Why will the new Wa-Hi stand the test of time better than the current school?
The 1964 buildings consist of brick veneer, wood load bearing walls and wood truss roof systems with little or no space available in ceilings for installation of required systems -- such as duct work, mechanical units and piping.

The existing load bearing wood wall structure does not allow the ability to change walls, move duct work, add electrical components as needs arise without significant and costly structural changes. The existing buildings are not flexible for necessary changes.

The proposed new design will be a masonry exterior and a steel post and beam structure with adequate space between ceilings and floors to accommodate future revisions or additions if necessary -- without changing the structural system.

Architects West reports the building system used in the proposed new Wa-Hi will allow the school to be flexible and stand the test of time not only for building systems, but also for educational program changes.

Posting date: 3/17/06

Architects West weighs in on why Paine should be replaced

“Unlike the Sharpstein remodel we designed six years ago, the ability of the structure of the Paine school to fit the educational program is unsatisfactory without significant reconfiguration.

The existing Sharpstein Elementary School space configuration fit the educational model for an elmentary school -- to include classrooms around pods, but also with the quanity and adjacency of spaces -- without any significant reconfiguation of the existing structure.

I would not recommend preserving Paine, because of the cost and complexity of a modernization, that would ultimately result in a facility not fully meeting educational program needs.”

John Evans, Principal Architect
Architects West

Posting date: 3/17/06

WASL Week Review
Approximately 515 Walla Walla district high school students participated in WASL testing on Monday through Thursday of this week, March 13-16, 2006.

They, along with students across Washington State, tested in Reading on Day 1 and Day 2 and in writing on Day 3 and Day 4. Math and Science WASLs will be conducted April 18 through 21. Scores will be returned to the district around June 12, 2006.

Students in 10th grade for whom meeting standard on the WASL will be a graduation requirement made up the vast majority of test takers. However a few 9th graders chose to take the WASL as their first attempt as well as a few 11th graders who chose to retake parts of the WASL.

Walla Walla High School tested approximately 456 students; Paine Campus, 22 students; and Opportunity Program, 37 students.

Posting date: 3/17/06

New WASL Online Resource Center
A new Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) online resource center for parents & students is now available. Visit it today at www.wasl2006.org!

The resource center provides students and their families with a convenient source of timely and important information regarding the WASL and the graduation requirement taking effect with the Class of 2008.

Key features of the site include:
• Schedule for this year’s WASL administration
• Straightforward answers about the development and scoring of the WASL
• Simple tips to help prepare students for the exam
• Link to a sample 10th grade WASL test
• Alternative assessment information
• Links to other important information

Posting date: 3/13/06

Wa-Hi Drama Department gears up for Spring Musical - Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
Dates:
March 16, 17, 18, 23 and 24 (Curtain Time: 7 p.m.)
March 18, 25 (2 p.m. Matinee)
Location: Walla Walla High School Auditorium
Cost: Students/Seniors $6, Adults $8 * Reserved Seating
Tickets: Telephone reservations begin March 1. Call 526 – 8613 or visit the auditorium Box Office March 13 – 15 and 20 –22, 5 – 6 p.m. * Box Office opens one hour prior to Curtain

Director: Brian Senter
Assistant Director: Carina Stillman
Musical Director: Ronda Gabbard
Orchestra Director: Andrew Ueckert
Choreographer: Allison Collette

• Music by Alan Menken Lyrics by Howard Ashman & Tim Rice Book by Linda Woolverton

Posting date: 3/8/06

Boggs reports All Day Kindergarten having positive impact

Assistant Superintendent Linda Boggs presented to school board members last night on the district’s all day kindergarten program.

Now in its first full year districtwide, the program is already having a positive impact on academics according to Boggs. She said reading assessments indicated fewer students are at risk for literacy deficiencies.

She also said the program is popular with parents as only 12 out of approximately 400 students are participating in the district’s half-day program.
The district offered a half-day program to meet the needs of families which prefer more time with their children during the daytime.

Boggs said the all day program enriches the school experience by allowing more time for the following:
• Poetry • Journal writing
• Drama • Songs
• Art • Science
• Social Studies • Health
• Physical activity • Handwriting
• Choice reading • Mixing native English and Spanish

Boggs said the all day program also has other benefits for students, teachers and families.
“The teachers know the parents better,” Boggs said. “The environment is more relaxed and feels less rushed.”

The district’s Open Enrollment and Kindergarten Registration period is Monday, March 20 to Friday, March 31. Kindergarten registration will be conducted at the student’s attendance area elementary school.

Posting date: 3/8/06

Why Walla Walla High School has not stood the test of time
Walla Walla Public Schools is proposing in the May 16 bond issue to modernize and replace portions of Walla Walla High School. Below are some examples of why the school is no longer meeting district needs.

Over Capacity
• Built for 1400 to 1500 students, Wa-Hi now serves 1,800.
• Built for three grade levels (10, 11, 12), Wa-Hi now serves four grade levels (9, 10, 11, 12).
• Class of 1964: 411 graduates (three grade level high school).
• Class of 2005: 442 graduates (four grade level high school).
• 10 portable classrooms currently in use.

Program Changes
• In 1964, there were no special education services offered at Wa-Hi; today we serve approximately 250 special education students in 10 classrooms (services mandated by law). Speech, occupational, and physical therapy services are also offered without any designated spaces to conduct these services.
• In 1964, Wa-Hi did not offer bilingual education services. Today more than 100 students receive these services and use one classroom full-time and others part-time.
• The evolution of girls’ sports over the years — primarily softball and soccer — has required additional play fields and practice spaces on campus and physical education facilities such as locker rooms (Title 9 changes to the law).
• In 1964, Wa-Hi offered 6 girls sports (basketball, archery, volleyball, tennis, track and bowling).
• In 2006, Wa-Hi offers 9 girls sports (basketball, volleyball, tennis, track, cross country, softball, swimming, soccer, and golf).

Cramped Learning Spaces
• Not all teachers have their own classrooms. They rotate with their teaching materials on a cart. (limited storage too)
• Wa-Hi classroom size is below recommended standards. New design calls for larger classrooms (130 sq. ft. per student now vs. 150 sq. ft. per student in the proposed new school.)
• Limited library space has been converted into classroom space and now houses the Career Center.

Technology demands
• In 1964, classroom technology consisted of: overhead projector, typewriter, film-strip and movie projector.
• In 2006, classroom technology consists of: teacher’s computer, student computer stations, internet connectivity, projectors, television, DVD player, cell phones, palm pilots, scanners, printers, wireless lap tops, and telephones.
• Exterior conduit houses vital networking cables and many of the school’s undersized classrooms have only two electrical outlets and only one circuit for every two rooms — not suited for computer needs.
• School scored low rating for technology readiness.

Library
• Location: A library should be centrally located in a school to be effective according to design best practices (source: Architects West).

• Suitability: Current library is undersized and lacks storage. Significant costs to remodel for library needs or to change for other uses.

• Cost: Keeping the library in its current location captures less than 1.4% of the construction cost. (little savings)

• Design Complexity: Continuing use impacts already complex high school program and new design concept. The potential savings to reuse the existing library is not adequate to justify keeping it.

Safety and Security
• In 1964, discipline issues consisted primarily of: skipping class, chewing gum, passing notes, talking during class, prank telephone calls, speeding in parking lots, tossing underclassmen in the creek and plagiarism.

• In 2006, discipline issues consist of: gang related violence, drug use and sales, weapons on campus, assault, theft, intimidation, graffiti, and destruction of school property.

• Open campus designs hinders dealing with today’s discipline issues.

• Post-Columbine: Law enforcement, much like airport safety standards following 9/11, have adjusted tactical strategies for securing school facilities should a gunman come on campus. They no longer wait for the trouble to cease, they enter the facility to secure the area. A unified structure is easier to secure for staff. Teachers close their pre-locked doors and secure the students.

Additional Bond Information (information also available online – www.wwps.org)
For more information on the May 16 bond proposal, contact Communications Director Mark Higgins at (509) 526-6716 or by e-mail: mhiggins@wwps.org.

Posting date: 3/306

Graduate of Distinction nominations now accepted
Nominations are open for the 2006 Graduates of Distinction Program. All nominations and recommendation forms must be received in the district Curriculum Department by April 14, 2006.

The Walla Walla Public Schools’ Graduates of Distinction program provides an avenue for recognizing local high school graduates who have distinguished themselves in their communities, professions, or careers, and to honor the district staff members who were the most inspirational in the lives of those individuals.

To be eligible for nomination, an individual must have graduated from high school in the Walla Walla Public Schools at least 10 years prior to nomination. Nominations will be held for five years, and will automatically be included in the selection process during that time. Call Kay Schisler at 526-6735 for more information.

Posting date: 2/23/06

Edison Elementary School fifth-graders “Going to College” at Whitman

Whitman College will welcome Edison Elementary School fifth graders to campus on Friday, Feb. 24, as part of an effort to encourage students from diverse socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds to attend
college.

The students will study career choices, explore college options and learn about financial aid before they become Whitman students for a day.

“I’m Going to College Day” will begin at 8:30 a.m. Students will attend classes in persuasive writing, chemistry and astronomy taught by professors Bob Withycomb, Allison Calhoun and Andrea Dobson. The
children will eat lunch on campus and hear from Tony Cabasco, dean of admission and financial aid, on the topic of “Show Me the Money,” before returning to Edison in the afternoon.

The Northwest Education Loan Association works with colleges around the region to sponsor these visitation days in order to introduce college preparation strategies and financial aid programs to students while they are still in grade school.

“Early planning for college increases the options available to students when the time comes that they actually apply for admission,” said Varga Fox, director of financial aid services at Whitman. “We want fifth-graders from every socioeconomic and ethnic background to know that an education at Whitman is a very real and affordable possibility.”

“Every child deserves the chance to go to college,” said Karen deVilla, executive director of NELA. “By sponsoring this program, we help children and their parents understand that financial aid programs
can make college affordable. The sooner families begin planning and preparing, the better chance they have of making higher education a reality.”

While it is common knowledge that college graduates have higher average incomes and more career options than their peers who don’t attend, this program educates children about the possibilities of obtaining financial aid as well the advantage of a college education.

Headquartered in Seattle, NELA is a not-for-profit company that assists students and parents in planning for college and understanding financial aid. Through its administration of the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP) and its guarantee of student loans against default, NELA has helped more than 811,000 students pursue higher education. More information is available at www.nela.net and at www.centerforstudentsuccess.org.

Posting date: 2/23/06

Walla Walla Music Boosters sponsor Magic Show
The Music Boosters group is sponsoring Kevin Wolfe’s Magic and Hypnosis Show Feb. 24 and 25 at the Wa-Hi Auditorium at 7 p.m. Tickets are $8.50 and all seating is general admission.
The proceeds will go to the Walla Walla Music Boosters and will be used to supplement the music budgets in our schools.

“This is going to be a wonderful show,” District Fine Arts Director Glen Mitchell said. “Families are encouraged to attend. Kevin Wolfe has a great reputation. He’s performed on stages throughout the country as well as numerous TV appearances.”

Tickets will be sold at the door and may be purchased at several ticket outlets. For more information please call 526-5469.

Posting date: 2/23/06

Sharpstein principal named regional Distinguished Principal
Congratulations to Sharpstein Principal Laure Quaresma for being selected by her colleagues as a Washington State Regional Distinguished Principal.

Quaresma was selected based on her contributions to professional growth and development, educational excellence, community relations, and humanitarian activities. Quaresma has helped the school’s dual language program grow and flourish, developed a healthy minds and healthy bodies exercise program for staff and students, and helped Sharpstein gain national recognition for student achievement improvements from using the Waterford software learning program.

“Being honored by peers validates the work that we do towards learning improvement for all children,” Quaresma said. “Asking staff to examine instructional practice and work together to make positive changes is challenging. The Distinguished Principal honor really goes to the Sharpstein staff for stepping out there and making me look good in the process. It should be called the Distinguished Staff Award.”

Posting date: 2/6/06

School board approves two year calendar

School board members Tuesday night approved the 2006-2007 and 2007-2008 school year calendars. Calendar Committee chair Assistant Superintendent Linda Boggs thanked WWVEA President Margaret Yount and PSE President Larry McCauley for their leadership throughout the process. She also thanked other members of the committee for their input. Copies of the calendars are available at all district schools and the district office and on the district's website (calendars area).

Posting date: 2/9/06

YMCA gains option to purchase Support Services land if voters approve proposed bond measure

Sherwood Trust commits to matching funds for YMCA future expansion plans

Any plans for a future YMCA expansion on Park Street will hinge greatly on a newly formed partnership with the district.

Board members Tuesday night granted the YMCA first right of refusal on the Park Street property currently housing the district’s Support Services operations, should voters approve the proposed May 16 school bond.

“Our Walla Walla School District Board has developed a long-range facility strategy that will significantly improve the teaching environment of our local schools and address educational needs of the 21st Century,” Walla Walla YMCA Board of Directors said in a statement on the recent partnership.

The Sherwood Trust has pledged a matching grant on a future YMCA expansion project on the Park Street property currently owned by the school district.
Plans for how the YMCA would develop the Park Street site have not been developed at this time.

“Approval of the bond will enable the School District to relocate its support services operations to the new high school campus," said Executive Director, Walla Walla Family YMCA Ned Shafer. “Such a move would increase the prospect of the YMCA’s purchase of the two-acre parcel on Park Street for future expansion of its programs and activities. This concept has been supported by a matching grant from the Sherwood Trust that may be applied toward acquiring this land."

Posting date: 2/9/06

District meets with Port of Walla Walla Economic Development leaders to discuss bond
This week Superintendent Rich Carter presented information on the district’s proposed May 16 bond issue at the Port of Walla Walla Economic Development meeting. Nearly 70 business and agency leaders were in attendance for the meeting regularly scheduled every other month by Port of Walla Walla Executive Director Jim Kuntz. Citizens for Schools chair Jim Hayner also addressed the group, while School Board President Mary Jo Geidl fielded questions after the meeting.

Carter stressed the economic impact the proposed bond would have on the community as research indicates approximately 50 cents of every bond dollar stays in the community through jobs, supplies and services. He also noted the value for Walla Walla taxpayers who stand to get nearly a dollar for dollar match on the nearly $88 million in projects being proposed. Thanks to matching dollars and private donations, Walla Walla tax payers would pay approximately $46 million of the estimated $88 million in projects slated for the May 16 issue.

Kuntz said quality schools help recruit and retain businesses in the area and help spur economic growth. Carter also met with staff members at Pioneer Middle School, Prospect Point Elementary and parents at the Blue Ridge Family Fun Night this week to provide information on the proposed bond. Learn more about the bond online - www.wwps.org.

Posting date: 1/28/06

Calendar options under review
Assistant Superintendent Linda Boggs met with members of the district’s calendar committee to review results of staff input on calendar options for the 2006-2007 and 2007-2008 school years.

The district is expected in the next week or so to narrow the options down to one calendar choice for each school year. The two options will then go to the school board for consideration. The district supports approving a two-year calendar to improve educational and family activity planning efforts.

Posting date: 1/28/06

Superintendent Rich Carter salutes school board members
January is School Board Appreciation Month in Washington State and nationwide. I want to express my gratitude to our dedicated board members and ask the community to join me in saying “THANK YOU” to those who volunteer to work for our children and youth and our community:

Mary Jo Geidl, President - 5 years on the board;
Anne Golden, Vice President - 19 years;
Tim Donaldson – 7 years;
Cindy Meyer-newly elected in 2005
Toni Rudnick - 7 years; and
Dr. Richard Jacks, who retired in December after 12 years of board service.

These public servants are elected to serve and receive no compensation for their tireless efforts. They represent you as a link between the community and the classroom and they take this responsibility seriously. They unselfishly contribute hundreds of hours leading our district, crafting policies, choosing curriculum, approving employee contracts, studying and adopting budgets, all with the focus on what’s best for all the children in our schools.

Being an effective school board member is no easy task. The time spent in board meetings represents just a small fraction of the hours school board members devote to leading the district. They must read and study to be knowledgeable about many complex educational issues and ensure compliance with both federal and state directives. To do so, they give countless hours of personal time. They work together as a team toward a common goal – helping students achieve to performance standards and gain knowledge and skills to be responsible, happy, productive citizens. School board members know their decisions affect our children – what they learn, who will teach them, and what kinds of facilities are adequate for their learning experiences. They make a difference for every child in the Walla Walla Public Schools.

Too often, we neglect to recognize and honor the dedication, hard work, and selfless attitude of our school directors for their service and commitment to our children. Please take a moment to tell a school board member, “Thanks for all you do for our children’s education.”

Posting date: 1/28/06

Hayner leads Citizens for Schools planning meeting
Citizens for Schools chair Jim Hayner organized a planning meeting this week to help organize efforts to inform the community about the district’s proposed May 16 bond issue. More than 60 people were in attendance. Hayner has selected community members Jeffrey Hill, Katie and Carl Christianson, and Dondi and Andrea Cortinas to take on leadership roles to organize committee efforts. Carl Tyler has once again agreed to lead communications efforts.

The mission of this non-profit, community organization is to ensure Walla Walla Public Schools have the resources and support necessary to provide essential educational programs and activities to Walla Walla children.

Contact Hayner at 527-3500 or jkh@innw.net if you are interesting in learning more about Citizens for Schools.
Posting date: 1/28/06

Transportation scores outstanding inspection

Congratulations to the Transportation Department for receiving a Certificate of Achievement from the Washington State Patrol for outstanding inspection results. Inspections occurred during the Winter and Summer months last year according to a report from Transportation Director Tom Head.

“The Washington State Patrol school bus inspection team and I wish to commend your district and those persons responsible for the maintenance of your buses for the outstanding bus inspection,” said Jan Clarence, Region IV Transportation Coordinator.

Posting date: 1/21/06

District continues to trim energy costs

District Energy Manager John Butenhoff delivered good news to the school board Tuesday night in his “Year Six” end of year report. Butenhoff reported the district saved more than $288,000 last year through the district’s comprehensive energy management program, pushing total savings since the program’s inception in 2000 to $1.5 million.

Butenhoff credited staff members’ energy ethics as the key to the positive results which have helped the district trim consumption by more than 25 percent. Butenhoff noted an 82 percent rise in natural gas rates, a 42 percent increase for electricity and 33 percent spike in water and sewer costs are keeping the pressure on to continue finding ways to conserve.

Butenhoff is constantly reviewing and tracking energy bills to find more ways to save. He also provides training and implements best practices for the energy saving programs. He thanked the school board for supporting the program and said it’s making a positive difference.

1/21/06

Why do all these bond projects at once?

• Equity
Not all district schools provide adequate learning environments to meet today’s educational demands and standards.
(Example: Sharpstein vs. Edison)

• Research
Local and national studies show these projects are the district’s most urgent needs.

• Time
We can’t afford to wait. The district has many more needs than the projects slated for improvement in the May 16 bond issue. Each year we wait these priorities get pushed further down the list.

• Cost
Each year we wait it will cost at least 10 percent more per year. The need doesn’t go away by not addressing it.

• Experience
The district has a proven record of successful management of capital improvement projects and has assembled a top notch, professional team to effectively manage all of these projects at one time.

• Fiscal integrity
The district has managed its last three projects (Green Park, Sharpstein, Murr Field) on/or under budget.

• Funding
Rarely has a community experienced an opportunity to have nearly a dollar for dollar match on their future investment.

Posting date: 1/21/06

Why is Borleske Stadium not meeting district needs?

A. Conflicting uses: Borleske currently attempts to accommodate both baseball and football on the same field causing considerable expense every year to change dirt to sod.

B. Existing conditions: The existing restrooms and concessions are undersized. Locker rooms are non-existent. The current stands have had some remedial work to the structure. The sight lines from spectator to the field for football are poor.

C. Cost: The stadium seating building scored a condition of 45% which is below the recommended score to remodel. It would be more cost effective to replace.

D. Ongoing district use and maintenance costs: The district spends up to $15,000 each year to transport students to Borleske for a variety of positive afterschool activities and $55,000 a year to maintain the aging stadium.

E. Convenience: Having the main playing field and track across town is not efficient for student use.

F. Teaching station: A PE/Athletic Facility at Wa-Hi — with an all weather track open for public use — serves as a classroom for PE teachers to better support the school’s fitness programs. This multi-use facility would also support extracurricular activities, graduation and various community activities. Athletes would also be able to practice on their own field.

G. Would private dollars help pay for the Wa-Hi PE/Athletic facility?
Yes, Wa-Hi Athletics Facility Funding Partners, chaired by Cindy Widmer, has pledged to procure funding to match funds required for the athletic facility so that bonding capacity can be available for other district priorities. With this private donation of approximately $1.5 million and state matching dollars available for this project, total cost for Walla Walla taxpayers will be less than 1 percent of all bond projects costs.

Posting date: 1/21/06

Mary Garner Esary Trust names grant recipients
Three district programs are the recipients of a $10,000 grant from the Mary Garner Esary Trust. Pioneer and Garrison Middle Schools received $3,250 each for their Extracurricular Club Programs. These are offered from January through May and provide extended learning opportunities and contact time for many district students.

The district Music Program, under the leadership of Glen Mitchell, received $3,500. These funds will be used to help fund the spring music festivals, purchase a new sight-singing series for Pioneer Middle School’s choral program, and help pay for accompanist time for the Wa-Hi choral program.

Posting date: 1/11/06

May 16 Bond

District meets with planning officials to discuss development issues, including traffic flow
This week district leaders met with city officials to discuss School Facilities Development and Coordination efforts in relation to the proposed May 16 bond issue.

This meeting will launch a series of meetings between district staff and the City of Walla Walla Development Services and Public Works departments and the County Community Planning Department to discuss and collaborate on the district’s facilities improvement plan.

Topics will include:
- Traffic flow
- Streets and roads
- Utilities and services
- Future development

Posting date: 1/11/06

Meyer takes school board oath of office

Longtime district volunteer Cindy Meyer became the district’s newest board member last night after taking the oath of office. She takes the seat of retiring school board member Dr. Richard Jacks.

Meyer has a B.A. in Geology from Oregon State University. She co-chaired the Citizens for Schools Levy campaigns in 2002 and 2004 and has volunteered in the schools for 12 years in numerous roles and capacities.
She and her husband have two teenage daughters. Meyer will serve a four year term.

Posting date: 12/13/05

School board elects new officers - Geidl elected president

Mary Jo Geidl was sworn in for her second, four year term Tuesday, Dec. 13. Board members also elected Geidl president of the board and named Anne Golden vice president.

Posting date: 12/13/05

Board supports facilities improvement bond

School board members Tuesday, Dec. 13 passed a resolution in support of a facilities improvement bond slated for Tuesday, May 16.

“This is an issue that has been studied in-depth for the past six years by local citizens, staff, school board members, parents, students, administrators, business leaders and independent consultants,” Superintendent Rich Carter said. “This is not a decision that was made without great discussion, thought and consideration by a number of parties over a long period of time.”

2006 Bond Fact Sheet

Election date: Tuesday, May 16 (vote by mail ballots to be sent Friday, April 28)

25 Year Facilities Improvement Plan Summary: Walla Walla Public Schools is proposing a 25 Year Facilities Improvement Plan to significantly improve local schools over time. School improvement projects scheduled to be undertaken with the renewal of future bond issues in 2012, 2018 and 2024, will be dependent on passage of the May 16, 2006 school bond.

This proposed plan – which calls for replacement bond elections every six years while maintaining a flat rate of 99 cents in additional taxes over the 2005 bond rate throughout the span of the 25 years – will provide adequate learning spaces necessary to meet today's 21 st Century educational demands. District facilities needs are documented through local, regional and national studies. (*facilities study results available)

Significant changes to State of Washington school construction matching dollars formulas benefit this plan and would bring in $33,672,000 in state match dollars in the first bond alone.

The May 16, 2006 bond election addresses the district's most urgent needs, which include: replacing Edison Elementary (current site), replacing Paine Alternative Campus (current site), moving our Support Services operations to the current Walla Walla High School Career and Technical Education building, and replacing and renovating Walla Walla High School. The 2006 bond also calls for additional dollars at all schools for yearly facility improvements, technology and security upgrades.

Finances:

Funding summary (May 16, 2006 bond):

$53,950,000 (Local)

$33,672,000 (State match dollars)

Total – $ 87,622,000 (.99 cents per $1,000 in additional taxes above the 2005 bond rate)

(Note: $8,000,000 is the estimated amount of the College Place contribution for high school improvements. This will eventually reduce the local responsibility to approximately $45,950,000)

The following is an overview of the projects being proposed in the May 16, 2006 bond election:

Edison Elementary

• Edison Elementary is 70 years old, in poor condition, with limited technology, and has numerous efficiency and safety shortcomings.
• It's also too small for future district growth
• Replacement building supports 200 more students for future growth
• MGT of America's facilities study recommended the school be replaced
• Replacing Edison at its current location is cost effective, allows for growth and also preserves a neighborhood school

Paine Community Learning Center

• Paine School is nearly 80 years old, in very poor condition, and has numerous safety & ADA issues
• The MGT report recommended the school be replaced
• The district is envisioning a fiscal partnership with the Blue Mountain Action Council to create a multi-use community facility on the Paine Campus to provide a range of youth programs and support
• District architects do not recommend modernizing the existing building citing cost, poor program support and safety as the primary reasons
• Paine Community Learning Center supports additional capacity for future growth
• Paine Community Learning Center is evolving into a school of choice and an option for a second, small high school experience in Walla Walla

Support Services

• Residential neighborhood location creates safety concerns, noise issues and space limitations
• MGT's report rated this building among the worst seen in any school district
• District wants to sell the existing property and move the operations to Walla Walla High School 's Career and Technical Education building
• This move will save the district approximately 2 million dollars, improve efficiencies and provide a long-range solution to our Support Services operations

Walla Walla High School

• The district recognizes Walla Walla High School lies in a beautiful setting
• The school is over 40 years old and needs modernization
• Inefficiently laid out for today's programs
• Numerous security and safety challenges
• Over-capacity
• District architects do not recommend modernizing most existing buildings (four existing buildings to remain)
• Note: Main gym, small gym, auditorium, Career & Technical Education buildings to remain
• Cost to refurbish existing buildings is more than building new
• There is no place to house students during construction if existing buildings were to be refurbished
• Replacing the existing building with a unified structure improves efficiency, maximizes resources, tightens security and better supports staff collaboration
• Architects West – who designed the award winning Sharpstein Elementary – will use their skills to maintain the natural beauty of Wa-Hi and complement Yellowhawk Creek.

Athletic/PE Facility at Walla Walla High School

• Walla Walla High School currently has its football games and track meets at Borleske Stadium
• This stadium built in the 1920s, owned jointly by the city, district and Whitman College , is in poor condition
• There are no locker rooms at Borleske Stadium, limited restrooms, poor ADA provisions, and numerous safety and security challenges
• The district spends up to $300 per day to transport students to the site during track practice each spring and $60,000 a year to maintain Borleske.
• Athletic/PE Facility (with an all weather track) at Wa-Hi better supports the school's Physical Education and extra-curricular activities
• This multi-use facility would also support daily physical education programs, soccer, graduation and various community activities -- including local and regional playoff events.

Economic Development

• Millions of dollars back into Walla Walla economic development efforts through jobs, services and materials

What's Next? (Note: priorities for the proposed 2012, 2018, and 2024 bond issues will be reviewed prior to each election – bond tax rate stays flat)

•  2012 (Projects – Pioneer Middle School including new gym and removing portables - $17,400,000 – note tax rate remains .99 cents of additional tax above the 2005 bond rate)

•  2018 (Projects – Berney Elementary, Blue Ridge Elementary, Garrison Middle School, Pioneer Middle School, Prospect Point Elementary -- $17,377,000 - note tax rate remains .99 cents of additional tax above the 2005 bond rate)

•  2024 (Projects Green Park Elementary, Sharpstein Elementary maintenance -- $6,105,000 -- note tax rate remains .99 cents of additional tax above the 2005 bond rate)

•  2012, 2018, 2024 -- additional dollars at all schools for yearly facility improvements, technology and security upgrades.

For information on the 2006 Bond election, contact Communications Director Mark Higgins at (509) 526-6716 or by e-mail at: mhiggins@wwps.org.

Posting date: 12/13/05

Facilities Improvement Plan takes long-range approach to addressing district needs by Superintendent Rich Carter

Tuesday night Walla Walla Public Schools board members are expected to set in action a proposal to introduce a 25 Year Facilities Improvement Plan to our community. This is an opportunity for Walla Walla residents to get nearly a dollar for dollar match on their tax dollar to significantly improve their local schools.

This proposed plan – which calls for replacement bond elections every six years while maintaining a flat rate of 99 cents in additional taxes over the 2005 bond rate throughout the span of the 25 years – will provide adequate learning spaces necessary to meet today's 21 st Century educational demands. Our facilities needs are well documented through local, regional and national studies.

Significant changes to State of Washington school construction matching dollars formulas benefit our plan and would bring in $33,672,000 in state match dollars in the first bond alone.

We'll address some of the district's most urgent needs first, which include: replacing Edison Elementary (current site), replacing Paine Alternative Campus (current site), moving our Support Services operations to the current Walla Walla High School Career and Technical Education building, and replacing and renovating Walla Walla High School . The plan also calls for additional dollars at all schools for yearly facility improvements, technology and security upgrades.

The following is an overview of the projects included in the May 16 bond proposal.

Edison Elementary

Edison Elementary is 70 years old, in poor condition, with limited technology, and has numerous efficiency and safety shortcomings. It's also too small for future district growth so we want to expand its capacity. MGT of America's facilities study recommended the school be replaced. Replacing Edison at its current location is cost effective, allows for growth and also preserves a neighborhood school.

Paine Alternative Community Center

Paine Alternative Campus is more than 70 years old, in very poor condition, and has numerous safety issues. The MGT report recommended the school be replaced. The district is envisioning a fiscal partnership with the Blue Mountain Action Council to create a multi-use community facility on the Paine Campus to provide a range of youth programs and support. District architects do not recommend modernizing the existing building citing cost, poor program support and safety as the primary reasons.

Support Services

The district's Support Services Building , used as a bus garage, mechanics' shop, and school supplies warehouse, is located across from the district office in a residential neighborhood. MGT's report rated this building among the worst seen in any school district. We want to sell the existing property and move the operations to Walla Walla High School 's Career and Technical Education building. This move will save the district approximately 2 million dollars, improve our efficiencies and provide a long-range solution to our Support Services operations.

Walla Walla High School

Although Walla Walla High School lies in a beautiful setting, the school is over 40 years old, inefficiently laid out for today's programs, needs modernization, has numerous security and safety challenges and is over-capacity. District architects do not recommend modernizing existing buildings. Cost to refurbish existing buildings is more than building new and there is no place to house students during construction. Replacing the existing building with a unified structure improves efficiency, maximizes resources, tightens security and better supports staff collaboration. Architects West – who designed the award winning Sharpstein Elementary – will use their skills to maintain the natural beauty of Wa-Hi and complement Yellowhawk Creek.

Walla Walla High School currently has its football games and track meets at Borleske Stadium. This stadium built in the 1920s, owned jointly by the city, district and Whitman College , is in poor condition. There are no locker rooms, limited restrooms, poor ADA provisions, and numerous safety and security challenges. The district also spends up to $300 per day to transport students to the site during track practice each spring and $60,000 a year to maintain Borleske. To better support the high school's Physical Education and extra-curricular activities, the district recommends including a new athletic facility with an all-weather track on the campus of Walla Walla High school . This multi-use facility would also support daily physical education programs, soccer, graduation and various community activities -- including local and regional playoff events.

Finances

Funding summary: (2006 bond proposal)

$53,950,000 (Local)

$33,672,000 (State match dollars)

Total – $ 87,622,000 (.99 cents per $1,000 in additional taxes above the 2005 bond rate)

(Note: $8,000,000 is the estimated amount of the College Place contribution for high school improvements. This will eventually reduce the local responsibility to approximately $45,950,000)

This proposal also allows Walla Walla residents an opportunity to support local economic development as these projects will put millions of dollars back into our community through jobs, services and materials. We have information to share and are more than willing to come out to your place of work or community group gathering to discuss this issue and its importance. Strong schools equal a strong community.

Posting date: 12/9/05

Local artist Jeffrey Hill unveils revived Garrison Middle School ‘Trooper’ artwork
Artwork donated as a memorial to deceased Garrison teacher Ann Weatherill

This morning during an all school assembly local artist and former Garrison Middle School student Jeffrey Hill unveiled his artwork of a Garrison Trooper riding his horse which is now mounted near the school’s entrance and will serve as a memorial to former teacher Ann Weatherill who died tragically in 2004 from a bicycling accident.

The assembly was also an opportunity for Hill to pay tribute to former Garrison Art Teacher Dale Steindorf for being his inspirational role model as a student and lifelong mentor. Hill designed and created the original Trooper when he was in Steindorf’s art class as a student at Garrison Middle School and has now restored and painted it to better than new condition.

Hill also presented a painting of his Garrison Trooper art piece to Weatherill’s husband Charles Potts, her daughter Natalie and sister Molly. Hill also gave Steindorf a bronze statue to thank him for the positive influence he has had on his life.

Trevor Hunter of Hunter T Bronze was also honored for helping repair the Trooper artwork and get it mounted at the school’s entrance. Justin Wylie of Wylie Monuments was recognized for his contribution designing the bronze plaque which will be mounted below the artwork as a memorial to Ann Weatherill. Garrison students talked about Weatherill during the assembly and thanked her for helping them learn and to care more for others.

At the conclusion of the assembly students gathered to view the art work as they returned to class.

Posting date: 12/9/05

Wa-Hi Latino students travel WSU to learn more about higher education
Thirty-nine Latino Wa-Hi students traveled to WSU last Friday to attend the weekend long C.A.S.H.E. (Children of Aztlan Sharing Higher Education) conference. The conference stresses the importance of higher education.

WSU Latino students hosted our Wa-Hi students as they attended workshops offering information on topics of financial aid, careers, avoiding gang involvement and avoiding dropping out. A motivating featured speaker was Ricardo Sanchez, Director of LEAP (Latino Education Achievement Project).

Our Wa-Hi students were attentive, impressed and felt empowered! Thank you Javier Hernandez for organizing this opportunity for students.

11/28/05

Winter weather is here! School Closure Announcements
During winter months, parents and community members are encouraged to visit the district website (www.wwps.org) for up-to-the-minute information regarding school closures or delays. Also tune to local radio and television stations for school closure updates.

Assume school will operate on time if you have not heard about a delay or closure by 6:30 a.m. Messages posted on the district website and calls to local media outlets from the school district are ONLY made if there are delays or closures.

How do I get school closure information?
• Online - www.wwps.org
• Tune to local radio stations
• Check local TV reports

Posting date: 11/28/05

School retirees association awards grants to district staff members

Two Walla Walla School District employees recently became the recipients of
the Walla Walla-Columbia School Retirees Association autumn mini-grants of
$100.00 each. The winners were:

—Barbara Doherty, Garrison Middle School special education teacher, has
plans to purchase replacement copies of popular Accelerated Reader books
written at the levels of her IEP students. The wear and tear on these
popular books has depleted her Accelerated Reader library.

—Nancy Withycombe, Edison Elementary principal, will use the mini-grant
money to buy books, assemble materials, make tapes, and to publish student
stories written by Edison second grade students. All of these will be
included in a gift bag to be given to parents of newborns at St. Mary and
Walla Walla General Hospitals in order to foster literacy at the beginning
of each newborn’s life.

Posting date: 12/1/05

School board votes to keep Big Nine all 4A

When Big Nine principals and athletic directors gather to vote later this month or in early December on whether to make the conference a combined 3A/4A league, they’ll get a clear message from the Walla Walla School board -- thanks, but no thanks.

School board members, per recommendation of Athletic Director Don Wilkins and Principal Brian Pendleton, voted unanimously Tuesday, Nov. 1 to keep the Big Nine Conference an all 4A league.

The push to combine the league with both 3A and 4A schools came after the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association last April passed an amendment to change school classifications which are based on enrollment. The amendment attempts to create more equity by having schools with similar enrollment counts competing against each other.

Wilkins and Pendleton said a combined 3A/4A league would compromise the Big Nine conference and penalize the larger schools who would have to compete against lesser competition. Wilkins also said statements that a 3A/4A league would cut costs and travel time were inaccurate. The vote is expected in the coming weeks.

Posting date: 11/2/05

School board hires construction manager

School board members hired Roen Associates of Spokane as the district’s construction manager Tuesday night. The construction manager will provide professional support to help the district control cost, schedule and quality of projects, should voters approve a future bond measure. School districts are required to have a construction manager in order to receive state matching funds for capital projects.

Posting date: 10/19/05

Architects West unveils first conceptual designs

Staff members at Edison, Wa-Hi, Paine Alternative Programs, and Support Services had their first glimpse into the future this week as Architects West displayed the initial conceptual designs of these facilities.

Although preliminary, the designs captured the imagination of staff as Architect John Evans took them on a virtual tour of the concepts. Staff members had many questions, suggestions and even concerns. Evans -- who has helped numerous school districts through this process -- reassured staff this is normal. Architects West will now take the feedback and begin making adjustments in preparation for their Nov. 17 and 18 visit. This week’s visit marks the third since being hired as the district’s architectural consultant.

Business Manager Aron Rausch said the district will also be working to get more accurate cost figures related to the projects. He said Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and other economic factors, are driving up construction costs. The district is targeting a Spring 2006 school bond.

Posting date: 10/19/05

School board looks at going "paperless"

School board members heard presentations last night on two document management systems that would allow them to conduct “paperless” school board meetings and limit the need to have hard copy reports and supporting materials.
The systems are designed to allow all board business to be web-based. Meeting agendas, minutes, policies, and other school board business would be posted using the document management system.

The Washington State School Directors Association (WSSDA) supports the concept and has endorsed “BoardDocs” as its vendor of choice.
Long-standing school board member Anne Golden, who also recently served as WSSDA president, also supports the concept and believes it would improve efficiency and ultimately cut costs through paper savings and staff time.

Currently three districts in Washington state are using BoardDocs: Central Valley (Spokane), Kent and Monroe school districts.

Technology Director Janis Barton also showcased a system available through “EduPortal.”

School board members said they would like more information on document management systems and indicated they would be open to trying one at some point.

Posting date: 10/19/05

Survey seeks community input on facilities perceptions and needs

The district has teamed with Strategic Research of Spokane to conduct a telephone survey among Walla Walla residents to assess their perceptions about the condition and adequacy of the district facilities, according to a report to school board members Tuesday Night by Communications Director Mark Higgins.

“Strategic Research has a proven track record of helping school districts gain information and input from their communities on a variety of issues, including recently working with the Richland School District to assess facilities needs,” Higgins said.
The move is aligned with the district’s recently adopted Strategic Plan which calls for periodic surveying of community members. It also addresses a request from the school board and the district’s Community Facilities Task Force to get more information from the community regarding facilities.

Type of survey
- Telephone (random survey of 350 community members)
- 13 to 14 minutes to administer (provisions for Spanish speaking community members)
- Margin of error (+ or - 5.2 percent)

Survey Timeline
1. Field work (make calls) - Nov. 1-11
2.Compile survey results - Nov. 14-25
3. Survey results finalized - Nov. 28

Posting date: 10/19/05

District United Way contribution up 12 percent

Congratulations to district staff for helping the district increase its 2005 United Way contribution 12 percent over last year’s giving. The total contribution this year was $25,870.

“This extremely generous gift will go a long way in supporting efforts to address critical local needs,” United Way Executive Director Liz McDevitt said in a thank you letter to the school district. “Thank you for demonstrating once again what a wonderful community partner the school district is in making Walla Walla a great place to live.”

Posting date: 10/14/05

School Board meeting - Tuesday, Oct. 18
Work Session (“Electronic” School Board meetings and business operations) - 6 p.m.
Regular Meeting - 7:30 p.m.
364 South Park Street
Open to public

Posting date: 10/18/05

Patron Survey - District seeks community input
Walla Walla Public Schools is conducting its Fall 2005 Patron Survey. Community members are encouraged to take a few moments to complete this survey and provide the district with valuable feedback. The survey is on the district web site homepage.

Direct link: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=94687971776

Posting date: 10/11/05

District seeks participants for next Patron Tour - Thursday, Oct. 20
Community members are encouraged to sign up for the district’s next Patron Tour featuring stops at Edison Elementary and Walla Walla High School. Participants also have an opportunity to meet with Superintendent Rich Carter and other district office administrators to learn more about the district’s five year Strategic Plan and future plan.

Next Patron Tour agenda (Thursday, October 20)
• District Office - 8:15 a.m.
(Welcome from Superintendent & overview of school operations)
• Tour Edison - 9:00 to 10:20 a.m. (visit classrooms, meet with students, discuss issues and needs)
• Tour Wa-Hi - 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Campus tour, visit classroom, meet with students, discuss issues and have lunch)

To sign up for the October 20 Patron Tour, contact Communications Director Mark Higgins: 526-6716 or e-mail: mhiggins@wwps.org

Posting date: 10/11/05

Walla Walla High School receives third bomb threat

This weekend's Homecoming activities on schedule

Walla Walla High School administrators, in cooperation with Walla Walla County Sheriff law enforcement officers, are investigating a third bomb threat in two weeks after finding a written message on campus today (Friday, Oct. 7). This weekend's Homecoming activities will be held as scheduled. There will be heightened security at tonight's Homecoming game at Borleske Stadium (Wa-Hi vs. Moses Lake – 7:30 p.m.) and at tomorrow night's dance.

The Walla Walla County Sheriff's Department is the lead agency in this investigation. Walla Walla Public Schools have had a total of five threats in the past two weeks. Two Garrison Middle School students were arrested Wednesday in connection to two separate bomb threats made on their campus. These students have been arrested and face felony charges, were emergency suspended and are awaiting a district hearing to determine their status in Walla Walla Public Schools.

A $1000 reward is being offered for tips leading to an arrest. Those who have information regarding this incident are asked to report it to the Principal's office, 527-3020, Walla Walla County Sheriff's Department, 527-3268 or the Safe School Hotline # 1-800-418-6423 Ext. 359 immediately. Please check the Walla Walla High School website, Walla Walla Public Schools website at www.wwps.org or local radio and TV stations for further updates.

Contact Communications Director Mark Higgins for more information: (509) 526-6716 (office) or (509) 520-6242 (cell), E-Mail: mhiggins@wwps.org.

Posting date: 10/7/05

Transportation Department school bus driver passes away

School bus driver Tom Hull passed away yesterday at University Hospital in Seattle. Hull, who was 72, has been a bus driver with the district for nearly three years. Prior to coming to Walla Walla, he worked as a school bus driver for the Ferndale School District. He retired as a millwright and supervisor for Intalco in Ferndale, WA before starting a second career as a school bus driver. Hull’s wife Bert works as a substitute para-educator for Walla Walla Public Schools. Memorial services are pending.

“The Transportation Department is in shock right now,” Director Tom Head said. “This is a tremendous loss for our Transportation team and Tom will be sorely missed.”

Posting date: 10/7/05

Second Garrison Middle School student arrested for making bomb threat

Student on emergency suspension awaiting district hearing

 A second Garrison Middle School 8 th grade student was arrested late Wednesday afternoon (Oct. 5) for making a bomb threat at the school. This threat was not related to the first threat October 5 which caused an evacuation of the school and also led to the arrest of a Garrison Middle School 8 th grade student.

Both students were arrested and face felony charges. Both students are on emergency suspensions awaiting district hearings to determine their status in Walla Walla Public Schools. Student tips helped lead to their arrests.

Community members, staff, students and parents are encouraged to use the district's Safe School Hotline # 1-800-418-6423 Ext. 359 whenever they want to make an anonymous tip regarding school safety issues.

Contact Communications Director Mark Higgins for more information: (509) 526-6716 (office) or (509) 520-6242 (cell).

Garrison Middle School student arrested in connection with bomb threat
Student charged with Class C felony

An 8th grade Garrison Middle School student was arrested this afternoon in connection with a bomb threat that was discovered on campus earlier today (Wednesday, Oct. 5).

The boy was arrested and faces felony charges and will be transported to the Juvenile Justice Center for processing. Student tips helped lead to the arrest.

“Our staff and students at Garrison need to be commended for their quick actions today in leading to this arrest,” Communications Director Mark Higgins said. “We also received tremendous support from the City of Walla Walla Police Department throughout the day. We hope this arrest will send a message that these are serious offenses and there will be consequences for this type of behavior.”

Community members, staff, students and parents are encouraged to use the district’s Safe School Hotline # 1-800-418-6423 Ext. 359 whenever they want to make an anonymous tip regarding school safety issues.

Contact Communications Director Mark Higgins for more information: (509) 526-6716 (office) or (509) 520-6242 (cell).

Posting date: 10/05/05

Wa-Hi PTSA hosts Drug Task Force Team Forum
Parents invited to learn more about area substance abuse issues

The Walla Walla High School Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) is sponsoring a substance abuse awareness meeting with the area’s Drug Task Force Team, Monday, October 10 from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Walla Walla High School library.
This free event is open to the public and PTSA membership is not required to attend.

Drug Task Force Team Forum
• Monday, October 10
• 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
• Wa-Hi Library (800 Abbott Road)
• FREE
• Open to Public
(PTSA membership NOT required to attend)

Contact Wa-Hi PTSA President Cindy Meyer for more information: (509) 529-0952 or e-mail at: cindymeyer@charter.net

Posting date: 10/5/05

Symposium Reunion a success
District delivers progress report to community leaders

Walla Walla Public Schools provided a progress report to community leaders Wednesday at the Reid Center on the campus of Whitman College. Participants received copies of the district’s recently adopted Strategic Plan and listened to accomplishments to date on goals indentified in the plan. Participants also received an overview of the district’s facilities improvement efforts — including a report from John Evans of Architects West.

More than 100 people attended the “Symposium Reunion” to stay connected to their Walla Walla Public Schools. The group was then surveyed at the end of the session. Survey results below: (The district is planning to put this same survey on its website in the near future for all community members to complete)

Symposium Reunion Participants
Roger Bairstow
Teri Barila
Doug Barram
Jeanne Beirne
Carmen Bernal
Suzanne Broetje
Mark Carlile
Charles Clizer
Merilyn Clizer
Megan Clubb
Kathy Covey
Mike Dedman
Roz Duthie
Jock Edwards
Tim Edwards
Chuck Fulton
David Hampson
Theresa Hampson
Bob Hill
Gretchen Hormel-Tomkins
Mary Koch
Scott Krivoshein
Maria Marin
Joanne Martin
Jim McCarthy
Tim McCarty
Cathy McConnel
Cindy Meyer
Carol Morgan
Steve Moss
Leticia Ornelas
Richard Pankl
James Payne
Tim Payne
Richard Pelo
Matthew Perkins
Jim Peterson
Robin Peterson
Dennis Poffenroth
JoAnne Price
Dan Reid
Abe Roberts
Phil & Jan Rolfe
Jackie Scholl
Laura Schueller
Ned Shafer
LaDessa Smelcer
Bill Storms
Hal Thomas
Terry Thomas
Mark Thompson
Jeffrey Townsend
Carl Tyler
J.R. Van Slyke
Dave Warkentin
Cindy Widmer
Ellen Wolf
Dana Yarwood

Symposium Reunion Survey Results (responses from the community members -- listed above -- in attendance)

1. Walla Walla Public Schools’ 2005-2010 Strategic Plan captures the vision of the Symposium group regarding district needs and its future:
Strongly agree: 32% / Agree: 49% / Not Sure: 13% / Disagree: 3% / Strongly disagree: 0% / No Entry: 3%

2. I am generally pleased with the quality of education provided:
Strongly agree: 16% / Agree: 63% / Not Sure: 14% / Disagree: 3% / Strongly disagree: 0% / No Entry: 3%

3. The quality of education has increased in the past two years:
Strongly agree: 14% / Agree: 17% / Not Sure: 57% / Disagree: 6% / Strongly disagree: 2% / No Entry: 3%

4. Graduates are ready to enter the workforce or higher education:
Strongly agree: 6% / Agree: 38% / Not Sure: 30% / Disagree: 21% / Strongly disagree: 0% / No Entry: 5%

5. School employees in our community care about students:
Strongly agree: 43% / Agree: 48% / Not Sure: 5% / Disagree: 0% / Strongly disagree: 0% / No Entry: 5%

6. The Walla Walla School District spends tax dollars wisely to meet learning needs:
Strongly agree: 21% / Agree: 43% / Not Sure: 25% / Disagree: 5% / Strongly disagree: 0% / No Entry: 5%

7. Schools in Washington State are adequately funded:
Strongly agree: 3% / Agree: 5% / Not Sure: 17% / Disagree: 44% / Strongly disagree: 22% / No Entry: 8%

8. The district is fiscally responsible:
Strongly agree: 24% / Agree: 51% / Not Sure: 14% / Disagree: 5% / Strongly disagree: 0% / No Entry: 6%

9. Schools have enough money to do what they need:
Strongly agree: 0% / Agree: 10% / Not Sure: 22% / Disagree: 48% / Strongly disagree: 17% / No Entry: 3%

10. I feel welcome in Walla Walla Public Schools:
Strongly agree: 49% / Agree: 32% / Not Sure: 14% / Disagree: 2% / Strongly disagree: 0% / No Entry: 3%

11. Administrators in the district listen to me:
Strongly agree: 30% / Agree: 43% / Not Sure: 11% / Disagree: 10% / Strongly disagree: 2% / No Entry: 5%

12. Concerns are addressed by district administrators:
Strongly agree: 6% / Agree: 52% / Not Sure: 19% / Disagree: 16% / Strongly disagree: 3% / No Entry: 3%

13. The district does a good job of communicating with the public:
Strongly agree: 22% / Agree: 57% / Not Sure: 10% / Disagree: 3% / Strongly disagree: 3% / No Entry: 5%

14. I get the information I need and want:
Strongly agree: 16% / Agree: 56% / Not Sure: 16% / Disagree: 6% / Strongly disagree: 2% / No Entry: 5%

15. Walla Walla Public Schools have a good reputation:
Strongly agree: 29% / Agree: 56% / Not Sure: 8% / Disagree: 3% / Strongly disagree: 0% / No Entry: 5%

16. District facilities are meeting the needs of students/staff:
Strongly agree: 3% / Agree: 11% / Not Sure: 24% / Disagree: 41% / Strongly disagree: 14% / No Entry: 6%

17. The district does a good job of maintaining schools:
Strongly agree: 11% / Agree: 49% / Not Sure: 27% / Disagree: 10% / Strongly disagree: 0% / No Entry: 3%

18. I believe Walla Walla Public Schools are safe:
Strongly agree: 11% / Agree: 43% / Not Sure: 37% / Disagree: 5% / Strongly disagree: 0% / No Entry: 5%

19. Walla Walla High School, Edison, Support Services, Paine Alternative School need modernization:
Strongly agree: 63% / Agree: 27% / Not Sure: 2% / Disagree: 3% / Strongly disagree: 0% / No Entry: 5%

20. I support a long-range approach to facilities planning:
Strongly agree: 70% / Agree: 24% / Not Sure: 2% / Disagree: 0% / Strongly disagree: 0% / No Entry: 5%

21. Student access to modern technology is important to learning:
Strongly agree: 68% / Agree: 16% / Not Sure: 5% / Disagree: 2% / Strongly disagree: 2% / No Entry: 8%

22. Students have adequate access to technology:
Strongly agree: 5% / Agree: 8% / Not Sure: 43% / Disagree: 33% / Strongly disagree: 3% / No Entry: 8%

23. Would you give Walla Walla Public Schools a grade of:
A: 13% / B: 62% / C: 16% / D: 3% / F: 0% / No Entry: 6%

Posting date: 9/30/05

Modernizing Wa-Hi key discussion during this week’s Architects visit
Nearly 40 Wa-Hi staff and administrators met Thursday night with representatives of Architects West to discuss plans for modernizing Walla Walla High School. Staff members’ input will be turned over to architect John Evans as he begins developing conceptual designs for a modernized school. Wa-Hi staff members were surveyed on whether they wanted to rebuild current buildings or build new. Grade level configurations were also discussed -- including talks about separate areas for 9th and 10th grade students. Evans plans to have a first draft conceptual drawing of what a modernized Wa-Hi could look like when he visits again Monday, Oct. 17.

Staff design teams from Edison, Paine Alternative Programs and Support Services also met with architects this week to discuss modernizing their facilities. The school district is considering a bond issue to modernize Wa-Hi, Paine Alternative, Edison Elementary and Support Services this spring. Community forums will be held in the coming weeks to provide more information and take input from community members.

Posting date: 9/30/05

Narum Concrete donates concrete services for FFA project
Special thanks to Narum Concrete Construction for graciously donating eight yards of concrete and having a crew pour concrete for the new Wa-Hi FFA Sheep Barn. Narum employees will also be demonstrating how to perform this work for Wa-Hi Mechanic students.
“The students will be watching and learning about concrete, as this is part of the curriculum.” Wa-Hi Agriculture teacher Mike Martin said.

Funding for the 20’ x 48’ building was covered by grants and donations. Construction of the barn was completed with help of community volunteers, Agriculture teachers Mike Martin & Arch McHie, Ed Planteric (school farm neighbor) and a large number of Wa-Hi FFA alums.

Posting date: 9/30/05

Symposium Reunion a success

District delivers progress report to community leaders

Walla Walla Public Schools provided a progress report to community leaders today at the Reid Center on the campus of Whitman College. Participants received copies of the district's recently adopted Strategic Plan and listened to accomplishments to date on goals indentified in plan. Participants also received an overview of the district's facilities improvement efforts -- including a report from John Evans of Architects West. More than 100 people attended the "Symposium Reunion" to stay connected to their Walla Walla Public Schools. The group was then surveyed at the end of the session. Survey results will be made available to the public soon.

Posting date: 9/28/05

Battelle Scientists honor Pioneer's Herr

Pioneer Middle School Language Arts teacher Cheryl Herr learned first hand hard work pays off. For Herr, it came in the form of a $2,500 check from Battelle Pacific Northwest National Laboratory following a successful educational partnership with one of the nation’s science leaders.

Jeff Estes of Battelle paid tribute to Herr last night for her efforts launching an earth science project at Pioneer Middle School with 6th grade students.
The task featured a risk analysis project students completed in conjunction with Scientists from Battelle Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

Students documented historical flood data, calculated slope figures, studied stream flows, and charted topography during this Earth Science exercise. Estes said Herr demonstrated professionalism and courage for taking a risk with this project.

Herr helped the project grow from involving just her students in its first year to expanding in its second year to include all Pioneer 6th graders. Students also created logos, designed posters and organized a public open house to support the project.

This project was made available through the district’s Leadership Assistance for Science Education Reform (LASER) partnership with Battelle. The LASER program enhances the district’s science offerings by providing additional funding sources, science materials, professional expertise and avenues for community involvement.

Posting date: 9/21/05

No bombs found on Wa-Hi campus today

Investigation of incident continues - No arrests made  

Walla Walla High School administrators – in cooperation with Walla Walla County Sheriff Department officers - are still investigating a bomb threat which caused a disruption to classes today. No bomb was found on campus following numerous searches and no arrests have been made.

The bomb threat notice was discovered Tuesday afternoon by a staff member and immediately led to the launching of the school's Emergency Response Plan. This morning Walla Walla County Sheriff's officers and Wa-Hi administrators searched the entire campus prior to students coming to school. School was in session today using the regular Wednesday delayed start schedule. Bomb sniffing dogs were then brought in at mid-morning to further enhance searches. Students' backpacks were also searched and cars were monitored coming and going from campus.

The incident led to many students going home for the day after receiving notes from their parents excusing their absences. Principal Brian Pendleton sent a letter home with all students in English and Spanish detailing the incident. On Thursday, teachers will discuss this issue with students and talk about the seriousness of this type of behavior. The district has a zero tolerance policy regarding threats against school safety. Threats of this nature are criminal offenses.

“We commend the Walla Walla County Sheriff's Department for their support and expertise throughout this incident – they had a tremendous positive presence on campus today,” Communications Director Mark Higgins said. “Wa-Hi administrators, staff and students are also to be acknowledged for their efforts to keep their school safe. These types of incidents have a way of pulling people together as a team working for the common good of all.”

The investigation will continue. Those who have information regarding this incident are asked to report it to the Principal's office, Walla Walla County Sheriff's Department or the Safe School Hotline # 1-800-418-6423 Ext. 359 immediately. Contact Communications Director Mark Higgins for more information regarding the Wa-Hi Bomb threat: (509) 526-6716 (office) or (509) 520-6242 (cell).

Posting date: 9/28/05

Architects meet with staff and community leaders

This week architects from Architects West -- the district’s consultant for its current facilities study -- met with staff and community leaders to get more input on facilities needs and design recommendations. Representives from Architects West are scheduled to make regular visits to Walla Walla in the coming months as the district continues work to finalize its facilities Improvement Plan. Architects West designed the award winning Sharpstein Elementary modernization project. Architects West will also play a key role in engaging our community during public forums the district plans to schedule.

Architects West Meeting Schedule
September 15
- Blue Mountain Action Council
- Community Facilities Task Force
- Paine Campus Design Team
- Wa-Hi Design Team

September 16
- Edison Elementary Design Team
- Port of Walla Walla

Posting date: 9/16/05

District kicks off Patron Tour program
The district launched its Patron Tour program this week with tours to Sharpstein Elementary and Pioneer Middle School. The goal of the program is to improve two-way communication and encourage a better understanding of the district’s mission, programs, needs, and accomplishments.
Special thanks to the following for taking time out of their busy schedules to participate:

Patron Tour Participants
- Ruth Triebwasser: Children’s Home Society
- Norrie Gregoire: WW Juvenile Justice Center
- Jim Dumont: City of WW Parks and Recreation
- Jim Eyring: Community Bank
- Sean Mountain: Opp & Seibold Construction
- Devan Schwartz: Whitman College
- Teresa Larson: Baker Boyer Bank
- Rev. Doug Barram - Community Faith Leader

Next month participants will tour Edison Elementary and Walla Walla High School -- Thursday, Oct. 20. Contact Communications Director Mark Higgins at 526-6716 or mhiggins@wwps.org if you are interested in participating.

Posting date: 9/23/05

Golden appointed to finance study sub-committee

Longtime Walla Walla Public Schools school board member -- and former Washington State School Directors Association president -- Anne Golden will serve on the K-12 advisory committee to the Washington Learns steering committee, providing a voice to school board members. The committee was created by Legislation in 2005 requiring a comprehensive study of education finance -- with a final report due November 15, 2006. Golden was appointed to the committee in July and will provide a school board perspective to the committee.

Posting date: 9/16/05

District pitches in to support Hurricane Katrina Relief Efforts

• Pioneer Middle School - ‘Coins for Katrina’ drive through school’s advisory classes (Sept. 6-16)

• Elementary schools - Coin Drive to support American Red Cross (Through 10/7)

• Garrison Middle School - Various class fund-raising projects

• Wa-Hi - Coin drive (Students are also considering doing something on a larger scale too -- such as a benefit concert. They are still exploring options.)

District Office - Money drive coordinated through the Business Office

Posting date: 9/12/05

Open House - 2005-2006 Schedule

Blue Ridge Elementary (grade level curriculum nights)
• Wednesday, September 7
4th grade - 6 p.m. / 5th grade - 7 p.m. -
• Thursday, September 8
2nd grade - 6 p.m. / 3rd grade - 7 p.m.
• Wednesday, September 14
Kindergarten - 6 p.m. / 1st grade - 7 p.m.
• Thursday, September 15
Special Services - 6:30 p.m.
***NOTE: Back to school dinner for Safe Kids and PTA general meeting - Thursday, September 29 from 6:30 to 8 pm.

Berney Elementary
Wednesday, September 14
• PTA Barbecue will be held in the cafeteria (and outside weather permitting) - 5:45 to 7:00 p.m.
• Open House will be throughout building classrooms (drop in format) - 6:45 to 7:45 p.m.

Edison Elementary
Tuesday, September 20
7:00 to 8:00 pm.

Green Park Elementary (& Spaghetti Dinner)
Thursday, September 15
6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Prospect Point Elementary
Tuesday, September 13
7:00 pm
Cafeteria/gym.(Approximately the first 30-45 minutes in the gym and then proceed into classroom areas)

Sharpstein Elementary (grade level curriculum nights)
• K-2 - Thursday, Sept. 8
• 3-5 - Tuesday, Sept. 13

Garrison Middle School
Monday, September 19
7:00 p.m.

Pioneer Middle School (& barbecue)
Monday, September 26
6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Wa-Hi (& barbecue)
Monday, September 12
6:00 p.m.

Paine Campus (Parents come in as student plans are developed)

Opportunity Program (Parents come in as student plans are developed)

Posting date: 9/12/05

4H Club promotes literacy

Thanks to the Champs 4-H club for sewing 280 book bags for the HeadStart/ECEAP program. The bookbags were on display in the main pavilion during last week’s Walla Walla Fair and Frontier Days. The students completed the project to help promote literacy.
“The kids did a lot of work and they really had a good time doing it,” said Ruth Ladderud who helped organize the project.

Posting date: 9/12/05

Enrollment numbers down slightly to start year
This week the district recorded its first official enrollment count of the 2005-2006 school year. Enrollment ‘head count’ figures are down 45 students from last year. Please note: Running Start and Alternative Education Program enrollment counts are not available as both programs operate at Walla Walla Community College which is not is session yet.

Below is a breakdown of the first enrollment count.

2005-2006 Enrollment (‘Head Count’ - from Sept. 6, 2005 count day)

Berney - 436 (444 - September, 8 2004 - last year’s first count day)

Blue Ridge - 281 (300 - September, 8 2004 - last year’s first count day)

Edison - 244 (263 - September, 8 2004 - last year’s first count day)

Green Park - 445 (435 - September, 8 2004 - last year’s first count day)

Prospect Point - 573 (545 - September, 8 2004 - last year’s first count day)

Sharpstein - 442 (429 - September, 8 2004 - last year’s first count day)

Garrison - 603 (643 - September, 8 2004 - last year’s first count day)

Pioneer - 633 (640 - September, 8 2004 - last year’s first count day)

Alt. Center (Paine) - 73 (101 - September, 8 2004 - last year’s first count day)

Wa-Hi - 1935 (1923 - September, 8 2004 - last year’s first count day)

Homelink - 82 (90 - September, 8 2004 - last year’s first count day)

Opportunity - 139 (118 - September, 8 2004 - last year’s first count day)

AEP - (not in session yet) - (No count information available from September, 8 2004)

Running Start (not in session yet) - (No count information available from September, 8 2004)

2005-2006 Total - 5886 (5931 - September, 8 2004 - last year’s first count day)

Posting: 9/12/05

Garrison Track Celebration

Board salutes citizens group during dedication

What began as a vision to bring an all-weather track to Garrison Middle School, officially became reality Tuesday night during a dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony at the school’s new addition.

Community members Craig Nelson, Ed Nelson, and Steve Gerling, representing Citizens for the Garrison Track, led a fund-raising campaign to raise the $170,000 necessary to complete the project and provide long-range maintenance.
Superintendent Rich Carter and Board President Dr. Rich Jacks presented Appreciation plaques to project supporters to thank them for enhancing the school and community.

Major Project Contributors

• Nelson Irrigation
• Water Watch
• Braden & Nelson Construction
• Transtate Asphalt
• Anderson Perry & Associates
• Opp & Seibold Construction
• Apollo Construction
• Mike Johnson Excavation
• Konen Rock Products
• Noble Rock Products
• Noble Panels
• Cummins Athletic Supplies
• Sun Rentals
• Koncrete Industries
• L & G Ranch Supply
• Many citizens and youth volunteers

Posting date: 9/7/05

District hires financial advisor for future bond

Walla Walla Public Schools will continue its relationship with Seattle Northwest Securities after school board members last night hired the firm to serve as the district’s financial advisor.

Company Vice President Mark Prussing reported to board members last night on the services Seattle Northwest Securities will provide the district as it prepares for a future bond issue.

Prussing said his firm is the largest public finance firm in the Northwest and has been in business for more than 30 years. He said he is excited to continue working with the district.

Posting date: 9/7/05

Students at all grade levels post gains in all areas of WASL

Results of the Spring 2005 Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) indicate that Walla Walla Public Schools are providing all students with the academic knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.Walla Walla Public Schools 4th, 7th and 10th grade students posted gains in all areas of the 2005 WASL.

In addition, 5th and 10th grade students made gains in science, with 10th graders exceeding the state average in that area. Walla Walla’s 7th graders also exceeded the state average in Writing.

“We are extremely proud of our staff and students for their efforts,” Assessment Director Len Taruscio said. “Students at most levels have succeeded in making gains for the last three years. Our promising practices of improved instruction, clear and focused professional development, targeted assistance for students with specific needs are making a difference.”

Students take the WASL tests three times during their school careers – 4th, 7th and 10th grades – to see if they have mastered the Essential Academic Learning Requirements standards that have been set at the state level. Beginning in Spring 2006 students will be tested at grades 3 through 8.

High school students will have five opportunities to meet standard on the WASL, which becomes a graduation requirement of the current sophomore class, the Class of 2008.

For more specific information on the WASL, check the Washington State Report Card at the following website: http://reportcard.ospi.k12.wa.us/

Posting date: 9/1/05

District ready for first official enrollment count

The district’s first official enrollment count of the 2005-2006 school year is Wednesday, September 7.. During a presentation to school board members last night, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Bill Jordan said preliminary counts have the district well above budgeted projections, but below the number of students the district was serving last year.

Jordan said it appears elementary enrollment numbers are up slightly from last year, while secondary numbers have dipped some -- especially in 11th and 12th grades.

Jordan said this could change some this week as several students were still enrolling yesterday when he visited Wa-Hi. The official enrollment numbers will be available for this Friday’s Week in Review.

Posting date: 9/7/05

School board approves 2005-2006 budget
District remains fiscally sound

With a rise in state mandated raises and increased health care costs -- combined with rising fuel costs, utilities equipment, supplies and materials -- the district for the third consecutive year was forced to dip into cash reserves to balance the $49.2 million general fund budget.

Despite the rising costs, the district maintains a $1.7 million cash reserve -- well within the school board’s three to five percent reserve mandate.

“I want to commend our staff for all their work to help balance this budget in these trying fiscal times,” Business Manager Aron Rausch said. “We are an extremely efficient school district and are able to provide countless services to students many districts would not even attempt.”
Last school year Rausch formed a broad-based Budget Committee to review the budget and make suggestions for spending plans. Rausch said some of the suggestions were used in the preparation of the 2005-2006 budget.

“We will continue to rely on our committee to help with our budget,” Rausch said. “School districts across the state are feeling the squeeze of increased mandates with fewer dollars to support them. We are proud to have a budget that covers the operating costs for our 6,000 students and the highly qualified professional staff we have in Walla Walla.”

Copies of the 2005-2006 budget are available in the Business Office.

Posting date: 8/29/05

2005 Adequate Yearly Progress information released

District reading scores on the rise

The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction released Adequate Yearly Progress information for Washington schools on Friday, Aug. 26, based on results of the Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL), administered in Spring 2005.

No Child Left Behind requires each state to have accountability measures in place to measure student achievement in reading and math at grades 4, 7 & 10, including nine student sub-groups for each grade level. Washington state established a State Uniform Bar which sets achievement goals that increase significantly every three years – with 2005 being a “stair step” year.

Walla Walla Public Schools this year met all targets in the nine student groups in reading at all three levels and in math at both 4th and 7th grades. Tenth grade Hispanic and low income students did not meet the math target — in spite of gains by each student group.

Consequently, Walla Walla Public Schools is placed in the First Year Alert status in math. Two years of “alert” places a school or district in the “needing improvement” status.

“High schools in the district are already involved with school improvement strategies that focus on these students,” said Len Taruscio, District Assessment Director.

The district was identified as “needing improvement” in 2004 for not making sufficient gains in 4th grade reading. All reading targets were reached in 2005. Two successful years of meeting AYP are necessary to be taken out of needs improvement. Schools and districts in “improvement” status lose no money. In some cases, if they receive federal funding, they need to set aside some of that federal money for specific purposes to improve in deficient areas.

WASL results and AYP results can be viewed on the OSPI Report Card Website shortly after Labor Day, when state-wide WASL results will be released. Links to that site are available on the OSPI website: http://www.k12.wa.us/ and the Walla Walla Public Schools website: http://www.wwps.org.

Posting date: 8/29/05

District launches Patron Tour program
Community involvement focus of program

With the goal of improving two-way communication and encouraging a better understanding of the district’s mission, Walla Walla Public Schools is starting a Patron Tour program. The program asks community members to share a morning in their public schools. Participants will meet with Superintendent Rich Carter to learn more about district goals, tour schools, meet with students, teachers and more.

Patron Tours - Fall Tour
Thursday, Sept. 22
9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

School Tour sites
Sharpstein Elementary
Pioneer Middle School

Contact Communications Director Mark Higgins at 526-6716 or mhiggins@wwps.org if you are interested in participating.

Posting date: 8/29/05