Spotlight on Success
January 2026
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Hello Olympia School District families and community,
I hope your 2026 is off to a good start. It’s always a little strange coming back from winter break, as it coincides with the last few weeks of our first semester. Our high schoolers are working hard on their final exams and end-of-term projects, while our younger students are working on their assignments and navigating the challenges of colder walks to school and rainy-day recess. Snow has stayed off the radar for now, but winter sports are underway, and our performing arts programs are presenting their usual outstanding plays and concerts.
I wanted to take a moment to remind everyone of a few things.
On February 10, 2026, Olympia voters will be asked to consider the Technology, Safety and Facility Replacement Levy. If approved, the levy would provide funding to maintain and replace instructional technology, support safety and security systems and address facility needs across the district. This measure would continue services and infrastructure that are not fully funded by the state.
We are also in the midst of the legislative session and will continue to engage with state leaders on issues affecting public schools. Olympia School District’s legislative priorities focus on adequate and predictable school funding, student mental health and well-being and resources to support inclusive and equitable learning environments. These priorities are informed by the needs we see in our schools and the feedback we receive from families and staff.
Student safety is always central to our work. We work hard to ensure that our schools are safe places for all students and their families. A recent message from OPSI asked school district leaders to revisit OSPI’s guidance on protecting immigrant students (EnglishOpening in a new window, SpanishOpening in a new window).
Olympia School District’s direction regarding immigration enforcement is outlined in OSD Policy 4300Opening in a new window and applies to all school facilities. We are committed to protecting the rights of all students, regardless of immigration status, and to ensuring our schools remain focused on learning, care and belonging.
Finally, I wanted to share a wonderful example of the awesome compassion and service of our students and our families. I recently got a letter from the leadership team at Thurston County Food BankOpening in a new window. They wanted to extend their sincere thanks to the Olympia School District for our overwhelming support during one of the most challenging times food banks have faced in recent years. They let me know that at a time when critical funding was reduced and demand for their services was growing, the students, staff and volunteers of Olympia School District showed up in a truly remarkable way. They told me that OSD’s collective generosity, compassion and commitment made a substantial difference for families across our community when they needed it most. With support like ours, the Thurston County Food Bank responded to a nearly 30% increase in demand during the holiday season and continued to provide access to healthy, nutritious food. The collective work of our students and families helped ensure that our neighbors have the resources they need. The letter closed by stating, “We are deeply grateful for your efforts and proud to work alongside a school district that so clearly embodies the spirit of neighbor helping neighbor.”
Thank you for your continued partnership and thank you students, staff and families for your compassion and kindness. I, too, am truly proud to serve alongside you all.
Warm regards,
Patrick Murphy
December 2025
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Hello Olympia School District families and community,
I always try to get out into schools a little more than usual the last few weeks before winter break because there are so many fun learning activities taking place. It's just a great time to connect with students and staff. Amongst my visits, I joined fourth graders from Ms. Meadow’s class at Garfield Elementary at Oly on Ice, sharing laughs and a few wobbly moments. I visited LP Brown Elementary School, where “gingerbread” was the theme and kindergarten students in Ms. Woodhouse and Ms. Russell’s classes were building houses and reading stories, while Ms. Mickelson’s fifth graders were solving complex math puzzles in teams. I saw students at Jefferson Middle School digging into the content of the Declaration of Independence. I saw outstanding musical performances by students from Reeves Middle School and Olympia High School. I even got to wrap up the week at McLane Elementary School with a pizza party in Rebecca Porter’s third-grade classroom, celebrating their participation and outstanding representation of the school district during last week’s ribbon-cutting ceremony for our three new electric bus charging stations. Moments like these highlight the strong sense of community that makes our district such a special place.
I also want to celebrate an exceptional member of our district family. Congratulations to Susan Nussler, who was recently named the 2025/26 Olympia School District Classified School Employee of the Year. Susan is an outstanding member of our Transportation Department, serving as both a Substitute Bus Driver and a Certified Driver Trainer whose professionalism, adaptability, and compassion ensure students feel safe, respected and supported every day. She seamlessly steps into any route, builds strong relationships with students of all ages and abilities, and mentors new drivers through training and beyond, fostering a culture of confidence and teamwork.
Susan’s leadership, including her creation of a Transportation Positive Behavior Support system, is just one example of her unwavering commitment to excellence and makes her a true cornerstone of our department and district. We look forward to honoring her at our school board recognition ceremony on January 8, 2026.
As we head into winter break and the holiday season, during this seemingly busier and busier world that we live in, I often hear people say they intend to take this time to unplug, try to find a little peace, and truly treasure this time with family and friends. I sincerely hope that for all of you. We look forward to starting the new year together, refreshed and ready for the opportunities ahead.
Warm regards,
Patrick
November 2025
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Hello Olympia School District families and community,
It’s hard to believe this week is Thanksgiving. I hope the short week and extended weekend is time for all of us to rest and break bread with family and friends and take stock of all those things for which we are grateful.
One thing, for which I am always thankful is the bountiful support to our school district by our families and community. Thousands of volunteers annually give tens of thousands of hours of their time and dedication to serve our students. It is the not-so-secret ingredient in Olympia School District’s recipe of success. So thanks to all for your continuing, consistent support.
Looking ahead, I also want to share information about our upcoming Technology, Safety and Facility Improvement Replacement Levy, which will be on the February 2026 ballot. This measure is a renewal of the district’s current levy, not an additional tax. If approved, it would continue funding for student devices, classroom technology, network upgrades, school safety upgrades and facility improvements throughout the district. All levy details, including FAQs and project descriptions, are available on our website.
May this season bring you and your families rest and inspiration. I look forward to the new year with optimism and enthusiasm as we keep building on all that we’ve accomplished together.
Warm regards,
Patrick
October 2025
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Hello Olympia School District families and community,
As we move deeper into fall, hopefully you and your students are finding your stride. The school year is now in full swing and our classrooms are engaged. The brilliant color of the trees around Olympia reminds me of why the poet William Cullen Bryant once described autumn as “the year’s last, loveliest smile.”
Across our district, our equally brilliant students are learning, connecting and growing in inspiring ways. At Reeves Middle School, students recently joined community members at Squaxin Park to honor Indigenous Peoples’ Day—an experience filled with drumming, dancing and reflection on our connection to the land. Our youngest learners in the Infant-Toddler Program took a joyful trip to the Hands On Children’s Museum, where they explored, played and learned alongside their families. And later today, our Transition Services and Project SEARCH Team will host an Informational Night for families of students with disabilities, helping them explore pathways toward life after high school.
These are just a few examples of the powerful learning experiences and community outreach happening across Olympia School District every day. I am grateful to our students, staff, families and partners for their care and collaboration.
Wishing you a wonderful fall season,
Warm regards,
Patrick
September 2025
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Hello Olympia School District Families and Community,
The 2025–26 school year is off to a strong start, thanks to the hard work of our staff, the enthusiasm of our students, and the support of families and community members.
Already this fall, we’ve had the chance to celebrate meaningful traditions and milestones. I was honored to ride along with students on Bus Route 31 for the first day of school and to join our community for the 43rd annual Spaghetti Bowl, where Capital and Olympia High Schools once again came together for spirited rivalry games of volleyball and football.
I also had the privilege of attending a recognition ceremony at Olympia Regional Learning Academy (ORLA), where the school was honored as a Tree Campus K–12. This recognition, made possible through collaboration with the City of Olympia Urban Foresters and the dedication of ORLA staff and students, celebrates the school’s extensive environmental education efforts—including the planting of the Artemis Moon Tree and the integration of tree-focused lessons across classrooms. ORLA received a plaque and flag, and the school community announced this award during their International Day of Peace Celebration on September 22 at the ORLA Peace Pole.
As we look ahead, here are a few reminders:
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Walk N' Roll Initiative – In partnership with Intercity Transit, we encourage safe, healthy, and sustainable travel to and from school.
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Panorama Fall Climate Survey – Open September 22–October 12, 2025, for students, staff, and families in grades 3–12.
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Olympia Education Foundation's Rise and Shine for Students’ Breakfast – Friday, October 3, 2025, at Capital High School. This event supports programs that directly benefit students.
Thank you for your continued partnership as we launch another school year of growth, achievement, and opportunity for every student in the Olympia School District.
With gratitude,
Patrick
August 2025
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
The first day of school is just around the corner and I suspect we’re all probably feeling a little bit of that familiar mix of nervous energy and the excitement of new possibilities. Whether you’ve been part of the Olympia School District for years or are joining us for the very first time, we want to take a moment to say thank you for choosing the Olympia School District.
We know families have options, and the fact that you’ve entrusted your child’s education to us is something we deeply value and don’t take for granted. We are honored and humbled to serve your wonderful children. Every student who walks through our doors brings their own unique story, strengths, and dreams, and each one contributes to the fabric of who we are as a school district.
Every year, our staff works diligently to create schools where all students and their families feel welcome and can thrive academically. Again this year, our principals are collaborating with teachers to implement the revised Danielson Framework for Teaching, with the goal of enhancing student experiences in our classrooms. Related, before the start of school, our staff engage in two days of intensive training on Restorative Practices, with follow-ups throughout the year. Restorative practices is a strategy that strengthens relationships between individuals and improves social connections within communities. In schools, restorative practices have been shown to impact student behavior and school climate positively.
A wonderful tradition that brings us together each fall is the Spaghetti Bowl, the annual cross-town matchup between Capital High School and Olympia High School. This year’s event will take place the first week of school, with volleyball teams competing on Thursday, and a football game on Friday, September 5, 2025, at Ingersoll Stadium. You can enjoy a delicious spaghetti meal (in the Olympia High School Commons) from 4:30 to 7 p.m. before the game, with gates opening at 6 p.m. and kickoff at 7 p.m.
Later this fall, I also encourage you to join us for the Olympia Education Foundation’s Rise & Shine for Students! Breakfast on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 7:30 a.m. at the Capital High School Performing Arts Center. It’s another excellent opportunity to support this outstanding organization, which does so much for our students and staff.
Here’s to a school year filled with curiosity, connection and traditions that remind us why Olympia is such a special place to learn and grow. We’re so glad you’re here!
With gratitude,
Patrick
June 2025
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Hello Olympia School District families and community,
As we wrap up the 2024–25 school year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the outstanding accomplishments of our students, staff and families. This has been a year marked by learning, growth and significant milestones across all grade levels.
Most recently, we celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2025. At ceremonies throughout our district, we honored not only the academic success of these remarkable young people but also the journey they took to achieve it, supported by dedicated educators and loving families every step of the way. The Class of 2025 has demonstrated resilience, compassion and a profound commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Whether they are headed to college, a career, the military, or other adventures, they carry with them the values and skills that will serve them well into the future. Congratulations, graduates!
Of course, graduation is only one milestone in a broader experience that spans preschool through 12th grade. Our students continue to benefit from the dedication of teachers, paraeducators, counselors, support staff and administrators who work tirelessly to nurture their intellectual, social and emotional growth. Thank you to every staff member who made a difference this year.
Looking ahead, we are again offering Summer School programs for both elementary and secondary students. These opportunities help students stay engaged, build skills and maintain momentum over the summer months.
Summer is also a time of major work across our campuses. In addition to the annual deep cleaning, painting, and grounds upkeep undertaken by our operations team, seven additional schools will receive new security vestibules, completing this important safety upgrade across the entire district. We are deeply grateful to the facilities and maintenance teams whose work over the summer helps set the stage for a smooth start in the fall.
I wish all of you—students, families and staff—a joyful, restful and well-deserved summer break. We look forward to welcoming students in grades K–12 back to school on September 3, and our preschool and kindergarten students (the Class of 2038!) on September 8.
Take care, and enjoy your summer.
Warmly,
Patrick Murphy
Superintendent
May 2025
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Hello Olympia School District families,
I hope everyone is enjoying the beauty of spring in full bloom—longer days, warm sunshine and a renewed sense of possibility that often accompanies this time of year. It really is hard to believe we’re entering the final few weeks of the 2024/25 school year. This is a special time for schools as students, staff, and families come together to celebrate learning, growth and community.
We’re also looking forward to a meaningful milestone this week: the raising of the Squaxin Island Tribe flag at both Capital and Olympia High Schools. While the ceremonies on Thursday, May 29, will take place at these two locations—one on each side of town—they represent a district-wide initiative. Every school and support building in the Olympia School District will receive a Squaxin Island Tribe flag to raise at their sites moving forward. These ceremonies are yet another milestone in the ongoing strengthening of the partnership between the Squaxin Tribe and the Olympia School District. We invite you to join us. Additional details can be found later in this newsletter.
Lastly, we will soon be celebrating the graduating class of 2025. Details regarding this fantastic group, including graduation dates and times, can be found in the graduation feature article below. In the meantime, as always, thank you for being a vital part of our school community. We look forward to a strong finish to this school year.
Warmly,
Patrick Murphy
Superintendent
April 2025
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Hello Olympia School District families and community,
Spring is coming into full swing and the longer days are returning. That often brings a renewed sense of energy throughout our schools as we enter the final stretch of the school year. This is always an exciting season, filled with culminating projects, commencements, performances and celebrations that mark the progress our students have made throughout the year.
I would like to provide an initial update on the recent Washington State Legislative session. Olympia and school districts around the state implored the legislature, yet again, to fully fund public education. Thanks to the advocacy and efforts of staff, parents, students and community members, there were some encouraging investments. There were minimal increases in funding for supplies and operations, which were sorely needed, as we have all been hit hard by inflation. The special education cap was eliminated and there was a nominal increase to the funding formula. This does not fully fund the services for our students with special needs, but it helps us move closer to our goal. Lastly, they restored some local levy authority, which will allow us to increase locally generated revenue that our voters have already approved. Significant work remains to be done to ensure schools are fully and sustainably funded to meet the needs of every student. Still, we are immensely grateful to everyone for their efforts this session. Considering the significant cuts many districts are facing across the state, we are especially thankful to be in our current position and we do not take it for granted. We will share more detailed information in the coming weeks.
I’m also excited to introduce a new feature in this edition of Spotlight on Success: a column from the Olympia Education Foundation. This column will spotlight the Foundation’s continuous efforts to support both students and educators, while also celebrating the invaluable community partnerships that enhance our schools and provide enriching educational experiences.
I’ll wrap up with some news that’s sure to bring a smile to many faces. Since we did not need to use any snow days this year, there will be no school on Friday, May 23. With Memorial Day on Monday, May 26, a well-deserved four-day weekend awaits students and staff, allowing them to relax and recharge!
Warmly,
Patrick Murphy
March 2025
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Hello Olympia School District families and community,
Apparently, back at the beginning of February, that famous groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, saw his shadow. Which of course 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
February 2025
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Hello Olympia School District Families,
Olympia has been a destination school district for families and staff for decades. It is a wonderful place to live, work and learn. By most traditional measures, the Olympia School District is one of the highest-performing districts in the state, which is a reflection of the students and families we serve and the skills and dedication of our staff. Annually, we attract hundreds of students from outside of our district who seek out that experience. Besides word of mouth, data is a powerful tool for our existing families and prospective ones to better understand what our schools offer.
I am pleased to share that our 2023-24 Annual Report is now available online. This report comprehensively examines the achievements, initiatives and progress made across our schools during the 2023-24 school year. Some of the highlights include:
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School Improvement Plans: Outlining targeted strategies and goals for enhancing student learning and overall school performance.
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School Performance Reports: Offering insights into academic progress, student support initiatives and key success metrics.
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Good News from Across the District: Celebrating student achievements, innovative programs and community partnerships that continue to strengthen our schools.
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Districtwide Construction Projects: These include updates on current and upcoming district construction projects that will enhance the learning environments for our students and staff.
I encourage you to explore these resources to learn more about the work being done in our schools to help ensure success for all of our students.
One other note. Every year, we recognize an Olympia School District Teacher of the Year. This year, we are recognizing two exceptional educators who have been selected as our 2025 Olympia School District Co-Teachers of the Year: Devin Alexander, Reading Specialist at LP Brown Elementary School, and Kimberly Merkley, Orchestra Director at Thurgood Marshall Middle School.
Both teachers will be honored during an Olympia School Board special recognition ceremony this evening, Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 6 p.m. at the Knox 111 Administrative Center. We invite our community to join us in celebrating both Devin and Kimberly!
Thank you for your continued support of our students, staff and school community.
Sincerely,
Patrick Murphy
January 2025
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Dear Olympia School District Families and Community,
This year, I resolved to be more intentional and consistent in sharing the amazing and wonderful things our students, staff and families do here in the Olympia School District. We are a top-performing district in the region and state because of our hard work, creativity and perseverance. One place we’ve highlighted annually is our graduation rate, which has historically been among the highest in the state. We finalize graduation rates in the winter and are proud to share that we’ve reached a graduation rate of 94.1% for the Class of 2024, which is the highest in decades! This remarkable milestone is a testament to the effort and tenacity of our students, the dedication of our educators and staff and the unwavering support of our families and community.
Winter time also marks the legislative season. As we all know, funding is crucial to support the essential services contributing to student achievement and high graduation rates. This session, our district, along with numerous other districts and organizations are narrowing our focus to three key legislative items:
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Materials, Supplies and Operating Costs (MSOC)
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Special Education
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Transportation
Materials, Supplies, and Operating Costs
Like most households, the district has seen a significant cost increase in the last few years. Insurance, utilities, food, fuel, etc., cost significantly more, and the state’s allocation to school districts has not caught up. We pull from our local levy to make up the difference, which prevents us from using those funds as they were intended: to enrich our students' school experiences.
Special Education
Special education funding has been our focus for years. Fully serving our students with special needs is a legal obligation and a moral imperative. While the Legislature has invested in Special Education in the last few sessions, a large gap remains that again comes out of our local enrichment levy.
Transportation
Around 5,000 students are transported to and from our schools daily in Olympia. Pupil transportation is a key part of the state’s basic education program. However, the current state funding formulas for transportation do not generate adequate funds for districts. As you might guess, if we fall short here, we are forced to dip back into our local levy.
While there are other continued priorities in Olympia like levy restrictions, early learning, regionalization, sub costs, health care, etc., leaders across the state are focusing on these three big issues because they provide the most benefit to all 295 school districts and the over one million students served in our state.
I invite you to visit our Legislative Priorities Page to get additional information on current bills being considered that might benefit us in Olympia. Ensuring sustainable and equitable funding will allow us to build on our success and continue to provide outstanding educational opportunities for every student in the Olympia School District.
Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in making our schools a place where every student can thrive.
Warm wishes,
Patrick Murphy
December
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Dear Olympia School District Families and Community,
As we approach the winter break, I want to take a moment to wish you all a restful and joyous holiday season. I hope this time of year provides you all with a wonderful opportunity to pause, reflect and enjoy the company of loved ones.
At our December meeting, I let the school board know that one of my New Year’s resolutions is to do a better job of regularly sharing all the wonderful, positive things that are happening with our students in our schools. One way we do that, is the same way many of you share information, through social media. Whether it is on the district's Facebook, Instagram, or X (formerly Twitter) platforms, these are all great ways to read stories, check out video features and view photo albums of our remarkable students and staff in their elements.
A recent dig into our analytics showed that our district Facebook page gets anywhere from five to ten times more views/visits monthly than our district website. You can visit our social media channels to learn more about things like our amazing performing arts programs, our career and technical education projects, partnerships with local organizations and businesses, family events at schools and outdoor education. Or you could read about how a sixth-grade chess whiz at Thurgood Marshall Middle School named Brandon Le smoked the superintendent in a game of chess. It could have been much worse. I think he was taking it easy on me.
I’d also like to take this opportunity to celebrate an exceptional member of our district family. Congratulations to Mohamed El-Sokkary, affectionately known as "Mr. Mo," who was recently named the 2025 Olympia School District Classified School Employee of the Year. Over the course of his nineteen years with the district, Mr. Mo has dedicated his time and efforts to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for all students and families across our district. He has served as a Paraeducator, Teacher, and Family Liaison, with experience working at Avanti High School, Jefferson Middle School, Olympia High School and Student Support. We are deeply grateful for his service and look forward to honoring him in the new year on January 9, 2025, at the school board recognition ceremony. His work exemplifies the values of care, inclusion, and community that we hold dear and is a great example of this season of giving.
On behalf of the Olympia School District, thank you for all you do to support our schools and students. May your winter break be filled with peace, joy and plenty of cherished memories with those you love. We look forward to welcoming you back in 2025, refreshed and ready for the opportunities ahead.
Warm wishes,
Patrick Murphy
November 2024
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Dear Olympia School District Families and Community,
As we approach the holiday season, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation to all our students, families and staff. In my family, Thanksgiving has always been a time for us to gather with our extended family and reconnect with aunts, uncles, and cousins, share a meal, and maybe even watch a little football. It is my hope that you all get the chance to pause, unplug and spend meaningful time with your loved ones. I believe it is through these moments of connection and reflection that we have the opportunity to recharge and rediscover what matters most in our lives.
We have much to celebrate this year as a district. I announced at a recent board meeting that the Olympia School District Class of 2024 achieved our all-time highest on-time graduation rate, with 94.2% of our students graduating in the four-year cohort! Strong graduation rates are the product of hard work and dedication from preschool through senior year. This milestone reflects the collective effort of our students, families and all staff. It also highlights the dedication and perseverance of a community that demonstrates the power of working together toward shared goals.
Additionally, I want to give a shout-out to the Centennial Elementary School community. Centennial was recently named one of the inaugural winners of the Association of Washington Student Leaders and Association of Washington School Principals Culture Kickoff Award. This recognition honors schools that foster positive, inclusive and engaging environments that set an inspiring tone for the academic year. Centennial’s efforts in areas like intentional themes, opening assemblies, and community-building activities are one example of similar work happening throughout our district and in all of our schools. Across the district, our educators and staff are dedicated to creating welcoming spaces where every student feels supported and empowered to thrive. Congratulations to Principal Ritter and the entire CES team for this well-deserved achievement.
Thanksgiving always reminds me of the importance of gratitude, and I am deeply thankful for the support of the greater Olympia School District community. Our teachers, support staff and families play an invaluable role in shaping the lives of our students. I hope we can all take this time off as an opportunity to cherish those close to us and recharge for the exciting work ahead.
Thank you for being an essential part of our district’s success.
Warm regards,
Patrick Murphy
October 2024
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Dear Olympia School District Families and Community,
As the days get cooler and vibrant leaves fill our streets, I hope you’re all settling into a comfortable groove aligned with the rhythms of the school year. I wanted to take a moment to share some recent events and initiatives that reflect our district's commitment to fostering community connections, inclusivity and support for our diverse student population. These stories showcase our continued efforts to expand learning opportunities and prepare all of our students for a successful future.
First, we recently held a special event at the district office honoring our partnership with the Squaxin Island Tribe (for additional details see featured article below). On October 21, we hosted a flag-raising ceremony, marking the first time the Squaxin Island Tribal flag has flown alongside the U.S. and Washington State flags at our district office. The event featured traditional drumming, singing, and insights into the rich history of the Squaxin Island Tribe, as well as remarks from tribal leaders. This ceremony is an important step in deepening our understanding of the Squaxin Island Tribe's heritage and fostering a stronger, ongoing relationship.
Secondly, the Olympian community loves the performing arts, particularly music. The number one student outcome/goal of the Olympia School District is to produce students and graduates who will be “compassionate and kind”. I encourage you to read an article in Thurston Talk about an inspiring student-led initiative from Olympia High School junior, Anoova Sattar, called "Keys to Connection." This unique music project brings together youth musicians and seniors in adult family homes and retirement centers, aiming to bridge generations through music. Anoova and her peers play for seniors, offering them companionship and the therapeutic benefits of live music. We are so proud to see our students applying their musical talents to uplift others.
Finally, in our district, preparing all students for life beyond high school is a top priority. Our Transition Academy offers post-secondary students with disabilities the opportunity to gain essential life skills and career training. Another notable read from ThurstonTalk features our Transition Academy, which describes how our staff focuses on providing our students with real-world experiences like resume-building, interviewing, and community engagement, which provide a bridge to adult life. Our students in the Transition Academy gain job readiness and connect with local agencies, setting them up for success as they move forward. We applaud the dedication of our staff and community partners who support this vital program.
We are grateful for the continued support from community organizations like the Thurston County Food Bank, Olympia’s Parks, Arts & Recreation, The Evergreen State College, Morningside and others who work alongside our Transition Academy students, providing hands-on training and fostering independence. These partnerships offer invaluable learning opportunities outside of traditional classroom settings, allowing students to build confidence and experience that will benefit them for years to come. Such collaboration underscores our commitment to creating a well-rounded education that prepares all students for meaningful, engaged lives.
Thank you for supporting all of our district students, staff and programs. We look forward to connecting with you at our upcoming events and warmly welcome your involvement. Together, we’re making Olympia School District a vibrant community of growth, inclusivity and opportunity for all students.
Warm regards,
Patrick Murphy
September 2024
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Dear Olympia School District Families and Community,
I hope you’ve all had a wonderful summer and are beginning to find the groove of the new school year. We’ve had a fantastic start to the 2024-25 school year, due in no small part to the dedication and hard work of our staff, the enthusiasm of our students and the unwavering support of our community. The energy across our district is palpable. I’m pleased to report that enrollment across the district is up a little bit over projections this year, mainly at high school, which is always beneficial.
The school year began on an uplifting note on the first day with the School Board President and I taking a ride on Bus Route 31, guided by the exceptional skills of our bus driver, Susan Nussler. We had the pleasure of joining students from LP Brown Elementary School, Jefferson Middle School and Capital High School. It was the perfect way to kick off the school year, seeing first-hand the anticipation and excitement as students arrived for their first day with their families warmly seeing them off. I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Susan and all of our dedicated bus drivers who work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of our students on a daily basis.
One of the more exciting events marking our return to school this year was the Spaghetti Bowl — a time-honored tradition bringing together the spirited rivalry between Capital and Olympia High Schools that goes back decades. This year’s Spaghetti Bowl festivities were particularly special, as they featured thrilling football and volleyball games and showdowns in soccer and golf. All events were enjoyed by huge crowds of students, families and fans. A highlight for me was seeing the combined bands from both schools playing together including each other’s fight songs, showcasing the unity that makes our community so strong. It was a wonderful few days and nights, filled with camaraderie and friendly competition and I’m grateful for everyone who contributed to making it such a success.
Here are a few reminders of things to keep in mind in the days and weeks ahead:
Walk N Roll Initiative
I would like to highlight our district’s and county’s continued focus on promoting healthy and sustainable ways to get to school. The Walk N Roll initiative with InterCity Transit encourages students to walk or bike to school when possible. This not only promotes physical health but also reduces traffic congestion around our schools. We are seeing increased participation this year, and I want to thank our families for supporting this initiative. Check out the 2024-25 Walk N Roll Schedule to see participating schools, meet-up locations and dates.
Panorama Fall Climate Survey
Beginning Monday, September 23, 2024, through Monday, October 7, 2024, students, staff and families in grades 3-12 are invited to participate in our annual Panorama Fall Climate Survey. This survey is a critical tool for us as we work to better understand the needs and experiences of our school community. Your feedback helps guide our decision-making, so we encourage all who are eligible to participate.
Olympia School District Foundation Breakfast
Once again, don’t miss the Olympia Education Foundation ‘Rise and Shine for Students’ Breakfast, which will be held the morning of Friday, October 4, at Capital High School. This is an excellent opportunity to support programs that directly benefit our students. I encourage everyone to attend and be part of this impactful event.
Communications Review
Lastly, as part of our ongoing efforts to improve our processes, we will be conducting a district-wide communications review this fall. This process will begin with a district-wide survey at the end of the month, and I encourage all stakeholders to provide their input. We are always looking for ways to enhance communication to better serve our community and your insights and perspective are invaluable to this process.
Thank you all for your continued support and partnership as we embark on another exciting school year. Together, we can make this year one of growth, learning and achievement for every student in the Olympia School District.
Warm regards,
Patrick Murphy
August 2024
Emailed to all OSD employees, families and Friends of the OSD
Hello Olympia School District Families and Community,
I hope you have all had a wonderful summer. The beginning of the 2024-25 school year is nearly upon us. The start of a new school year is always filled with excitement and anticipation, and this year is no different. Whether you’re returning to familiar faces and classrooms, or joining us for the first time, we are thrilled to have you as part of our learning community.
Our district remains committed to providing a safe, inclusive and dynamic learning environment where every student can thrive. This year, we are focusing on a few key areas. Our academic focus is on changes to our instructional framework and the state’s student growth goal requirements. Teacher leaders will be working alongside principals this summer and throughout the year to help us be more holistic in our response to the needs of our students.
Principals, along with the rest of our district leadership team are looking to strengthen our leadership skills through a book study and ongoing professional development based on Brene Brown’s research in her book, Dare to Lead. This was the focus at our Summer Institute with administrators and will continue to be a focal point throughout the year.
We know that education is a partnership between schools, families and the community. Your involvement and support are crucial to the success of our students and we encourage you to be active participants in your child’s education. Whether through attending school events, volunteering, or simply staying in communication with teachers and staff, your engagement makes a notable difference.
As we embark on this new academic year, we also look forward to celebrating our achievements together. I am proud of the resilience and determination that our students, staff and families have shown over the past few years. I am confident that this year will bring new and exciting opportunities for growth and success.
One early school year event that I recommend attending is the Olympia Education Foundation ‘Rise & Shine for Students!’ Breakfast on Friday, October 4, 2024. This event will be held at Capital High School in the Performing Arts Center at 7:30 a.m. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with our community, support our schools and contribute to the continued excellence of education in Olympia. We hope to see you there!
Warm regards,
Patrick Murphy