowledge and design of their robot and the Ochoa Rockets were honored with the Breakthrough Award.
These remarkable achievements are a testament to the dedication and hard work of the teams, guided by their coaches Bethany Olson and Paul Fraser. Congratulations to the LivBots and Rockets for their well-deserved success, and best of luck in the upcoming State Championship.
Stevens Middle School Students Organize Pet Supply Donation Drive
The National Junior Honor Society at Stevens Middle School is hosting a pet supply drive for the Tri-Cities Animal Shelter. They are specifically seeking cat and kitten toys, along with small to medium bags of pet food. You can drop off your donations at Stevens Middle School, located at 1120 N 22nd Ave., Pasco. Students will be collecting donations until February 14. Your support is greatly appreciated
For more information, contact Briseida Rios, Laura Delgado, or Elizabeth Rios-Morales.
Davina Ward-Pink Named PSD Crystal Apple Award Winner
We are pleased to announce Davina Ward-Pink, Markham Elementary Instructional Coach, is this year’s Crystal Apple Award winner.
Davina stands as a true testament to passion, dedication, and hard work. Her unique enthusiasm and versatility have inspired numerous children to reach their highest potential, both within the school and throughout our community.
Boasting a diverse teaching background spanning various grade levels and subjects, including technology, art, bilingual education, and as a Highly Capable teacher, Davina has undoubtedly left a mark on the lives of countless students.
Davina will be celebrated at the ESD 123’s annual event and reception on March 7. As part of this prestigious recognition, she will be presented with a $1,000 check, a crystal apple, and a certificate.
A special thank you to Gesa Credit Union for their generous support and for providing Davina with a $100 gift card. Your continued dedication to Pasco schools is truly appreciated.
Let's come together to celebrate Davina and her outstanding contributions to education!
You're Invited to a Community Input Open House for High School Boundaries
Exciting times are ahead as we embark on the journey of building two new high schools, a significant step to address the challenge of overcrowding within our district. Your support in the recent bond approval has paved the way for these crucial developments.
Now, as we enter the next phase of this exciting project, we are eager to involve our community in shaping the future. The process of establishing new boundaries for our three comprehensive high schools is underway, and your valuable input is at the heart of this endeavor.
We invite you to participate in our community engagement events where you can share your thoughts on draft boundary proposals.
Save the Dates:
- February 5, 5:00 – 6:30 pm: Ochoa Middle School
February 13, 5:00 – 6:30 pm: Ray Reynolds Middle School
February 13, 6:30 – 8:00 pm: Chiawana High School
March 5, 5:30 – 7:00 pm: McLoughlin Middle School
March 21, 5:30 – 7:00 pm: Pasco High School
View more details on our New High School Boundary Process webpage.
Discover Running Start Opportunities for Chiawana Sophomores and Juniors
Attention parents of Chiawana High School sophomores and juniors! If your student currently holds sophomore or junior credit status, they have the chance to explore the Running Start Programs available through Columbia Basin College and Washington State University Tri-Cities. Running Start allows qualified students to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously.
Join us for an informative presentation where you can gain insights into the program details, family costs, and eligibility requirements.
Event Details:
When: Tuesday, February 13, 2024, 6 – 7 pm
Where: Chiawana High School Auditorium, 8125 W. Argent Rd.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn about Running Start and how it can benefit your academic journey. We look forward to seeing you there!
For more information, contact Claudia Madrigal.
STCU Hosting FAFSA Events
STCU is collaborating with local high school and College Career Readiness/Guidance Counselors, Launch NW, and the College Success Foundation to offer free assistance to families in completing the FAFSA form. This support is available to any family with a student considering the next steps after high school graduation, even if they are uncertain about pursuing higher education.
You don't need to be a STCU member to attend, and no registration is required. Although bringing a laptop with Wi-Fi capability is optional, it is recommended. Additionally, we strongly advise creating your Federal Student Aid ID beforehand to streamline the process, although it is not mandatory.
When: Thursday, February 8, and Tuesday, February 27, 5:30-7:30 pm
Where: STCU Pasco Branch: 5677 N Rd 68
Attendance is open to everyone, and STCU membership is not a prerequisite. No registration is necessary.
View more details on the STCU FAFSA assistance webpage.
Chiawana High School Jazz Choir/Band Presents: 'Dancing in the Street' Motown Show
Get ready to groove and swing to the soulful rhythms of Motown "Dancing in the Street" as Chiawana High School Jazz Choir and Jazz Band take the stage for a mesmerizing performance that will transport you back to the golden era of soul music! We are thrilled to invite you to an unforgettable evening of music and celebration.
Event Details:
When: Friday, February 9 and Saturday, February 10, 7 pm
Where: Chiawana High School Auditorium
Ticket Information:
General Admission Adult $10
K-12 Student Admission $7
Purchase Motown Tickets here.
For more information, contact JoLyn Glenn
Volunteer Opportunities Available: Mock Interviews and Career Day Speaker
We are seeking community volunteers to participate in mock interviews with students at Pasco High School and guest speakers for Career Day at Chiawana High School. Volunteers will be part of four sessions, each involving an interview with one student. Your participation will greatly contribute to preparing the next generation for the workforce.
Chiawana High School Career Day Guest Speaker
When: Monday, February 12, 8:30 – 9:40 am
Sign-Up for Career Day Guest Speaker
For more information, contact Ana Tuiaea-Ruud.
Pasco High School Mock Interviews
When: Friday, February 23, 8:30 - 10:30 am
Sign-Up for Pasco High Mock Interviews
For more information, contact Maria Zaragoza.
Upcoming 9th Grade Information Nights
Join PSD to learn essential details about your student's transition to high school, covering crucial topics such as graduation requirements, PowerSchool access, and more.
Chiawana High School Information Night:
When: Tuesday, February 20, 2024, 6:00 - 7:30 pm (Doors open at 5:45 pm)
Where: Chiawana High School Gym & Student Mall (Enter through CHS entrance to the Gym)
What: Clubs, Classes, and Sports Fair from 6:30 - 7:30 pm in the Student Mall
Pasco High School Information Night:
When: Thursday, February 22, 2024, 6:00 and 6:30 pm (Doors open at 5:30 pm)
Where: Pasco High School Auditorium (Enter through PHS entrance to the Gyms)
What: Clubs, Classes, and Sports Fair in the Student Mall
Don't miss these informative sessions to ensure a successful transition for your student.
Join Us for VIP Day at the Early Learning Center
You're warmly invited to spend the morning with Pasco students at the Early Learning Center. This is a unique opportunity to actively participate in learning activities, hear about school and building highlights, and get a firsthand experience of what makes Pasco schools such an exciting place to learn.
When: Thursday, March 7, 9 am – 12 pm
Where: Early Learning Center, 1315 N. 7th Ave.
Enjoy a complimentary breakfast and lunch during this FREE event. As spots are limited, please RSVP today to secure your place.
For more information, contact Ana Munguia.
Save the Date for PSD’s Spring Carnival
All PSD employees, students, and families are invited to our reimagined Spring Carnival, formerly known as the Winter Carnival, now happening at the start of Spring! The event will feature PEAK! Partners and non-profit organizations offering giveaways and exciting prizes for the entire family.
Our schools' students will be hosting engaging carnival games and providing entertainment for children and families.
Event Details:
When: Thursday, March 28, 2024, 5:30 – 7:30 pm
Where: Chiawana High School, Student Mall
Admission is free! Additionally, indulge in delicious food options available for purchase from various local vendors at the event. Let's make this Spring Carnival a memorable celebration for everyone!
For more information, contact Ana Munguia.
Free Parent Workshops: for Understanding and Supporting Students with Autism and ADHD
PSD has teamed up with the ARC of Tri-Cities to bring you a series of free parent workshops dedicated to Understanding and Supporting Students with Autism & ADHD. The upcoming session will focus on Inclusion & Inclusionary Practices and Understanding & Supporting Mental Health in Neurodivergent Students.
Event Details:
When: Monday, April 8, 6 - 7:30 pm
Where: Zoom meeting, Meeting ID: 737 702 3071
For more information contact Benton-Franklin Counties Special Education PTA.