A Letter From Dr. Carey
A Letter From Dr. Carey Jan 28, 2022
Dear Enumclaw School District Community,
Board Directors in Schools
New School Board Director Paul Fisher and I had the pleasure of visiting Westwood Elementary last Friday. In addition to sharing a story with Ms.Wayne's kindergarten/first grade class, the two of us had the opportunity to see how an amazing staff family is meeting the needs of each student in this particular school.
Our visit at the school started with us sitting in on a MTSS meeting. The Multi-Tiered System of Support Team was composed of several staff members, each with specific educational expertise, coming together to examine data and determine the best way to address the specific needs of a couple of students who needed to experience continued success on their individualized educational plan.
We were then introduced to the school’s ASB officers and given a guided tour of the building which included a stop in the Paws Room, expertly managed by Ms. Eilers. After receiving a comprehensive explanation of how student’s needs are met in this learning space, we were off to Ms. Root’s fourth/fifth grade classroom, where students explained their understanding of the mathematical concept of division. Once the teacher was confident that the concept was well understood by the class, they transitioned into a brain break, which included a song with some pretty cool dance moves! We were encouraged to try our best to follow along, and held our own despite the age (and skill) gap. We were then whisked off to visit Ms. Whitten’s classroom, where we learned that this day would be her last as the teacher in this classroom and building, as she was set to retire from teaching at the end of her workday. The classroom community was palpable and the teacher assured us that her love for this work and this school would have her returning to substitute teach as soon as she was able.
The visit to Westwood Elementary lasted roughly an hour and a half, but felt like just a couple of minutes. Director Fisher shared that he had a great time visiting the school and learned alot about what happens in today’s elementary schools. This was just one day with one school director visiting one school. There have been other visits to other schools by our school directors, and I have been assured that this will continue in the weeks and months ahead. Our school directors are committed to visiting, observing and sharing the great things happening in classrooms across the Enumclaw School District.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Shaun
Washington State Board of Health Parent Survey Related to the COVID Vaccine
DEADLINE: Feb. 2
The Washington State Board of Health is inviting parents and caregivers of school-age children to complete a survey to provide input that will be shared with a Technical Advisory Group the Board has convened to assess COVID-19 vaccine for inclusion in chapter 246-105 WAC. The TAG will utilize the 9-criteria framework established by the board to assess and evaluate the COVID-19 vaccine for consideration in chapter 246-105 WAC.
The Board is seeking input from parents and caregivers as it relates to Criteria Nine: “The burden of compliance for the vaccine containing this antigen is reasonable for the parent/caregiver.”
To provide input, please complete the survey below:
Updated Information From DOH Regarding Athletic Testing
Effective immediately: In support of our goal to support in-person learning and in order to maximize constrained COVID testing supplies for symptomatic students and staff as well as close contacts participating in Test-to-Stay or returning from quarantine, DOH is changing the testing frequency for high-contact sports and cheer.
Schools/districts will now be required to:
1. Test high contact sport athletes the day of competition only and exclude those who test positive. Testing of asymptomatic athletes three times a week is no longer required. By way of reminder, a student athlete does not need to test if they have tested positive and recovered from COVID in the last 90 days.
2. Ensure universal masking of all athletes during all practices/training for these high-risk sports (masks not required while competing). Coaches, trainers and staff will not be required to be tested but MUST wear masks in all practices/training AND competitions.
Join Us!
Superintendent Dr. Carey is hosting opportunities for you to join him and other district administrators for an informal question and answer session on the upcoming levy and any other district initiatives. Coffee and snacks will be provided.
February 1: 5-6 pm at the Black Diamond Elementary Library
February 3: 3-4 pm at the Byron Kibler Elementary Library
We look forward to seeing you!
Educational Programs & Operations Levy 2022- Did you know?
Levy renewals continue funding for Enumclaw School District programs and services that benefit students.
Schools are funded by the state using a prototypical funding model. The EP&O levy funding is needed to pay for eligible educational programs and operations not fully funded by the State's prototypical funding model, including counselors, nurses and health room professionals, safety and security officers, custodians, mental health services and much more.
Here is a look at some positions funded by the state according to the prototypical model vs. the number we actually employ to meet the needs of all ESD students.
In some cases, the state model does not even provide funding for one full-time person (ie. Health Room Professionals, Safety and Security Officers and School Psychologists). These positions are vital for serving the needs of our students and families in this community.
Enumclaw School District is hiring!
Current openings include Substitutes, Drivers and Custodians.
For more information on current openings or to submit an online application, please visit our website:
Antigen and PCR Home Test Kits Available
Antigen and PCR home test kits are available from USPS and your local library.
Use the link below to order a set of four individual antigen home test kits delivered to your door by USPS:
You can also contact your local library to see if PCR tests are available for pick-up. Both Enumclaw and Buckley have been offering PCR test kits.
Voluntary COVID Testing Opportunities
The Voluntary PCR COVID Testing Program Has Returned for All Enumclaw School District Staff
In collaboration with the state Department of Health, our school district will continue to participate in a state-funded program for voluntary COVID-19 screening and testing that will help contain the virus, protect our communities, and keep students and teachers healthy and safe.
This testing protocol fits into our larger strategy to contain and control the virus. We have adapted our operational practices to allow for proper countermeasures. Each precaution we take is an added layer of protection, and when used together, dramatically decreases the risk.
Testing Opportunities for Students and Families
The King County COVID testing site located next to EMS will remain open and will continue to provide access to PCR COVID testing for students and the community. For additional information on the testing site or to make an appointment please visit the link below.