As we approach the last month of the school year, our constant theme will be to finish strong and prepare for a full reopening of schools next fall. Between now and then we have a great deal to do, and we have time to positively impact student achievement.
Right now, roughly 80 percent of our students are attending in-person four days per week. The difference in energy and positivity is clearly evident on campus, even with our COVID-19 protocols in place. We are incredibly thankful that our students and staff have committed to these protocols, and the spread of the virus at schools is very low.
Our elementary students have had the most access to in-person learning and their response has been impressive. Our middle and high school students have responded well to increased time on campus. Teachers and staff are working hard to identify and remediate any learning gaps that arose during remote learning.
Through the winter and spring, we have successfully launched three abbreviated sports seasons. These activities are integral to student well-being, and the students and coaches have navigated the safety protocols.
Our athletes and teams have experienced high levels of success and have developed positive memories of competition. We have also been able to conduct some limited student activities this spring. It is so important that students have opportunities to connect with their peers and their school.
We are really excited that our construction projects continue to develop on time. At the same time our school year ends, the new Yelm Middle School building will be completed. The middle school staff will move materials into the new building June 17, with full occupancy shortly thereafter.
Concurrently, the staff from Southworth will move into the vacated middle school. That move signals the start of construction of the new Southworth building. We are so excited to bring these facilities to our students and the community.
Another part of our work to finish strong will be to create vaccination opportunities for students and families. Soon, students ages 12 and above will be able to receive vaccination. We are partnering with local pharmacies and the county health officials to offer our facilities for vaccination events. These opportunities will happen later in May.
With our focus squarely on high levels of learning in the coming weeks, our summer planning remains targeted at a full reopening of schools next fall. It will be great to have students back five days per week next year.
Until then, please be aware that COVID-19 transmissions are still prevalent in our community. Be safe at all times.
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Brian Wharton is the superintendent for Yelm Community Schools.
