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

As I reflect on the past month, I’m reminded of why I chose to become a teacher, those magical moments when curiosity sparks and learning comes alive. This school year, our district has been brimming with exactly those moments of discovery and potential.

Just this week, we’re preparing for Focus on Education Innovation at Swift Water Elementary. This is an event not to be missed, with fun exhibits and interactive booths showcasing all our schools. Join us December 4th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. to explore hands-on experiments, meet students and teachers, and learn about our district’s innovative programs that prepare our kids for success in college and careers. This is more than an event, it’s a celebration of learning’s endless possibilities.

Our students continue to inspire me with their achievements. Take our NJROTC TideHawks, who’ve been invited to march in the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington D.C. They’ll represent Washington state, commemorating the 250th anniversary of our armed forces. These cadets embody the leadership and commitment we nurture in our schools.

Both of our high school’s girls soccer teams made the top 16 in Washington, and every fall athletic team maintained a GPA over 3.0. I’m also excited to announce we’re launching girls flag football, another opportunity for students to grow, compete, and learn about teamwork. Come out and cheer on all our winter athletes this season.

Our district’s commitment to excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed. The Washington State School Directors’ Association (WSSDA) has recognized our Board of Directors for the third consecutive year as a “Board of Distinction,” highlighting our dedication to educational equity, particularly in literacy. From curriculum updates to literacy training, the Board’s focus on these key areas supports our mission to empower every child, every day.

The American Association of School Administrators (AASA) named PSD a “Learning System to Watch,” a testament to our innovative early learning programs. This designation honors districts that are serving as examples of positive change in public education. Our innovative programs, such as transitional kindergarten and Eagle Quest, are helping set a strong foundation for our youngest learners and their future success.

During our recent Superintendent Student Advisory Symposium, I was deeply moved by our students’ candid discussions about belonging and creating a supportive school environment. Their insights drive our ongoing efforts to make every student feel valued and heard. 

During the symposium, students and district leaders engaged in a thoughtful discussion about sense of belonging and our district’s harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) reporting protocols. This is a part of a broader district initiative to assess and enhance the district’s HIB practices. Thank you to the students who shared their open and honest opinions with myself and our leadership.

Our recent Youth Mental Health First Aid training demonstrates our holistic approach to education. We’re not just teaching subjects, we’re supporting whole individuals. Twenty dedicated staff members, parents, and local youth workers came together to attend this certification program at Key Peninsula Middle School. The two-day program equips participants with essential skills to recognize and respond to mental health challenges among young people. 

The first session was so popular, we will be adding more training opportunities in January. The large public interest in this training tells me we are addressing a critical need in our community. Thank you to the Boys & Girls Club of the South Puget Sound and the Gig Harbor, Key Peninsula Suicide Prevention Coalition, who sponsored the training by purchasing the course materials for our training. 

As we approach winter break, I'm filled with gratitude. Education is about more than academics – it's about nurturing curiosity, building character, and empowering students to become compassionate leaders. Every day, our staff, students, families, and community partners work together to create those transformative moments of learning. Thank you to those who make these accomplishments possible. Together, we are creating opportunities that will inspire future generations.

Sincerely,

Superintendent Krestin Bahr

Our outstanding drama students recently performed in theater productions across our district. Goodman Middle School students put on “Too Many Detectives at the Murder Mansion”, while Harbor Ridge Middle School students performed “Aladdin.” At Peninsula High School, the audience was treated to “Robin Hood and the Trial for Truth,” which was written and produced by our own students! You can still catch Gig Harbor High School’s double feature, “A Christmas Carol” and “Frozen Jr.” from December 12 to 15. Bravo to all of our thespians!

Are you passionate about aviation? Join the Aviation Academy as an advisor and help shape the new program. Our first meeting will be on Wednesday, December 4th at 4:00 p.m. in the Swift Water Elementary library. Learn more about the Academy and stay connected by signing up for our community mailing list to receive updates and exciting news!

As we enter the holiday season, PSD wants to make sure all families have what they need. Please explore these community resources if you or someone you know needs help during the winter months.

The WA Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) Mobile Community Services Office will be at the Lakebay Key Peninsula Community Services at 17015 9th St Ct NW Lakebay, WA 98349 on December 11, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Our most recent annual report, which highlights our achievements, stories, and areas of improvement, is now available online for our community!

As we approach winter, it’s important to have plans in place for inclement weather. You can find emergency bus routes at the bottom of this page soon. These ensure our drivers are only using the safest, most reliable roads for travel in the snow. However, keep in mind that a school delay does not always mean we will be using emergency bus routes. 

Here are some tips to make the ride to school easier for our families and our drivers.

We will stay vigilant in the upcoming season to keep our staff and students safe, and we appreciate your efforts to keep every student safe.

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. If you have questions or complaints regarding alleged discrimination, please call the Peninsula School District Educational Service Center at (253) 530-1000 or visit our office located at 14015 62nd Ave NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98332, and ask for one of the following coordinators: Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator, compliance@psd401.net; Title IX Compliance Coordinator, titleix@psd401.net; 504 Compliance Coordinator, 504@psd401.net; ADA Compliance Coordinator, ada@psd401.net.