Central Elementary School’s Outstanding Employee of the Year Award goes to Ashleigh Howell, a sixth-grade teacher at Central Elementary School.
Ashleigh's impact extends far beyond her role as a teacher. She is a cornerstone of Central Elementary, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among students and staff alike. As a member of the leadership team, Ashleigh spearheads initiatives like the "Stronger Together" field day groups, infusing the school with a spirit of unity and friendly competition.
One of Ashleigh's attributes is her ability to build meaningful relationships with her students and their families. She goes above and beyond to ensure that every student feels valued and supported, often taking the time to engage with younger students throughout the day. Her genuine care and dedication create a nurturing environment where students thrive both academically and emotionally.
Ashleigh's leadership extends beyond the classroom as she provides invaluable opportunities for 6th-grade students to develop leadership skills. Through initiatives like the field day groups, she empowers students to take on responsibilities and lead their peers with confidence and teamwork. The sense of community fostered by these initiatives underscores Ashleigh's commitment to creating a positive school culture.
Ashleigh's involvement in events like Camp Orkila showcases her dedication to student well-being. She ensures that every student feels supported and included, whether they're struggling with homesickness or simply trying to fit in. Through her compassionate approach, Ashleigh instills a sense of belonging that resonates long after students leave her classroom.
Ashleigh embodies the essence of an exceptional educator—one who not only imparts knowledge but also fosters a sense of community and belonging. Her impact on students is profound, making her a deserving nominee for the Sedro-Woolley School District Employee of the Year award.
State Street High School’s Outstanding Employee of the Year Award goes to teacher Anna Kitchener.
Through her engaging and challenging art projects, Anna fosters a creative environment where students can develop their skills and proudly showcase their talents. The halls of State Street High School are adorned with the results of Anna's dedication, as students often pause to admire their work, instilling a sense of pride in their achievements.
Beyond her role as an art teacher, Anna has made significant contributions by creating and teaching a popular personal economics class. Her initiative in developing this course reflects her commitment to providing students with valuable life skills beyond the traditional curriculum. Anna serves as an integral member of the School-Based Leadership Team (SBLT) and takes on leadership roles overseeing State Street’s contract-based program.
During SBLT meetings, Anna offers valuable insights and ideas that drive new initiatives forward, enriching the educational experience for both students and staff alike. Her dedication to her students' growth and her contributions to the school's leadership demonstrate her commitment to excellence in education.
Anna exemplifies the qualities deserving of the Sedro-Woolley School District Employee of the Year award.
Mary Purcell Elementary School’s Outstanding Employee of the Year Award goes to Jennifer Harp, a Title 1 Paraprofessional!
Jennifer goes above and beyond to improve the school's Title 1 reading interventions program. She arrives at school 30 minutes early each day, meticulously prepares for her groups, and continuously researches best practices and materials to enhance student learning. Jennifer's proactive approach to professional development, exemplified by her participation in training sessions like the Science of Reading and her exploration of programs like UFLI and Orton-Gillingham, showcases her dedication to student success.
Jennifer has spearheaded initiatives such as spreadsheets for progress monitoring, a schoolwide reading resources checkout system, and the MP Reads Together program website.
Jennifer's initiatives, such as the MP Reads Together program and the creation of reading materials for families, not only promote literacy but also strengthen the bond between families and the school community. Her proactive approach to literacy enriches students' learning experiences and also strengthens family engagement within the community.
Jennifer excels in building meaningful connections with her students. Known as the go-to person for learning games and a source of unwavering support, Jennifer creates a calm and nurturing environment where all students, including those facing challenges, feel valued and empowered to succeed.
Alumni Spotlight: Congratulations to Sedro-Woolley High School Class of 2016 alumni Katy Daley for completing her law school coursework at Seattle University! She will graduate on May 18 with her Doctor of Jurisprudence to study law.
She has a job as part of the Justice Work Fellowship through the Seattle Clemency Project. She will study for the bar this summer and take the test in late July.
Katy earned her associate's degree through Running Start the week after she graduated from SWHS in 2016. She earned her bachelor's of arts from Western Washington in 2018 and her master's degree from the University of Washington in 2021.
Do you have an alumni update to share? Email information and a current photo to swsdcoms@swsd101.org.
The Sedro-Woolley School District is taking applications to serve on the Facilities Committee. Please click the link below to fill out the application form. This form must be completed no later than May 10, 2024 to be considered. Each application will be reviewed by District Administration. The Facility Committee roster will be shared with all applicants by May 17, 2024.
https://forms.gle/JTM5fcBkpawbF3ScA
🎓Sedro-Woolley High School AVID Senior Night will be held on May 1st at 6 p.m. in the SWHS cafeteria to celebrate the achievements of our seniors in the AVID program! #AVID #SWHSSeniorNight
LAST CALL for blood donations!
The SWSD Transportation Department has been working with Bloodworks to set up a blood donation site at the SSB (317 Yellow Lane) on Friday, May 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. They are hoping the community might take time to donate if they can!
Signup Link: https://donate.bloodworksnw.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/77707
Help our community get ready for summer blood shortages by scheduling your donation today!
Estamos invitando a todas nuestras familias a que nos acompañen a celebrar nuestras culturas. Contamos con su presencia.
The Sedro-Woolley School District Maintenance & Facilities Department’s Outstanding Employee of the Year Award goes to Jamie Jones, a custodian at Sedro-Woolley High School.
Jamie ensures a clean and safe environment for students, staff, and visitors. Jamie’s nomination stems from her exemplary dedication and commitment to her duties, which often surpass the expectations of her role. Despite facing challenges such as post-weekend messes left by outside groups, Jamie consistently goes above and beyond to prepare the gym, locker rooms, and bathrooms for school use. Her efforts are evident in the immaculate condition of the facilities, reflecting her pride in her work and dedication to providing a welcoming space for the school community.
One of Jamie's outstanding qualities is her reliability and exemplary performance in her area of responsibility. Despite personal challenges, such as having a child with special needs requiring medical care, Jamie remains steadfast in her commitment to her job. She communicates effectively with colleagues, ensuring that they are informed about any changes or substitutions in staffing to maintain continuity in the custodial operations.
Jamie demonstrates leadership within the school building by promptly responding to calls on the radio and actively participating in addressing various situations as they arise. Her proactive approach and willingness to assist wherever needed contribute to the smooth functioning of the school environment.
Beyond her daily responsibilities, Jamie contributes to fostering public understanding and appreciation of Sedro-Woolley schools through her conscientious work ethic and the pride she takes in maintaining the gym and other public areas at the high school. Her dedication serves as a reflection of the school's commitment to excellence and leaves a positive impression on visitors to the facility.
Jamie exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding employee through her dedication and commitment to excellence in her role as a custodian at SWHS. Congratulations!
Sedro-Woolley High School’s Outstanding Employee of the Year Award goes to Amanda Linde, a 1:1 life skills paraprofessional.
Amanda's dedication extends far beyond her designated role. Not only does she excel in providing personalized support to her 1:1 students in the life skills room, but she consistently goes above and beyond to assist wherever needed. Her willingness to stay after school to ensure students can attend sports activities and her initiative to volunteer as a coach for unified basketball demonstrate her exceptional dedication to student welfare and community involvement.
Amanda's reliability is unmatched, as she rarely misses a day of work and remains ever-ready to offer assistance to her colleagues in need. Her presence and support contribute significantly to Sedro-Woolley High School.
Amanda’s willingness to extend herself beyond her primary responsibilities and her proactive approach to supporting both students and staff inspires respect from her peers. Congratulations!
Evergreen Elementary School’s Outstanding Employee of the Year Award goes to second-grade teacher Jenny Swanson.
Jenny consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that each child's needs, whether academic or personal, are met with utmost care and attention. Her proactive approach to identifying and addressing these needs demonstrates her reliability and exemplary performance.
Jenny maintains open lines of communication, staying informed about the school's needs and actively advocating for students, parents and fellow staff members. Her proactive involvement in various committees and groups demonstrates her dedication to enhancing the Evergreen community and promoting a positive environment.
Jenny's loyalty to the Sedro-Woolley School District is evident in her active participation in community events and organizations. She tirelessly works to foster public understanding and appreciation of the district, serving on committees, sports groups and boards aimed at promoting involvement and engagement within the community.
Jenny's dedication, compassion and leadership make her a shining example of excellence within the Sedro-Woolley School District, deserving of recognition as the Employee of the Year. Congratulations!
The Nick of Time Foundation has asked Sedro-Woolley High School to provide 11 volunteers on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 to help with non-medical roles for the screenings and maintain the hospitality room.
Visit https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E48AFA828A5F4C07-49179484-nick#/ to sign up as a volunteer!
🌟 Happy Administrative Professionals Day! A special shoutout to our hardworking administrative staff for your invaluable contributions and tireless efforts in keeping our schools running smoothly. You're the backbone of our district! 💼 #AdminProfessionalsDay #ThankYou
Don't forget, all schools will start one hour late tomorrow so staff can participate in professional development!
CMS: 8:40 a.m.
SWHS: 8:55 a.m.
SSHS: 9:00 a.m.
Elementary: 10:25 a.m.
Caps & gowns have arrived and can be picked up in the Students Services Office between 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. at Sedro-Woolley High School.
Ballots for the special election are due by 8 p.m. today, April 23.
Sedro-Woolley's ballot box is located at the Sedro-Woolley Post Office (in the alley between Eastern Ave and Metcalf), 111 Woodworth Street.
Other ballot box locations can be found on the Skagit County auditor's website:
https://www.skagitcounty.net/Departments/AuditorElections/dropboxes.htm
🚌 Today, we express our gratitude to our amazing school bus drivers! Thank you for your dedication, care, and commitment to safely transporting our students to and from school every day. You're simply the best! 👏 #BusDriverAppreciation #SafeTravels
Reminder! Shows start this week!
🎭 Don't miss the Sedro-Woolley High School Drama Spring Production of the Wizard of Oz!
Support our talented performers at 7 p.m. in the SWHS Auditorium on April 25, 26, and 27 and on May 3 and 4. A special donation show will be held on April 30 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for SWSD staff, students, senior citizens and children. 🌟
Doors open at 6:30; curtain is promptly at 7 p.m. Late arrivals will need to enter the theater using the upstairs doors.
Tickets can be purchased once the doors open.
#DramaProduction #SWHSTheatre
Get to know our incredible team in the “Meet our Staff” Monday series! We hope you enjoy getting to know the faces behind the scenes!
#MeetOurStaffMonday #BehindTheScenes #EmployeeAppreciation #GetToKnowUs #SWSDStrongerTogether
Meet Ricci Winchell, a first-grade teacher whose educational journey is deeply intertwined with the fabric of our community. A Lyman Wildcat, Cascade Kodiak and SWHS Cub alumna, her path eventually led her back to her roots after exploring various career avenues.
"I originally wanted to be a preschool teacher, then a pediatrician, and then back to teacher," she said. "Moving home to be with family had me looking for open opportunities in the SWSD. I started first with teaching summer school and then to being hired on full time."
Winchell's diverse experiences since starting her career in education in 2014 have shaped her into a versatile and empathetic educator. From her start as a paraeducator in Cheney to her more recent role as summer school coordinator, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to fostering academic and emotional growth in all students.
"I aspire to continue to better myself as an educational leader and hopefully continue to affect positive change in the lives of students, families, and staff within the education system," she said.
Beyond the classroom, Winchell wears many hats, from serving as a Christmas tree farmer to capturing life's precious moments as a photographer. However, her most cherished role is that of a mother, where she finds joy in embracing every adventure with her own children.
🌎 Happy Earth Day! Let's cherish our planet and work together to protect and preserve its beauty for generations to come. Every action counts! 🌱 #EarthDay #ProtectOurPlanet
