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News and Updates

Kindergarten class at PGS

Curious & Creative Innovators

Students in Mrs. Wilson’s Kindergarten class at Peter G. Schmidt recently brought our Portrait of a Graduate attribute—Curious & Creative Innovator—to life in a truly special way. Students became authors and illustrators as they planned, wrote, and published their very first book 💚.

Throughout the process, students used their curiosity to create ideas and turn those ideas into a story. This experience is a great example of what it means to be a Curious & Creative Innovator. Students weren’t just completing an assignment—they were creating something meaningful, taking ownership of their work, and sharing their voices with others.

We are so proud of Mrs. Wilson’s class for showing what’s possible when curiosity and creativity lead the way!

 

students in leadership class at Tumwater Middle School

 

Responsible & Empathetic Community Members

In Mrs. Owen’s leadership class at Tumwater Middle School, her students have been diving deep into what it truly means to lead by serving others. For a recent project, students were tasked with researching a servant leader—someone who prioritizes the growth and well-being of their community over personal power.

After conducting their research, students channeled their creativity into detailed posters and shared the inspiring stories of their chosen leaders with their peers. This assignment was more than just a history or speech lesson; it was a direct bridge to our Strategic Plan’s Portrait of a Graduate attribute Responsible & Empathetic Community Member.

By analyzing how these figures addressed the needs of others, our students are actively developing their own skills that will help them become our next servant leaders! We are so proud to see our TMS leaders practicing the empathy and commitment required to make a lasting impact!

 

students expressing what they would like to do in their future

 

Collaborative Communicators

Today, Bush Middle School 8th graders showcased their High School and Beyond Plans during their annual Career Fair. During the school day, students presented career boards to peers, highlighting their goals, career interests, and the steps needed to achieve them.

This year, the event expanded for the first time to include an evening opportunity for parents and guardians, drawing an estimated 250+ attendees. Families and observers heard students confidently share their plans and left impressed by their preparation, clarity, and thoughtfulness.

The Career Fair reflects our Portrait of a Graduate attribute of being a Collaborative Communicator, as students practiced organizing ideas, speaking clearly, and engaging with both peers and adults. It was a powerful reminder that our future is in good hands with these smart, articulate, and goal-focused students.

 

student at black hills high school

 

Resilient Risk-Takers

At a recent band concert at Black Hills High School, audiences witnessed more than a musical performance — they saw an example of our Portrait of a Graduate attribute: Resilient Risk-Taker, come to life. BHHS student Adeline stepped onto the podium to direct the band, demonstrating courage, confidence, and a willingness to take on a challenge in front of a live audience. Conducting a band requires preparation, leadership, and the ability to stay composed under pressure, and she embraced the opportunity with determination and poise. Experiences like these help students grow not only as performers, but also as leaders who are willing to step outside their comfort zones, take healthy risks, and inspire others through their leadership. Way to go Adeline!

Strategic Plan Report

Annual Action Plans

Each year, our schools develop Annual Action Plans (AAPs) grounded in the analysis of student data. Each AAP includes four focused goals aligned to the district’s Strategic Plan, ensuring a clear connection between school‑level priorities and districtwide direction. The AAP serves as a roadmap for professional development, collaboration time, and key instructional and operational systems throughout the year. School leaders regularly monitor progress toward these goals with their Site Leadership Teams, share their AAPs with the School Board, and conclude the year by communicating outcomes and student progress to their broader school communities.