June Superintendent's Update

We are coming to the end of the 2025–26 school year. Typically wrapping up in mid-to-late June, the final weeks of the school year bring a bittersweet mix of anticipation and reflection. Students scramble to finish final projects and exams while staff work to deliver the last lessons, complete projects, or finalize budgets. While many students prepare for their transitions between grades or schools, many adults are doing the same — transferring schools, retiring, or leaving for a new profession altogether.

For many Washington students, the end of the school year is marked by meaningful milestones and celebrations. Seniors across the state don caps and gowns for graduation ceremonies, often held outdoors to take advantage of June's longer daylight hours. Younger students participate in field days, award assemblies, and classroom parties that honor a year of growth and hard work. Teachers reflect on the progress their students have made, and school communities come together one last time before scattering for the summer months. While not every milestone comes with a party or a recognition, it’s important to remember that their a many smaller steps of improvement made for students and adults that don’t always gain the recognition they might warrant.

With all that is happening in the world, our country and in our local communities, it is important to remember that for all the stress that the school year can bring, it is also a place of support and encouragement for many. The routines of the day can, the meals provided and the presence of others are needed for many. As with almost anything in life, there is no one right solution or setting. The last few weeks I delivered several school recognition banners and was able to experience one of the characteristics I enjoy most about this region: our diverse community settings. The expanse from White Pass to Ocean Shores and Hood Canal to the Cowlitz River displays our smaller rural communities and our larger more densely populated ones.

To the thousands of educators, staff, and leaders serving schools throughout our region: you transform the lives of our students, families, and communities. Thank you for all you do every day. I hope you are able to get a little time to be with family and friends and enjoy the nicer weather in the days, weeks, and months ahead!

With much gratitude,