Vashon Island School District 402

Dear Vashon Island School District Families and Community,

As we eagerly anticipate the start of the 2023-2024 school year, it is with immense joy and excitement that I extend a heartfelt welcome back to each and every one of you. Our Vashon School District is not just a place of learning; it's a vibrant learning community where every student is Welcomed, Known, and Treasured. This promise echoes in the very essence of our educational journey, reminding us that every individual's uniqueness is celebrated and their potential boundless.

In this spirit of unity and new beginnings, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our exceptional staff, whose unwavering dedication and passion pave the way for our students' success. Instructional staff have attended multiple work- shops and training sessions to sharpen their knowledge and skills and our maintenance and custodial staff have worked countless hours preparing facilities and school grounds to make sure our schools are in “tip top” shape and safe for staff and students. Office personnel are greeting families, registering students, and making sure that we are ready for all of our students to begin the school year. In August, we are “all hands on deck!”

I would also like to extend a warm thank you to the families, both on island and off island, who stand as pillars of support, partnering with us to create an environment of collaboration and growth. Moreover, our island's strength lies in the support of organizations like the Vashon Schools Foundation, Partners in Education, FACE, Vashon Center for the Arts, Journeymen, Sisterhood, DOVE, VARSA, Vashon Youth and Family Services, and the Vashon Rotary. Their commitment, their dedication, and their unyielding support make our island schools truly unique and thriving hubs of place-based hands-on learning.

Students, please know that these first days and weeks of school will be focused first and foremost on helping you establish a sense of community and connection with your teachers and classes. Whether you are a first year commuter student or have lived on island for your entire school career, we are here to make great things happen for you! We are committed to providing not just exceptional academic experiences but also making sure you have the social, emotional, and mental health supports you need to feel safe and a true sense of belonging.

Our island community’s support and investments in our schools and in public education not only help guide the academic journey of Vashon's young minds but also nurture a sense of community and togetherness. The journey ahead holds endless possibilities. When we open our doors on August 30th, we will be ready for an amazing school year where all of our students will soar to new heights, fulfilling their potential, and enriching the tapestry of our island.

With gratitude and excitement,

Dr. Slade McSheehy
Superintendent