Sedro-Woolley School District

This week’s Sedro-Woolley School District newsletter is full of important updates, including Camp Orkila info, summer activities, student highlights, and more! Check it out here: https://secure.smore.com/n/h40gq

The Sedro-Woolley School District is proud to recognize the 2024-2025 Outstanding Employees of the Year. All recipients will be notified over the next few weeks and the group will be recognized at the School Board Meeting on June 9. The meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m. at 801 Trail Road, where each honoree will be presented with a plaque in appreciation of their dedication and contributions. We invite the community to join us in celebrating these exceptional employees who make a difference in the lives of our students and schools every day! The Sedro-Woolley School District is proud to honor Elizabeth “Liz" Olberg as Central Elementary School’s Outstanding Employee of the Year! As the school’s Art and Music Specialist, Liz’s passion for the arts shines through in everything she does, creating an inspiring and inclusive space for students to explore their creativity. Liz’s classroom is more than just a place to learn music and art—it’s a safe and supportive environment where students feel empowered to take risks and discover their talents. She understands that not every child believes they are “artistic” or “musical,” but she finds ways to help each student shine. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom through after-school choir programs, where she provides students with opportunities to showcase their talents at community parades, concerts, and festivals. This year, Liz has taken her commitment to arts education even further by organizing Central’s first-ever Art Walk, displaying student artwork throughout downtown Sedro-Woolley for the entire community to enjoy. She also led efforts to secure grants for music and art programs, ensuring students have access to high-quality arts education. Additionally, Liz played a vital role in the school’s outdoor garden and classroom project, helping raise funds and rally volunteers to bring the vision to life. Her leadership, reliability, and support for both students and staff make her an invaluable part of Central Elementary. Whether she’s directing school concerts, advocating for arts education, or collaborating with teachers to integrate music and art into the curriculum, Liz embodies the spirit of excellence and dedication. Congratulations, Liz, on this well-deserved recognition! Central Elementary is a better place because of you!

The Sedro-Woolley School District is proud to recognize the 2024-2025 Outstanding Employees of the Year. All recipients will be notified over the next few weeks and the group will be recognized at the School Board Meeting on June 9. The meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m. at 801 Trail Road, where each honoree will be presented with a plaque in appreciation of their dedication and contributions. The Sedro-Woolley School District is proud to honor Christina Henriquez as the Outstanding Employee of the Year for Samish Elementary School! As a 4th grade teacher, Christina sets a high standard for both her students and herself. She fosters an environment where rigorous academic expectations are met with encouragement and support. Her research-based, engaging, and innovative teaching methods ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive. Beyond the classroom, Christina continuously seeks ways to enhance learning, build meaningful relationships, and provide personalized support to her students. Christina’s leadership extends beyond her teaching role. She is an active member of the Site-Based Leadership Team, where she advocates for student needs and contributes valuable insight to school-wide decisions. Colleagues admire Christina for her professionalism, compassionate leadership, and ability to foster collaboration among staff. She consistently mentors fellow educators and plays a pivotal role in building a positive school culture at Samish. Christina is a role model, inspiring both her students and colleagues to reach their full potential. Her dedication and commitment to excellence make her an invaluable asset to the Samish community. Congratulations, Christina, on this well-deserved recognition! 🎉👏 We invite the community to join us in celebrating these exceptional employees who make a difference in the lives of our students and schools every day!

Join Sedro-Woolley High School on Tuesday, April 22 in the auditorium from 5:30–7:30 p.m. for the CTE Students Showcase event! Students in Video Production, Journalism, and Yearbook will be showcasing their skill in an evening of thought provoking documentaries, photography, and a mixed media game show called Taskmaster! The $5 suggested donation goes to support students in our digital media and journalism courses. Come celebrate our student's hard work! https://youtu.be/9kHoLctconM

Shelby Richardson has been named the March Rotary Student of the Month. She is the daughter of Vince and Ruth Richardson of Sedro-Woolley. Shelby maintains a 4.0 GPA while being actively involved in Sedro-Woolley High School. Shelby has been active in many SWHS sports; 4 years of soccer (JV Captain), 2 years playing basketball and 1 year as Team Manager (varsity letter), and 3 years of tennis (JV Captain). She has participated in and/or is a member in the following clubs: Cub Crew Mentor, Club Diversity (2 years), Varsity in Volunteerism (4 years), ASB Secretary, Yearbook Staff (4 years, 2 years Editor), CAMP (3 years), and Earth Club (1 year). Shelby’s academic achievements include: Department Awards earned in American Sign Language, Business & Marketing, English, Math, PE & Health, Science, and Social Studies; Student of the Month awards in Leadership and Social Studies; Recognition awards in CAMP and Varsity in Volunteerism; and also receiving the Triple Threat Award for 3 years. Shelby has been named one of the class Valedictorians for the class of 2025. Outside of school, Shelby enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and reading. She has also enjoyed volunteering and working with groups and organizations such as the Skagit Regional Health Foundation Festival of Trees, Sedro-Woolley Rotary, and the local Reading & Resources event. Shelby also enjoys babysitting. After graduation, Shelby plans to attend Western Washington University to pursue a degree in Elementary Education.

Mason Requa has been named the March Rotary Student of the Month. He is the son of Josh and Aimee Requa of Sedro-Woolley. Mason maintains a 4.0 GPA while being actively involved in Sedro-Woolley High School. He has participated in Football for 4 years with 1 letter, Basketball for 1 year, Unified Basketball for 3 years, and also Track and Field throughout high school, lettering all 4 years. Mason has also played baseball for the summer American Legion team, helped coach Powder Puff Football, and played on the Buff Puff Volleyball team. He was a Triple Threat Athlete for four years. Mason has been a member of the SWHS Teen Court for 2 years, participated on the Yearbook Committee for 2 years, has been a Cub Crew Mentor for 3 years, and has participated in most Homecoming activities all 4 years of high school. Some of Mason’s academic achievements include being a member of National Honor Society, and being an Event Coordinator on the SWHS National Honor Society’s Leadership Team for 3 years. Mason earned nine Department Awards his Junior year. He has earned Student of the Month for both Family & Consumer Science, and Speech & Debate. Mason was named Teacher of the Week in Cub Club Preschool for Child Psychology. He has also been a Soroptimist Student of the Month. Mason has been named one of the class Valedictorians for the class of 2025. Outside of school, Mason enjoys playing the piano, hanging out with his friends, snowboarding, and playing with his dog, Howie. Mason also has work experience working as a freight worker for Pioneer Marketplace. After graduation, Mason plans to attend Gonzaga University to obtain a bachelor’s degree in Criminology. After completing his undergraduate degree, he would like to continue on to law school, and from there he would like to work for, or have his own, successful law firm.

📣 Do you know a child who turns 5 between Sept. 1, 2025 and Aug. 31, 2026? They may be eligible for Foundations K—a free, full-day early learning program in the Sedro-Woolley School District! Foundations K helps young learners build confidence, develop essential skills, and get ready for kindergarten. 🖍️📚 💻 Learn more: https://www.swsd.k12.wa.us/page/foundations-k 📄 Apply in English: https://forms.gle/wfkYWMJYE9xhzuoX9 📄 Apply in Spanish: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScHNOFgw2xVgN6358Gv2fCSENwmQPeReMqqRbWmHku8A7EIsw/viewform?usp=sharing Questions? Contact Paula Torgeson at ptorgeson@swsd101.org. Let’s give every child the strong start they deserve! 💙

The Sedro-Woolley School District is proud to recognize the 2024-2025 Outstanding Employees of the Year. All recipients will be notified over the next few weeks and the group will be recognized at the School Board Meeting on June 9. The meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m. at 801 Trail Road, where each honoree will be presented with a plaque in appreciation of their dedication and contributions. We invite the community to join us in celebrating these exceptional employees who make a difference in the lives of our students and schools every day! The Sedro-Woolley School District is proud to recognize Shaylee Silvis as the Outstanding Employee of the Year for Mary Purcell Elementary School! Shaylee is a dedicated and compassionate paraeducator whose impact on students extends far beyond the resource room. She is always looking for innovative ways to support student learning, adapting her instruction to meet individual needs and ensuring every child feels valued and capable of success. Whether she’s finding new resources, helping students refine their projects, or simply offering a kind word of encouragement, Shaylee’s commitment to student success is unmatched. A natural leader, Shaylee takes initiative in improving school safety, organizing small-group instruction, and collaborating with teachers to enhance student learning. She actively engages with students outside the classroom, attending their sporting events, performances, and community activities to show her support. Her dedication strengthens relationships and builds a positive, caring school culture at Mary Purcell. Shaylee’s passion, reliability, and willingness to go above and beyond make her an invaluable part of our school and community. Congratulations, Shaylee, on this well-deserved honor! 🎉👏

Cascade Middle School invites all current sixth-grade students and their families to attend one of our upcoming 6th Grade Information Nights. These evenings are designed to help families prepare for a smooth transition to middle school. 🗓 Dates: May 7 – Suggested for families from in-town schools May 13 – Suggested for families from outlying schools (Due to limited parking and seating, we encourage families to attend on the date designated for their school. However, families may attend the alternate date if needed.) 📍 Location: CMS Cafeteria 🕡 Time: Presentation begins promptly at 6:30 p.m. 🎒 What to expect: • Select electives for 7th grade • Learn about sports and extracurricular activities • Hear tips for transitioning to middle school • Take a self-guided tour with your family 🚗 Parking is available in front of the school and in the bus lanes. We look forward to welcoming you to CMS!

The Sedro-Woolley School District is proud to recognize the 2024-2025 Outstanding Employees of the Year. All recipients will be notified over the next few weeks and the group will be recognized at the School Board Meeting on June 9. The meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m. at 801 Trail Road, where each honoree will be presented with a plaque in appreciation of their dedication and contributions. We invite the community to join us in celebrating these exceptional employees who make a difference in the lives of our students and schools every day! The Sedro-Woolley School District is proud to honor Heather Hirschi as Cascade Middle School’s Outstanding Employee of the Year! A science teacher and ASB advisor, Heather’s leadership and commitment to student success have made a profound impact on the school community. Heather goes above and beyond in fostering a positive school culture. She created a leadership class that teaches students responsibility, compassion, and involvement while ensuring staff engagement in school-wide activities. As ASB advisor, she empowers students to take ownership of events, including planning assemblies, spirit weeks, and school dances, making them more meaningful and student-driven. Her exceptional communication with parents sets her apart—she not only keeps them informed about discipline but also shares students' successes, reinforcing a culture of encouragement. Heather’s willingness to adapt, lead, and support her colleagues is evident in her role as a union representative, where she advocates for staff and organizes Fireside Chats to promote collaboration. She has also helped put Cascade Middle School on the map by coordinating student field trips and launching a new CTE Project Management course, equipping students with real-world skills. Heather’s reliability, enthusiasm, and ability to create lasting positive change make her an invaluable part of Cascade Middle School. Congratulations, Heather, on this well-deserved honor!

This spring, we’re shining the spotlight on our graduating seniors in two special ways: 1️⃣ Senior Spotlights: Share your senior’s future plans, favorite memories, and dreams! These will be featured on district social media and in the weekly District Update leading up to graduation. 2️⃣ Senior Wills: Encourage your senior to leave their legacy in the June issue of the Concrete Herald! This fun tradition allows seniors to share advice, favorite memories, or words of wisdom with classmates and underclassmen. ✨ How to Participate Submit your senior’s information and “will” using this form: [https://forms.gle/eR86oKdekHLPcP11A] Deadline: Friday, May 23, at 5 p.m. Let’s celebrate the incredible Class of 2025 together! 🌟

#ThrowbackThursday | SWHS in 2004-2005! 🎧📱 MySpace top friends, iPods with click wheels, and low-rise jeans—welcome back to Sedro-Woolley High School in 2004-2005! 🏫✨ These Kumtux Yearbook photos take us back 20 years, when students were texting on flip phones (T9 style!), rocking out to Green Day and Usher, and debating whether The OC or One Tree Hill was the best show on TV. 📺🎶 From Friday night football games to burning mix CDs for your best friends, SWHS pride was as strong as ever! 💙💛 Tag a fellow ’05 grad and share your favorite high school memories! #SWHSHistory #ThrowbackTo2005 #CubsForever

#ThrowbackThursday | Party Like It’s 1999-2000! 🎉📀 Y2K fears, flip phones, and TRL on MTV—welcome back to Sedro-Woolley High School in 1999-2000! 🏫✨ These Kumtux Yearbook photos take us back 25 years, when students were rocking out to Backstreet Boys and Blink-182, obsessing over The Matrix, and perfecting their AIM away messages. 💻💬 Whether you were sporting cargo pants, frosted tips, or your favorite Cubs hoodie, SWHS spirit was always in style! 💙💛 Drop a comment with your favorite high school memories and tag a fellow ’00 grad! #SWHSHistory #TheYear2000 #CubsForever

Reminder that next week (April 7–11) is Spring Break! Click the link below to read this week's district newsletter. https://secure.smore.com/n/5mr1d

The Sedro-Woolley School District is proud to recognize the 2024-2025 Outstanding Employees of the Year. All recipients will be notified over the next few weeks and the group will be officially recognized at the School Board Meeting on June 9. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. at 801 Trail Road, where each honoree will be presented with a plaque in appreciation of their dedication and contributions. We invite the community to join us in celebrating these exceptional employees who make a difference in the lives of our students and schools every day! The Sedro-Woolley School District is proud to recognize Don Griffin as the Outstanding Employee of the Year for the Maintenance Department! Don is the embodiment of selfless service, always stepping up to help whenever and wherever he is needed. Whether assisting his peers with maintenance tasks, ensuring the grounds are well-kept, or even stepping in as a substitute bus driver, Don’s answer is always “yes.” His commitment to the district plays a vital role in keeping our schools safe, functional, and welcoming for students and staff. A true leader among his peers, Don keeps his team focused on high-priority maintenance needs. From coordinating regular roof and gutter checks to strategically planning major projects, he ensures that time, materials, and personnel are used efficiently while minimizing disruptions to school operations. Don’s dedication, hard work, and team-first attitude make him an invaluable part of the district. Congratulations, Don, on this well-earned recognition! 🎉👏

🌱 Lyman Elementary School Garden is Growing! 🌱 A huge thank you to the more than 30 parents and students who came together on Saturday, March 29, to build the Lyman Elementary School Garden! 🌿👩‍🌾 Their hard work and teamwork have created an amazing space for hands-on learning and growth. 🌻💚 #LymanElementary #SchoolGarden #GrowingTogether #CommunitySpirit

🚨 New District Newsletter – Read Now! 🚨 Check out the latest Smore newsletter for exciting updates: 🎻 SWHS Orchestra inspires young musicians 🎉 Latinos in Action students shine at WWU ⚾ Huge thanks to our spring sports crew! 🚌 Transportation Dept. aces state inspection 🙌 Community support for student-athletes 🚨 Safety upgrades at Cascade MS 🏈 Youth football & cheer registration opens April 1 💻 Free family program starts April 15 🐰 Easter Egg Hunt – April 19 📖 Read more here: https://secure.smore.com/n/9mvzp7

🎶✨ Music in the Making! ✨🎶 Today, the SWHS Orchestra brought the magic of music to Samish and Evergreen elementary schools! Under the direction of Poul Brask, high school musicians performed The Lord, The Lady, and The Jester and introduced students to a variety of instruments. 🎻🎺🎶 To show how powerful music can be, the orchestra also played famous movie themes—because, as Mr. Brask says, movies wouldn’t be the same without music! 🎥🎼 Did you know? Students can join orchestra in sixth grade at Cascade Middle School. It’s a zero-hour class for sixth graders, meaning students start their day with music before elementary school begins. Who’s ready to pick up an instrument and join the fun? 🎵💙 #SWHSOrchestra #FutureMusicians #MusicMatters

Tonight is concert night! The Cascade Middle School 7th Grade Band Concert kicks off at 7 p.m. in the cafeteria. Let’s cheer on our talented musicians! #LiveMusic #7thGradeBandNight #CMSKodiaks

🎻🎶 Join Us Tonight! 🎶🎻 Our Sixth Grade and Intermediate Orchestras are ready to take the stage tonight at 7 p.m. in the Cascade Middle School cafeteria. Come support our talented young musicians as they showcase their hard work and passion for music! 🎵💙 #SWOrchestra #MusicMatters #SedroWoolley