The menu on the left contains links to important information, resources, notifications, contacts, and forms. If you need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact the Mary Walker School District Office at 509-258-4534 or by e-mail.  From the Superintendent |
I believe in a lot of ways the children of our community have been fortunate. Historically, our community has provided for its children in ways that clearly demonstrate concern for their well-being and personal development. The Springdale area has invested in its youngest residents, and evidence is found in everything from quality local schools, to playgrounds, to the community center. In most towns, the prominent role of children is unmistakable in parades, youth leagues, and social and religious organizations. Thumb through the local newspapers and you will see all the articles that center on the activities and accomplishments of youngsters.
In some communities children are considered a liability and not an asset . You can find community developments that allow pets, but don’t allow children. In the southwest, I have heard about retirement communities that don’t allow children, or they prohibit school-age children from being outside after sunset. They have no public schools and they have made it clear that the proper place for children is somewhere else.
It is different here, where our students go on outings to the Lucky Duck Pond, there are street signs that advise people to drive slowly because our children may be playing and our students are supported very well at school extra-curricular activities. These are constant reminders to all that our community cherishes its youngest citizens.
With another difficult budget year before us, I remain confident our voters will continue to support the services and opportunities that have made the Springdale area a place that considers children an asset to the community.
Kevin Jacka, Superintendent | Readiness to Learn Grant Awarded to District | The Mary Walker School District has recently been awarded a $3,000 grant called Readiness to Learn (RTL). This grant is used to serve children at risk of academic failure due to social, personal, and family concerns outside of the school. Washington State University awarded this grant to five rural districts in the area. Each district selects several families and determines appropriate interventions based on their needs. The money will be used to provide interventions to the selected families. Data is also collected by teachers and the parents/guardians to determine whether or not intervention has positively impacted the child's academics. After extensive consideration of how to implement this grant at Mary Walker, we have decided the most effective way to provide intervention to families is through a “Family Night Out.” This will be an after school event for families several times throughout the year. Students will be selected to plan and prepare the food to be served and guest speakers will be provided after dinner has been served. The topics for guest speakers will range from entrepreneurs in the Springdale area, college/trade school advisors, community leaders, etc. We look forward to this great opportunity to build a better relationship with families. Please feel free to call Lisa Williams, the Educational Support Room Teacher, at 509-258-4727to discuss ways we can specifically help your family.
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