Dear Columbia Families,

As May arrives, I often find myself reflecting on just how much change can take place in a school year. Each spring, there’s a special kind of energy in the building—a mix of pride, excitement, and anticipation. It reminds me of tending a garden: the seeds we planted in September are now growing strong, and we’re starting to see the full blooms.

This time of year gives us countless moments to notice how far our students have come—not just in their academic growth, but in their confidence, their friendships, and their problem-solving. Whether it’s watching a student persevere through a challenging math concept, reading aloud with expression and joy, or working together to resolve a conflict respectfully, the signs of development are everywhere.

But none of this growth happens by accident. It’s the result of careful planning, consistent support, and the tireless work of our entire Columbia team. Behind every milestone your child meets, there is a teacher who has encouraged, adapted, assessed, and believed in them. There is a paraeducator who provided a well-timed nudge, a custodian who greeted them with a smile, or a cafeteria staff member who made sure they were nourished and ready to learn.

I’m reminded of the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” That could not be more true in a school community. We are so fortunate at Columbia to have a staff that is both talented and deeply committed to our students’ well-being and success.

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 5–9 this year. It’s a perfect time to pause and say thank you—not just to classroom teachers, but to every adult who plays a role in shaping our school community. A short note, a kind word, or a student’s handmade card can go a long way in reminding our staff how valued they are.

As we move into the final stretch of the school year, I hope you take a moment to reflect on how much your child has grown—and on all the people who helped make that possible. It’s truly a collective effort, and I am so proud to be part of this Columbia community.

Warm regards,

Bruce Denton

Our 3rd-5th graders will be taking their Washington State Smarter Balanced Assessment (SBA) at the end of May and first week of June. As much as possible, avoid scheduling appointments for these testing dates. Ensure your child arrives at school on time. Try to have your child get a good night’s rest and have your child eat a healthy breakfast.

Teacher Appreciation Week - May 5th-9th. Need a gift idea? Check out our Teacher/Staff Wishlists.

PTA is still looking for donations of drinks/desserts to help us celebrate our amazing teachers and staff. Please sign up to bring something!

Kick off your weekend with a donut and your favorite Columbia student Friday, May 16th, from 4-5pm on the Columbia playground! We want to have enough for everyone, so please RSVP here.

Columbia Elementary's Beach Day will be on Friday, June 6th from 4pm - 7pm at Lighthouse Park.  Please RSVP here so we can plan how much food to purchase. 

You can also sign up to bring snacks/drinks or volunteer to help here.

Mukilteo School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination: Civil Rights Coordinator and Title IX Coordinator Simone Neal (425-356-1244),  nealsr@mukilteo.wednet.edu, Section 504 Coordinator Becca Anderson (425-356-1277), andersonra@mukilteo.wednet.edu, and the ADA/Access Coordinator Karen Mooseker (425-356-1330),  moosekerkw@mukilteo.wednet.edu. Address: 9401 Sharon Drive in Everett, WA. Inquiries regarding ADA/Access issues at Sno-Isle TECH Skills Center should be directed to Wes Allen, Director (425-348-2220) allenwr@mukilteo.wednet.edu. Address: 9001 Airport Road in Everett, WA 98204.