Recent safety concern

 Community Update: South Bend School District Addresses Recent Safety Concern

South Bend, WA – In our commitment to transparency and community engagement, the South Bend School District wishes to address and clarify events that occurred on our campus yesterday, dispelling any rumors and ensuring our community is informed directly from us.

Early yesterday morning, our administration was alerted to a situation involving a student who made threats towards another student through online social platforms. The student making threats was immediately contacted by Principal Jason Nelson and Vice Principal Mr. Schray to be questioned. 

The student involved admitted to making the threats online. Local law enforcement was contacted and arrived on campus to interview the student. The police then escorted the student home, and confirmed the individual had no access to weapons at any time. It is important to emphasize that at no point were weapons brought onto school premises.

The South Bend School District's Threat Assessment Team, under the guidance of school administration and school Mental Health Generalist Dr. Stacey Villanueva, is actively collaborating with SBPD Chief Stigall to ensure that a plan is in place moving forward. 

We understand the importance of clear and open communication in maintaining a safe educational environment. Should you have any questions or concerns, we encourage you to reach out. Our priority remains the safety, security, and well-being of all our students and staff members.  If there is ever a concern related to the safety of our students and/or staff, please report those concerns to school administration immediately.

For further inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us directly.

Thank you for your continued support and cooperation.

Contact Information: Dr. Jon Tienhaara Superintendent, South Bend School District 
Phone: 360.875.6041 | Fax: 360.875.6062 

Email: jtienhaa@southbendschools.org 

Website: www.southbendschools.org

South Bend and Raymond School Districts team up for Girls' Basketball

Community Update

November 15, 2023

South Bend and Raymond School Districts have combined to launch the RSB Ravens girls' basketball team as the newest addition to the RSB Ravens programs.

The combine is rooted in a shared commitment to student opportunity and inclusivity, ensuring that every high school girl has the chance to participate in basketball, regardless of the number of players each school can field independently. Initial discussions to merge the teams began over the summer, with both districts agreeing to a seamless transition. However, the Raymond school board later withdrew from the initial agreement due to unforeseen circumstances, only to reapproach South Bend on November 10, 2023, with a renewed proposal in light of low student turnout.

In a cooperative spirit, and acknowledging the past success of other RSB Ravens teams, both districts have expedited preparations to facilitate the new girls team. Joint practices will be conducted at both South Bend and Raymond facilities. The coaching staff will be a blend of Raymond's current staff—Jason Koski, Makenna Williams, and Butch Betrozoff—and South Bend's Macy Karlsvik will be an assistant coach.  Athletic Directors Jon Schray from South Bend and Mike Tully from Raymond have both been working hard with program logistics and support.

The RSB Ravens' first practices have already kicked off with a spirit of teamwork and camaraderie, mirroring the previous RSB combines. The promising start signals a season of unity and strength for all girls.  New uniforms representing the RSB Ravens have been ordered; in the interim, athletes will don South Bend and Raymond uniforms alternately, symbolizing the unity of the new program.

"We recognize the less-than-ideal nature of the timing of this change and are grateful for the community's adaptability and support. Ensuring the student experience remains the focal point of these efforts is a priority," says South Bend superintendent Jon Tienhaara.  "The Raymond school administration and superintendent K.C. Johnson have been great to work with and have been working hard to make the transition as best as possible." "As the season unfolds, we anticipate the community's continued support for the RSB Ravens and the deepening of the ties and teamwork our shared athletic programs have cultivated between our two schools and student bodies."  "Our decisions are always with the best interests all students in mind.  We have a lot of hope the girls from both schools will have a good experience and successful season," Tienhaara concludes.

A revised game schedule will be forthcoming.  Please watch for further information on school district social media and website channels.

Notice of Active Shooter Full Scale Exercise September 30

Saturday, September 30, 2023

South Bend School District Campus

The Pacific County Emergency Management Agency, in conjunction with the Pacific County Sheriff’s Office, Raymond Police Department, Long Beach Police Department, South Bend Police Department, Pacific County Communications, Ilwaco Fire Department, Pacific County Fire District 1, the Raymond Fire Department, Naselle School District, Ocean Beach School District, Raymond School District, South Bend School District and Willapa Valley School District along with the Washington State Patrol, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police and a variety of other partners will conduct a multi-agency active shooter training and crisis management full-scale exercise. The exercise will take place on Saturday September 30, at South Bend High School.

To avoid any confusion during the exercise, PCEMA is notifying the public and community ahead of time. The exercise is closed to the general public.

The training exercise will focus on emergency response to an active shooter incident on campus and is being staged by PCEMA in collaboration with other area first responders and law enforcement agencies. It will involve a simulation of an active shooter on both campuses. The exercise goal is to test existing plans to  assure a coordinated, timely and effective response in the event of a major incident.

Volunteers are being sought to act as role-players for the exercise. Role-players under the age of 18 will need to have signed permission from a parent or guardian.  For the South Bend portion of the exercise contact the South Bend School District at 360-875-5707.

Media Availability: Because of the sensitive nature of the activities, media presence will be limited during the exercise as it unfolds. Members of the media wishing to observe the exercise should reach out to Public Information Officer Hollie Billeci at 360-875-9300 extension 2293.

2023-24 Early Learning Information

South Bend School District

Early Learning

360-875-5327 option 1  409 East First St  South Bend, Wa 98586

Para español, vea abajo.

August 15, 2023

Dear Early Learning Parent or Guardian,

As the 2023-24 school year approaches, I wanted to share some important dates and details concerning our South Bend Early Learning Programs.

Preschool

• South Bend School District provides preschool for children aged 3 and 4 by August 31st.

• Our District participates in the ECEAP and Transitional Kindergarten programs through WA State. Upon completing the enrollment process, many families discover they're eligible for FREE preschool.

• Preschool runs from 8 am to 3 pm, Tuesday through Friday, for both 3 and 4-year-old classes. For Monday childcare needs, please inform the ELC. If you prefer a shorter preschool day for your child, we'll accommodate your preference. Contact the ELC at (360) 875-5327 opt 1.

• Our teachers will contact enrolled families between August 28th-31st to inform you of your child's class and schedule a Soft Start Parent-Teacher Conference/Classroom Orientation for the week of September 5th-11th.

• The first preschool day is Tuesday, September 12th.

Child Care

• We offer child care for children aged 12 months to 6 years, who haven't yet started kindergarten.

• Enroll in child care if your child needs Monday care (when there's no preschool), wrap-around care, or full, part-time, or per diem care.

• The District is a part of the Washington State Working Connections Child Care Subsidy Program, which offers free or reduced rates to eligible families. Apply at 1-844-626-8687 or www.washingtonconnection.org.

• Child care operates from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday. It aligns with the South Bend School District calendar, observing Federal Holidays and school breaks. Child care is available on District early release days.

• Child care begins on Thursday, August 31st.

Junior Preschool

• We offer junior preschool for children aged 30 months to 3 years, who are not yet in 3yo preschool.

• Junior preschool is available two days weekly for two hours each day.

• Transportation to and from junior preschool must be arranged by parents/guardians.

• Enroll by calling the ELC at (360) 875-5327 opt 1.

• Junior preschool starts on Tuesday, October 3rd.

Playgroup

• Our playgroup caters to children from birth to three years and their caretakers.

• Join us for the first playgroup session on Monday, October 2nd in Room 270 at South Bend Jr/Sr High School. No registration needed; feel free to attend.

Early Support for Infants and Toddlers (ESIT)/Birth to Three Programming

• We provide ESIT/Birth to Three services for Raymond, South Bend, Willapa Valley, and North River School Districts.

• The Early Intervention Program supports children from birth to three years needing developmental assistance. Post-screening, qualifying children receive these services for free.

• For a FREE screening, call the ELC at (360) 875-5327 opt 1 and ask for Alexis Hood.

We're also searching for dedicated individuals passionate about working with young children. Consider joining us as a substitute by contacting the ELC.

For more information, visit the South Bend Early Learning Center, open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4 pm. You can also call us at (360) 875-5327 opt 1. Stay updated by liking our @SouthBendElc Facebook page.

We eagerly anticipate partnering with you to enrich your child's learning journey.

Sincerely,

Amy Nelson,

Early Learning Director

15 de agosto de 2023

Estimado padre o tutor del Programa de Aprendizaje Temprano,

A medida que se acerca el año escolar 2023-24, quería compartir algunas fechas e información importantes sobre nuestros Programas de Aprendizaje Temprano de South Bend.

Preescolar

• El Distrito Escolar de South Bend ofrece preescolar para niños de 3 y 4 años hasta el 31 de agosto.

• Nuestro distrito participa en los programas ECEAP y Kindergarten Transicional a través del estado de WA. Al completar el proceso de inscripción, muchas familias descubren que son elegibles para el preescolar GRATUITO.

• El preescolar funciona de 8 am a 3 pm, de martes a viernes, tanto para clases de 3 como de 4 años. Informe al ELC si necesita cuidado infantil los lunes. Si prefiere que su hijo asista menos horas al preescolar, adaptaremos según su preferencia. Contacte al ELC al (360) 875-5327 opción 1.

• Nuestros maestros contactarán a las familias inscritas entre el 28 y el 31 de agosto para informarles sobre la clase de su hijo y programar una Conferencia/Orientación Suave con el maestro para la semana del 5 al 11 de septiembre.

• El primer día de preescolar es el martes 12 de septiembre.

Cuidado infantil

• Ofrecemos cuidado infantil para niños de 12 meses a 6 años, que aún no han comenzado el jardín de infancia.

• Inscriba a su hijo en el cuidado infantil si necesita cuidado los lunes (cuando no hay preescolar), cuidado envolvente, o cuidado a tiempo completo, parcial o por día.

• El Distrito participa en el Programa de Subsidio para el Cuidado Infantil de Conexiones Laborales del Estado de Washington, que ofrece tarifas gratuitas o reducidas a familias elegibles. Aplique al 1-844-626-8687 o en www.washingtonconnection.org.

• El cuidado infantil opera de 7:30 am a 4:30 pm, de lunes a viernes. Coincide con el calendario del Distrito Escolar de South Bend, observando días festivos federales y vacaciones escolares. El cuidado infantil está disponible en los días de salida temprana del Distrito.

• El cuidado infantil comienza el jueves 31 de agosto.

Preescolar junior

• Ofrecemos preescolar junior para niños de 30 meses a 3 años, que aún no están en el preescolar de 3 años.

• El preescolar junior está disponible dos días a la semana durante dos horas cada día.

• Los padres/tutores deben organizar el transporte hacia y desde el preescolar junior.

• Inscriba a su hijo llamando al ELC al (360) 875-5327 opción 1.

• El preescolar junior comienza el martes 3 de octubre.

Grupo de juego

• Nuestro grupo de juego es para niños desde el nacimiento hasta los tres años y sus cuidadores.

• Únase a nosotros para la primera sesión de grupo de juego el lunes 2 de octubre en la Sala 270 en South Bend Jr/Sr High School. No es necesario registrarse; simplemente venga y participe.

Apoyo temprano para infantes y niños pequeños (ESIT)/Programación de Nacimiento a Tres años

• Proporcionamos servicios ESIT/Nacimiento a Tres años para los distritos escolares de Raymond, South Bend, Willapa Valley y North River.

• El Programa de Intervención Temprana apoya a niños desde el nacimiento hasta los tres años que necesitan asistencia en desarrollo. Tras la evaluación, los niños que califiquen recibirán estos servicios de forma gratuita.

• Para una evaluación GRATUITA, llame al ELC al (360) 875-5327 opción 1 y pregunte por Alexis Hood.

También estamos buscando individuos dedicados con pasión por trabajar con niños pequeños. Considere unirse a nosotros como sustituto contactando al ELC.

Para más información, visite el Centro de Aprendizaje Temprano de South Bend, abierto de lunes a viernes, de 8 am a 4 pm. También puede llamarnos al (360) 875-5327 opción 1. Manténgase actualizado dando "Me gusta" a nuestra página de Facebook SouthBendElc.

Esperamos con entusiasmo la oportunidad de trabajar conjuntamente con usted para enriquecer el aprendizaje de su hijo.

Atentamente,

Amy Nelson,

Directora de Aprendizaje Temprano

SB receives planning grant for Vocational building

 

South Bend High School Vocational building

South Bend School District was recently awarded a Small School District Modernization planning grant targeting the “vocational building,” which currently houses the wood shop, metals shop, and some classroom space.  According to Superintendent Jon Tienhaara, the district applied for the grant in April of 2022 and just received formal notice of the award.  “Our vocational building is basically the last building on our campus needing a remodel.  It was constructed in the early 1950’s and has served the district in multiple capacities over the years.” “Because of its age, it needs a lot of work, and our intent is to be able to complete a full remodel without adding any financial burden to our local taxpayers.”  

Grant funding

Grant funding has played a large role in many projects on the South Bend School campus over the last many years.  Since 2017, the district has received over $12 million for capital project funding. “We’ve been very fortunate with our funding efforts”, says Tienhaara. “Since 2016 or so we've been busy with a seemingly continual list of projects, from the baseball field to the new elementary school, Koplitz Field House, the football field, several infrastructure projects, and most recently our fitness building."  "Except for the bond we ran in 2018 to help fund part of the new elementary, the lion share of everything we’ve done has been from outside grant funding."   

Vocational building constructed in 1954

The current planning grant will help identify the scope and costs for remodeling South Bend’s vocational building. “We applied for the Small School District Modernization grant that is funded by the state legislature.  This is the grant program we were able to benefit from as a pilot school back in 2018 for the elementary, where we received just under $8 million dollars in funding,” says Tienhaara.  “The program has now been in place for several years and we’re eligible to apply, our vocational building is a perfect candidate for a competitive application.”  

The current building was constructed in 1954 and has had little to no remodeling since.  Though the district has made minor improvements over the years and has conducted regular maintenance, the building is showing its age.  “The district has done a tremendous job these last 70 years maintaining the building,” Tienhaara adds.  “But when it’s time, it’s time.”  “Every building component needs to be replaced and the building floods almost every year.”  “I’m hoping we can come up with a good proposal that will extend the life of the building for years to come.”

Next steps

With the planning grant, the district will now hire a consultant to develop the modernization scope and related costs. Superintendent Tienhaara concludes, “We will be hiring a firm to help us with the scope and costs of the project.”  “Typically this specific grant is used for individual building systems, but we petitioned the state to allow us to apply based on a square footage estimate due to the fact our building needs so much work.  The state approved our request and we are now moving forward.  It is my hope we can do the preliminary work this coming year and be ready for a construction grant soon after, much like the Koplitz Field House grant worked.”  “In our initial grant application, we submitted an estimate of just under $5 million needed for the project, but we expect that number to grow based on inflation and other soft costs.  This grant will help us now fine tune the project planning."