KALEIDOSCOPE SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE WINTER 2025/2026 EDITION
CONNECTING CULTURES IN THE CLASSROOM
Two teachers. One language. Endless possibilities.
WOLVES ON THE RISE
Girls Flag Football Makes a Powerful Debut at Sequim High School
VOLUNTEERS, HISTORY, AND HEART
DAR Making a Difference in Sequim Classrooms
LITTLE WRITERS, BIG HEARTS
First graders crafted thank you notes.
Welcome
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KALEIDOSCOPE
As we wrap up 2025, I am filled with gratitude and pride for our students, staff, families, and community. This year resulted in remarkable achievement and meaningful milestones across Sequim School District and our community. Together, we celebrated the passage of a comprehensive school construction bond ensuring that our students will continue to learn in safe, modern, and inspiring spaces. We cheered as one of our own educators was recognized as Regional Teacher of the Year, and our Middle School HOSA Advisor earned the distinction of Outstanding Advisor of the Year. Our Sequim Middle School HOSA students shined on an international stage this past summer and our School Board was honored as a Board of Distinction, reflecting the commitment and collaboration that guide our district. These accomplishments remind us of the talent, dedication, and heart that exist within every corner of our schools. Looking ahead to 2026, we have so much to anticipate. New opportunities for student learning, innovative programs, and continued growth await us. I am inspired by the momentum we have built and the possibilities on the horizon. I wish each of you a joyful and restful winter break, full of laughter, family, and reflection. I can’t wait to see all our students back at school on Monday, January 5, 2026, ready to begin another exciting year of learning, growth, and achievement together.
IN THIS ISSUE: Academic Excellence Celebrating Sequim Middle School’s Term 1 Honor Roll Students page 3 Spreading Joy and Connection at Sequim Middle School: Meet Tennille Bixby
page 5
Spanning Centuries: Engineering the Ancient World
page 6
Sequim School Board Earns 2025 WSSDA Board of Distinction page 7
AND MORE!
Pathways to Graduation & Beyond It’s a Wonderful World…of Languages
Cultural & Civic Responsibility OPA Assembly Brings Native American Stories and Culture to Life page 3 OPA Students Earn “Be a PAL®” Certification in Food Allergy Awareness page 6
Community Volunteer Partnerships A Powerful Partnership: DAR Volunteers Make a Difference in Sequim Schools page 4 Sequim Valley Lions Support Student Health with Vision and Hearing Screenings
Superintendent
Regan Nickels
Sequim School District
page 7
PTA Turkey Trot Gobbles Up Fundraising Goals at Greywolf and Haller! page 9
Student Focus & Family Engagement Sequim Wolves Girls Flag Football: Making History in Their Inaugural Season page 8 Greywolf Winterfest Draws a Full House
Happy New Year!
page 12
page 10
KALEIDOSCOPE WINTER 2025/2026
OPA Assembly Brings Native American Stories and Culture to Life Students at Olympic Peninsula Academy recently had the opportunity to experience a vibrant and meaningful celebration of Native American heritage during a schoolwide assembly with Jamestown S’Klallam storyteller Loni Greninger. Loni shared traditional stories, teachings, and dances that reflected the deep wisdom and values of the S’Klallam people. Her visit brought history off the page and into the gym, inviting students to learn through story, rhythm, and movement. The assembly was both lively and engaging. Students listened intently as Loni wove together stories with lessons about community, respect, and identity. Through a traditional dance, students witnessed cultural practices that have been passed down through generations, each carrying meaning and purpose. OPAs staff shared, that experiences like this play an important role in helping students understand the rich cultural heritage of the land where they live and learn. Loni’s visit offered students a firsthand connection to the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe whose ancestral homeland includes the Sequim area. Thank you, Loni Greninger, for sharing your knowledge, stories, and energy and leaving students inspired and more deeply connected to the living history of their community.
Celebrating Sequim Middle School’s Term 1 Honor Roll Students Sequim Middle School is proud to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and outstanding achievements of our students during Term 1. Each day, our learners show up ready to engage, grow, and contribute to our school community and their efforts truly shine. To earn a place on the Gold Honor Roll, students must maintain a GPA between 3.6 and 4.0, reflecting exceptional academic performance. This term, Sequim Middle School is excited to recognize 55 sixth graders, 49 seventh graders, and 97 eighth graders who achieved this distinguished honor. Students earning Silver Honor Roll recognition demonstrated strong academic success with GPAs between 3.0 and 3.59. This group includes 38 sixth graders, 47 seventh graders, and 37 eighth graders who worked hard and achieved impressive results. Sequim Middle School is incredibly proud of all these students, not only for their academic accomplishments, but also for the positive contributions they make to our school culture. Their commitment to learning, leadership, and being responsible members of our community sets a wonderful example for everyone on campus. Congratulations to all students who earned honor roll recognition this term. Keep up the great work, your dedication truly makes Sequim Middle School shine! SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT
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A Powerful Partnership: DAR Volunteers Make a Difference in Sequim Schools The Sequim School District is fortunate to partner with the Michael Trebert Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), a nonprofit organization of dedicated women volunteers whose mission centers on patriotism, education, and historic preservation. Through this partnership, DAR members actively support students, teachers, and veterans across our local schools, making a meaningful impact in classrooms and beyond. Promoting education is at the heart of the DAR’s work. Their Community Classroom committee brings educational resources directly to students, providing Flag Etiquette and Flag Folding lessons along with American Legion Flag booklets, certificates, and flag lapel pins for students who participate. The chapter has previously sponsored an American History Essay Contest for grades 5–8, recognizing winners with medals, cash awards, and certificates for all participants. In addition, DAR members show appreciation for school staff with gifts and notes during Teacher Appreciation Week. In the past two years, these efforts have reached Olympic Peninsula Academy, Greywolf Elementary, and Helen Haller Elementary. The chapter has also partnered with local veterans to install a flagpole and U.S. flag at Olympic Peninsula Academy, enhancing both school pride and civic education. Supporting historic preservation is another key focus for the Michael Trebert Chapter. Members volunteer weekly or occasionally in classrooms at Olympic Peninsula Academy, Helen Haller, and Greywolf Elementary. Their contributions include reading with students, helping with writing and math skills, assisting during school testing, leading art projects, sharing American history knowledge, conducting flag lessons, and accompanying students on field trips. These efforts allow students to connect with history while developing academic skills and a love of learning. Patriotism is deeply woven into the chapter’s activities. DAR members support veterans and active-duty military personnel through participation in national programs like Wreaths Across America, involvement in historical events, and participating in Veterans Day ceremonies at all five Sequim District schools. In one memorable project, the chapter installed a new flagpole and U.S. flag at the school, culminating in a flag raising and dedication ceremony. Students also participated in a writing contest exploring “What Does the U.S. Flag Mean to Me?” to cultivate civic pride and a sense of patriotism. Through their partnership with the Sequim School District, DAR members hope students develop a love of country, an appreciation for American history, leadership and service skills, a passion for reading and learning, and a spirit of volunteerism and community engagement. The Michael Trebert Chapter-DAR is also excited to announce the expansion of DAR involvement in Sequim. A new chapter, the New Dungeness Chapter, DAR, has been established, joining the existing Michael Trebert Chapter, DAR to represent the organization in the community. Both chapters will now collaborate on projects within the Sequim School District. Through this combined effort, the Sequim School District and its DAR partners will aim to foster in students a love of country, an appreciation for American history, leadership and service skills, a passion for learning, and a spirit of volunteerism and community engagement. SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE
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Spreading Joy and Connection at Sequim Middle School: Meet Tennille Bixby At Sequim Middle School, the start of the week is anything but ordinary, thanks to Tennille Bixby. Known for her boundless energy, creativity, and positivity, Tennille has become a cornerstone of the school’s culture, bringing students, staff, and families together in meaningful and fun ways. “I’m motivated by helping others learn about the exciting things happening at SMS,” Tennille shares. “I love getting to share the cool things our community is doing and shining a light on moments people might not see otherwise. It feels good knowing that what I share helps people feel more connected.” Her role allows her to work with staff, students, and families alike, creating relationships that foster a positive, supportive school community. One of her signature contributions is the Monday Morning Howl Off, a spirited tradition similar to “Name That Tune,” designed to kick off the week with energy and excitement. “They started as a way to get the week going with some fun and energy,” Tennille explains. “They’re a great way to connect with students and staff and bring a little excitement to the start of the day. I love seeing everyone get into it. It’s a simple thing that makes a big difference in the vibe for the week.” Beyond these events, Tennille’s vibrant office decor and engaging social media work consistently reflect her commitment to making SMS a welcoming and lively place. Her approach is simple but powerful. “School can be stressful, tough, and sometimes a little routine,” she says, “so sprinkling in fun activities keeps things exciting and gives everyone a reason to smile and enjoy the day.” Behind the scenes, Tennille balances her attendance and ASB secretarial responsibilities while mentoring student TAs from each period, including high school students. “They help the office run smoothly by taking care of student notes, projects, and other tasks. Along the way, they learn responsibility, time management, and how to make smart choices,” Tennille explains. “Their creativity and enthusiasm really make our office a lively, welcoming place for everyone.” When asked what keeps her coming back each day, Tennille’s answer is simple: the people. “There isn’t just one moment that reminds me why I love this job. There are so many! Watching students improve their attendance, jumping into ASB meetings, making school activities fun, supporting families during tough times, and all the laughs and fun we have at SMS. It all keeps me coming back. Even on the 'crazy' days, I genuinely enjoy coming to work.” Through her joy, dedication, and creativity, Tennille is more than a staff member. She is the heartbeat of Sequim Middle School, reminding everyone that a little fun and connection can go a long way.
Officer of the Year!
Sequim School District is proud to celebrate School Resource Officer Daniel Martinez, recently honored as Officer of the Year. Thank you for your service, care for students, and partnership with our schools. SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT
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OPA Students Earn “Be a PAL®” Certification in Food Allergy Awareness Recently, fifth-grade students in Mrs. Maria Germano’s science class, taught in partnership with her teaching teammate, Mrs. Stacy Tucker, who supports both fourth- and fifth-grade learning, took part in the nationally recognized Be a PAL® (Protect A Life) program. Be a PAL® equips students with vital knowledge about food allergies and teaches them how to be a safe, supportive friend to classmates who live with them. Through engaging lessons and hands-on activities, students learned how to recognize common allergens, avoid food sharing, wash hands after eating, and seek adult help right away if someone shows signs of an allergic reaction. The program emphasizes empathy, awareness, and responsibility; reminding students that food allergies affect millions of children and that even a small exposure can be dangerous. At the conclusion of the training, every student received a Be a PAL® certificate, a meaningful recognition of their commitment to a safer, more inclusive school environment. Programs like Be a PAL® reflect OPA’s mission to pair academic rigor with real-world learning. By weaving health and safety education into science coursework, Mrs. Germano and Mrs. Tucker are helping students build not only knowledge but compassion and practical life skills that make a positive impact both in and beyond the classroom.
Spanning Centuries: Engineering the Ancient World Helen Haller Elementary’s 5th graders have been traveling back in time, unlocking the wonders of the Maya, Aztec, and Inca civilizations. Their journey through the ancient world led them high into the Andes Mountains, where they discovered the incredible engineering of the Inca Empire, including the legendary Q’eshwachaka rope bridge. Inspired by this centuries-old marvel, students traded textbooks for toolkits and became engineers for a day. Armed with science, math, creativity, and a pile of simple materials, they set out to build their own suspension bridges. The classroom buzzed with ideas as teams twisted, tied, tested, and redesigned their creations. Then came the ultimate challenge: the weight test. Would their bridges bend, break, or hold strong? Cheers and gasps filled the room as students watched their designs rise to the occasion. Through teamwork, problem solving, and plenty of imagination, these young builders proved that great ideas can span any distance. Their curiosity and ingenuity made this journey into the ancient world one they won’t soon forget.
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Sequim Valley Lions Support Student Health with Vision and Hearing Screenings The Sequim Valley Lions Club continues to make a meaningful impact on student health and well-being. Once again, their volunteers, led by Mr. David Blakeslee, helped the Sequim School District complete state-mandated vision and hearing screenings. In less than a week, the Lions completed screenings for 1,083 students across Olympic Peninsula Academy, Helen Haller Elementary, Greywolf Elementary, and Sequim Middle School, covering preschool, kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, and 7th grades. This year, the Lions utilized the PlusOptix Screening Camera, which they purchased to provide more advanced vision evaluations. The technology allows for anonymous measurements that can detect seven different eye conditions, including near-point and distance vision concerns. Early detection is especially important, as vision issues in children under 9–10 years old can often be treated rather than just accommodated with glasses. Providing these screenings at school ensures students spend minimal time away from the classroom. Each class was screened in about 12 minutes, reducing any disruption to learning. The Lions’ investment in equipment, training, and volunteer time has provided a tremendous benefit to students and the district’s ability to address hearing and vision concerns. The Sequim Valley Lions’ dedication, expertise, and generosity continue to positively impact schools and students, supporting healthy eyes, healthy ears, and healthy learning throughout the district.
Sequim School Board Earns 2025 WSSDA Board of Distinction The Sequim School District Board of Directors has been named a 2025 WSSDA Board of Distinction, an honor awarded by the Washington State School Directors’ Association to boards that demonstrate exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and a commitment to continuous improvement. This recognition highlights the Board’s dedication to strong governance and student-centered decision-making, as well as their ongoing commitment to serving students, staff, and the broader Sequim community. “We are grateful to be recognized by the Washington State School Directors’ Association as a Board of Distinction,” said Board President Eric Pickens. “This honor affirms our community’s shared commitment to strong public education and reflects the hard work we do every day to support every student in Sequim School District.” The district extends its appreciation to the Board of Directors for their leadership, service, and continued focus on student success.
Upcoming District Dates: December 2025 22- Jan 2: No School- Winter Break
January 2026 12: School Board Meeting @ 5:30pm 19: No School- Martin Luther King Jr. Day 26: No School- Semester Break
February 2026 2: School Board Meeting @ 5:30pm 13: No School 16: No School- Presidents’ Day
March 2026 2: School Board Meeting @ 5:30pm 13: No School for Students - Professional Learning Day
16: School Board Meeting @ 5:30pm 16: No School- Presidents’ Day
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Sequim Wolves Girls Flag Football: Making History in Their Inaugural Season The Sequim Wolves girls flag football team is off to a historic start in their very first season. After Thursday, December 18, the Wolves secured two dominant wins; defeating Port Angeles 37-6 and Klahowya 21-7, bringing their record to an impressive 5-1 These victories have vaulted Sequim into first place in the league, an incredible feat for a team in its very first season. The Wolves are led by head coach Kathleen Rose, with support from Terry Wopperer and Cody Buckmaster. Together, the coaching staff has guided the team through the learning curve of a brand-new sport, helping players develop both skill and confidence on the field. Adding to the excitement, the team recently received a $4,000 grant from the Seattle Seahawks, an investment in the growth of girls flag football and the future of athletics at Sequim High School. With their strong start and this new support, the Sequim Wolves are proving they belong at the top of the league. Fans are eagerly watching as this inaugural season unfolds, and excitement is high for what promises to be a memorable run in girls flag football. SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE
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Exercise Science: A Hands-On Approach to Lifelong Wellness at Sequim High School What do rubber bands, sandbags, yoga mats, and a body composition scale have in common? They’re all tools being used in Sequim High School’s newest course, Exercise Science. Offered for the first time this school year, this CTE physical education class blends hands-on fitness with classroom learning to help students build lifelong habits that support physical and mental health. The course’s focus is simple; give students practical knowledge and accessible fitness strategies they can use long after high school. Students spend three days a week in the gym and two days in the classroom, combining strength training, flexibility, balance work, and biomechanics with lessons in nutrition, kinesiology, and overall wellness. Guided by teacher Lynette Jenne, students are learning to use a variety of fitness equipment such as resistance bands, weighted kettlebell sandbags, bouncy exercise balls, and even weighted backpacks for “rucking” to explore new ways to build strength and prevent injuries. Each student keeps a workout journal to track their progress, including weekly entries documenting body composition changes. The learning doesn’t end when students leave the gym. In the classroom, students dive into anatomy and biomechanics, discover how nerves and muscles work together, and explore healthy nutrition habits. They’ve even used AI tools to design quick and nutritious three-day meal plans for meals that can be made in under 30 minutes. Students also use AI to find scientifically sound wellness resources, reinforcing the idea that technology can support healthy living when used thoughtfully. The results of the class’s first seven weeks demonstrate its impact. As a group, students lost a collective 35.9 pounds of fat, gained 21.2 pounds of muscle, and even added one pound of bone density; evidence of meaningful and measurable improvement. With guest speakers and field trips planned, Exercise Science is gaining momentum as the year continues. Designed to span a full year but open to students on a semester basis, Exercise Science not only provides physical education credit it offers real-world knowledge that supports students’ lifelong fitness, nutrition, and well-being. The enthusiasm and early outcomes speak volumes this course is making a difference, one rep, one meal plan, and one fitness goal at a time.
PTA Turkey Trot Gobbles Up Fundraising Goals at Greywolf and Haller! The annual Turkey Trot at Greywolf Elementary and Helen Haller Elementary didn’t just meet expectations, it soared past them! With a fundraising goal of $28,000, families and community members came together to raise an incredible $37,787, bringing smiles and excitement to students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Thanks to this amazing support, every student will receive six books to enjoy over the summer. The funds will also help cover field trips and a variety of fun events at school, making this year even more memorable for students. A huge thank you goes out to everyone who ran, donated, and cheered on the Turkey Trot. Your generosity proves that when our school communities come together, we can accomplish something truly extraordinary!
KALEIDOSCOPE
WINTER 2025/2026
Greywolf Winterfest Draws a Full House Greywolf Elementary was bustling during this year’s Winterfest Family Fun Night, with families packing the school to take part in an evening of hands-on activities and time together. The building stayed busy from start to finish as students guided their parents from table to table, eager to try everything the event offered. Craft stations were among the most popular spots of the night. Students made holiday cards, ornaments, and beaded bracelets, and many took on the challenge of creating reindeer and candy cane crafts. Story Time and Color Time provided a quieter corner for younger students looking to settle in with a book or coloring page. Throughout the school, families stopped to snap photos at the winter-themed photo backdrop, with a photographer on site that gave families an emailed picture to use for holiday cards. Hot cocoa was available for anyone needing a warm-up, and volunteers stayed busy as the turnout exceeded expectations. Before heading home, every student received a free book, giving them something new to enjoy long after the event wrapped up. Winterfest has become a favorite tradition at Greywolf, and this year’s turnout proved it once again. With crafts, cocoa, and pages to take home, the night offered families a fun reminder that winter is best when shared together.
Business Behind the Scenes Betsy Bankston has been a steady presence at Sequim School District since July 2013, bringing her passion for precision and a knack for customer service to her multifaceted role. As part of her day-to-day work, Betsy manages accounts payable, cash uploads, auditing accounts, child nutrition, and assists staff with credit card checkouts. Her position allows her to interact with both staff and members of the community, making her a familiar and trusted face throughout the district. “I have always had a passion for auditing and balancing accounts,” Betsy says. “I enjoy the research and making sure everything is in balance, and I’m always willing to help where I can.” Her meticulous approach ensures the district’s financial processes run smoothly, all while supporting her colleagues in their work. Betsy’s connection to Sequim goes beyond the office. She loves exploring the area’s natural beauty, from hiking the mountains to kayaking its waterways. She enjoys these adventures with her husband and two Australian shepherds. She also met her husband while working at the school district in 2021. Behind the scenes, Betsy’s dedication to her craft is evident. She holds four certifications from the Washington Association of School Business Officials, in Accounting, Payroll, Accounts Payable, and ASB, which help her stay current with best practices and improve her efficiency. Her motivation is simple: doing what she loves. “I enjoy researching, auditing, and making sure everything is compliant,” Betsy explains. “I’m inspired to learn something new.” This was especially apparent during the district’s migration to Qmlativ this past year, when Betsy eagerly embraced a new system, mastering it while maintaining a positive, can-do attitude and helping staff navigate the changes. For Betsy, the work is more than numbers on a spreadsheet, it’s about contributing to a thriving school community while continuously learning and growing in her field. SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE
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Fourth Graders Dive Deep Into Nonfiction Reading and Celebrate With Medieval Day Helen Haller Elementary’s fourth-grade team took on their largest and most rigorous reading unit of the year, an in-depth study of nonfiction text. Using the Professional Learning Community (PLC) process, teachers identified two key state standards as their focus: RI 4.1, which asks students to use text evidence and make inferences, and RI 4.2, which focuses on identifying the main idea and explaining how details support it. In short, students were learning to be strong, thoughtful readers of informational text. To build these skills, teachers created a unit full of intentional practice. Students engaged in targeted chapter quizzes, in-chapter questions, and activities modeled after Smarter Balanced Assessment (SBA) question styles, giving them over 100 opportunities to show what they were learning. As a team, teachers also noticed vocabulary development as an area for growth, so they wove vocabulary practice into daily Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) lessons and used Boost by Amplify, a program that provides high-interest, targeted support based on each student’s beginning-of-year assessment. Assessment was another thoughtful component of the unit. The team chose Pear (formerly Edulastic), an online assessment tool that offers built-in accommodations for students who may struggle with reading. This helped ensure that every student had a meaningful way to access grade-level material and demonstrate their understanding. Students stayed busy with short written responses, creative extensions, and hands-on activities that helped them master tricky skills like identifying main ideas, understanding supporting details, and drawing conclusions from what they read. The unit pushed them academically, but it also gave them a strong sense of accomplishment. To celebrate the end of such a significant learning journey, the fourth-grade classrooms held a lively and memorable Medieval Day. Students chose four activities from a list of eight, giving them a chance to explore history through creativity and play. Options included jousting, Medieval games, castle drawing, mystery drawings, coat of arms design, knight masks, stained-glass window art, and crowns and calligraphy. With each rotation, students put their learning, collaboration, and problem-solving skills into action. Medieval Day was a well-earned celebration for hardworking fourth graders, and a joyful reminder that deep learning can be both challenging and fun.
KALEIDOSCOPE
WINTER 2025/2026
It’s a Wonderful World…of Languages At Sequim High School, the Spanish classrooms are more than just places to conjugate verbs and memorize vocabulary, they are vibrant worlds where students explore cultures, build confidence, and discover new ways to connect with the world. Leading the charge are Anita Valdez and Rachael DeAngelo, two educators whose passion for language turns learning into an adventure. Anita Valdez’s path to teaching Spanish was anything but traditional. Originally trained as an elementary teacher, she began her career teaching 2nd and 3rd grades, building long-term relationships with her students. Her journey later took her to Puerto Rico, where she worked with the Department of Defense as a substitute and teacher and also taught preschool to Coast Guard families. After moving to the Peninsula, a wave of teacher layoffs led her to explore social work, where she worked with First Step Family Support Center, eventually opening their daycare preschool and collaborating with Head Start programs. A posting for a Spanish teacher at Sequim High School caught her eye. Though she wasn’t yet certified to teach high school, Anita embraced her family’s motto: “What’s the worst thing someone can tell you? No.” After an initial hesitation, she was invited to interview, hired on an emergency certificate, and earned her Spanish teaching endorsement within a year. “I truly love my students,” Anita says. “Sequim has a small-town charm, what I fondly refer to as ‘Mayberry.’ Our students are amazing, and the families here are incredibly supportive of what we do at the high school.” The rewards of teaching Spanish are evident in her students’ achievements. Many arrive with little to no Spanish and leave biliterate, often earning the International Seal of Biliteracy. Non-native speakers frequently achieve exceptionally high scores on the STAMP4S exam, an online test that measures reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, with some even scoring a 9, a rare accomplishment. Meanwhile, native speakers gain a strong foundation in grammar, and many continue studying the language at the university level. Anita’s classroom is lively and full of energy. She carries over playful, interactive strategies from her elementary teaching days, using singing, games, and hands-on activities to engage high school learners. “No two days are ever the same,” she notes, emphasizing the joy and creativity that guide her teaching. Her inspiration comes from her grandmother, Anita Lichter, a lifelong education advocate in Nogales, Arizona. Traveling with her grandmother throughout Arizona and even to Washington, D.C., helped shape her commitment to education. “From an early age, I knew I wanted to become a teacher,” she reflects. If Anita brings experience and heart, Rachael DeAngelo brings global perspective and infectious enthusiasm. Her love for Spanish began in high school and deepened through college, a semester abroad in Madrid, Spain, and a year-and-a-half service mission in Uruguay. “The broadened perspective about the world and connection to people and other cultures is what I love most about speaking another language,” she says. Her own childhood admiration for her Aunt Delia, who shared old classroom materials, also inspired her to become a teacher. “Sequim High School has students with different personalities, strengths, and life experiences,” Rachael explains. “My personal mantra is that I teach students first and then content. I enjoy getting to know them and seeing them progress and change throughout each year. We also have exceptional leaders and staff that make collaboration a positive and inclusive experience.” Rachael’s classroom is a dynamic hub of interactive learning. Storytelling, songs, and games keep students engaged while helping them absorb vocabulary and grammar naturally. She loves seeing students use their Spanish in real-world ways, both inside and outside the classroom, and watches with pride as their confidence grows. Her inspiration comes from her own values as a parent. “To stay inspired, I think about how I would like my own five children to think and feel when they are in a classroom learning,” she says. This perspective drives her to ensure that learning feels safe, valuable, and positive for every student. Together, Anita Valdez and Rachael DeAngelo show Sequim High School students that learning a language is more than memorizing words, it’s a journey into new cultures, new ideas, and new ways of seeing the world. In their classrooms, Spanish isn’t just a subject; it’s a passport to a wonderful world of languages.
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Welcome to Helen Haller Elementary Assistant Principal Jami Carbray Helen Haller Elementary is excited to welcome Jami Carbray as the school’s new Assistant Principal. With more than 30 years in education, Jami brings a wealth of experience in instructional leadership, literacy development, and schoolwide improvement. Jami began her career as an elementary classroom teacher, spending 20 years guiding students in their learning journeys. Her passion for literacy and student growth led her to earn a Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in Reading and Math and to serve five years as a Reading Specialist, supporting both students and teachers across an entire school. That experience inspired her to move into school leadership, and she earned an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership and Building Administration. Now in her fifth year as an administrator, Jami has also served as Principal, Vice Principal, and Literacy Intervention Specialist, most recently leading Sam Boardman Elementary in the Morrow County School District. Known for building strong relationships with students, staff, families, and the broader community, Jami emphasizes creating safe, supportive, and inclusive environments where students feel cared for, staff feel empowered, and families feel informed and valued. She brings expertise in Professional Learning Communities, Multi Tiered Systems of Support, Response to Intervention, and using data to drive instructional excellence. After visiting Sequim several times over the years, Jami knew it was a place where she wanted to put down roots. She has already been warmly welcomed by Helen Haller staff and students and looks forward to supporting the school’s continued growth and success. Outside of school, Jami treasures time with her two adult children and her new grandchild. She enjoys traveling, exploring new places, and quiet weekends at home. Helen Haller Elementary is thrilled to welcome Jami Carbray to the leadership team and looks forward to the positive impact she will bring to students, staff, and the community.
First Graders Share Stories, Supper, and the Power of “Thank You” at Greywolf Greywolf Elementary first graders and their families gathered for a fun and meaningful literacy night centered on gratitude and writing. The evening featured a shared reading of Sallie Bee Writes a Thank You Note, which set the stage for students to learn how to write their own thoughtful thank you notes. With guidance from staff, students practiced their writing skills and explored how words can be used to express appreciation. Each first grader who attended took home a free copy of the book along with a stationery set, encouraging them to continue writing thank you notes at home long after the evening ended. Families also enjoyed dinner together, making the night not only a literacy experience but a chance to connect as a school community. This special event was made possible through grant funding and generous support from the Sequim Education Foundation, the Build-a-Bear Foundation, Pizza Hut, and the Sequim Elementary PTA, helping make learning memorable for Greywolf’s youngest writers.
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Building Strong Readers from the Start Sequim School District is celebrating strong early literacy growth among kindergarten students, made possible through intentional instruction, targeted supports, and a highly collaborative teaching team. Literacy Specialist Leigh Ann Koenig shared encouraging kindergarten data from the Acadience benchmark screener, which is administered three times a year. Students performing below grade level receive targeted interventions and are progress monitored every three weeks. Continued monitoring shows meaningful growth across key early literacy skills, with First Sound Fluency increasing from 70% to 86%, Phoneme Segmentation Fluency from 75% to 85%, and Nonsense Word Fluency from 68% to 75%. According to Ms. Koenig, this success is rooted in the kindergarten team’s consistent collaboration. Teachers deliver aligned lessons, use shared assessments and criteria, and regularly review student data together. This work became even more focused when Greywolf transitioned to a primary school as part of the district’s K–2 and 3–5 alignment, allowing teachers to strengthen foundational skills, address curricular gaps, and better identify areas where students need additional support. Collaboration is embedded in daily practice across classrooms. Teachers share effective instructional strategies, integrate writing to reinforce letter-sound connections, and use WIN (What I Need) time to provide targeted instruction. This approach has also fostered a shared mindset of responsibility for all learners, moving from “my students” to “our students.” Teachers new to the district have noted the team’s willingness to support one another and share best practices. This year, the kindergarten team also implemented Heggerty, a phonemic awareness program that complements the CKLA reading curriculum. Through the district’s Learning Lab, teachers observed lessons, practiced strategies, and collaborated on implementation. Together, these efforts are building a strong foundation for literacy success. Sequim School District is proud of our kindergarten students and the educators whose purposeful collaboration continues to make a meaningful difference.
“The kindergarten team strives to present curriculum in a uniform manner. They teach the same lessons, share similar assessments, and create rubrics for evaluating student work. Their collaboration has been ongoing for years.” -Leigh Ann Koenig Literacy Specialist
“This work reflects the long-term collaboration kindergarten teachers have been doing as a team. When the schools realigned to K–2 and 3–5 and Greywolf became a primary school, we strengthened foundational skills, filled curricular gaps we had identified, and aligned our assessments to better reflect student progress and areas needing extra support.” -Carla Drescher Kindergarten Teacher
“Our collaboration as a team is key to seeing growth across the grade level. If something is working well in one classroom and showing positive results, we are not shy to ask, share, and adopt. The kindergarten team operates as an all-hands-on-deck group.” -Bethanie Robbins Kindergarten Teacher
“By expanding our reading lessons to include writing, we reinforce students’ letter-sound connections and strengthen the neural pathways needed for decoding, especially for students who need extra support.” -Amy Skogsberg Kindergarten Teacher
“WIN time has allowed us to meet students exactly where they are and strategically address learning gaps. It has also shifted our mindset from ‘my students’ to ‘our students,’ ensuring shared responsibility for all learners.” -Stephanie O’Mera Kindergarten Teacher
“As a newcomer to both the district and CKLA, I was deeply impressed by the kindergarten teachers’ willingness to guide me through the curriculum and share their best practices. It was truly refreshing to join such a collaborative team.” SEQUIM SCHOOL DISTRICT MAGAZINE
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-Sharon Murphy Kindergarten Teacher