Superintendent’s Message
Hello Olympia School District families and community,
Apparently, back at the beginning of February, that famous groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, saw his shadow. So apparently, that means no early spring this year. But in the Pacific Northwest, we know that good things come to those who wait. Soon enough, our days will grow brighter and our fields will fill with blooming flowers and the air with singing birds. It's a great time to pause and appreciate the beauty around us.
This season also brings an exciting energy to our schools. Classrooms are buzzing with learning, and after-school activities are in full swing—whether it’s students performing on stage, competing in athletics, or showcasing their academic talents. At the same time, our staff are already looking ahead, preparing for the upcoming school year, including welcoming new families at our Countdown to Kindergarten event, which took place this past Saturday, March 22 (see our Countdown article below for event photos and a recap).
As we approach Spring Break, I hope you all find time to rest, recharge, and enjoy the season. We look forward to seeing everyone back in school on Monday, April 7!
Warm regards,
Patrick Murphy
Countdown to Kindergarten: Welcoming the Class of 2038
The Olympia School District Class of 2038 filled the Olympia High School Commons on Saturday, March 22, for our annual Countdown to Kindergarten event. This highly anticipated, family-focused gathering was filled with laughter, excitement, and wide-eyed wonder as incoming kindergarteners and their families got to know their future elementary schools, met their principals, and connected with Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTO/PTA). The event also featured many of the school district departments that work behind the scenes to support students and schools.
Excitement was in the air as children eagerly participated in a mock kindergarten classroom, getting a sneak peek at what learning will be like in the fall. Parents and guardians began the enrollment process while their kiddos enjoyed hands-on activities. Families chatted with district staff and volunteers while kids giggled with excitement as they toured a real school bus. The South Sound Reading Foundation was in attendance, gifting each child who attended a free book, while the Boys and Girls Club and Y-Care staff provided information about optional before and after-school programs. Families interested in transferring into the Olympia School District gathered important details, and those with children requiring special needs accommodations spoke with Student Support specialists to ensure a smooth transition into kindergarten.
The fun continued as children took a trip through the Child Nutrition Services lunch line, choosing between chicken nuggets and a vibrant rainbow salad bar. Students raced to complete their Countdown to Kindergarten “Passports”, excitedly collecting stamps at each activity station. As the event came to a close, the joy on their faces was unmistakable as they exchanged their completed passports for fun prizes, celebrating their first official step into their school journey.
Thank you to all the families who joined us for this heartwarming event, as well as to the many volunteers, community groups, elementary education staff, and district office departments that made it possible. Your dedication and enthusiasm created a truly magical experience that made our future students feel welcomed and celebrated.
If you were unable to attend the Countdown to Kindergarten event and would like more information about enrolling in Kindergarten for the 2025-26 school year, please call our Elementary Education Department at (360) 596-6113 or visit our enrollment page.
We can’t wait to welcome the Class of 2038 to our Olympia School District family! Check out the OSD Facebook Page for photos of this great event.
Fostering a Love for Reading at Roosevelt Elementary
The Reading Buddies program at Roosevelt Elementary School began organically when a few teachers paired older students with younger students for reading sessions. Seeing its success, more teachers adopted the practice, which has become a cherished part of the school culture. Elementary schools throughout our district have now implemented similar programs, further promoting literacy and student connections.
Last year, Kindergarten Teacher Priscilla Powers implemented the program in her classroom and saw remarkable results. Kindergarteners loved the connection with older students; reading together helped promote fluency. The older students guided the younger students in learning small words, creating meaningful interactions and fostering a love for reading.
The program offers several key benefits:
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Fluent kindergarten readers gain confidence by practicing reading aloud—an often intimidating skill.
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Older students reinforce literacy skills while helping younger peers become comfortable reading.
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Exposure to reading in a supportive environment strengthens reading skills and builds enthusiasm for all learners.
Students also appreciate the social aspect of the program. Many expressed joy in spending time with their reading partners, enjoying both reading to them and being read to. They value the opportunity to bond with peers across different grade levels, making Reading Buddies a rewarding experience for all involved!
Now Trending on the District Socials
We’re rounding up some of the best moments from our social media channels each month. This section highlights what’s trending and engaging, from top-performing posts to standout community interactions. Whether it’s exciting announcements, student/staff recognition, or viral-worthy content, here’s a quick look at what had folks buzzing this month!
Olympia High’s Kevin Shen Wins $70,000 for Aerospace Breakthrough in Prestigious Regeneron Science Talent Search
Kevin Shen, a senior at Olympia High School, placed seventh in the prestigious Regeneron Science Talent Search, earning a $70,000 award for his aerospace engineering research. He developed a custom flight computer to control a 3D-printed airplane with oblique wings, which could improve fuel efficiency by 9.2%. Kevin was among 40 finalists honored at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C., where over $1.8 million in prizes were awarded. Now in its 84th year, the competition has launched the careers of many top scientists and innovators. Congratulations to Kevin for his outstanding achievement. Go Bears!
ORLA’s New Moon Tree: A Living Piece of Space History!
The Olympia Regional Learning Academy (ORLA) is now home to a Moon Tree—a Douglas fir that traveled beyond the Moon as a seed aboard NASA’s Artemis 1 mission. ORLA was selected to receive this special seedling, continuing a legacy that began with the Apollo 14 lunar landing mission. Students, staff, and local leaders held a planting ceremony for the tree named Groot by students. As part of ORLA’s commitment to science and conservation, students will help care for Groot, connecting space exploration with environmental stewardship.
Olympia Schools Save Energy & Go Green with PSE Partnership
In partnership with Puget Sound Energy, Olympia School District has saved over 450,000 kWh of electricity and 35,000 therms of gas—equal to the CO2 output of 66 homes! Capital and Olympia High Schools have met Clean Buildings Standards, while Puget Sound Climate Corps Fellows are driving sustainability projects through the CSEM program. OSD continues to lead the way in energy efficiency and greener schools!
Celebrating our 2025 Education Support Professionals
Earlier this month, the Olympia School District proudly joined the state in celebrating Education Support Professionals (ESP) Week from March 10-14, 2025. This special week was dedicated to honoring the more than 700 education support professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes and on the front lines to uplift students, staff, and our entire school community.
During the February 27, 2025, Olympia School Board meeting, a proclamation was read and signed, officially recognizing ESP Week. The resolution underscored the invaluable contributions of these professionals, stating that “Education Support Professionals are instrumental in fulfilling the state’s responsibility to educate all students.”
Education support professionals are the quiet champions of our schools, ensuring that every student has a safe, clean and nurturing learning environment. Their roles are vast and varied—they maintain school buildings and grounds, provide administrative support, prepare and serve nourishing meals, ensure safe transportation, assist in classrooms, offer IT and media services and so much more. Their dedication is the heartbeat of our schools, laying the foundation for student success in countless ways.
To show appreciation for their contributions, the one-page resolution was proudly displayed in every school and support building throughout the district from March 10-14. It served as a reminder that education support professionals are not only essential but are true partners in the educational journey, standing alongside teachers, parents, administrators and school boards to create a thriving school community.
Throughout the week, students, staff and community members took moments to express their deep gratitude to education support professionals and honor their everyday heroes. The warmth and appreciation could be felt across every school, from handwritten notes of thanks and morning shout-outs to special treats and heartfelt conversations. Whether it was the front office or the classroom, the cafeteria to the bus, and everywhere in between, these dedicated professionals bring care, commitment and compassion into their work every single day. Because of them, our schools remain safe, welcoming and thriving spaces for learning and growth.
As part of the celebrations, we were honored to highlight Jason Lucchetti (OSD Electrician) and Devin Guy (District General Repairs) from the OSD Support Service Center as our Everyday Heroes. Their unwavering dedication was on full display when they took on a special project at Capital High School, installing a customized switch for a student to fully participate in community work. Faced with unexpected delays, Jason and Devin didn’t stop—they problem-solved, researched alternatives and ensured the student had the same opportunities as their peers. Their determination and collaboration with the Developmental Learning Classroom (DLC) team and Assistive Technology Specialists, as well as their commitment to making a difference, resulted in a moment of pure joy for both the student and those around them once a fix was in place. It was a testament to the power of compassion and perseverance.
As we reflect on ESP Week, we extend our deepest gratitude to every education support professional who gives their all each day. Your work does not go unnoticed. You are the backbone of our schools, the guiding hands that support student success and the heart that keeps our district moving forward. Thank you for your unwavering dedication—you truly make a world of difference!
Apply Now to be an OSD Student Board Representative!
Olympia School District Student Board Representative applications are now being accepted. The application deadline is Sunday, April 6, 2025.
For the 2025-26 school year, the OSD Board of Directors will select high school juniors or seniors to serve as student representatives on the school board from Avanti High School, Capital High School, Olympia High School and Olympia Regional Learning Academy (ORLA).
Students serve in an advisory capacity at board meetings and may cast non-binding advisory votes on motions before the board. They contribute to the discussion by providing student insight and are encouraged to comment on policies, procedures and decisions that affect students. They also serve as liaisons for student leadership at their schools and report to fellow students about the work of the board and district activities.
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An informational session will be held on Friday, March 28, at 4 pm via Zoom.
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Applications are being accepted from now until April 6.
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Interviews will be held April 14-18.
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Chosen Student Board Representatives will be introduced at the April 24 Board Meeting.
New Student Board Representatives will be sworn in at the May 22, 2025, Board Meeting. Questions? Please contact Nicole González at [email protected].
OSD 3D-Printed Community Mosaic Project
A 3D-printed community mosaic was recently installed in the Olympia School District board room to welcome the community into the district offices. Designed by Orion Hoppe (Olympia High School, Class of 2024) in collaboration with the Maker’s Den, the sign features a mosaic of 3D-printed parts inspired by the We the Builders project. Andrew Woodbridge’s Advanced 3D Design & Fabrication students at OHS managed the project, collecting and assembling all the pieces.
Members of the OSD community, including staff, students, and families, have contributed by printing individual parts of the mosaic. The completed sign is displayed at the entrance to the Board Room, accompanied by a plaque recognizing everyone who contributed to this project.
Each piece of the mosaic is no larger than 4” x 3” x 3” to ensure compatibility with most 3D printers. Background pieces are printed in darker colors, while lettering and the district logo appear in white or light pastel shades. Participants have used PLA or PETG filament with 15% infill and 3-wall thickness. The parts were pre-oriented for easy printing without supports, and each includes an embossed number matching its assigned code.
This collaborative project showcases the creativity and innovation of the OSD community, creating a meaningful and welcoming addition to the boardroom. The 3D Mosaic was unveiled at the Olympia School Board Meeting on Thursday, March 13, 2025.
Read the full article
Turning Pages to Victory: 2025 Battle of the Books Recap
Students from the four middle schools across the Olympia School District recently competed in the highly anticipated Battle of the Books Championship. Over the past two months, these dedicated readers immersed themselves in 12 books, mastering key details and honing their trivia skills in preparation for the big event.
“Battle of the Books" is a fun and engaging reading program for middle schoolers, usually in grades 6-8, where students team up to read a curated list of books and compete in a trivia-style contest. Teams, typically made up of three to five members, work together to remember details about characters, settings and plots. During the competition, they answer questions about the books they've read, testing their knowledge and teamwork. The team that gets the most correct answers wins, but the real prize is the excitement of reading and friendly competition.
Competing teams:
Congratulations to our winners:
The Battle of the Books is more than just a competition—it's a celebration of reading! This program inspires students to explore new books, strengthen teamwork and grow academically while having fun.
Celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Week: April 21-25, 2025
The Olympia School District is excited to celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Week from Monday, April 21, through Friday, April 25, 2025. This special week is an opportunity to recognize and express our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible volunteers who dedicate their time, energy and passion to supporting our schools and students.
Each year, more than 3,700 parents, students and community members generously invest their time in our schools. Whether tutoring and mentoring students, chaperoning field trips, assisting in classrooms, or supporting school events, volunteers play an essential role in fostering a nurturing and thriving learning environment.
Last year alone, our dedicated volunteers contributed more than 28,360 hours to our schools—a testament to their commitment and generosity. Every hour given makes a difference in the lives of our students and helps our teachers and staff create enriching educational experiences.
During Volunteer Appreciation Week, we invite students, staff and families to take a moment to thank a volunteer and celebrate their impact. Whether through a simple note of appreciation, a shout-out on social media or a warm thank-you in person, every gesture helps show just how valued our volunteers are.
To highlight this week of celebration, we will be sharing stories and photos of our amazing volunteers throughout the week on district social media. Be sure to check out our Public School Volunteer Week photo album on Facebook to see snapshots of the incredible people who dedicate their time to making a difference in our schools.
Volunteers are the heart of our school community, and we are so grateful for their kindness and dedication. If you are a volunteer, thank you for all that you do. If you are interested in getting involved, we welcome you to join our incredible network of volunteers.
Spring is a great time to get involved! We invite new volunteers to participate in our schools and make a meaningful impact. Volunteer applications are now open for the 2025-26 school year, and once approved, they remain valid for the duration of the school year. Don’t miss this opportunity to support students, connect with the community, and be a part of something truly special.
2025 Spring Break Schedule
All Olympia School District schools will be closed during Spring Break, Monday, March 31, through Friday, April 4, 2025. School resumes on Monday, April 7.
While Knox Administrative staff will be working on-site and remotely over Spring Break, the Knox building at 111 Bethel St. N.E. will be closed to drop-ins from the public during spring break (March 31-April 4). However, it will be open to the public by appointment only.
Any deliveries for the Knox Administrative Center during this week should be made at the lower level of the Knox building, 111 Bethel St. N.E., Olympia.
Please plan ahead and contact Knox 111 Administrative staff before the closure if you need assistance over spring break.
Please Note: During spring Break, the OSD Facilities Emergency Line can be reached at (360) 596-8575.
Upcoming Events
OSD Notice of Nondiscrimination
The Olympia School District will provide equal educational opportunity and treatment for all students in all aspects of the academic and activities program without discrimination based on race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, marital status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. The district will provide equal access to school facilities to the Boy Scouts of America and all other designated youth groups listed in Title 36 of the United States Code as a patriotic society. District programs will be free from sexual harassment. Auxiliary aids and services will be provided upon request to individuals with disabilities.
The Olympia School District offers many Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs/courses in the following areas: Skilled and Technical Sciences/STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics); Agriculture/Natural Resources; Business Marketing; Family and Consumer Sciences; and Health Sciences. For more information about CTE course offerings and admissions criteria, contact Paula Perryman, Director of College and Career Readiness, 111 Bethel St. N.E., Olympia, WA 98506, (360) 596-6102. Lack of English language proficiency will not be a barrier to admission and participation in CTE programs.
The following people have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies, reports of alleged sexual harassment, concerns about compliance, and/or grievance procedures:
James Whitehead, Title IX Officer
Knox 111 Administrative Center, 111 Bethel St. N.E., Olympia, WA 98506
(360) 596-8545
[email protected]
Autumn Lara, Executive Director of Elementary Education
Knox 111 Administrative Center, 111 Bethel St. N.E., Olympia, WA 98506
(360) 596-8534
[email protected]
Ken Turcotte, Section 504 and ADA Coordinator (Students)
Knox 111 Administrative Center, 111 Bethel St. N.E., Olympia, WA 98506
(360) 596-7530
[email protected]
Starla Hoff, ADA Coordinator (Staff)
Knox 111 Administrative Center, 111 Bethel St. N.E., Olympia, WA 98506
(360) 596-6185
[email protected]
Scott Niemann, Affirmative Action Officer and Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator
Knox 111 Administrative Center, 111 Bethel St. N.E., Olympia, WA 98506
(360) 596-6185
[email protected]
Paula Perryman, Director of College and Career Readiness
Knox 111 Administrative Center, 111 Bethel St. N.E., Olympia, WA 98506
(360)-596-6102
[email protected]
All six individuals may also be contacted at 111 Bethel St. N.E., Olympia, WA, 98506.