A Letter From Dr. Carey
September 17, 2021
Dear Enumclaw School District Community,
Deputy Superintendent, Jill Burnes and I had an amazing time watching, listening and learning from the math and science teachers and students this past week.
We started our “learning walk” in the math/science wing, walking into the first classroom and receiving a round of applause. No, this doesn’t happen in every classroom that we walk into and nor should it, but in this particular instance, there was a lesson for these students to learn from in this simple act. This instructor is working to help students understand what happens in the brain when they participate in a seemingly random act that in turn impacts their ability to keep focus on the work in front of them. After Ms. Abrahamse asked for the applause, she then asked what chemicals were released in the brain as a result. A number of students shouted answers, receiving affirmations and requests for more details to the answers offered. The exchange lasted no more than 30 seconds, the students continued with the assignment in front of them.
We then continued to math classrooms. It was great to see teachers who have intentionally arranged their classroom furniture to foster collaboration and student conversation around mathematical problem-solving. Our teachers were giving students problems that require them to take risks and discuss with one another possible solutions and strategies for solving problems. Students were working collaboratively to show and share their thinking on non-permanent work surfaces like whiteboards.
These are just a few examples of how “brain science” and “thinking classroom” practices are being infused into the learning done by our students. Making connections between subject matter, in real-time, showing how all of the teaching and learning that is done, is connected. This is just a small example of the meaningful work happening in our Enumclaw Schools.
Well done students and teachers!
Welcome Sarah Stair! 6th Grade ELA Teacher
The Enumclaw School District is celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month September 15 - October 15. This celebration honors the many Latinos who have greatly contributed, influenced, and enriched our culture and society. To honor those contributions, here are a few inspiring and colorful children’s books that celebrate Latinx voices and culture.
Everyone struggles. We understand that many in our community may be struggling during these challenging times. Please seek support if you or someone you know is struggling. If you are thinking about suicide, you are not alone. Please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255). Counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Resources for grief support are also available to those in need; below are additional resources from the Washington State Department of Health and the National Association of School Psychologists:
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.
