Centennial Elementary

10/01/2026

🐾 Meet the Pack! 🐾

Our Centennial Pack is made up of some pretty amazing people! 💙 Over the next several days, we’ll be introducing you to the staff members who help make Centennial such a special place.

Each day, you’ll get to Meet the Pack and learn a few fun facts about one of our incredible staff members!

We hope you’ll follow along, get to know our staff a little better, and discover just how special Centennial really is! 🐾💙

Check back tomorrow to meet our next pack member!

09/30/2026

IMPORTANT DATES
October 5: Late Arrival
October 12: Late Arrival
October 16: Waiver Day #1 - No Students
October 19: Elementary Grade Prep - Early Dismissal, Grades K-5
October 26 - 30: Elementary Conference Week - Early Dismissal, Grades K-5
October 28 - 30: Secondary Conference Week - Early Dismissal, Grades 6-12
Monthly Calendar Graphics 26-27
You can find the full district calendar at https://www.bethelsd.org/about-our-district/district-calendar
All Bethel Community Day: October 3
For over a decade, All Bethel Community Day (ABC Day) has brought neighbors together to celebrate the spirit, talent, and connection that make our Bethel community thrive. This year’s event takes place on Saturday, October 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the new Bethel High School. Admission is completely free. Whether you are coming to catch a performance, grab lunch, or take a look inside the new Bethel High, ABC Day is a place for our community and kids of all ages to connect. https://www.bethelsd.org/resources/news-article/~board/headlines/post/abc-day-returns-october-3

Coffee with the Superintendent: November 10
Our third Coffee with the Superintendent event of the school year will be November 10 from 12 to 1 p.m. at the Educational Service Center (516 176th St. E, Spanaway, WA 98387). We will also be hosting another event in March. Invite your neighbors! Everyone is welcome.

Upcoming School Board Meetings
School Board meetings begin at 7 p.m. and will be held at Bethel School District's Educational Service Center (ESC), 516 176th St. E., Spanaway, WA 98387 unless otherwise noted. The public is welcome! To join via Zoom, visit https://bethelsd.diligent.community/portal/
October 13: School Board Meeting
October 27: School Board Meeting
FAMILY REMINDERS
Free breakfast and lunch for ALL students
ALL students in ALL schools in the Bethel School District qualify for free breakfast
and lunch again this year! To maintain our qualifications, ALL Bethel School District families must complete the Child Nutrition Eligibility and Education Benefit Application at https://emealapps.bethelsd.org. By submitting this application, households may qualify for reduced fees for programs and activities. You must check “YES! Please share my child’s income eligibility” for each program you wish to receive discounts for.

Get money to help pay for college
The 2027–28 FAFSA form is now open. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid is the single most important step to qualify for college, career school, or graduate school funding. Regardless of family income, submitting the form opens the door to federal, state, and school-based grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and low-interest loans. Most students and parents finish their portion of the form in under 12 minutes. Learn more at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa

Interpretation and Translation
All families have the right to information about their child’s education in a language they understand. We can provide an interpreter or translated documents, free of charge, when you need them. For information on accessing interpretation services, please contact Special Services at 253-800-2300, or contact your school office.

Community & Crisis Resources
When challenges feel overwhelming, knowing where to turn for help can make all the difference. Our Community & Crisis Resources page has contact information for trusted crisis support services, including mental health counseling, su***de prevention, substance abuse resources, and specialized assistance for youth and families in Pierce County and beyond. https://www.bethelsd.org/resources/community-crisis-resources
DISTRICT NEWS
Podcast Episode 188: The dirt on moving a middle school
With Cedarcrest Middle now demolished and the new school starting to take shape, on this week’s podcast we sit down with Cedarcrest students to get their unfiltered thoughts on how things are going at their temporary home, the old Bethel High building. We also check in with new Cedarcrest principal Zach Womack to get the behind the scenes dirt on what it takes to move an entire school and still start the year strong. Along the way we’ll learn it’s not the building that makes a school what it is, it’s the people inside. New episodes drop on Wednesdays wherever you listen to podcasts. You can also hear us on 101.9 Radio Tacoma, Saturdays at 2 p.m. Be sure to like, comment, subscribe, and share with a friend! bethelsd.org/podcast

In her Fourth Grade Era
Step into Jessica Fowler’s classroom at Camas Prairie Elementary and the energy is magnetic. Decorating one wall is a giant, Taylor Swift Eras Tour friendship bracelet that reads, "In Our 4th Grade Era." But the beads and sparkles are not just for show. They set the tone for a classroom built around connection, teamwork, and active learning. Fowler, now in her tenth year of teaching and her third year at Camas Prairie, knows how to take abstract concepts and bring them down to earth. https://www.bethelsd.org/resources/news-article/~board/headlines/post/in-her-fourth-grade-era

Embracing the “oopsie” in fifth grade math
Fifth grade teacher Katherine Keenan writes 509 divided by 8 on the digital whiteboard before turning her Centennial Elementary students loose to solve it. Sitting in small groups or working independently, students attack the problem at their tables as Keenan circles the room to answer questions. Back at the whiteboard, she calls a student up to share their work with the class. The student solves the problem on the digital whiteboard and turns to Keenan, who nods. https://www.bethelsd.org/resources/news-article/~board/headlines/post/embracing-the-oopsie-in-fifth-grade-math

Middle school scientists
The 6th grade students at Cougar Mountain Middle School conducted an experiment during their Microbiome Unit and collected samples of bacteria from locations within the school. Students identified locations they predicted would have the most bacteria, swabbed the locations, and put their collected samples onto agar Petri dishes. The samples will be monitored this week, data will be collected, and students will be able to observe microorganisms that are normally too small to see with the naked eye! https://www.bethelsd.org/resources/news-article/~board/headlines/post/science-scholarships-and-dolly

Middle and high school students team up
Exciting things are happening in our district to help students navigate the step up to high school! Liberty Middle School and Graham-Kapowsin High School have teamed up early to make the move from 8th to 9th grade as smooth as possible. Earlier this week, GK high schoolers visited Liberty to chat with 8th graders during advisory classes about the importance of staying on track, retaking assignments, and taking full advantage of Self-Management Mondays. https://www.bethelsd.org/resources/news-article/~board/headlines/post/science-scholarships-and-dolly

Dolly Day
On 9 to 5 Day, the admin team at Cougar Mountain Middle School celebrated the legendary Dolly Parton by dressing up and bringing a little extra country fun to the school day. https://www.bethelsd.org/resources/news-article/~board/headlines/post/science-scholarships-and-dolly

Elizabeth Wesley/Key Bank Foundation Scholarship
Congratulations to Spanaway Lake High School senior Kinard Wilder on receiving the Elizabeth Wesley/Key Bank Foundation Scholarship for $2,000! This scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate an unselfish commitment to helping others succeed, is seen as a leader in their school and community, and consistently presents themself in a responsible manner. Kinard is a member of the SLHS football and basketball team, and attends Running Start at Pierce College where he has made the Dean's list as well as the District's Presidents List. https://www.bethelsd.org/resources/news-article/~board/headlines/post/science-scholarships-and-dolly
VARSITY SPORTS SCORES: Sept. 21-28, 2026
FOOTBALL
BHS 21, Bonney Lake 12
GKHS 76, SLHS 0

GIRLS SOCCER
Rogers 6, BHS 0
Emerald Ridge 8, BHS 0
Curtis 8, GKHS 0
Olympia 9, GKHS 1
South Kitsap 5, SLHS 0
Bonney Lake 1, SLHS 0

GIRLS GOLF
Yelm 39, BHS 25
Bonney Lake 62, GKHS 54

BOYS TENNIS
BHS 4, Yelm 1
GKHS 3, BHS 2
Rogers 5, GKHS 0

Catch the action live on Hudl!
Never miss a moment of Bethel School District athletics. Whether you are cheering on the Bison, Eagles, or Sentinels, you can stream high school football, volleyball, and more for FREE! Full replays of past games are available on demand so you can catch every highlight. Find stream links and schedule details at bethelsd.org/news
COMMUNITY NEWS
Port of Tacoma Touch a Truck
Bring the whole family to the Port of Tacoma’s annual FREE Touch-A-Truck event on Saturday, October 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meet the people who make your Port work for you! Register at https://www.portoftacoma.com/touchatruck

Community Listening Session: October 8
You’re invited to a Community Listening Session for an update on the MultiCare Medical Center planned for the Pacific Lutheran University campus. Ask questions and share your thoughts about the future of healthcare in our area. The event is October 8 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at PLU’s Anderson University Center, Regency Room #203. This free event is open to the public. plu.edu/health-innovation

Starting in Parkland, serving our neighbors. Access to quality, whole-person health care is essential to improving health outcomes, particularly for traditionally underserved and vulnerable populations. As a medically underserved area, the unincorporated Central Pierce County region, including Parkl...

09/25/2026

🐾 The Cub Tribune: Issue 7 is here! 🐾
Catch up on the latest school news, updates, celebrations, and upcoming events in this week’s newsletter!
👉 Click the link to read Issue 6: https://app.smore.com/n/v6qh1

09/23/2026

IMPORTANT DATES
September 28: Late Arrival
October 5: Late Arrival
October 12: Late Arrival
October 16: Waiver Day #1 - No Students
October 19: Elementary Grade Prep - Early Dismissal, Grades K-5
October 26 - 30: Elementary Conference Week - Early Dismissal, Grades K-5
October 28 - 30: Secondary Conference Week - Early Dismissal, Grades 6-12
You can find the full district calendar at https://www.bethelsd.org/about-our-district/district-calendar
Coffee with the Superintendent: September 24
The next Coffee with the Superintendent event will be September 24 from 8 to 9 a.m. at the Educational Service Center (516 176th St. E, Spanaway, WA 98387). We will also be hosting other events in November and March. Invite your neighbors! Everyone is welcome.

South Sound Pow Wow: September 26
The annual South Sound Pow Wow will be one of the first big events held at the NEW Bethel High School this fall! Mark your calendars for music, food, free school supplies, and traditional Pow Wow dancing and signing! The event is FREE and runs from 1 to 7 p.m. Grand Entry is at 1:30 p.m. and Educator Honoring is at 3 p.m.

Paraeducator Hiring Event: September 29, 2026
We’re hosting a hiring event geared towards Special Education Paraeducators, including 1:1 Instructional Paras! Come join our team to support teachers and students in special education classrooms. Responsibilities include assisting with classroom activities, working one-on-one or in small groups with students, and supervising student activities. These part-time roles are perfect for parents, grandparents and community members looking for work that aligns with school schedules. Enjoy working the same days students attend school, with the same breaks off, and make a difference in students’ lives. The next hiring event will be on September 29 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Educational Service Center (516 176th Street East, Spanaway, WA 98387).

All Bethel Community Day: October 3
For over a decade, All Bethel Community Day (ABC Day) has brought neighbors together to celebrate the spirit, talent, and connection that make our Bethel community thrive. This year’s event takes place on Saturday, October 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the new Bethel High School. Admission is completely free. Whether you are coming to catch a performance, grab lunch, or take a look inside the new Bethel High, ABC Day is a place for our community and kids of all ages to connect. https://www.bethelsd.org/resources/news-article/~board/headlines/post/abc-day-returns-october-3

Upcoming School Board Meetings
School Board meetings begin at 7 p.m. and will be held at Bethel School District's Educational Service Center (ESC), 516 176th St. E., Spanaway, WA 98387 unless otherwise noted. The public is welcome! To join via Zoom, visit https://bethelsd.diligent.community/portal/
October 13: School Board Meeting
October 27: School Board Meeting
FAMILY REMINDERS
Free breakfast and lunch for ALL students
ALL students in ALL schools in the Bethel School District qualify for free breakfast
and lunch again this year! To maintain our qualifications, ALL Bethel School District families must complete the Child Nutrition Eligibility and Education Benefit Application at https://emealapps.bethelsd.org. By submitting this application, households may qualify for reduced fees for programs and activities. You must check “YES! Please share my child’s income eligibility” for each program you wish to receive discounts for.

Army Youth Programs in Your Neighborhood
If your family is connected to the Army (active duty, reserves, civilians working for the Army, etc.), please take a few minutes to complete the Army Youth Programs in Your Neighborhood registration form. This helps Bethel School District connect your student with programs, resources, and opportunities available at their school. Please complete the form today. Thank you! https://app.informedk12.com/link_campaigns/aypyn-registration-form?token=DvmmXohyrimrQNAGzJw1fifJ

School buses: Know when to stop
Always keep an eye out for school buses, slow down in school zones, and remember: when in doubt about whether to stop, play it safe and bring your vehicle to a full stop! Drivers who illegally pass a stopped school bus face a mandatory $500 fine that cannot be waived, reduced, or suspended. Learn more at: https://www.bethelsd.org/resources/news-article/~board/headlines/post/school-buses-are-back-know-when-to-stop

Interpretation and Translation
All families have the right to information about their child’s education in a language they understand. We can provide an interpreter or translated documents, free of charge, when you need them. For information on accessing interpretation services, please contact Special Services at 253-800-2300, or contact your school office.

Community & Crisis Resources
When challenges feel overwhelming, knowing where to turn for help can make all the difference. Our Community & Crisis Resources page has contact information for trusted crisis support services, including mental health counseling, su***de prevention, substance abuse resources, and specialized assistance for youth and families in Pierce County and beyond. https://www.bethelsd.org/resources/community-crisis-resources
DISTRICT NEWS
Podcast Episode 187: From high school fields to the NFL ... and beyond
What does it take to help student-athletes succeed both on and off the field? This week, we discuss how participation in school sports fosters essential growth, teaches work ethic, and builds lasting connections. You'll find out which hometown alumni are starring in college athletics and the NFL, showing how sports set students up for a lifetime of success. New episodes drop on Wednesdays wherever you listen to podcasts. You can also hear us on 101.9 Radio Tacoma, Saturdays at 2 p.m. Be sure to like, comment, subscribe, and share with a friend! bethelsd.org/podcast

New Cedarcrest Middle School Construction Update
The exciting transformation of Cedarcrest Middle School continues! Demolition crews have cleared the old site to make way for a brand-new era for the Chargers. What began as a modernization under our voter-approved 2019 School Construction Bond has evolved into a complete, state-of-the-art school rebuild, thanks to careful planning and additional state funding. The new Cedarcrest will be a three-story, 123,000-square-foot facility featuring 39 modern classrooms. Designed to expand capacity from 700 to 850 students, the new school will ensure that students have the space and resources they need to thrive when it opens its doors in the fall of 2028. While construction is actively underway on the permanent facility, Cedarcrest students and staff are at the old Bethel High School site. None of this would be possible without the continued commitment of our community. Thank you for investing in our students' future! https://youtu.be/CaTwy0gzJWA

Life saving student
It’s one thing to learn how to respond to cardiac arrest in a classroom. It’s another to find yourself face-to-face with the real thing. That’s what happened earlier this summer to Ethan, a senior at Spanaway Lake High School. He was attending a basketball game at the school when a man collapsed nearby. https://www.bethelsd.org/resources/news-article/~board/headlines/post/student-uses-classroom-training-to-save-a-life

Bethel High teacher takes on cancer research
Imagine taking a summer break from the classroom, putting on a lab coat, and diving headfirst into cutting-edge cancer research. That is exactly how Jennifer Morrison spent her summer. During her time in the lab, Morrison did research that could help shape our understanding of how the gut microbiome supports patient recovery following treatments like bone marrow transplants. “Stepping back into the role of learner reminded me how rewarding it is to embrace uncertainty, ask questions, and persist through challenges.” Morrison said. “I return to my classroom with a renewed commitment to create an environment where students feel supported as they take intellectual risks.” Morrison is bringing her research experience back to her Bethel High students through two new curriculum units she designed. https://www.bethelsd.org/resources/news-article/~board/headlines/post/bethel-high-teacher-takes-on-cancer-research

Elizabeth Wesley Youth Merit Incentive Award
Congratulations to our 23 high school students who received the Elizabeth Wesley Youth Merit Incentive Award! The Elizabeth Wesley Youth Merit Incentive Award Program is a community-driven initiative that celebrates and supports African-American students in Pierce County. They inspire African-American youth to strive for excellence by recognizing their academic, civic, and personal accomplishments. https://www.bethelsd.org/resources/news-article/~board/headlines/post/23-students-win-elizabeth-wesley-youth-merit-awards

Need a space for your next meeting or sports event?
Our schools and campuses are valuable community resources, and we are proud to make them available for public use when not in session. Whether you're planning a community meeting, youth sports event, cultural activity, or special gathering, we invite you to explore our wide range of available spaces at https://www.bethelsd.org/programs-departments/maintenance
VARSITY SPORTS SCORES: Sept. 15-21, 2026
FOOTBALL
Eastlake 24, BHS 8
GKHS 41, Central Catholic 14
Issaquah 21, SLHS 18

GIRLS SOCCER
BHS 8, Adna 1
GKHS 1, Rogers 0

GIRLS GOLF
Puyallup 39, SLHS 12

BOYS TENNIS
Sumner 5, BHS 0
BHS 3, Eatonville 2
Rogers 5, BHS 0
Olympia 4, GKHS 1
Sumner 4, GKHS 1
Yelm 4, SLHS 1
Olympia 5, SLHS 0

Catch the action live on Hudl!
Never miss a moment of Bethel School District athletics. Whether you are cheering on the Bison, Eagles, or Sentinels, you can stream high school football, volleyball, and more wherever you are for FREE! Full replays of past games are available on demand so you can catch every highlight. Find stream links and schedule details at bethelsd.org/news
COMMUNITY NEWS
Port of Tacoma Touch a Truck
Bring the whole family to the Port of Tacoma’s annual FREE Touch-A-Truck event on Saturday, October 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meet the people who make your Port work for you! Register at https://www.portoftacoma.com/touchatruck

Community Listening Session: October 8
You’re invited to a Community Listening Session for an update on the MultiCare Medical Center planned for the Pacific Lutheran University campus. Ask questions and share your thoughts about the future of healthcare in our area. The event is October 8 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at PLU’s Anderson University Center, Regency Room #203. This free event is open to the public. plu.edu/health-innovation

Starting in Parkland, serving our neighbors. Access to quality, whole-person health care is essential to improving health outcomes, particularly for traditionally underserved and vulnerable populations. As a medically underserved area, the unincorporated Central Pierce County region, including Parkl...