Sequim School District

News & Notes - October 2023

The Power of Influence

In the spring of 2004, as Helen Haller 5th graders were in their final days of elementary school, Helen Haller staff members Eric Danielson and Neal McCarter sat down with one of their shared students from the then existing Helen Haller Elementary multiage program. The purpose of the sit-down chat was to encourage one of their students, let's call him "K", to reflect upon his 5th grade experience. At the time Helen Haller used a behavior strategy known as "think time". Over the course of the school year, K had received over 100 think times. While a very bright student, K could be quite argumentative in the classroom. His teachers told him that there was an activity at Sequim High School that he would probably really enjoy called the debate team, and let him know that it was basically organized, competitive arguing. K seemed intrigued by the concept. The teachers further went on to tell him that with his abilities and zest for arguing that he might consider becoming a lawyer someday.


Fast forward to the summer of 2023. Both McCarter and Danielson received invitations to K's upcoming wedding set for late August 2023 (K was getting married to another lawyer). K left high school early to take an early admission route to the University of Washington at age 16. He then went on to finish his undergrad work at the University of Washington and also earned a law degree, fulfilling his teachers' suggestions that he could become a lawyer.


Special thanks to Mr. Eric Danielson for sharing his story. If you have a story, we would love to hear it. Email us at mlyke@sequimschools.org.

Big picture
Watch D.O.G.S.

Watch D.O.G.S.

The "Dads and Kids" pizza night at Greywolf Elementary on Tuesday, September 26th was a great initiative to promote family involvement and engagement in the education of students. The event aimed to introduce and inform the attendees about the Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) program, which is an innovative and impactful initiative adopted by schools across the United States.


The Watch D.O.G.S. program focuses on actively involving fathers, grandfathers, uncles, step-fathers, and adult brothers in the lives of students. The objective is to have these fatherly figures play a positive role by providing an extra set of eyes and ears around the school campus. Their involvement and engagement help create a more nurturing and supportive educational environment for the students.


During the event, there was a presentation explaining the goals and strategies of the Watch D.O.G.S. program. The event provided an opportunity for dads and father-figures to learn about how they can contribute to the success and well-being of the students at Greywolf Elementary.


If you were unable to make it, it’s not too late to sign up. You can contact our Top Dog in charge, Tim Havel at 540-287-5949 for details. All volunteers need to complete our online volunteer screening at least one week in advance of their first volunteer day. It’s easy to do from your smartphone, you just fill out the application and attach a photo of your driver’s license. Feel free to come by the office if you need assistance.

Watch D.O.G.S.
Big picture

Become a 2023-24 Sequim School District Volunteer!

Sequim Middle School Welcome Back Assembly

PC: Caleb Gentry
Social Media Safety

Details for students and families from Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month is a significant celebration in the United States that gives recognition and appreciation of the diverse contributions and rich heritage of Hispanic and Latino communities. This month-long celebration provides an opportunity for people to learn about and honor the traditions, histories, cultures, and achievements of individuals with Hispanic and Latino roots.


The timing of Hispanic Heritage Month, from September 15 to October 15, is significant as it coincides with the independence celebrations of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico, and Chile.

It's important to remember that appreciation and recognition of Hispanic and Latino heritage should extend beyond this designated month, fostering understanding, inclusivity, and respect for the diverse cultural fabric of the nation throughout the year.

Hispanic Heritage Month
Big picture

Sequim High School College Fair

Sequim High School hosted a College Fair, providing students with the valuable opportunity to interact with representatives from various educational and career paths. Engaging with over 30+ representatives from universities, community colleges, military, and trade schools allows students to explore a wide range of options and gain insights into potential pathways for their future.


Initiatives like these encourage students to proactively learn about and consider different opportunities, helping them make informed decisions about their educational and career pursuits. Starting these conversations early on fosters a mindset of exploration and readiness for the future.


Parents and educators play a crucial role in guiding and supporting students throughout this journey, ensuring they have the necessary information and encouragement to make informed choices. The earlier these discussions and explorations take place, the better equipped students will be to plan and pursue a fulfilling and successful future.

Big picture
Big picture
Big picture
Upcoming District Dates:

Upcoming District Dates:

October (The month of October is National Principals Month)

October 2: School Custodian Day

October 2: School Board Meeting at 5:30pm in the SHS Library

October 8-14: Teen Read Week

October 9: Indigenous Peoples' Day

October 16: School Board Meeting at 5:30pm in the SHS Library

October 16-20: National School Bus safety week

October 18: Unity Day/Stop Bullying Day

October 30: PLD-Certificated staff (No School)

October 31: Parent/Teacher Conferences (No School)

Upcoming District Dates:
2023-2024 Academic Calendar

Click on the button above to view calendar

Upcoming Events & Activities

Big picture
Big picture

Sequim School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination: Title IX and Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator: Victoria Balint, vbalint@sequimschools.org 503 N Sequim Ave., Sequim, WA 98382, 360-582-3260, and for Section 504/ADA Coordinator, Cheryl Pillon, 503 N. Sequim Ave., Sequim, WA 98382, 360-582-3405, cpillon@sequimschools.org.