December 4, 2024
ISSUE 49
50¢
IT'S IN THE CLASSIFIEDS
Hunting for a job? In the market for a new home? Have something to sell? Turn to the Classifieds in The Dispatch and at dispatchnews.com
EFN brings food drive, Empty Bowls By Tacoma Weekly Emergency Food Network (EFN) and the Lakewood Police Department will host the 15th Annual Fallen Officers Food Drive on Thursday, Dec. 5. Community members are encouraged to bring food and monetary donations to drop off from 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Lakewood Police Department located at 9401 Lakewood Dr. SW. There will also be a blood drive on-site (appointment required) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to further support our community. The Fallen Officers Food Drive was created in 2009 in memory of four Lakewood officers who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty on Nov. 29, 2009: Sgt. Mark Renninger, officers Ronald Owens, Tina Griswold, and Greg Richards. Since then, the Lakewood Police Department and EFN have held this annual event to honor the service of our fallen heroes by helping feed those in need. Now in its 15th year, this food drive has provided over 720,000 meals to families and individuals in Pierce County. “Every donation made during this event helps ensure that families across Pierce County have the food
COURTESY
At Empty Bowls, shop for handcrafted bowls and enjoy a selection of delicious soups. they need, showing that together, we can create a meaningful impact in memory of those we have lost,” says EFN CEO Michelle
Douglas. On Dec. 5, officers and volunteers will be present to collect donations, but contributions are welcome
anytime at the Lakewood Police Department from Dec. 2-9. Food drive bins will also be located at the following businesses during
these dates: Lakewood City Hall, Blue Steele Coffee, Lakewood Classy Chassis Car Wash and Detail, Lakewood Classic Coffee, and UP
Classic Coffee. Donate online at tinyurl. com/bxyva9v2.
BOWLS, 3
Academic success in Eatonville schools
A
cross our district, all 280-plus staff members are united in their commitment to ensuring students excel academically and enjoy a meaningful educational experience. Every team member, regardless of their role, is working diligently to foster success. Our staff engages in ongoing professional development, including training designed to ensure every student feels valued, supported, and connected in all classrooms and settings. A key focus of this
Jay Brower work is the effective use of the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework, which provides tailored support to meet each student’s unique needs. This approach reflects our culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. As we move through December, a crucial time for
learning, I encourage you to help set your children up for success by ensuring their regular attendance. Let’s work together to make every day count! For more details on how we’re achieving our academic goals, please read the articles below. Joe Harned Student Support Tutoring Program In my last update, I shared the exciting news about a generous donation that made the Joe Harned Student Support Program possible. I am thrilled to report that this tutoring initiative is now
up and running at every Eatonville school! Each school has tailored the program to meet the specific needs of its students. If you believe your child would benefit from additional academic support, please contact your school for more information. This program reflects our dedication to ensuring all students have the resources they need to thrive. Celebrating Graduation Alliance Success I’m proud to recognize our most recent Graduation Alliance graduates! Their determination and perseverance have earned them their Eatonville School District diplomas, opening doors to future opportunities. Congratulations to these hardworking individuals on this milestone achievement—we can’t wait to see what you
accomplish next! Engaged and Effective School Board Members Our school board members are deeply committed to the academic success of every student in our district. Beyond their focus on Eatonville, they are recognized as leaders across Washington State. At the recent Washington State School Directors’ Association (WSSDA) conference, four of our board members represented Eatonville, sharing the impactful work happening in our schools. Additionally, Board Member Ronda Litzenberger serves as Chair of the Small Schools Advisory Committee for Washington State, advocating for the unique needs of districts like ours. We’re fortunate to have such dedicated and influential leadership. Caring for Our Community
The holiday season highlights the incredible care and compassion within our district. Our school counselors, social workers, and staff go above and beyond to support students and families, ensuring they feel cared for throughout the year, but especially now. I also want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our community partners for their generosity and kindness. Together, we’re making a real difference for our families and students. We are truly Eatonville Strong! Thank you for being an integral part of our district’s success. I wish you and your families a joyful holiday season. Jay Brower is superintendent of the Eatonville School District.