Krestin Bahr, PSD Superintendent | (253) 530-1002 | superintendent@psd401.net

As the leaves turn to vibrant fall hues and we welcome crisper mornings, our schools are abuzz with the energy of a new academic year. In my recent visits to each campus, I've witnessed an inspiring array of creative projects, fresh initiatives, and student achievements. The enthusiasm for learning is palpable, reflecting the dedication of our students, teachers, and staff.

October marks National Principals Month, a time to honor our dedicated school administrators who inspire and empower every child, every day. Thank you to all of our school principals for your exceptional leadership and direction in educating our students! I am proud of your work in creating safe and successful school cultures, and I encourage everyone to take a moment this month to personally thank your principal.

National Bullying Prevention Month underscores the critical importance of addressing bullying in our schools. We must unite as a community to raise awareness about the harmful effects of bullying and strengthen our prevention efforts. Earlier this month, I shared a letter addressing online bullying in our community and the district's steps to combat this issue.

To further our commitment, we are forming a Bullying, Awareness and Prevention Task Force to delve deeper into these challenges and enhance our responses. Look for more information later this month coming directly from your schools. For resources on discussing bullying with your students, visit www.psd401.net/digitalwellness. Thank you for helping support the safety and well-being of our students.

Tomorrow is the first day of school for our transitional kindergarten (TK) classes! Our TK program allows all children access to high-quality early learning experiences before kindergarten at Discovery Elementary, Evergreen Elementary, Harbor Heights Elementary, Minter Creek Elementary, and Voyager Elementary. Outdoor TK programs, inspired by Norwegian education, also begin at Evergreen and Voyager. Welcome to our TKers, and we hope you have a fantastic first day!

Eagle Quest, our new program at Evergreen Elementary, is off to a fantastic start! Eagle Quest features two multi-age classrooms designed to immerse students in hands-on learning. The program places a special focus on outdoor learning, project-based exploration, and STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) integration, providing a unique opportunity for students to engage with nature and apply their knowledge in real world settings.

During the first few weeks of school, students got to experience their first math workshops, literacy blocks, and social studies and science lessons amongst Evergreen’s outdoor learning spaces. Students have also curated digital nature inspiration notebooks, engaged in math nature walks, and much more.

I am proud that the Peninsula School District has been at the forefront in developing principles for using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in our classrooms over the last two years. Under direction from Chief Information Officer Kris Hagel, we are expanding this leadership both locally and to groups around the country. 

Last month, we hosted an AI seminar for businesses at Swift Water Elementary, in partnership with the Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce. This training helped business owners understand how to revolutionize their practices by using AI prompting tools to grow and enhance customer experiences. Looking ahead, we are currently working on exciting AI projects with Stanford University, Arizona State University, and Vanderbilt University.

My staff and I will be at the annual PenMet Parks’ Scarecrow Festival on October 5 at Sehmel Park. This event is always a family favorite, with a maker’s market, pumpkin launcher, live music, and a scarecrow contest. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please stop by our booth, say hello, and pick up some PSD swag with our new logo! And don’t forget to vote for PSD’s scarecrow in the scarecrow contest!

Sincerely,

Superintendent Krestin Bahr

The Peninsula School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. Inquiries regarding compliance and/or grievance procedures may be directed to: the District’s Title IX and Compliance Officer, Dan Dizon, at (253)530-1041, email Dizond@psd40.net. or Section 504 and ADA Coordinator, John Yellowlees, at (253) 530-1081, email yellowleesj@psd401.net. Mailing address: 14015 62nd Ave NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98332.