In many ways, school districts can be busier in the summer months than when school is in session. This summer is no exception. We have lots of students doing amazing things.

STEMKamp is a wonderful opportunity for students in grades 3 through 8 to experience science, technology, engineering and mathematics in an indoor/outdoor and hands-on setting. The week-long experience is available to students through a Department of Defense grant.

Students at Yelm High School and Extension School have been working exceptionally hard at our summer credit retrieval opportunity. These programs are critical for students to ensure they are meeting all requirements to graduate on time. Our district also offers multiple summer opportunities for students with individual education plans (IEP) who need more instructional time to meet those goals. Transportation and food service coordination for these programs is integral to success. Though not a Yelm Community Schools program, Mill Pond is the host facility this summer to a camp opportunity run by the Boys and Girls Club.

At the start of August, our administrative team met to kick off our work year and prepare for a great year of learning with our students. I am really excited and proud of this team and the additions we made this spring and summer.

Tami Beach is our new principal at Prairie Elementary. Tami is a district resident and brings a strong leadership background from her experiences in the Seattle Public Schools. She is an incredible advocate for all students and has a strong instructional presence.

Jodi Jarmin is our new principal at McKenna Elementary. Jodi has strong experiences in our district, but has also been an administrator in the Franklin Pierce and Bethel districts. Most recently, Mrs. Jarmin has served as the dean of students at McKenna.

Starla Watson is our new principal at Lackamas Elementary. Formerly a teacher at Lackamas, Mrs. Watson has also served as a district administrator and instructional coach. Starla performed exceptionally well stepping in last spring.

Chris Clark is our new assistant principal at Yelm High School. Mr. Clark has great secondary experience while working with the Kelso School District, but most recently served as the superintendent/principal of the Boistfort School District.

Holly Ackerman and Tracie Schultz will assume new roles as assistant principals supporting our elementary schools. Both Holly and Tracie have been longtime district employees, recently completing their administrative programs. Tracie will be stationed at Southworth, our district’s largest elementary. Holly will be at Fort Stevens and Lackamas. Another assistant principal to serve McKenna, Mill Pond and Prairie will be hired shortly.

These new administrators bring increased energy and expertise. We are very fortunate to have them on board. Our 2022-23 team is the strongest administrative team we have put together.

We are excited to welcome all our students back on Sept. 6. Please go to your school’s website for information about activities leading up to the first day.

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Brian Wharton is the superintendent for Yelm Community Schools.