
Peninsula School District
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Students are able to spend time reading one-on-one to a volunteer and four-legged canine friend in a quiet and encouraging environment.
Students have shared the environment inspires comfort and trust to practice reading aloud. A therapy animal team provides an engaging, non-judgmental, creative opportunity for students to get excited about building their skills.
After reading time, students often get the chance to have their pet friend do tricks and receive a treat.
Currently, the pilot program is hosted at four schools in our district (Harbor Heights, Vaughn, Evergreen, and Minter Creek).
Pictured here is therapy dog, Sasha, with volunteer Jill Peters as Harbor Heights students read in the schoolโs library.
Referral Form ยป https://forms.gle/uJxmCjE8NtykJMmE7
Please note, there is a single online referral form for teachers and parents. Each student will need one guardian/parent form as well as a recent educator's form filled out.
The questionnaire linked above serves as the referral and permission for Highly Capable testing/services form. All answers will be kept confidential and are used as part of the identification process with the Multidisciplinary Team's review of data.
For more information about Peninsula School District's Highly Capable timelines and services, please visit https://www.psd401.net/learning/highly-capable.
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ยกAviso importante!
Las aplicaciones al examen anual del Highly Capable Program (Estudiantes de Nivel Avanzado) ya estรกn abiertas
Cuando: 25 de octubre de 2021 al 4 de febrero de 2022
Dรณnde aplicar: el formulario para referir a un estudiante se encuentra en la liga https://forms.gle/uJxmCjE8NtykJMmE7
Quien debe referir a un estudiante: los padres y profesores del alumno.
Para mรกs informaciรณn por favor visita https://www.psd401.net/learning/highly-capable
ยกRecuerde! enviar un solo formulario diligenciado por los padres y profesores del estudiante.
Julie enjoys sharing the love of music with students, and noted there is nothing that replaces the feeling of making music with others. Julie also shared she loves to see the growth and maturity of students during their years in her classes.
When asked to share a life lesson for students, Julie said:
"Your relationships with other people are the most important things in this life. Be really present for the people in your life and try to imagine what life looks like from their point of view. Then ask yourself how you can make this person's life experience better, even in a small way.
Also, value yourself! There is no one in the world that can replace YOU and your gifts. Capitalize on those gifts!"
District buildings will be closed to the public on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. School resumes for students on Monday, Nov. 29.
We are thankful for our students and families, dedicated staff, and our community. We are grateful for your support of our school community. Have a happy Thanksgiving ๐๐ฐ
The class is a great example of synthesizing science principles and career & technical education.
Many positive comments and excited reactions from students experiencing the new school today, along with welcoming staff helping students find their way to classroom locations.
A big thank you to our staff, students, families, capital projects team, and all involved for flexibility and hard work during the project process.
Artondale's opening marks 4 elementary school projects completed for opening in under 3 years since the capital projects bond was passed in February 2019 - including all 4 schools opening within the last year. Thank you, voters!
Superintendent Bahr is seeking feedback on the following three questions:
ยป What should I know about Peninsula schools and its community?
ยป What is going well and should be continued?
ยป What are challenges and areas for growth?
Coffee chats will be held on the following dates:
- Tuesday, November 23, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at Kimball Coffeehouse in Gig Harbor
- Monday, November 29, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at Harbor General Store in Gig Harbor
- Friday, December 3, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. at Madrona Cafe in Lakebay
Stop by for a quick chat, or provide feedback by completing our questionnaire online!
Questionnaire ยป http://ow.ly/PPJt50GOot5
Thank you!
We're excited for our Artondale Elementary community as students and staff move in to start at the brand new facility on Monday, November 22!
Artondale marks 4 elementary school projects completed for opening in under 3 years since the capital projects bond was passed in February 2019.
Two replacement & expansion projects (Artondale and Evergreen Elementary School), and two new, added elementary school projects (Pioneer Elementary School and Swift Water Elementary School) have been built since the bond passage.
Also funded by the bond are middle school modernization projects underway at Kopachuck and Key Peninsula middle schools. Thank you, voters!
In job alike roles, the collaboration meetings provide opportunity to share with others in the same roles at schools across the district.
Similar to classroom teaching staff meeting with grade level teams at school buildings for collaboration and support, this elementary physical education group values the importance of connecting with one another as PE specialists in our district. The sense of community and empowerment result in education strategies and ideas to positively impact student experiences.
The group has been meeting for years with long-time attendees, and also invites new physical education staff as they join the district to build community and offer fresh perspectives.
Pictured in this photo are some of our amazing elementary PE staff during the start of a recent collaboration session. In this picture alone, more than 80 years of collective teaching experience is represented!
From L to R - David Aston at Voyager Elementary, Kristina Waage at Swift Water Elementary School, Catherine Walloch at Purdy Elementary School, Darryl Bradshaw at Vaughn Elementary School, and David Rucci at Harbor Heights Elementary.
She is currently in the second phase of her plan, which includes a listening tour that provides opportunities for parents, community members, students, staff, and other interested parties to share their ideas and perspectives about the Peninsula School District.
All this month, Superintendent Bahr is seeking feedback on the following three questions:
ยป What should I know about Peninsula schools and its community?
ยป What is going well and should be continued?
ยป What are challenges and areas for growth?
To provide feedback, please complete the questionnaire via the link below.
Questionnaire ยป http://ow.ly/PPJt50GOot5
Thank you!
The Guaranteed Admissions Programs supports direct admissions efforts at Central Washington University, Eastern Washington University, The Evergreen State College, Western Washington University, and WSU Pullman.
Full Details:
ยป http://ow.ly/juwg50GOkQq
Cuneiform is an ancient language using wedge-shaped characters mainly used in Mesopotamia and Persia, often found in the historical record on clay tablets.
Students looked up a translation of their name or initials and replicated the language on their own clay tablets.
Official Site of the Peninsula School District in Gig Harbor, WA Mailing address: 14015 62nd Ave. NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98332.
Policy 4310: Social Media
Procedure 4310P: Social Media
Peninsula School District (PSD) uses social media as a tool to promote and enhance its educational and communication goals by:
- Sharing the achievements and stories of its employees, students, schools, and the district;
- Broadcasting relevant and timely information; and
- Bringing students, families, staff, and community members togethe
Operating as usual


๐๐ Calling All Parents/Guardians! ๐๐
Don't miss out on applying for the Free/Reduced Meals Application! This isn't just about meals โ it's about unlocking a list of benefits for your student. ๐
More Than Just Meals!
Qualifying for the Free/Reduced Meals program means discounts on tech fees, credit recovery, college apps, and prep exams.๐ก๐ธ
Empower Your Student's Journey
By joining the program, you're fueling your student's education. Think tech tools, internet access and more! You're making a difference. ๐๐ป
Easy Application
No rush! Apply anytime during the school year. We've got your back, whether you're prepping for school or already in the swing of things.
Visit https://bit.ly/PSDSchoolMeals for application details and eligibility.

Another summer project nearly done! Who's excited to bike to school this year? ๐ฒ

Join us for a delightful afternoon of fun and connection at "Popsicles in the Park" ๐ฆ hosted by the Special Education Parent Advisory Committee. ๐งก
๐
Date: Tuesday, August 29th
๐ฐ๏ธ Time: 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
๐ Location: Gateway Park, 10405 State Route 302, Gig Harbor
This is the perfect chance to come together with our administrative staff and other wonderful families for a relaxing time in the great outdoors. Let's play, chat, and savor yummy popsicles as we create lasting memories. ๐ง๐ณ

The PSD Board of Directors will host its business meeting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, August 24, 2023 at Swift Water Elementary School. Click here to read the full agenda - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WzhQj7RgCunJc_-F2LwIt5ux_DhF2HNf/view

ICYMI: Are you interested in staying up-to-date with the latest developments and decisions that impact your child's education? Sign-up for the new โAcross The Boardโ newsletter!
The "Across The Board" newsletter is your gateway to comprehensive summaries of each school board meeting and essential information for families. We understand how crucial it is to keep our community informed and engaged, and this newsletter is designed to do just that!
What can you expect from "Across The Board"?
๐ Detailed Meeting Summaries: Get a clear and concise overview of the discussions, decisions, and updates from every school board meeting.
๐ Important Links: We curate and include essential resources and links that can benefit you and your child's educational journey.
๐ Family-Centric Information: Stay in the loop about school policies, events, and initiatives that directly impact your child's educational experience.
The best part? You can access the "Across The Board" newsletter directly in your inbox through our district communication app, ParentSquare. Signing up is quick and easy! Just click on this link, https://bit.ly/CommunityGroupsPSD, to subscribe and receive the newsletter regularly.
The next board meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, August 24, at Swift Water Elementary School in the Community Room.
Welcome to the Class of 2027! ๐๐โญ Check out this video Gig Harbor High School ASB President Cassius Via and the ASB team created to welcome incoming 9th graders. We can feel the excitement for the school year starting! ๐

๐๐ Empowering Safety for Our Youngest Stars! ๐โจ Kindergarten students at Swift Water Elementary School rocked Kindergarten Jumpstart by practicing with their brand-new student ID badges. Starting this school year, these ID badges are the golden tickets to a safer bus journey! ๐โ
No more worries โ parents and school staff can now keep tabs on each child's bus adventure, ensuring a secure commute from start to finish.
Students at Swift Water will be the first to receive their badges on the first day of school. Badges will be rolled out to each of our PSD schools during the year.
๐ Curious to dive into the details? We've got you covered! Check out the this link (https://www.psd401.net/about-us/departments/transportation) to learn all about this innovative student ID badge system. Plus, for our super-involved parents, the MyRide app is here to keep you in the loop and your heart at ease.
Join us in embracing technology and safety hand in hand as we pave the way for our little learners. At PSD, it's all about and creating an inspiring haven where safety leads the way. ๐ชโค๏ธ
Meet the legendary School Bus Serenader, Lance Enger, who drives Bus No. 164 at PSD! ๐๐ค Spreading joy on his route with every note. ๐ถ We love seeing the passion and fun our staff have for the work they do. If you see Lance and Bus No. 164 on the road, wave hello!
The first day of school is quickly approaching, Sept. 5, and we are about to see more school buses on the road! Want to know your kidโs bus route? Visit our back-to-school guide: https://www.psd401.net/academics/back-to-school-guide. There you can find a link to the MyRide app to find your student's bus route, and sign up for the MyRide Mobile app.
We hope all of our student's bus rides are as fun as riding Bus No. 164.

Are you connected to your student's school? Check the list below to make sure you are ready before the first day comes!
In case you are not already connected to the district's (and school's) main communication channels, please see below.

Hey Peninsula High School and Purdy Elementary families! We wanted to give you a heads up about the ongoing construction that might impact your commute. ๐๐ซ
What's Happening:
The construction on State Route 16 and State Route 302 is continuing into the first part of the 2023-2024 school year. This means parking will still be closed on Purdy Lane NW and it may affect incoming and outgoing traffic to Purdy Elementary.
WSDOT estimates the project will be completed in December. For more detailed info, check out the official WSDOT page: https://wsdot.wa.gov/construction-planning/search-projects/sr-16-and-sr-302-spur-purdy-creek-remove-fish-barriers-and-paving.
We know this might cause a bit of inconvenience, but it's all for a good cause! Stay tuned for updates from WSDOT about when the construction will wrap up. ๐

What have you done this summer? Swift Water Elementary School STEM teacher Nicollette LeTellier had an out-of-this-world experience attending the Space Academy for teachers in Huntsville, Alabama. ๐โจ
Even more exciting, she had a very special guest speaker for our educator class โ none other than our Gig Harbor resident Astronaut, Chris Sembroski! ๐ ๐ช His insights and stories about space exploration left all the teachers truly inspired. ๐๐
โI'd love to support future students and teachers attending space camp,โ LeTellier said.
Let's continue to nurture a community that empowers young minds to dream big and embrace the wonders of STEM education.

ICYMI: The first day of Kindergarten is Friday, Sept. 8, 2023! ๐๐ Learn more about back-to-school events and how to prepare for the first day at your school's website or at our online "Back-To-School" guide at https://www.psd401.net/academics/back-to-school-guide.

Welcome Kindergarteners! ๐๐

Did you know... Goodman Middle School is named after one of the most dedicated educators in Gig Harbor history? ๐ซ๐ Check out the Harbor History Museum's post about Lucy Goodman, who taught until she was 93!
In honor of National Book Lover's Day, here is a photo of Lucy Goodman reading to her kindergarten class. She started teaching in GH in 1887 (technically the townโs third teacher). She tried to retire in 1927, but then was persuaded to open a private kindergarten (kindergarten was not a standard part of public school at the time).
In 1946 Lucy became one of the first librarians of the first library in Gig Harbor as part of the new library district. She finally retired from teaching at age 93 in 1962. Goodman Middle School is named in her honor.

Weโre bursting with pride as Pioneer Elementary School accepted their Green Ribbon School award in Washington DC on August 8.
Every year, the U.S. Department of Education selects outstanding schools and districts as Green Ribbon Schools for their outstanding efforts in reducing environmental impacts, promoting health and well-being, and fostering sustainability education. ๐๐
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every student, teacher, staff member, and community partner who contributed to this incredible achievement. Together, we're shaping a world that's healthier, more sustainable, and filled with boundless opportunities for our students.
Stay tuned as we continue to inspire and empower our PSD family to create positive change. ๐ฑ๐ค

Onsite Childcare
โจ PSD partners with the following programs to provide elementary students with before and after school care - Y-Care, Right At School, and the Boys and Girls Club.
โจ Visit our website to learn more - https://www.psd401.net/services-and-resources/on-site-child-care

๐๐The countdown to a new school year has begun. The 2023-2024 School Year kicks off on Sept. 5th! Parents and guardians, we've got you covered with everything you need to know before the first day. ๐ Check out our Facebook Album or visit our website (www.psd401.net/academics/back-to-school-guide) for all the important details. Let's make this academic journey one for the books! ๐โจ


We are proud of our Peninsula High School teachers Kara Beloate and Erin Rossing for being educational leaders and innovators! Read about how our teachers are embracing new tech like Chat GPT in the classroom.
The Creative Ways Teachers Are Using ChatGPT in the Classroom From trigonometry raps to Shakespeare translation.

๐ Join Us for the Multilingual Family Carnival! ๐ช
Join our Multilingual team for a fun, FREE event for families of all backgrounds!
๐ Mark your calendars: Thursday, Aug. 10, 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
๐ Purdy Elementary School
๐ Our Multilingual Department is excited to host a FREE Multilingual Family Carnival, and you're invited! ๐ Bring your loved ones and join us for:
๐ Delicious Food
๐ฎ Fun Games
๐คนโโ๏ธ Hands-On Activities
๐ฃ๏ธ Translators for Communication
๐ School Program Info
๐ผ Resources for Multilingual Families
This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, learn, and enjoy quality time together. Let's celebrate the beauty of languages and cultures that make our community unique. ๐โจ
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๐ ยกรnete a nosotros en el Carnaval Familiar Multilingรผe! ๐ช
ยกForma parte de nuestro equipo Multilingรผe en un evento divertido y GRATUITO para familias de todos los orรญgenes!
๐ Marca tu calendario: Jueves 10 de agosto, de 11:00 a. m. a 1:30 p. m.
๐ Escuela Primaria Purdy
๐ ยกNuestro Departamento Multilingรผe estรก emocionado de organizar un Carnaval Familiar Multilingรผe GRATUITO, y estรกs invitado! ๐ Trae a tus seres queridos y รบnete a nosotros para:
๐ Comida Deliciosa
๐ฎ Juegos Divertidos
๐คนโโ๏ธ Actividades Prรกcticas
๐ฃ๏ธ Traductores para Comunicaciรณn
๐ Informaciรณn sobre Programas Escolares
๐ผ Recursos para Familias Multilingรผes
Esta es una maravillosa oportunidad para conectar, aprender y disfrutar de tiempo de calidad juntos. Celebremos la belleza de los idiomas y las culturas que hacen รบnica a nuestra comunidad. ๐โจ

We want to help with that long to-do list this week, so cross out โshopping for school suppliesโ!
As part of our ongoing commitment to create equitable and inclusive learning environments for , all PSD students K-12 will be provided the basic school supplies required for their grade. ๐โ๏ธ
From fresh notebooks to colorful markers, every child will have the tools they need to dive into learning headfirst. Get ready for a seamless start to the school year, as school supplies will be handed out to your child on the very first day of school! ๐
Curious about the supplies your child will be receiving? Check out the comprehensive list of school supplies available for each grade level on our website: https://www.psd401.net/academics/elementary/school-supplies
Let's continue to foster an environment where all our students feel ! Thank you for joining us on this journey towards educational excellence. ๐

๐ซ Calling all K-12 Families and School District Community Members! ๐๐จโ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ Want to learn more about the vital work our Peninsula School District School Board Directors do? Stay in the loop with the all-new "Across The Board" newsletter! ๐ฐโจ
๐ Discover comprehensive meeting summaries, essential links, and family-centric information. Stay informed and engaged with our district's communication app, ParentSquare. Sign up now! ๐ฒ๐ฉ
Check out the first edition and sign-up to receive โAcross The Boardโ in your inbox at these links:
๐ https://bit.ly/CommunityGroupsPSD
๐https://www.parentsquare.com/feeds/21433693
Let's build an empowered and informed school community together! ๐ช๐

๐ Tacoma Community College's Fresh Start Program is back this September! ๐ This re-engagement program offers a mature college-oriented setting for high school students to make up credit and earn college credits simultaneously. Free tuition, textbooks, and ongoing support are provided. Enroll now and join an info session at TCC's main campus or on Zoom! ๐ Learn more: https://bit.ly/3Ksr7AL ๐ฒ

The PSD Board of Directors will host its business meeting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 27, 2023 at Swift Water Elementary School. Click here to read the full agenda - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VsT1aADleDxJu4HDIYY83LREcAt2wGtv/view

Would you like to help create a community that supports mental health for ALL? ๐Teen Mental Health First Aid is coming to the PSD community this August!
Gig Harbor and Key Peninsula teens ages 15 - 18 are invited to join this FREE course to learn the skills and steps to support their peers with mental health challenges.
What: Teen Mental Health First Aid
When: Monday, Aug. 14, Wednesday, Aug. 16, and Friday, Aug. 18 from 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Where: Key Peninsula Fire Department, 8911 Key Peninsula Hwy NW, Lakebay, WA.
Cost: FREE!
Students will earn community volunteer hours and, upon successful completion of the course, certification from the National Council for Mental Well-Being, which is great for resumes and scholarship applications! ๐
Register today at this link - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfN2Kq3KMf3QamegSJAKDxF0r85PyM_V1vfpKVWvtcGOlGO9w/viewform

๐ Incredible Achievements at the National Technology Student Association Competition! ๐
Shoutout to the talented students from Goodman Middle School and Harbor High School who rocked the stage at the TSA competition in Louisville, Kentucky! ๐
From Flight to Promotional Marketing, Junior Solar Sprint Cars to Tech Bowl, and more, these young innovators showed off their skills and passion for technology. ๐๐ฌ
All three Goodman Middle School studentsโMia C., Rachel C., and Mia G.โnailed the semi-finals for their Junior Solar Sprint Car, while Mia C. secured a top 10 spot in Promotional Marketing. Plus, they crushed it with a 4th place finish in Tech Bowl and Rachel C. scored an impressive 2nd place in Flight! ๐
Not to be outdone, Gig Harbor High School students Kim B., Mickey C., Finn D., Emily B., Bella G., and Trevor G. took on a range of categories, including Children's Story Writing, Forensics, Transportation Modeling, and Video Game Design. These students are the definition of multi-talented!
๐Kudos to the Peninsula School District Career and Technical Education programs for nurturing these incredible talents and providing the students with opportunities to shine on a national stage.
Read more at: https://www.psd401.net/about-us/news/news-detail-page/~board/psd-news/post/exciting-achievements-at-the-national-technology-student-association-competition
We are wrapping up our school tour videos with our mighty Voyager Elementary school vikings! Take a tour of the school and hear from students and staff about what it means to be a Kids at Hope student.
What does it mean to be a Husky? Learn about Vaughn Elementary School out on the Key Peninsula in this video, created in partnership with Paige Schulte, Realtor- Neighborhood Experts.

More Peninsula students earn varsity community service letters than ever before - Gig Harbor Now To earn a varsity letter in community service, students must volunteer at least 100 hours to nonprofits during the school year.

It's anything but quiet over at Discovery Elementary this summer! ๐จ๐ช We are excited to see Operation Doors underway!
Our school is buzzing!!! Not like it does when it's full of students but with CONSTRUCTION!! Operation Doors at Discovery has begun!
Here we see Mrs Halliday and the Job Site Superintendent reviewing the building plans.
Huge shout out to Peninsula School District and the entire construction crew for making this happen!
Each school morning you can see a parade of Swift Water seals biking to school. Watch this video to learn about Swift Water Elementary and hear from students and staff what it's like each school day.

And just like that... SCHOOL IS OUT! ๐ฅณ๐ Enjoy your summer PSD families, and we'll see you in September!

The PSD Board of Directors will host its business meeting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 22, 2023 at Swift Water Elementary School. Click here to read the full agenda - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Us18yeOFLXnwaZQJHY0SCIEmfzIjJpco/view

๐โจ The Peninsula School District dedicated three extraordinary days to honor and celebrate the achievements of our remarkable graduating seniors! The past Thursday, Friday, and Saturday were filled with joy, excitement, and countless memorable moments as we bid farewell to a remarkable class of students.
Check out the photos from our memorable three-day celebration on our website, https://www.psd401.net/academics/graduation-2023. ๐ธโจ
Meet the staff and students at Purdy Elementary School! See what it's like everyday learning as a Purdy Panther.
We are thrilled to honor the remarkable achievements of 65 Peninsula, Gig Harbor, and Henderson Bay high school students who have earned their Varsity Letter in Community Service for the 2022-2023 school year. ๐โจ
These incredible students have gone above and beyond, dedicating a total of 8,041 hours to local organizations, making a lasting impact on our community. ๐๐โค๏ธ
Their hard work and dedication have not only enriched the lives of those they served but have also cultivated essential life skills such as leadership, teamwork, and perseverance. ๐๐
Let's celebrate their outstanding accomplishments and encourage others to follow in their footsteps. ๐๐
๐ซ On Wednesday, our graduating seniors embarked on an unforgettable journey down memory lane. They donned their graduation regalia and visited their old PSD elementary schools for a heartwarming parade. ๐๐
โจ From cheers and high-fives to hugs and laughter, the energy was contagious as they reunited with their past teachers and met the current students. ๐ฅฐ๐ซ
๐ Want to experience the magic yourself? Check out our website to learn more about this heartwarming tradition and the incredible bonds formed within our Peninsula School District community. ๐ www.psd401.net/academics/graduation-2023
๐ซ On Wednesday, June 14, our graduating seniors embarked on an unforgettable journey down memory lane. They donned their graduation regalia and visited their old PSD elementary schools for a heartwarming parade. ๐๐
โจ From cheers and high-fives to hugs and laughter, the energy was contagious as they reunited with their past teachers and met the current students. ๐ฅฐ๐ซ
๐ Want to experience the magic yourself? Check out our website to learn more about this heartwarming tradition and the incredible bonds formed within our Peninsula School District community. ๐๐www.psd401.net/academics/graduation-2023
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