December 2023

Superintendent’s Message

Hello Olympia School District families and community,

Patrick Murphy headshot

Over the years, I may have mentioned that I was a “navy brat.” My dad was in the U.S. Navy and we moved around quite a bit throughout my school age years. Our final landing spot was in the Pacific Northwest when my dad took a position at Naval Submarine Base Bangor on the Kitsap Peninsula in the early 1980s. It was near the height of the Cold War as the United States vied with the then Soviet Union for global influence. Then a fascinating thing happened at the end of the decade. The Berlin Wall came down and shortly thereafter the Soviet Union collapsed. It was a time of celebration for many, but it was also a time of uncertainty and wondering about what the world might look like next. The military had to change to adjust to the new geo-political realities and one of the things to be reconsidered was how many military bases were truly necessary.

In 1991, the U.S. Department of Defense recommended closing 31 “major domestic” military bases, including some right here in Washington state. In an April edition of the Seattle Times that year, then Defense Secretary Richard Cheney is quoted, “As a result of changed world circumstances, we are now pursuing a new strategy with respect to U.S. forces.". Cheney later told reporters at a Pentagon news conference that the collapse of the Warsaw Pact, the demise of the Soviet empire and fiscal constraints at home were the reasons for the scaled-down military and requirement for fewer bases. I remember being scared that my dad’s job might be in jeopardy, or they might have to move again. Fortunately for our family, his base was secure and everything worked out okay.

Here in the Olympia School District, we are experiencing a similar time of uncertainty and worry. While our changing dynamics certainly differ from those of the U.S. Department of Defense at the end of the 20th century, our concerns are just as valid, and the anxiousness many are feeling is equally warranted. Lower birth rates, enrollment decline, a changing landscape in education coupled with our own fiscal constraints have been the drivers to our own re-evaluation of our facilities.

The high-water mark for enrollment in the Olympia School District was during the 2019-20 school year, just prior to the pandemic. Since that year, our district is down 723 full-time equivalent students or approximately 6%. The bulk of that decline is at elementary school that accounts for 571 of those fewer students. In fact, elementary enrollment has declined by almost 11% since 2019-20.

This past week, our school board made the incredibly difficult decision to consider Madison and McKenny elementary schools for possible closure/consolidation. There is an article in this newsletter that goes into more specifics of that process, but no final decision has been made. There will be hearings and feedback opportunities over the next couple of months and a final determination should come in March 2024.

This entire process has been wearying and draining for many. Our schools are integral parts of our neighborhoods and communities. Understandably, we’ve heard from so many, heartfeltly imploring district leaders to look for other ways to make up any future fiscal shortfalls. As stated previously, surely we will look for further reductions above the significant cuts made last year, but we still have a declining enrollment problem that must be addressed. We need to do this while ensuring that basic services, programs and supports remain intact for students and families in all schools.

In addition to considering our facilities and further reductions, this is also the time of year when we gear up for the upcoming legislative session to fight for state funding for our district. As one of our board members said at our last meeting, historically we’ve used our local levy as a major funding source to fund a larger share of smaller schools than other districts our size. While declining enrollment is the major driver to our closure/consolidation analysis, the fact that we must use significant portions of our local levy to fund things like special education, exacerbates the problem. Our community has always risen up to make our voice heard in the Capitol, and I fully expect we will do so again this session.

It seems like the world is in a constant state of change compared to when I was in school. Maybe it is just the information age that we are living in and having all the news at our fingertips 24 hours a day. We’ve probably all heard it said that “the only constant is change.” Change can be good. But we also know that change can be scary and unsettling. During times of change, it helps so much to have family and friends and loved ones to support you. I’ve learned throughout my time in Olympia that this community steps up during trying times and supports one another. We will work with our communities to support them. As I stated previously, while I don’t know the final outcome of this process, I do know wherever our kids go to school they will be surrounded by caring classmates, supportive families, and competent and compassionate staff.

I wish you all a joyous, restful holiday season.

Sincerely,

Patrick Murphy Signature
Patrick Murphy

Winter Break schedule

All Olympia School District schools and the Knox 111 Administrative Center will be closed to the public during Winter Break.

Winter Break is from Wednesday, December 20, 2023 through Tuesday, January 2, 2024. School resumes on Wednesday, January 3. School and administrative offices also reopen on January 3.

The Knox Administrative Office will be closed to the public throughout Winter Break. Any deliveries should be made at the lower level of the Knox building, 111 Bethel St. N.E., Olympia on business days (December 20-22 and December 28-29). Please plan ahead and contact staff before the closure if you need assistance.

Olympia High Bears launch girls flag football program

Flag football has become one of the fastest growing sports around and thanks to the Seattle Seahawks, the Olympia High School Bears are a part of the inaugural girls South Puget Sound League (SPSL) season. Flag football has a long tradition on the playground but is just now hitting the big time and women are an instrumental part of that growth.

“Adding girls flag football has been an exciting project to start my AD career here at Olympia. When it was first brought to my attention by the Seahawks and the SPSL I was quick to add it to my agenda of things I wanted to make happen at OHS. The sport of football has always lacked in offering opportunities for girls to play and this was a great way to see how much interest there was. Thanks to the Seattle Seahawks we had an opportunity to make it possible,” shared OHS Athletic Director Mark Iddins.

The Seattle Seahawks announced that there would be $117,000 in grant funding available to support the launch of girls flag football teams at high schools across the region. The grant funding is courtesy of the Seahawks and the Seattle Seahawks Charitable Foundation. Support for the grants were made possible thanks to a generous donation from the Cowlitz Tribal Foundation. Participating schools each received a flag football equipment kit from USA Football, as well as uniforms courtesy of Nike. Since the initial launch in 2021 there have been 64 high schools statewide that have started girls flag football programs.

“The Seahawks are proud to provide new, equitable opportunities for youth in our region to play the game of football,” said Mario Bailey, Seattle Seahawks Vice President of Community Engagement & Legends. “Through our grant efforts to grow girls flag football programs across our state, we are thrilled to support the Olympia School District as they launch their inaugural girls flag team.”

Coaches Justin Christiansen, Emily Garrison and Valerie Ketcham and the entire OHS community are buzzing with shared enthusiasm of this momentous offering. “I was ecstatic when I heard of this new opportunity being made available, giving our students the chance to try new things. I was even more excited that it involved an activity I am passionate about. Football is an amazing sport and teaches so many different things. I’m excited to share in this opportunity and pass my love and knowledge of the game on to our female athletes,” said Coach Christiansen.

Coach Garrison said, “I am proud and humbled to be a part of this first ever girls flag football team at Oly and I’m looking forward to being a part of building a strong program.” Currently, flag football is not sanctioned by the WIAA and is considered a school club sport. An amendment will be considered this spring by WIAA that, if approved, would add the sport to the Association’s offerings. WIAA Assistant Executive Director of Activities and Eligibility Justin Kesterson said that regardless of the outcome of the amendment passes or fails, the WIAA would continue to work with schools and their partners in the growth of the sport in Washington.

Coach Ketcham is also excited to help with the inaugural season. “When I learned that the school was introducing girls flag football I thought it was so cool. As a football fan, I never thought it would be an option for me to be involved. So being part of the initiative to grow the sport for girls, is something I never thought I’d have the chance to do.”

OHS team fielded 60 female players, building three teams (Varsity, JV and C). Senior Jenna Rigg heard rumblings that flag football was on the horizon and was excited at the possibility. As a soccer player, football was never a feasible option, since both sports share a fall season. Flag being offered as a winter activity made participating an option for her and many of her soccer teammates. “I have always loved football, and it has been so exciting to take part in a sport where we are all learning essentially from the ground up. I have been able to meet new people but also share the field with girls I’ve played other sports with.”

Flag football, as its name suggests, is a variation of football in which, instead of tackling, players “deflag” their opponents by snatching a flag worn on a belt. The finer points of flag football vary depending on league and level (US Football 7on7 Rules), but the essential rules are the same as regular football. Teams can score touchdowns, extra points, field goals and safeties. There are quarterbacks and receivers, punts and passes. However, rough contact, like checking, pushing or tackling, is not allowed.

Senior Annabella Larson said, “When I showed up to the first day I was so excited to see so many girls, and the Jamboree solidified what a big deal it is, and it made a lot of us wish the opportunity was available sooner especially as a senior. To get the ball, see the gap, and run for a touchdown is incredible, the amount of adrenaline you feel and the excitement and support is unmatched.” In early December the team had a great showing at the jamboree held at Carl Sparks Stadium in Puyallup. Players competed in combine style events like the 40 yard dash and 5-10-5 shuttle. The Bears won three of the nine individual competitions and finished by winning both scrimmage games.

Sophomore Brynn Udo added, “Skills that I have used in soccer I feel like translate over to flag — being quick on your feet, understanding change of pace, route running and field-vision awareness all have similar concepts between the two sports. Learning to receive the ball, and the plays have been fun, and feeling like we are all learning about the game on a new level.”

As they jump and juke to cut through defenders who swipe for their flags, girls are discovering critical factors of football that aren’t always focused on in a game built on the physical contact and strength of a hit or block. Senior Claudia Wilson said, “I have a different understanding of the game. I have always been a fan, but now we are a part of it, and we have already had some incredible victories with only seconds left on the clock. Everyone is locked in but having the best time.”

Coach Garrison shared, “Every game the girls show great hustle, teamwork, flexibility, leadership, tenacity and overall gains each time we hit the turf. I can't wait to see what the season and future holds and I am so very grateful for the opportunity to connect with the girls, the school, the community and the world of flag football!”

Millions of players across the US already consider flag football to be a large part of their lives, and this inaugural group at OHS is a part of the story. Collegiate programs (NAIA) have provided a foundation for the sport to grow. Last year saw women's flag football enjoy its international debut at The World Games, a multisport event held in Birmingham, Alabama. Team USA reached the finals before being edged out by Mexico. Recently announced by the International Federation of American Football and the NFL, they are thrilled to see flag football included in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

The future is bright for the sport and for participants. “We are at the beginning of something really amazing, and are already seeing the growth and excitement locally, with youth programs (TCYFL) offering spring flag for seventh and eighth grade girls. This is the fastest growing sport in the nation right now and we are all looking forward to the future for our Bears,” said Coach Christiansen.

Rigg added, “As a senior I hope we will open the door to girls who will follow and continue to grow the program — maybe even chase this dream after high school and pursue college. I encourage all young female athletes to try new sports, and flag should be one of them, be a part of it, and leave a legacy of empowering other female athletes.”

The Bears have two upcoming home games in January against Curtis and Bethel/Rogers. Come out and show your support and check out these amazing athletes as they introduce you to this vibrant sport that is sweeping the nation. For a full schedule and to follow the team as they compete in the 4A SPSL (Emerald Ridge, Curtis, Bellarmine, Olympia, South Kitsap, Bethel, Graham Kapowsin, Puyallup and Rogers) visit the olyflagfootball Instagram page.

Register to vote for February 13, 2024 Special Election

Thurston County residents interested in voting in the February 13, 2024 Special Election may register to vote online by February 5 and in person through Election Day.

The Olympia School District has one measure — an Educational Programs and Operations Replacement Levy proposal — on the February 13, 2024 election ballot.

February 5, 2024: The last day to register to vote or update your current registration by any means (other than in person). The information must be received by an election official by this day.
February 13, 2024: You may register to vote or update your current registration in person only up to 8 p.m. on election day at any county Auditor's Office, voting center or any other designated location.

Register to Vote

Voter registration is available online, by mail with a paper form, or at a county elections office. Check your registration at VoteWA.gov.

Qualifications for Registering to Vote

To register to vote in the state of Washington, you must be:

A citizen of the United States
A legal resident of Washington state for at least 30 days prior to election day
At least 18 years old (If you are 16 or 17, you can sign up as a Future Voter and be automatically registered to vote when you qualify)
Not disqualified from voting due to a court order
Not currently serving a sentence of total confinement in prison under the jurisdiction of the Department of Corrections for a Washington felony conviction
Not currently incarcerated for a federal or out-of-state felony conviction

For more voter registration information, visit the Thurston County Auditor’s Office Elections Division webpage. You may also call (360) 786-5408 or email [email protected].

Classified School Employees of the Year Named

Congratulations to LP Brown Elementary School Paraeducator Jairus Torres and McLane Elementary School Paraeducator Amy Long for being named this year’s Olympia School District Classified School Employees of the Year.

Classified School Employee of the Year is an annual statewide awards program through the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. It begins with local nominations from school districts throughout Washington. Those individuals have a chance of then being named a regional Classified School Employee of the Year, which allows them to advance to the state competition.

The annual award recognizes employees who have made a positive difference in their profession. A screening committee made up of OSD employees reviewed the nominations before selecting the honorees.

Both Torres and Long learned of this honor during surprise announcements at impromptu after-school staff meetings at their buildings. The news, shared by Superintendent Patrick Murphy, was greeted with applause, standing ovations and hugs. Olympia School Board Director Darcy Huffman was also on site to present each of the honorees with flowers. They will be formally recognized at a school board meeting in January.

Jairus Torres

“I was very surprised, honestly. I didn't know what the staff meeting would be about, nor did I remember it was happening until that morning when Principal (Sean) Shaughnessy reminded me. I feel extremely humbled and proud of the work I'm doing at LP Brown with students and I’m so thankful to my colleagues and building administration for this acknowledgement,” Torres said.

In a letter nominating him for the award, Shaughnessy and Dean of Students Callie Jones shared the impact he makes on a daily basis. The nomination read in part, “Torres has worked at LP Brown since 2018 and is adored by students and staff. In the classroom his commitment and understanding of the importance of academic achievement can be seen as he works with small groups to solidify their understanding of core content, and presents the information in different ways to meet the individual students' needs. Managing the cafeteria and organizing games on the playground to provide structured activities with ease.”

Torres shared, “There is never a dull moment working with school age students. I'm always on the go; working with the kiddos problem solving issues on the playground, helping them learn in the classroom or simply just sitting down with them and building relationships. I’ve had the privilege of watching many students grow up through the years, and witness them acquire new skills because of the work that we all put into teaching and supporting them.”

When Torres' school day is complete his day with students is far from over. After school he spends his time as a site supervisor for the YMCA. Shaughnessy and Jones shared in the nomination letter, “Jairus is a tireless champion for the students at LP Brown, honoring cultural traditions and using his dual language ability as an instrumental communicator for our families. We feel fortunate to have him as a member of our staff.”

Torres’ positive attitude is contagious. When asked about a fond memory he shared, “A few years ago on the last day of school the fifth grade class I had been working with invited me to join them at their end-of-school celebration. When I showed up, the whole class had worked on making posters and writing me letters of appreciation. Those are moments that you never forget.”

Amy Long

Paraeducator Amy Long has been a part of the McLane Elementary staff since 2016 and has built a strong connection to both the school and community.

“I have the privilege to witness Long's daily dedication to our students and staff. Her passion and commitment is demonstrated through her efforts to create an environment of respect, success and care for others,” said Principal Dannie Clark.

Long has a robust morning and afternoon routine and brings enthusiasm with every step. Her dedication to student success is highlighted through her leadership in the cafeteria and recess. “Three times a year Long organizes a recess rodeo, that makes teaching and reteaching recess expectations fun, and provides multiple opportunities throughout the school year for students to be reminded of safety and rules,” Clark explained in her nomination letter.

“I was absolutely surprised and overwhelmed to be selected as paraeducator of the year. I was speechless and believe me that doesn't happen very often! There are so many people who contribute to the success of our McLane Owls so I accept this award for all of us,” said Long.

Clark shared, “Any person watching Long engaging with students will witness for themselves how she offers daily support to students academically and emotionally. She works with students one-on-one and in small groups furthering them along their learning journeys, supporting their social skills and problem solving using her facilitation of restorative circles.”

“I love my job, and of course the students are the highlight of each day. I love to watch them grow with all life experiences such as losing a tooth, meeting a new friend, having the ah-ha moment of getting a math problem, being so proud of themself when they read a chapter book or being able to swing by themselves. It fills my heart when I see these things happening,” said Long.

Long's deep connection with the community provides opportunities for students from not only McLane, but also Capital High School. Recently Long arranged for the Capital High School students (dressed in their signature crimson and gold gear) to meet and greet McLane students as they arrived at school. Needless to say, it was a huge surprise! Smiles stretched from ear-to-ear on the faces of Capital Cougars and McLane Owls in attendance. “These connections are one way Long implements creative ways to build community and development that serves our students. Long's development focusing on serving all students includes training on restorative practices, trauma informed practices, and most recently, how to support students in developing executive functioning skills. Throughout these training sessions, there is one common thread, the importance of positive and trusting relationships. The meet and greet is just one example of Amy’s care for students big and small and creating authentic connections with our high school students who were once, not so long ago, in the same little shoes,” said Clark.

Congratulations and thank you Jairus and Amy for your steadfast dedication to our students. Family, friends and community members are invited to celebrate with our honorees at a January special recognition ceremony starting at 6:10 p.m. on Thursday, January 11, 2024. We hope to see you there!

School Facility Efficiency Review update

The Olympia School Board agreed on December 14, 2023 to open a 90-day window to accept community input regarding a board proposal to consider Madison and McKenny elementary schools for school consolidation/closure.

While a longer list of schools had been discussed by the board for possible school consolidation in recent months, directors narrowed the list on December 14 to two: Madison and McKenny elementary schools.

Note: The school board action is NOT a decision to close Madison and McKenny elementary schools, but rather a vote, per Board Policy 6883, to spend the next 90 days gathering information and testimony on issues related to the potential closure of a school. Once the 90-day window is closed, the board could consider taking action.

Next steps in the school facility efficiency review process are:

The board will hold community meetings over the next 90 days, followed by possible board action in March 2024
Dates and times of community meetings/hearings will be shared with the community as soon as they are available

More information about the school facility efficiency review process, including research and reports shared at the December 14 board meeting, is available on the district website. The data includes enrollment projections should the district consolidate schools, as well as where students might move if schools were closed. The Zoom recording of the December 14 meeting is also posted on the School Facility Efficiency Review webpage.

Olympia School District enrollment has declined in recent years and is projected to continue to drop by nearly 1,000 students over the next 10 years. Currently, the district projects a $3.5 million budget deficit for the 2024-25 school year.

Director Darcy Huffman noted during the December 14 board meeting that the district will still need to consider potential budget cuts, in addition to possible school consolidation, to address the projected $3.5 million shortfall. The district estimates saving $1 million for every school that is closed.

Reeves drama club generates collaborative creativity

In February 2023 Reeves Middle School science teacher Beth Land proposed a new after-school drama club to “practice” running musicals. Principal Aaron Davis and Assistant Principal Karen Zarate both gave their enthusiastic support.

“Participating in a drama club can have a significant positive impact on students' overall development and well-being. It gives students purpose and a reason to attend school regularly and provides a creative outlet that can motivate students to actively participate in their education,” said Davis.

It had been a number of years since Reeves had an annual musical performance. Land decided to test current interest by offering students an opportunity to come after school on Fridays. Participants would focus on the different parts of production, such as learning about how to set up lights and the sound system, makeup techniques, prop construction, and drama games to build confidence and teamwork. To Land’s surprise, 80 students signed up. “It truly fills your bucket when you see so many students excited to be a part of the group,” said Land.

Land continued, “The biggest goal of the drama club is to have fun!” She emails students each week to keep them informed. “Students gain confidence playing drama games - which build lots of skills like improvisation techniques, learning to listen to others on the stage, character development, voice projection, levels work, cooperation and more.”

Eighth-grader Charlie Taron said, “Standing on a stage in front of an audience is terrifying. Coming back from COVID, many of us have a form of social anxiety. Drama club is a way to overcome those fears. You can have a small role, or a lead role, but by putting yourself out there you can conquer those fears.”

Davis added, “Students learn to embrace their unique talents and skills, fostering a positive self-image and a sense of achievement while also developing resilience by learning how to handle setbacks, mistakes, and the pressure of live performances. The club also offers a platform for students to connect with peers who share similar interests.”

Reeves encourages students to embrace their creativity. Seventh grader Ryder Hunter shared, “Being a part of a drama club expands your friend group, you meet new people and you find out you can be comfortable in any situation, it gives you skills that you use in other classes and situations.”

With a large support network of teachers and volunteers, the drama club took shape. For its first musical in six years, Land selected “Once Upon a Mattress,” a humorous adaptation of “Princess and the Pea,” as the school’s spring 2023 production.

Reeves Middle School shop teacher Alex Shriver and students built free-standing walls for the backdrop and a rolling multi-mattress bed that stood 6 feet high “It took about a month to construct but it was all done by the students! We moved the set parts down to the gym and put them together, then helped to take things down at the end. Beth created sketches of what was needed, we brainstormed on the logistics and design but for the most part her plans were ready to build. The students took over from there,” said Shriver.

Students also had the opportunity to operate the lights and sound. “Randy Grostick, our band & orchestra teacher, lent his incredible talent and vast knowledge to teach the students about the light and sound tech,” said Land.

“Students used wireless microphones that helped with the students projection and clarity for the gymnasium performance,” said Grostick.

After weeks of rehearsals the performance was a hit! “I absolutely loved my costume. When I wore it I became my character. You have this sense of empowerment after a performance. There is nothing else like it,” said seventh grader Autumn Graham.

Classmate Jacob Moore added, “The support we receive from the entire school is really amazing.”

This year the drama club was able to begin meeting in September to allow more time for students to become familiar with theatre practices. “In January, we will begin our auditions for the 2024 spring production of “Bye Bye Birdie.” This major musical production takes many committed hands. At Reeves we are so fortunate to have such giving and talented teachers,” said Land.

Taron added, “I think everyone should consider trying out, there is a place for anyone in drama club, big roles, small roles, backstage, set production, tech or costumes.”

Hunter shared, “You will gain so much from being a part of a production. My advice, if you are feeling nervous, is to be brave. Being brave doesn’t mean you are fearless, it’s about having those fears and doing it anyway.”

This club is more than just a Friday hang out. It is a place and time for Reeves Rams to come together to grow and learn and heal from the social dynamic shifts over the past four years. “The absolute best part about drama club for me is looking forward to Fridays,” Land said. “Students get off the bus on Friday morning as I greet them at the back door and say, ‘Drama Club today!’ It is definitely the best way to end my week — laughing with students while participating in my favorite subject - DRAMA!”

If you are a Reeves Ram and are interested in joining the club or auditioning for the upcoming production, visit the RMS Drama Club webpage or drop by the front office for more information.

School board elects new officers in annual reorganization

Every year in December, the Olympia School Board elects officers for the coming year during its annual reorganization.

At its December 14, 2023 meeting, the board elected Hilary Seidel as this year’s board president and Scott Clifthorne as vice president.

Clifthorne administered the oath of office to newly elected board member Jess Tourtellotte-Palumbo, as well as to Maria Flores and Hilary Seidel, who were re-elected in November to four-year terms. Superintendent Patrick Murphy and President Seidel thanked Talauna Reed for her service on the school board this past year.

Board members are also appointed annually to serve as liaisons with various community groups and state agencies. This year’s appointments include:

Hilary Seidel, who will continue as board representative to the Thurston Regional Planning Council.
Scott Clifthorne, who will continue as board representative to the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA). Clifthorne also agreed to continue as a board liaison with the City of Olympia and school district on school safety.
Darcy Huffman, who will continue as legislative representative to the Washington State School Directors’ Association (WSSDA).
Maria Flores, who will continue as board representative to the Olympia Schools Supportive Education Council (OSSEC).
Jess Tourtellotte-Palumbo, who will serve as board representative to the Olympia Education Foundation Board of Directors.

Upcoming Events

December/January

December 20 - January 2, 2024: Winter Break
January 3: 50-Minute Early Release
January 4: OSD Board Work Session at 6 p.m.
January 10: 50-Minute Early Release
January 11: OSD Classified School Employee of the Year Recognition at 6:10 p.m. (Knox Admin Center)
January 11: OSD Board Meeting (in-person and online via Zoom) at 6:30 p.m.
January 15: No School (MLK Day)
January 16: Temperance and Good Citizenship Day
January 17: 50-Minute Early Release
January 24: 50-Minute Early Release
January 25: OSD Board Meeting (in-person and online via Zoom) at 6:30 p.m.

OSD Notice of Nondiscrimination

The Olympia School District will provide equal educational opportunity and treatment for all students in all aspects of the academic and activities program without discrimination based on race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, marital status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. The district will provide equal access to school facilities to the Boy Scouts of America and all other designated youth groups listed in Title 36 of the United States Code as a patriotic society. District programs will be free from sexual harassment. Auxiliary aids and services will be provided upon request to individuals with disabilities.

The Olympia School District offers many Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs/courses in the following areas: Skilled and Technical Sciences/STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics); Agriculture/Natural Resources; Business Marketing; Family and Consumer Sciences; and Health Sciences. For more information about CTE course offerings and admissions criteria, contact Paula Perryman, Director of College and Career Readiness, 111 Bethel St. N.E., Olympia, WA 98506, (360) 596-6102. Lack of English language proficiency will not be a barrier to admission and participation in CTE programs.

The following people have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies, reports of alleged sexual harassment, concerns about compliance, and/or grievance procedures:

James Whitehead, Title IX Officer