Connections: Fall/Winter 2021
How exciting to have students back in our school
buildings! As we settle into the 2021-22 school year,
we are focused on academic acceleration and social-emotional recovery for students. That focus is centered on
belonging. How accepted and comfortable students feel
at school so they can ask questions and share experiences
has a direct impact on learning. A student’s ability to
learn and feel comfortable in a classroom setting directly
correlates to how safe they feel. They need to belong. As
we move out of the pandemic, supporting this academic
mindset is a key component in our recovery to accelerate
learning.
Puyallup’s tradition of excellence has been—and always
will be—centered on belonging. We all need to know
we are seen and feel like a valued part of the school
community. This year as we reimagine excellence, we will
focus on re-establishing relationships, creating culture, and making sure everyone learns in environments where
they can ask questions and share experiences.
During my school visits I’ve already seen this in action and
am proud of the progress we are making to reimagine our
tradition of excellence.
I’m excited to see what we can accomplish together.
We’re glad you’re here. Welcome back!
In service and support,
Dr. John Polm, Superintendent