Kaleidoscope- Spring 2024 Edition

Page 1

SMS HOSA TEAM MAKES A SPLASH AT STATE!

ENGAGING MINDS

Greywolf Elementary's Journey to Celebrate Literacy and Inspire Readers

Boy Scout Troop 90 Empowers Community

Crafting Wheelchair

Accessible Picnic Bench for Inclusive Gatherings!

7TH ANNUAL WALK FOR WATER

Aims to Bring Clean Water to Ghana, West Africa.

FAMILY REMINDER!

Friday, May 10th: School in session for snow make-up day!

SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE
KALEIDOSCOPE
S P R I N G 2 0 2 4 E D I T I O N

Welcome to Kaleidoscope

Welcome to the Spring Edition of Kaleidoscope; our school district magazine dedicated to celebrating the many accomplishments, accolades and happenings across our school system and community. Just as with the coming of spring, our district is experiencing an abundance of achievements, student opportunities, community partnerships and facilities renewal. With each page, you will learn more about the talented and dedicated people across our classrooms and community who help to make our schools sprout, grow, and flourish.

Our spring equinox is a fresh start to a new season. Our students are experiencing the same with the many community partnerships and faculty supports leading them to extraordinary opportunities to try something new, participate for the first time in a district or school tradition, or to propose a fresh and unique idea; embracing novelty can be the very heart of student engagement. All around our school system we are looking to the future and considering how we can grow... a sure sign of spring.

Just as with every turn of a kaleidoscope, endless possibilities of beautiful patterns and energetic colors emerge, and our schools are experiencing the same blossoming of our students. Over the course of a school year there is a celebration of growth from fall to spring from academics to confidence and maturity. We hope that you also enjoy reading about the growth over time that is experienced from our youngest learning experiences to our high school opportunities. We certainly are a district of many colors and amazing blossoming of students' lives.

We hope that you share Kaleidoscope far and wide.

S i d

SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE
On the cover: Eleanor Jones, recent State Competition Winner in Spokane, WA. See page 10 for more details!

7th Annual Walk for Water Aims to Bring Clean Water to Ghana

In an endeavor to make a difference in the lives of communities in Ghana, West Africa, students at Sequim High School (SHS) geared up for their 7th annual Walk for Water, which took place on Saturday, March 9, 2024. This year, the ambitious goal was to raise $5,000 to fully fund the construction of another much-needed well in Ghana.

The annual Walk for Water has evolved into a deeply ingrained tradition for SHS Interact club students, who are driven by the "Service above Self" club motto. The event not only serves as a fundraiser but also as a powerful educational experience for participants. It sheds light on the daily struggles faced by countless women and children in Ghana who undertake the arduous task of hauling 40-80 pounds of water, often making multiple trips in a single day.

The students, living in a community that proudly declares, "Where water is wealth," gain an appreciation for the abundance of this precious resource in our own lives. The annual walk provides students with a tangible understanding of the massive effort required to secure water for daily activities and basic needs, a stark contrast to the ease with which it is accessible in our local community.

The event has become a rite of passage for Interact Club students, demonstrating their commitment to making a positive impact beyond their everyday. In 2017, Calvin Hazard crafted a yoke to transport two large water buckets, easing the burden of the Walk for Water journey. Since then, carrying the yoke has become a symbol of honor, with the president of the Interact club leading the way on this symbolic journey. This year, Krista Charters, the current president, added her signature to the yoke as she marched with her club

SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE | 3
SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE
Interact Club students standing with the “Where Water Is Wealth” boulder during their journey.

Local Boy Scout Troop 90 Constructs Wheelchair

Accessible Picnic Bench for Community Inclusivity

Boy Scout Troop 90 recently completed an impactful project aimed at fostering inclusivity in outdoor spaces Life Scout Aaron Wallen spearheaded the initiative for his Eagle Project, leading a dedicated team of Scouts in the construction of a wheelchair accessible picnic bench.

Aaron Wallen, with the support of fellow Scouts and Outdoor Coordinator Jubal Byrne, envisioned a project that would not only showcase their skills but also address a critical need within the school community. The result is a thoughtfully designed picnic bench, providing seating for both able-bodied individuals and those with mobility challenges

This collaborative endeavor involved the craftsmanship and dedication of Scouts Aaron Wallen, Gabriel Robbins, Marcus Byrne, Malachi Byrne, and Jubal Byrne. The team meticulously planned and executed the project, with support from Thomas Lumber, who generously donated all the necessary hardware.

The wheelchair accessible picnic bench features four traditional seats along with innovative wheelchairaccessible seats on each end This design ensures that individuals using wheelchairs can comfortably enjoy outdoor gatherings alongside others, breaking down barriers and promoting community inclusivity.

The construction of this wheelchair accessible picnic bench not only serves a practical purpose but also stands as a testament to the Boy Scouts of America's commitment to making a positive impact on their community. The project is a shining example of how a small group of dedicated individuals can contribute to creating a more inclusive and accessible environment for all.

A true partnership between Sequim School District (SSD) and Clallam County Department of Disabilities is paving the way with a stellar Transition Program for adult students with disabilities.

Since 2008, the partnership between Sequim School District and Clallam County Department of Disabilities has been a collaborative effort in supporting Sequim students who qualify for services. With an emphasis on inclusivity and opportunities, the program offers personalized job support, coaching, and guidance as our adult students ages 18 to 21 transition from high school to the work world. Qualified students and families work with local providers to create a path towards personal and professional growth through employment.

Special recognition goes out to Jen Mackey, our esteemed Special Education Teacher, to Kelley Lawrence, our wonderful County partner and all the local providers for ensuring our adult students are ready for meaningful postschoolwork life For more info on this game-changing program, email Jen Mackey, Special Education Teacher at Sequim High School at jmackey@sequimschools org

SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE | 4 SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE
ThepicnictablecanbefoundontheSequimHighSchoolcampus PC:J.Mackey PC: A. Taylor

Tenstar Heavy Equipment Simulator Transforms Operator Training: Virtual Reality in Action

In a bid to equip the next generation of heavy equipment operators with the skills they need to succeed, educational institutions are turning to cutting-edge technology. One such innovation making such waves is the Tenstar Heavy Equipment Simulator, which offers a virtual reality approach to training aspiring operators.

Designed to replicate the operation of various heavy equipment, from forklifts and excavators to dump trucks and cranes, the Tenstar simulator provides a safe and immersive environment for students to hone their skills. With highdefinition graphics and authentic operating controls, it offers a realistic experience that bridges the gap between classroom and application.

The versatility of the simulator is one of its key strengths, allowing students to practice a wide range of scenarios without the risk of injury or damage to equipment. From basic maneuvers to complex tasks, the simulator caters to all skill levels, ensuring that students gain the confidence and proficiency required in the workforce.

The purchase of the Tenstar simulator has been made possible through a Career Prep Launch Grant from the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). This grant highlights the value of innovative training tools in preparing the workforce for the challenges of the modern industry.

One notable aspect of the Tenstar Heavy Equipment Simulator is its cost-effectiveness While the initial investment of $105,000 may seem significant, it pales in comparison to the expenses associated with maintaining and operating real heavy equipment The simulator reduces wear and tear on actual machinery, extending their lifespan and minimizing repair costs

Empowering Students through Real-world Business Experience

In a visionary move fueled by a $50,000 grant, Sequim High School has transformed a once-vacant classroom into a bustling student marketplace A facet of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, this real-world business venture is entirely managed and operated by students in the Student Store class, guided by the dedicated leadership of Christy Ditlefsen

The student marketplace is more than a retail space; it's a hands-on learning environment where students actively participate in the day-to-day operations, gaining practical insights into marketing, retailing, and customer service and also works as a lab for business students Mrs Ditlefsen's role extends beyond traditional teaching as she serves as a mentor, guiding students through the complexities of running a successful business

Students are acquiring practical skills such as budgeting, inventory management, effective communication, and teamwork; skills that are often challenging to teach through textbooks alone. This learning experience is preparing students for the challenges and demands of the business world. in ways that go beyond conventional classroom teachings.

SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE | 5

Sequim High School's 2024 Career Fair: Connecting Students with Future Opportunities

On Monday, March 4th, Sequim High School welcomed over 40 representatives from local businesses and diverse career fields. With vendors covering areas such as business, digital design, healthcare, arts, law, and STEM, the gymnasium turned into a bustling hub of career workforce opportunities for our students.

The event provided firsthand insights into various careers, allowing students to engage with professionals, ask questions, and explore potential future paths. The active participation and thoughtful inquiries from students impressed the career representatives, showcasing students’ eagerness to understand the professional world.

Sequim High School's Career Fair not only offered valuable learning experiences but also emphasized the importance of connecting students with realworld opportunities. The hope is that this networking event will inspire students to pursue their passions and make informed career decisions as they step into their future endeavors.

A special thank you goes out to the dedicated volunteers and vendors who made the 2024 Career Fair engaging for each student. Your commitment played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between education and workforce opportunites.

Sequim High School Unveils New Gym Floor with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

With anticipation and excitement, Sequim High School proudly unveiled its newly refurbished gym floor in a ribbon-cutting ceremony held just before the home basketball game against Bainbridge Island on Saturday, January 20, 2024.

The event took center court, with representatives from volleyball, boys and girls basketball teams, Sequim High School administration, Camber of Commerce, and engaged community members. The collaborative effort showcased a unified commitment to the students of Sequim School District as the completed Capital Levy Project was celebrated.

SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE | 6
PC:M.Lyke PC:M.Lyke

Discover Greenery Galore at Sequim High School's Annual Plant Sale!

Get ready to elevate your garden game with the freshest plants in town! Join us at Sequim High School's Annual Plant Sale, starting April 29.

Why Choose Us?

At Sequim High School, our plant sale isn't just about purchasing greenery – it's about supporting our students and investing in our community. With every purchase, you're contributing to hands-on learning experiences for our Agricultural Science, Plant Biology, and Floral Design classes. Plus, the proceeds go directly back into our Agriculture program, fueling ongoing growth and innovation. With our upgraded greenhouse facility, you can trust that you're not only getting top-quality plants but also supporting the future of agricultural education.

What's on Offer?

Hanging Baskets: Prices from $10 to $100, add a splash of color to your porch or patio

Basket Fillers: Prices range from $2 to $5, perfect for adding that finishing touch to your arrangements

Veggie Starts: From $2 to $6, kick-start your kitchen garden with our premium vegetable starts

SHS Annual Plant Sale starts April 29 and goes through May 10, Monday – Saturday, 9AM – 5PM, at the Sequim High School Greenhouse. We’ll see you there!

SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE | 7
PC:M.Lyke

Pi Day Challenge: Students Rise to the Digits

At Sequim Middle School (SMS), Pi Day sparked a frenzy of numerical excitement as students vied for the chance to pie their math teacher The challenge? Recite as many digits of Pi as possible by March 14th Here are the champions:

6th Grade – Will Brooks: 154 digits

7th Grade – Emily Bair: 66 digits

8th Grade – Kaleb Pemberton: 171 digits

Algebra Winner – Devin McBride: 109 digits

Overall School Winner – Taylor Thomas: 200 digits

Taylor not only clinched victory but also earned the honor of pieing Mrs. Lunt. Pi Day at SMS is not just a date – it's a celebration of math mastery and spirited competition.

A Strategic Approach to School Bus Fleet Management and Sustainable Transportation Initiatives

Sequim School District is a recipient of four new school buses to the district fleet. Members of the Board of Directors were able to tour one of the new buses during a recent school board meeting. The International-brand school buses will hit the roads soon once final delivery checks and vehicle training preparations are complete. The buses spotlight new safety features including a lit stop arm with camera for monitoring vehicular traffic, fog strobes, lit front and rear high visibility panels. Interior video systems are installed and routing/student management software is also installed for driver use. Systems that engaged student and driver safety were prioritized in the selection of bus features.

School bus purchases follow a multi-year replacement process in school districts. Each year the district’s school bus fleet has depreciation (each bus loses its value over time). Full size buses are on the depreciation schedule for 13 years. Shorter size buses are scheduled for eight years. During each of these years, the state makes an allocation to the district’s Transportation Vehicle Fund (TVF) The annual allocations are saved over time and buses are purchased as the vehicle’s useful life ends The funds in a district’s TVF may only be spent on buses, major repairs approved by OSPI or electric bus infrastructure To that end, Sequim School District has recently been awarded a grant of $60,000 to begin the exploration of establishing electric bus charger infrastructure in our district.

The Sequim School District will now add the four new school buses to our depreciation schedule to begin the process of state funding allocations. Four older school buses will be submitted to the Board of Directors for surplus approval as they are well beyond their useful life The district looks forward to students boarding the new buses for the first time this spring!

SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE | 8 SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE

FACILITY RENEWAL: YOUR LEVY DOLLARS AT WORK!

August 2022

Fiber Optic Infrastructure

Installation- COMPLETED

Phone System Equipment

Replacement- COMPLETED

January 2023

Exterior Surveillance Camera Installation- COMPLETED

June 2023

Current Projects:November 2023

Olympic Peninsula Academy Fencing Installation- COMPLETED

August 2023

Fiber Optic Infrastructure

Installation- COMPLETED

Phone System Equipment

Replacement- COMPLETED

Wireless Access Point, Clock, & Intercom Cabling- COMPLETE

Roof Replacements SHS

Cafeteria - COMPLETED

September 2023

Roof Replacements SHS

Auditorium- COMPLETED

Roof Replacements Main GymCOMPLETED

Roof Replacement Auxiliary GymCOMPLETED

SHS Gym Floor ReplacementCOMPLETED

Current Projects:October 2023

Facility drawings and physical LIDAR scanning (multiple project attributable) - COMPLETED

OPA HVAC replacementIN PROGRESS, anticipated to complete Q2 2024

HHE Fire Alarm ReplacementIN PROGRESS, anticipated to complete by end of summer 2024

Current Projects:December 2023

SHS HVAC replacementIN PROGRESS, anticipated to complete end of summer 2024

District Office BR, Office & ADA improvements- IN PROGRESS, will complete by May 2024

SHS Gym Interior Doors and ADA Improvements- IN PROGRESS, will complete during summer 2024

Current Projects:January 2024

HHE Sewer Vault ReplacementIN PROGRESS, will complete summer 2024

District-Wide Building Management Systems Replacement ProjectIN PROGRESS, OPA will complete Q2 2024, SHS will complete end of summer 2024, SMS will start Q3 2024

Current Projects:February 2024

SSD Track Improvement ProjectIN PROGRESS, will complete summer 2024

Current Projects: March 2024

Network UPS system installationIN PROGRESS, anticipated to complete summer 2024

GWE septic system refreshIN PROGRESS, will complete end of spring break 2024

District-Wide Roofing Projects- Anticipated start Q2 2024, anticipated complete Q2 2025

Sequim Middle School HOSA Students Shine at State Competition in Spokane

Sequim Middle School's Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) team demonstrated remarkable expertise at the recent state competition held in Spokane on March 16th. The event, which drew participants from across Washington state, saw Sequim Middle School emerge with impressive accolades, including two state champions!

Reese Hale and Eleanor Jones showcased their exceptional skill by clinching the title of state champions in their respective categories. Reese Hale triumphed in the Foundations of Medical Reading, while Eleanor Jones secured the top spot in Health Career Preparation. Eleanor's success didn't stop there; she also secured 2nd place in Foundations of Nutrition and 3rd place in Life Threatening Situations.

Additionally, Kendall Adolphe made a notable impact by securing the 4th position in the Extemporaneous Health Poster competition. The team also actively engaged in enriching workshops on essential medical skills such as Suturing and Stop the Bleed.

The Sequim Middle School HOSA team members who participated in the event included: Jasline Romo, Kara Hamilton, Emma Miller, Emma Bixby, Addisyn Tate, Kendall Adolphe, Eleanor Jones, and Frances Haskins. HOSA Advisor Renee Colwill accompanied the team to Spokane.

The outstanding performance of Sequim Middle School's HOSA team not only reflects their dedication and hard work but also emphasizes the quality of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs at Sequim Middle School Their achievements highlight the importance of nurturing talent and providing opportunities for students to excel in healthcare-related fields

SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE | 10
PC:R.Colwilll

SMS Fly Fishing Club: Connecting Students with Nature Through Adventure

Sequim Middle School Fly Fishing Club stands as a beacon of outdoor education, growing not only new anglers but also stewards of our natural environment.

For six years, the club led by SMS teacher Jason Chadick has been a catalyst for exploration; guiding students on a journey through the clear waters and beautiful landscapes of the Pacific Northwest From humble beginnings at Carrie Blake Park to monthly excursions to a secluded lake near Port Angeles and thrilling float trips along the Bogachiel River during Steelhead season, the club's offerings have expanded exponentially Thanks to a comprehensive gear library, students have access to necessary equipment, ensuring that financial constraints never impede their adventures If you are interested in volunteering or donating to the Fly Fishing Club please email jchadick@sequimschools org

Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe and Sequim School District Partners in Education

The S’Klallam Jamestown Tribe and the Sequim School District have a long history of partnership

One of the joint endeavors is the Title VI Indian Education Grant The grant funding is dedicated to hire a Tribal Liaison who works with qualifying students in our schools

The Title VI grant has three major requirements. The first is Meaningful Collaboration between the Tribe and the District. This year, in a collaboration focused on enriching the educational experience for students, Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe and Sequim School District discussed a set of initiatives to increase Jamestown culture into the learning environment though a focus on the Since Time Immemorial Curriculum. Also, the focus of the Tribal Liaison was changed to better support identified students in the areas of academics and attendance. During this collaborative time, the groundwork was set to update the Parent Advisory Committee By-Laws.

The second requirement is to establish and annually meet with the Indian Parent Advisory Committee. On February 6th, Superintendent Nickels, Board members, and administrative staff met with the

Parent Advisory Committee on the Jamestown Campus at Red Cedar Hall The Committee shared an interest in a range of initiatives, including having the Tribal Liaison focus on attendance, grade checks, check-ins, and communication with teachers The Committee shared the desire to have the Tribal Liaison support Jamestown families of identified students during IEP and Highly Capable meetings

Another desire of the Parent Committee was to encourage academic parent nights at the Jamestown Campus to further reinforce the district's commitment to supporting Title VI students Lastly, the Committee ratified the changes to the Indian Parent Committee Bylaws

Building meaningful relationships with the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe is a focus of our District. Another area of interest between the two organizations is collaborating on an exchange of information agreement. This will allow the school to more easily share identified student information with Tribal personnel. This collaborative effort between the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe and the Sequim School District further strengthens a shared commitment to creating an academic environment that embraces cultural diversity for the benefit of all students.

SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE | 11
PC:FlyFishingClub

Olympic Peninsula Academy's Living Wax Museum: A Celebration of Growth and Confidence

At Olympic Peninsula Academy, the kids in room 4, Michele Canepa's class, recently showcased an impressive Living Wax Museum, where students picked a historical figure and began researching about their life, the impact they had, and designing a section of the museum to decorate and present their project. The Wax Museum marked the culmination of a series of project-based learning assignments that started with smaller projects like the Book Tasting Event and Country Report presentations, designed to help students become comfortable presenting information one-on-one and to groups

These initial projects serve as a foundation for students to develop vital language and communication skills, including writing and oral presentation, an essential assets in the professional

world and key elements in building and sustaining meaningful relationships. The assignment also instilled valuable research, preparation, and presentation skills, all with supportive guidance from adult mentors.

The Living Wax Museum was a huge success, providing a platform for students to shine. Although observers may have seen confident presentations, Ms. Canepa recognizes the individual challenges each student faced. The event served as a celebration of the students' bravery and growth, demonstrating their ability to overcome obstacles and present with confidence. This collective experience aims to grow a culture of lifelong learners, preparing students not just academically but also emotionally and socially

OPA Middle School's Future City STEM Program Inspires

a Decade of Innovation

OPA Middle School's Future City program, established in 2007, continues to thrive under the leadership of Enrichment Coach Lilli Hardesty since 2010. Focused on grades 6-8, the enrichment class tasks students with solving a major problem annually, it is presented as realistic scenario that engineers would be working on today and in the future, applying the Engineering Design Process to create a 100% renewable, clean, electricity-powered city, prioritizing citizen and environmental health.

This year's challenge includes a physical scale city model, 1,500-word essay and a live presentation in front of a panel of engineers where students pitch their city concept Mrs Hardesty's leadership has turned the program into a hub for STEM education, emphasizing critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork Future City prepares students for real-world challenges, making it a cornerstone of OPA Middl School's commitment to fostering STEM leaders The STEM based class helps students see where they can advance their knowledge to go into one of the fields of study lending towards their future employment in Civic Engineering, CAD, or Geothermal energy

SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE
SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE | 12
PC:FutureCityParents PC:Classvideo

Upcoming District Dates & Celebrations:

April 2024

1-5: Spring Break

15-19: Public School Volunteer Week

23: School Bus Driver’s Day

24: Administrative Assistant Day

29: SHS Annual Plant Sale starts 9am-5pm at the SHS Greenhouse

May 2024

3: School Lunch Hero Day

6-10: Teacher Appreciation Week

8: National School Nurses Day

10: School IN SESSION for snow make-up day!

24: Snow Make-Up Day (if needed)

27: Memorial Day (No School)

June 2024

5: Scholarship Awards Ceremony

14: Graduation

18: Last Day of School (Early Release)

Upcoming Community Events and Activities:

SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE
SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE | 13

Mrs. Lorentzen's Musical Mastery Inspires Confidence in Students

At the heart of Helen Haller Elementary, Laura Lorentzen, a teacher with an extraordinary musical gift, is captivating the minds and hearts of her students through the magic of music. Every day, she imparts the joy of melodies to a total of 541 students, preparing them for themed individual school concerts that promise to be nothing short of spectacular. Throughout the month of March some of the concert themes include- Interplanetary Jammin’, Celebrate You and Me, DIG IT!, and American Voices.

Mrs. Lorentzen's commitment to individual expression is a standout feature of her music instruction philosophy. Students are encouraged to step into the limelight with solos if they wish, providing a platform for those who prefer a more visible role, as well as those who opt for supporting roles. The collaborative effort between teacher and student ensures each child finds their perfect musical fit.

Beyond the classroom, her influence is evident during recess, where some students are spotted practicing their parts with dedication and enthusiasm This extra commitment speaks volumes about the impact of her passion for music, goes beyond the confines of regular class hours

Mrs. Lorentzen is a testament to the impact one teacher can have on the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on the community's appreciation for the arts.

The Sequim Education Foundation

Founded in 2001 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Sequim Education Foundation (SEF) has been a driving force in bridging the financial gap between state school funding and the needs of students in the Sequim School District. Their mission is clear: to be a catalyst for vibrant growth in every student, enhancing the quality of education through community-driven initiatives and a teacher grant endowment.

Comprised of community members, business leaders, and school representatives, the SEF Board of Directors are united by a common goal, to enrich education for all within the Sequim School District. Through collaborative efforts, they strive to create opportunities that complement district programs, ensuring every student has access to a thriving educational experience.

The primary focus lies in funding Teaching Grants programs, which serve as a vital resource for educators to implement innovative teaching methods that inspire and engage students Annually, SEF provides over $30,000 in Teaching Grants and over $40,000 in student scholarships, making an impact on the educational scene in Sequim Next October 26th, a community fundraising event will be held to support the SEF mission; we hope you save the date.

SEF welcomes individuals who are passionate about education to join them in their mission. Whether through volunteering on our Scholarship Committee or simply expressing interest in initiatives, your support makes a difference You can contact them at 360 680 3061 or visit their website at: sequimeducationfoundation org

SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE | 14
SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE
PC:D.Hudson&M.Lyke

Sodexo's Future Chefs Challenge:

Inspiring Culinary Excellence

Sodexo's National Future Chefs Challenge has been shaping the culinary talents of elementary students for over a decade. The annual competition encourages kids across North America to explore nutrition, healthy choices, and cooking skills through a friendly contest.

It all starts with recipe submissions. With 20 Sequim School district students submitting recipes for the future chef competition this year, there was a plethora of delights to choose from for the local competition. Judged on taste, healthiness, originality, and presentation, winners move on to the district round and then onto the national round, culminating in the announcement of the National Champion in May. The winning recipe, along with three others, earns a place on school menus for the following academic year, showcasing students' creativity.

Sodexo's Future Chefs Challenge continues to be an inspiration, growing a love for healthy cooking and empowering the next generation of culinary enthusiasts.

This year’s participates and placements:

1st Place and this year’s local winner- William Coddington- Kitty Rice Cakes

2nd Place- Winter Radcliffe- Tocanita

3rd Place- Savannah Rombs- Pistachio Pesto Pasta Salad

Runners Up:

Ian Tupper- Baked Macaroni & Cheese

Mia Beltrami- Pineapple Paradise

Skylee Hooker- Pineapple Freezy/Protein Smoothie

SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE | 15
PC:T.Wahlsten

Greywolf Elementary Celebrating Literacy and Inspiring Readers

On March 1st, the halls of Greywolf Elementary resonated with the excited sounds of storytelling and shared enthusiasm for books as 8th graders from Sequim Middle School joined our youngest Sequim School District learners to celebrate Read Across America Day. The annual Read Across America Day was established by the National Education Association (NEA) in 1997 as a comprehensive reading program designed to encourage children of all ages to explore the world of books and reading.

The day celebrated an active engagement with literature In an age where technology often competes for children's attention, it was great to have a time where children gathered together around books The collaboration between Sequim Middle School and Greywolf Elementary demonstrated the importance of having a collective effort in inspiring a lifelong passion for reading When older students come together to share the joy of reading, they reaffirm and empower young minds to continue on the journey of becoming lifelong readers Teachers from both schools were thrilled to see students connecting with others over books they love or loved as younger children

Sequim School District Volunteers: Making a Difference

In the bustling halls and classrooms of Sequim School District, a remarkable force supports the daily schedules: volunteers. Volunteers play a pivotal role in enhancing the learning experience for students, offering invaluable support that enriches the entire school community.

From assisting bilingual students in finding their footing to individual reading help or simply offering a helping hand during lunch and recess, Sequim School District volunteers epitomize the spirit of giving Their dedication and selflessness contribute significantly to an inclusive and supportive environment where every student can thrive

The impact of these volunteers extends far beyond the confines of the classroom. By dedicating their time and energy, they not only provide essential assistance to teachers and staff but also serve as role models for students. Their presence reinforces the notion that education is a collective endeavor, one that requires the collaboration and commitment of the community.

For those inspired to join the volunteer team, the Sequim School District extends a warm invitation, interested individuals can submit a volunteer application online through the district's website at sequimschools org Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or someone looking to make a difference for the first time, there's a place for everyone to contribute in shaping the future of our youth. Welcome to volunteering!

SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE | 16
PC:M.Lyke

Sequim Food Bank and Greywolf Elementary Join Forces for Successful 12 Days of Giving Food Drive

Greywolf Elementary families and staff demonstrated a strong sense of community during the 12 Days of Giving Food Drive held in December Their collective effort resulted in a substantial donation of 3,600 pounds of food and $247 to the Sequim Food Bank, a vital resource providing approximately 120 weekend food bags for students to take home every Friday

The Sequim Food Bank ensures that students have access to nutritious meals, particularly during weekends when school meal programs are not available. The generous support from Greywolf families and staff came at an important time, providing a significant boost to the Food Bank's capacity to assist those facing food insecurity in the community this past holiday season.

he donated funds and food items contribute to replenishing the Food Bank's shelves, allowing them to sustain their mission of addressing hunger in the Sequim area. The successful collaboration between Greywolf School and the Sequim Food Bank emphasizes the impactful role community-driven initiatives play in making a difference in the lives of those in need.

For more information about the Sequim Food Bank and ways to support their mission, please visit sequimfoodbank org

Kindergartners Excel in Teddy Bear Bridge Challenge

In Melissa Sterrett's science class, kindergartners tackled the task of constructing bridges to support teddy bears. With enthusiasm and teamwork, they showcased creative designs and problem-solving skills. Students brainstormed and collaborated, experimenting with various materials and structural concepts. They embraced challenges and learned from failures, refining their designs through trial and error.

Excitement filled the classroom as bridges were tested, and cheers erupted when structures successfully held multiple teddy bears Through perseverance and creativity, the children demonstrated growth and mastery of both engineering principles and teamwork. In the end, Mrs. Sterrett's class proved that even the youngest learners can achieve remarkable feats with imagination, collaboration, and determination.

SPRING 2024 KALEIDOSCOPE
SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE | 17
PC:D.Lamb&S.Carlson PC:M.Sterrett&D.Lamb

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.
Kaleidoscope- Spring 2024 Edition by Mlyke - Issuu