We hope that everyone had a relaxing and enjoyable summer. As your family prepares to embark upon a new school year, we would like to extend a heartfelt welcome back.

The beginning of the school year marks another milestone for all families, including ours. Our third of four children, Anna, will be experiencing her last first day of high school. In our house the first day means we have completed photos on the front porch and multiple runs to the store for school supplies and possibly some new shoes. As a member of the 2015 senior class for Puyallup High School, our daughter will have a year filled with new challenges, fun, highlights, and great memories only to be trumped by graduation day in June.

I can’t help but think back on our daughter’s previous 12 years of first days of school and the exceptional educational journey she has been on. My reflections rebound to all of the people who have reached into our daughter’s life over the years. I remember the teachers and administrators who have guided, corrected, and encouraged her to build a vibrant story of success — a story that will be uniquely created and played out in the lives of 20,000 other students in our district. These are stories that are renewed and reignited on the first day of school.

As we enter into the 2014-15 school year, “responsiveness” and “choice” will continue to be hallmarks of the Puyallup School District’s tradition of excellence. This year we are extremely excited about full-day kindergarten for ALL kindergarten-aged students. Sixty-seven classrooms will provide a rich, multifaceted educational experience for our youngest of learners. However, investing in our students’ success doesn’t stop with kindergarten. Across our district we continue to explore new opportunities for academic rigor in programs at all grade levels. Expanding academic options for highly capable students, opening doors for returning dropouts, and enhancing the life skills of our students with special needs are just a few offerings that will unfold as this year’s stories of achievement.

So whether this year marks your family’s very first first day or the last in the high school career, to all of our parents, students, staff, and community members, welcome back! As a true community partnership, we all have an important role to play in the success of our students. As a member of the school board, I look forward to working closely with you throughout the school year to ensure that this is an exciting, fulfilling, and rewarding year for all of our students.

Chris Ihrig, President

Puyallup School Board