KALEIDOSCOPE
Middle
KALEIDOSCOPE Welcome Welcome
Thank you for choosing to read Sequim School District’s fall issue of Kaleidoscope Magazine. This edition explores many accomplishments of students and staff from classrooms to clubs and beyond. Engineering and outdoor education experiences are alive and well in Sequim and what better time to showcase these opportunities than in the beautiful fall season In addition, an update is included on our highly successful capital project levy progress and a QR code to take the very important Long-Range Facilities Planning survey by November 1st We want your input on the future of school facilities! Our Kindergarten class the Class of 2037 is the future of our school district and we are thinking of them as we plan. Here’s to the future of our facilities!
Superintendent
ReganNickels
SequimSchoolDistrict
Upcoming District Dates:
October 2024
21: School Board Meeting @ 5:30pm
30 & 31: No School- Parent/Teacher Conferences
November 2024
1: No School for Students (Certificated StaffProfessional Learning)
4: School Board Meeting @ 5:30pm
11: No School- Veterans Day
18: School Board Meeting @ 5:30pm
27: Early Release
28 & 29: No School- Thanksgiving Break
December 2024
2: School Board Meeting @ 5:30pm
23- Jan 3: No School- Winter Break
January 2025
13: School Board Meeting @ 5:30pm
20: No School- Martin Luther King Jr. Day
27: No School- Semester Break
In June, Sequim School District earned the NSPRA Award of Merit in the 2024 Publications and Digital Media Excellence Awards for our Kaleidoscope Magazine entry Recognized in the Magazine category, Kaleidoscope has highlighted our district programs, student achievements, and educational initiatives, showcasing our commitment to effective communication and community engagement
Sequim High School FFA Shines at Washington State Fair
Sequim High School’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) students made an impressive showing at this year’s Washington State Fair, securing top honors in livestock judging. Competing against approximately 40 teams and around 150 students from across the state, the Sequim team earned an impressive 2nd place overall in the team category.
Individually, Amy Adolphsen claimed the 1st place title in livestock judging, leading the pack with her exceptional knowledge and keen eye for livestock evaluation
Timothy Seelye also placed well, taking 11th place among the individual competitors
The Washington State Fair provided a platform for FFA students to showcase their agricultural skills and connect with peers from all over the state, furthering their education in the farming and livestock industries.
Sequim Education Foundation “Hopes & Dreams” 1st Annual Dinner Fundraiser
The Sequim Education Foundation (SEF) invites the community to its 1st annual “Hopes & Dreams” Fundraiser Dinner on Saturday, October 26th, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. SEF has been a cornerstone in the Sequim community since 2001, working to bridge the financial gap between state funding and the real needs of local students. The “Hopes & Dreams” dinner will raise critical funds to support key programs, including the Teaching Grants program, which provides over $30,000 annually to educators who are implementing creative and engaging methods in the classroom, and the student scholarship fund, which awards over $40,000 each year to deserving students.
This year’s fundraiser is expected to be an inspiring evening, bringing together community members, business leaders, educators, and supporters The event will be a catered dinner by Goat and Radish Sequim alum and Junior Armed Forces Chef of the year, Brian Lippert will be featured as well The event will have live entertainment from our local string quartet and stories of impact from grant recipients and scholarship winners whose lives have been transformed through SEF’s support
Tickets for the “Hopes & Dreams” Fundraiser Dinner are available now, and SEF welcomes all who wish to support Sequim’s students to attend. Whether through attending the event or donating, every contribution helps pave the way for new opportunities in the classroom.
For tickets or more information, visit sequimeducationfoundation.org or contact SEF at 360.680.3061.
PC:C.Seelye
PictureprovidedbyR.Colwill
From the Classroom to the Clouds: Renee Colwill’s Journey from Teacher to Pilot
Most people know Renee Colwill as a dedicated science teacher at Sequim High School, but few are aware of her high-flying passion beyond the classroom While she's known for inspiring students with the wonders of BioMed class, Renee has also embraced the adventure of aviation, a journey that has transformed both her personal and professional life.
It all began about two years ago when Renee and her husband found themselves frustrated by the logistics of traveling from the North Olympic Peninsula. Living in such a beautiful yet remote part of Washington meant that every getaway required either a ferry ride, a long wait, or a lengthy detour through Tacoma Weekend trips felt more like a burden than a break, and time was always in short supply
What started as casual conversation between the couple quickly turned into a serious possibility: learning to fly. "We were just talking hypothetically at first, but then we realized, 'Why not?'" says Renee.
Determined to pursue this new passion, Renee scheduled a Discovery Flight at a local flight school. The experience was transformative. “It was winter, and the frozen Olympic Mountains stood towering over our community The world below looked so small and orderly, and suddenly, all the usual problems seemed far away and insignificant,” she recalls. That single flight sparked a deep love for aviation. She enrolled in an online ground school, studying diligently to pass the FAA written exam, and soon began one-on-one flight training out of Jefferson County Airport.
The road to becoming a pilot, however, was not without its challenges. "The physics of flight didn’t come naturally to me," she admits "My progress was slow and often frustrating " There were moments when she nearly gave up, but the allure of the sky and the sense of freedom it brought kept pulling her back After nearly 100 hours of training, Renee passed her practical exam and officially earned her Private Pilot's License.
Flying has since become a regular part of her life, something she shares with her husband who also earned his pilot’s license Together, they take to the skies in their vintage 1958 Cessna 172, exploring the Pacific Northwest from a perspective few ever experience For Renee, flying isn’t just a hobby, it’s a way to recharge and gain perspective “Flying after work or on the weekends helps me re-balance my emotional energy,” she says. “It allows me to get ‘above’ my work and re-prioritize what’s really important, both for my students and myself.”
The skills and lessons Renee has learned as a pilot have also made her a more effective educator. "Learning to fly was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. It taught me persistence and reflection," she explains "Mastering something is about more than just passing a test; it’s about figuring out how to learn for yourself " This insight has shaped her approach in the classroom, where she encourages students to find their own paths to learning, to push through challenges, and to never give up in the face of difficulty.
One of her most memorable flights came during the summer of 2024, when she and her husband embarked on an airplane camping trip. The couple flew down the Columbia River Gorge, over the Wallowa Mountains, and even had the breathtaking experience of viewing Crater Lake from above “It was incredible,” she says “We live in such a beautiful part of the world, and seeing it from the air just reinforces how lucky we are ”
As someone who has pursued her passion beyond the walls of her profession, Renee offers advice for others looking to do the same: "You grow the most when you challenge yourself. Once you push through those barriers, you start to see what you're truly capable of."
From the science classroom to the open skies, Renee Colwill’s journey as a pilot has not only expanded her horizons but also enriched the way she teaches and inspires her students. Her story is a testament to how following your passion can transform both your work and your life.
A Milestone for Sequim High School
On Friday, September 13th, during halftime at the Sequim High School football game, the community came together to celebrate the completion of the school’s newly resurfaced track. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by SHS State High Jump Champion, Clare Turella, marking a special moment.
The event featured participation from several key figures, including School Board Directors Maren Halvorsen, Larry Jeffryes, and Patrice Johnston; Superintendent Regan Nickels; SHS Principal Erin Fox; Athletic Director Ian Henley; Track Coach Brad Moore; the SHS Cheer squad; and members of the SHS Track Team. Their presence emphasized the importance of this milestone for both the school and the broader Sequim community.
The resurfacing of the track, made possible by the Capital Projects Levy, is a major enhancement for the school's athletic programs. The Sequim School District extended a heartfelt thanks to the voters whose support brought this project to life.
This track is a significant win for our students, athletes, and the entire community. With this new facility, the track is expected to inspire future generations of athletes and serve as a lasting symbol of community pride and support.
Sequim High School Hosts Annual College Fair, Engages Students with Over 30 Representatives
Sequim High School recently held its annual College Fair, welcoming over 30 representatives from four-year universities, community colleges, trade schools, and military branches. The event provided students with the opportunity to explore a wide range of post-secondary options and career paths.
Throughout the morning, students actively engaged with representatives, seeking information on academic programs, vocational training, and military careers. The diverse representation at the fair allowed students to gather valuable insights into various opportunities and pathways available to them after graduation.
This year’s College Fair continued to support Sequim High School's ongoing efforts to help students make informed decisions about their futures By offering direct access to representatives from different fields, the event played a significant role in preparing students for life beyond high school
FACILITY RENEWAL: YOUR LEVY
August 2022
Fiber Optic Infrastructure Installation- COMPLETED Phone System Equipment Replacement- COMPLETED
January 2023
Exterior Surveillance Camera Enhancement InstallationCOMPLETED
June 2023
Olympic Peninsula Academy Fencing Installation- COMPLETED
August 2023
Wireless Access Point, Clock, & Intercom Cabling- COMPLETED
Flat Roof Replacements SHS Cafeteria - COMPLETED
September 2023
Flat Roof Replacements SHS Auditorium- COMPLETED Flat Roof Replacements Main Gym - COMPLETED
Flat Roof Replacement Auxiliary Gym- COMPLETED
SHS Gym Floor ReplacementCOMPLETED
October 2023
Facility drawings and physical LIDAR scanning (multiple project attributable) - COMPLETED
Network UPS system installationCOMPLETED
GWE septic system refreshCOMPLETED
November 2023
OPA HVAC replacement- COMPLETED
HHE Fire Alarm Replacement- COMPLETED
SMS Fire Alarm Replacement- COMPLETED
December 2023
SHS HVAC replacement- IN PROGRESS, anticipated to complete Q4, 2024
District Office BR, Office & ADA improvements- COMPLETED
SHS Gym Interior Doors and ADA Improvements- IN PROGRESS, will complete during Winter 2024
District-Wide Upgraded WiFi SwitchesCOMPLETED
OPA Intercom ReplacementCOMPLETED
January 2024
HHE Sewer Vault- COMPLETED
District-Wide Building Management
Systems Replacement ProjectOPA- COMPLETED,
SHS- IN PROGRESS will complete in the Q4, 2024
February 2024
SSD Resurfaced Track - COMPLETED SSD Track Lights - COMPLETED
March 2024
District-Wide Roofing ProjectsIN PROGRESS, Anticipated start Q2 2024, anticipated complete Q2 2025
June 2024
HHE Intercom replacement- COMPLETED
SMS Intercom replacement- COMPLETED
We Need Your Input: Please Take Our Survey
The Sequim School District is seeking your feedback as we plan for the future of our school facilities and consider the best path forward for our students. The LongRange Facilities Planning Group has developed recommendations (view the presentation HERE), and now we are reaching out to gather input from our entire community. This survey focuses on funding priorities related to our facilities, and your responses will play a key role in helping us make informed decisions. The survey is anonymous and will take approximately 10 minutes to complete. As you work through the questions, please remember there are no right or wrong answers; we’re simply looking for your honest opinion. We encourage you to share this survey link with Sequim School District friends, family, and other Sequim School District residents to ensure we hear from as many community voices as possible.
Link to Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LRFPG1024
The survey will close on Friday, November 1, 2024, at 3 PM.
Your voice is essential in shaping the future of our schools, and we value your feedback as we move forward.
Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our district!
If you are interested in going on a campus tour email mlyke@sequimschools.org
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Honoring
Legacy, Shaping the
Future
Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15 to October 15, is a time to recognize the remarkable contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities to the cultural and social fabric of the United States. This month provides an opportunity to honor diverse Hispanic traditions, rich histories, and significant achievements.
The 2024 theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” reflects the enduring influence and leadership of Hispanic and Latino individuals in shaping the future of the nation Hispanic Heritage Month originated in 1968 as a weeklong celebration under President Lyndon Johnson, and was later expanded to a month in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan The timing of the celebration is significant, as September 15 marks the independence anniversaries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, with Mexico and Chile following on September 16 and 18
While this month is an important time for celebration, it also serves as a reminder that the recognition of Hispanic and Latino heritage should extend throughout the year. By embracing and understanding the contributions of these communities, we can create a more inclusive and respectful society that values the diversity that strengthens the nation. The legacy of Hispanic and Latino culture is one of resilience, innovation, and unity, continuing to shape the American experience today and for generations to come.
Introducing Faith
Abken: Partnership Between Sequim School District and the Olympic Peninsula YMCA
The Sequim School District and the Olympic Peninsula YMCA are excited to announce a new partnership aimed at providing greater support for youth and families within the community. At the heart of this initiative is Faith Abken, the newly appointed Youth and Family Resource Navigator. Her mission is to help students and families access essential resources, ensuring a successful school year.
In her role, Faith will work alongside Cathy Bourm, the McKinney Vento, Foster Care, and Family Engagement Liaison for the district, as well as with other school staff and community members. Together, they will focus on connecting students and families with vital services
This partnership between the district and the YMCA opens up new opportunities to better serve students, developing a sense of support and care both within the school environment and in the broader community Faith’s presence is a key part of this initiative, and her work will directly contribute to ensuring that every student feels supported and empowered to succeed
As a community we can look forward to stronger connections and more comprehensive resources for youth and families throughout Sequim.
Emily Huget Greywolf Elementary First Grade Teacher
Dylan Macri Middle School
English Language Arts Teacher
Danielle MacDonald Middle School
Special Education Teacher
Zane Laughbon Olmsted Middle School
Assistant Principal
Ian Henley
High School
Athletic Director & Teacher
Heather Hamilton Middle School Science Teacher
Hayley Hunsaker
Helen Haller Elementary Art Teacher
Samuel Swenson Middle School Counselor
Kate Ross Middle School Librarian
Daniel Martinez School Resource Officer
Sequim Middle School NASA Science Club Earns National Recognition and Trip to Kennedy Space Center
Last spring, the Sequim Middle School NASA Science Club participated in the Artemis Roads II Expo at Central Washington University in Ellensburg, WA Competing against teams from across the region, the students clinched the top prize for Best Rocket Design Their innovative rocket model impressed the judges, showcasing both creativity and technical skill Special thanks were extended to teacher and club advisor Sara Turner for her time and enthusiasm in leading the team to success
Building on this victory, the club entered the national NESSP (Northwest Earth and Space Sciences Pipeline) Artemis Roads II Challenge, facing competition from 498 other school teams across the country. Their hard work paid off once again when their final submission was chosen as one of only 15 teams to win a fully-funded trip to the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
The team, consisting of club advisor Sara Turner and middle school students Megan Reeves, Olivia Lozano, Riley Guimond, and Allee Deering, traveled to the Kennedy Space Center from August 12-16, 2024. During their visit, they toured the renowned facility and witnessed a thrilling SpaceX Falcon 9 Rocket launch.
This prestigious opportunity was funded by NASA and NESSP, rewarding the club’s dedication and excellence in completing Mission Checkpoint Challenges and submitting their Mission Development log Some of the missions they completed included designing habitats and growing plants on the moon, as well as developing a mission patch for their team
The Sequim Middle School NASA Science Club’s journey from regional success to national recognition highlights the students' passion for space exploration and their commitment to STEM education. Congratulations to the team on this outstanding achievement!
Sequim Middle School Launches Industrial Arts Class to Build Future in Construction Trades
Sequim Middle School has introduced a new Industrial Arts class, laying the groundwork for students to pursue careers in the construction trades. This class is the first step in creating a pathway that will lead to more advanced construction programs at the high school level, using the Core Plus Construction curriculum.
Core Plus Construction was developed to bring hands-on, career-focused learning back into schools The program provides students with the technical skills and practical knowledge needed for careers in the construction industry By starting in middle school, students are exposed early to foundational skills, making them better prepared for high school courses and potential trade careers
Welcome New Staff Continued
Mollie Plocher Middle School
Special Education Teacher
Kara Mao Middle School
Special Education Teacher
Christin Newton Middle School
Special Education Teacher
Jaden Friedle
Greywolf Elementary
Special Education Teacher
Sequim Middle School Students Partner with NOSC to Design Improved Salmon Habitat
Sequim Middle School 7th grade science students, in collaboration with the North Olympic Salmon Coalition (NOSC), participated in a field trip on October 17th and 18th. The destination was the old Billes Farm, off Fish Hatchery Road, next to the Dungeness River. The purpose of this field trip was to conduct a site assessment as student groups will eventually design and engineer an improved salmon habitat for that area.
While on the trip, students toured the Dungeness Fish Hatchery, made a river assessment using the 5 C’s (Clear, Cold, Clean, Complex and Connected), conducted a riparian transect and made detailed plot observations and maps. Lindsay McCord, education outreach with NOSC, will make follow up classroom visits throughout the winter to help students engineer a plan for improving the 20’ x16’ plot of land assigned to each student group. In late March, students will return to The Billes Farm to then implement their plan.
Thanks to all family chaperones and NOSC volunteers for making this site assessment field trip a success Students are excited to help make Sequim, and the Dungeness River, a better place for all living things
PC:R.Nickels
PC:J.Landoni
Nicole Maybury Communication Paraeducator
OlympicPeninsulaAcademyStudentsThriveDuringRamblewood
StateParkAdventure
The third week of school at Olympic Peninsula Academy (OPA) was marked by unforgettable experiences as middle school students embarked on an adventurous journey to Ramblewood State Park. From September 17th to 19th, students spent two nights and three days immersed in nature, combining learning with the excitement of overnight camping.
The trip offered students the chance to explore the natural environment while participating in hands-on nature and environmental science activities. Creative projects also added to the learning experience, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Ramblewood State Park. The trip provided a perfect balance of education and adventure, allowing students to engage in meaningful learning outside the classroom.
Beyond academics, the students took part in a variety of team-building and leadership exercises. These activities, developed in collaboration with OPA staff and Park personnel, strengthened bonds between students and cultivated a spirit of community and collaboration. One of the trip’s highlights came on Wednesday, September 18th, when the entire school and staff joined the campers for a special day filled with shared learning experiences and school-wide camaraderie.
OPA is deeply grateful to all the parents and staff who contributed to the success of this memorable trip. Parent support from organizing the trip to helping with meals and clean-up, was vital. Teachers and parents stayed overnight at the campsite, ensuring that students were safe, well-fed, and cared for throughout the adventure.
OPA looks forward to continuing this momentum throughout the school year as more opportunities are created for enriching experiences!
Dungeness
River
Festival:
A Community Effort to Preserve the Watershed
The Dungeness watershed, a vital part of the Olympic Peninsula, holds a complex ecological story that requires collaboration to understand and protect. The annual Dungeness River Festival offers the public a unique opportunity to explore this natural treasure, guided by the people who study, preserve, and advocate for its future.
At the festival, representatives from organizations such as the U S Forest Service, NOAA, National Park Service, Peninsula Trails Coalition, Back Country Horsemen, Clallam County, BEACH, and North Olympic Land Trust (NOLT) come together to share their expertise Attendees will learn about the river’s ecosystems, conservation efforts, and outdoor recreation opportunities through demonstrations and interactive sessions.
This year, 3rd through 5th grade students from Helen Haller Elementary had a blast visiting the festival’s booths and learning centers. Students explored the natural world through fun, handson activities that connected them to the ongoing efforts to protect the Dungeness watershed.
The event goes beyond education, inspiring community involvement in preserving the watershed. By hearing directly from experts on topics like water quality, endangered species, and habitat conservation, students gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s delicate balance and the importance of ongoing stewardship
The Dungeness River Festival serves as a reminder that preserving the watershed is a collective responsibility. It invites everyone from locals to visitors to learn, engage, and contribute to the lasting protection of this essential natural resource.
Helen Haller 4th Graders Explore the Engineering Design Process with Mr. Lee
This September, fourth graders at Helen Haller Elementary School got hands-on with problem-solving as they dove into the Engineering Design Process with STEM educator Mr. Lee. His interactive lesson gave students a chance to think and act like engineers while working through a structured approach to innovation.
The engineering process begins with identifying the challenge at hand. Students are asked to consider: What problem are we trying to solve? From there, students move on to gathering materials and thinking about the end goal. This phase encourages critical thinking, as students must explore what resources they need and how they envision the final product.
Once they’ve explored their options, it’s time for students to design and plan Students are encouraged to brainstorm as many ideas as possible, considering all possibilities before deciding on a specific solution With a plan in place, they move into the “Create” phase, where they build their designs and see their ideas come to life
But the process doesn’t stop there. After creating their prototypes, students test their designs to see how well they work. This testing phase is key, as it allows them to evaluate what worked and what didn’t. Then, they move on to improve their designs, making adjustments and re-testing in an effort to refine their solutions.
The Engineering Design Process is part of Helen Haller Elementary’s broader focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. By engaging in activities like these, students are not only learning technical skills but also developing important qualities like perseverance, creativity, and teamwork. These are skills children carry with them long after the lesson is over, preparing them for future and beyond
Welcome to the Class of 2037!
It was a day filled with excitement, big smiles, and plenty of waves as the Kindergarten class stepped foot into Greywolf Elementary for their first day of class! With their backpacks strapped on, some nearly as big as they are, these young students eagerly marched inside, ready to begin their educational journey. Proud parents snapped photos, capturing the special occasion and cheering their little ones on as they followed their teachers inside.
For these bright-eyed Kindergartners, the first day of school marks the beginning of many new experiences, full day school, making new friends, and exploring the world with curious minds The halls of Greywolf Elementary, often buzzing with activity, welcomed the laughter and enthusiasm of this new class with open arms The Class of 2037 is just beginning their journey, but already, their energy and excitement hint at the many successes to come! Welcome Kindergartners!
Sequim School District Celebrates Double Ribbon-Cutting for New Playgrounds
Families, staff, and friends of the Sequim School District gathered on August 16 to celebrate the installation of new playground equipment at both Greywolf and Helen Haller Elementary Schools The joyful occasion was marked by ribbon-cutting ceremonies led by two enthusiastic students from each school
At Greywolf Elementary, seventh-grader Ocean Mounts, a former student of the school, had the honor of cutting the ribbon. Mounts’ involvement in the project extended beyond the ceremony; he was commended by Greywolf Principal Jennifer Lopez for his role in the playground’s creation. Lopez noted that Mounts initially suggested the idea for a new playground a few years ago and his persistent follow-ups helped motivate the district and the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) to bring the vision to life
At Helen Haller Elementary, fourth-grader Julian Mendoza was selected to cut the ribbon for their new play structure. Principal Rebecca Stanton shared that Julian was chosen because of his infectious excitement when he learned about the upcoming installation. His enthusiasm mirrored the delight of the school’s students, who eagerly awaited to play on the new addition to their playground before the ribbon cutting.
The new playground pieces have quickly become a highlight as students dive into this school year with fresh spaces to explore, climb, and play. At both Greywolf and Helen Haller Elementary Schools, students are eager to enjoy their updated outdoor areas. The vibrant structures offer endless opportunities for fun and adventure, creating an even more engaging and active environment for learning and growth.
STUDENTS
