Today begins the second half of the school year. Our students are demonstrating strong resiliency and stepping up day after day to learn and grow. Our teachers are working hard to be sure students are met where they are academically, socially and emotionally to support their development. Our families have done an incredible job focusing on attendance and supporting student achievement on the home front. Now is the time to keep up this tremendous effort. Students are in a rhythm and just about to blossom. Let's help them grow and shine.

Thank you to the over 500 community members that attended the State Football Champions Celebration. We were inspired by the words of Principal Cleveringa who highlighted some amazing statistics. Coach Ronquillo for sharing the story of the team's journey. The sincere thank you from Captain Kyler Ronquillo for the community support and making a difference in the lives of the players. Superintendent Wharton shared on behalf of the board and the district gratitude for the generosity of this community. Lastly, special guest and alumni Nick Allard, KIRO 7 Meterologist, shared his appreciation for growing up in such a caring and giving community that has clearly continued to display the values he grew up with. Nick was pleased to announce that community donors have sponsored the cost of the Championship Rings for all the players. What an amazing gesture for some inspiring student athletes. Check out the video slide show of the parade, performances and speakers from the evening. Thanks to Steele Clayton for preparing a meal with steaks donated by Stewart's Meats. The team then celebrated at Yelm Cinemas with a movie and snacks.

Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans. The event was first celebrated during a week in February 1926 that encompassed the birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. The response was overwhelming: Black history clubs sprang up; teachers demanded materials to instruct their pupils. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Visit https://blackhistorymonth.gov/ to learn more.

YCS Office of Student Support will be hosting the annual Community Resource Night on Wednesday, February 22 from 5 - 7 p.m. at Yelm High School with over 60 providers at 5:30 p.m. a panel presentation will be held to discuss how to access social, emotional, and physical health resources in our community. For a complete list of community partners attending, visit the district website.

Last week our Elementary Schools held Kindness Week. What a huge out pouring of support and activities teaching students how to be kind. This year we reached out to partners to become "Kindness Certified Businesses."

• Rotary Club of Yelm

• Yelm Grocery Outlet

• O Bee Credit Union

• Timberland Regional Library

• Bliss Experience

• Yelm Cinemas

• Citizens for Yelm Schools

• Yelm Chamber of Commerce

JANUARY: School Board Recognition Month

Jan 30: Beginning of 2nd Semester

FEBRUARY: Black History and Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month

Feb 6-10: School Counselor Week

Feb 9: Board Study Session - Mill Pond Elementary 6pm

Feb 20: No School - Presidents' Day

Feb 22: Community Resource Night

Feb 23: Board Meeting - District Office 6pm

UPCOMING EVENTS:
March 3-4: YHS Winter Musical - The Little Mermaid

March 3-11: Dollars For Scholars Online Auction
March 11: Dollars for Scholars Dinner and Live Auction
March 7 & 9: District Music Festival