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Pullman School District Monthly Newsletter: May

Posted Date: 06/02/26 (11:38 AM)


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Pullman School District Monthly Newsletter

May 2026

Students with backpacks walk away from the camera, indicating the last day of school on June 12.
The last day of school for K–12 students is Friday, June 12, 2026. Students will be dismissed early on this day.
  • 10:50am - Franklin, Jefferson, LMS & PHS students dismissed
  • 11:05am - Kamiak & Sunnyside students dismissed

In this issue:

Message from Maxwell

This section features a message from Superintendent Maxwell, sharing district highlights, reflections, and updates on priorities and initiatives.
Board Bulletin featuring the Pullman Public Schools Board of Directors.

Board Bulletin

Stay informed and engaged with "Board Bulletin," a section of our monthly newsletter featuring updates from our School Board. Each month, we’ll share key highlights from board meetings, important decisions, and a message from the Board to keep you connected to the work shaping our schools.
Health and Safety icons

District Highlights

Celebrating the achievements of our students, staff, and leaders making an impact in our schools and community.
  • Johanna Erickson named 2026 “Dedicated Teacher Award” Recipient
  • 2026 PSD Summer Meal Program Information
  • Spotlight on our Partners in Education: WSU Center for Civic Engagement's Adopt-a-School Program
Group of people at a outdoor market

Upcoming District Events

  • SAVE THE DATES! 2026-2027 School Year
  • District Office Transitioning to Summer Hours
Person pointing to we are hiring sign

PSD Employment Opportunities

We welcome all interested applicants and are committed to hiring the most highly qualified and professional teaching and support staff to serve the students of Pullman. To that end, the district will actively seek applicants who best meet the needs of the district.

Message from Maxwell

We extend our gratitude to our staff, families, and the Pullman community for their support throughout this school year. Your efforts play a pivotal role in ensuring a successful and enriching educational experience for our students, and we are truly grateful for your ongoing partnership and commitment to our shared goal of fostering excellence in education. See below for some of the highlights from another successful school year!

2025-2026 School Year At-A-Glance

Student Learning & Achievement

  • This year, Pullman School District served approximately 2,720 students in Preschool through Grade 12, supporting learning and growth across all schools and programs.
  • Equity-focused Professional Learning Communities continued to strengthen instruction and ensure every student has access to high levels of learning.
  • Pullman School District continues to participate in the Washington Guaranteed Admissions Program, helping more students envision and access postsecondary opportunities.
  • Three schools received statewide recognition for student achievement and growth for the 2024-2025 school year: 1) Franklin Elementary for achievement in ELA, math, and attendance; 2) Sunnyside Elementary for growth for students in one or more racial or ethnic groups, Low-income students; 3) Lincoln Middle School for growth for students in one or more racial or ethnic groups.
  • Every Pullman Public School ranked in the 2025-26 U.S. News & World Report Best Schools rankings.
  • Sunnyside Elementary earned recognition as a PLC at Work "Promising Practices School."

While we celebrate several notable achievements this year, these recognitions represent only a portion of the work happening in our schools every day.

Families and community members can explore additional student achievement, growth, attendance, graduation, and demographic data through OSPI's Washington State Report Card website.

**The 2025-26 data will be published once finalized by the state.
OSPI Report Card: Pullman SD

Community & Partnerships

This year, Pullman Public Schools continued to strengthen connections with families, community partners, and local organizations in support of student learning and belonging.

  • Pullman School District hosted a Spring Family Fair, bringing together families, staff, our Board of Directors, and community organizations to connect, share resources, and celebrate our schools.
  • Schools across the district hosted a wide variety of family and community engagement events that celebrated student learning, culture, and connection. These meaningful experiences were made possible through the support of parent groups, volunteers, club advisors, and staff who work together to create opportunities that strengthen relationships and enrich the student experience.
  • Strengthened civic partnerships through a joint meeting hosted by our School Board with the Pullman City Council, PHS Student Ambassadors, and district leaders to identify shared priorities and future collaboration opportunities.
  • Welcomed the Montessori School of Pullman to the District Office, expanding access to to educational opportunities within our community.
  • Continued highlighting the people and organizations who support our schools through the “Spotlight on Our Partners in Education” feature in district newsletters.
  • Built on ongoing community relationships that support student learning both inside and outside the classroom.

This school year, we are proud to celebrate the strong community involvement in our schools! A total of 2,384 volunteers contributed at least 4,222 documented hours in support of students and staff. These figures reflect only recorded hours and likely understate the full impact of the support provided across our district.

In addition, 155 substitutes stepped up throughout the year to fill a variety of essential roles across our district, helping ensure continuity of learning and operations when staff were unavailable.

We are deeply grateful to the families, organizations, substitutes, and community members who shared their time, energy, and talents with our schools!

From all of us at Pullman Public Schools, thank you!

Investing in the Future

  • Acquired 30 additional acres adjoining 60 acres already owned by the district, creating a unified 90-acre site to support future growth and long-term planning.
  • Completed the sale of the Pullman Aquatic Center to SEL, positioning both organizations for future success and stewardship of community resources.

Celebrating Excellence

  • Pullman School District is home to 18 National Board Certified Teachers!
  • Reem Nasralla, Special Education Paraeducator at Sunnyside Elementary, was selected to receive the 2025 Excellence in Education Award.
  • Johanna Erickson, Math Teacher at Lincoln Middle School, was selected to received the 2026 Dedicated Teacher Award.
  • Our Board of Directors was recognized as a 2026 Board of Distinction by WSSDA.

Leadership Transitions & Growth

  • Welcomed Ryan Mulvey as Assistant Superintendent, strengthening the district's leadership team.
  • Celebrated Jerrod Fleury's first year as Principal at Pullman High School.
  • Welcomed Cheyenne Webber to her first year as Principal at Kamiak Elementary School after previously serving as our Elementary Assistant Principal.
  • Supported leadership transitions across the district as Evan Hecker moved from Kamiak Elementary School to Pullman High School, serving in his first year as Assistant Principal and Athletic Director.
  • Navigated leadership changes at Franklin Elementary School, welcoming Liz Pavlik as principal and later benefiting from the experience and steady leadership of retired principal Bill Holman, who is will continue to serve the Franklin school community through the remainder of the school year.
  • Honored the service of two longtime Board members while welcoming two newly elected directors to serve the Pullman community.

Thank You!

Thank you to all of our generous community partners, donors, dedicated volunteers, and reliable substitutes for your incredible support and commitment to our community's education. Each of you plays a vital role in enriching the lives of our students and strengthening our school environment.

Thanks to your donations, we have been able to provide a wide array of programs and activities that might otherwise be unavailable. These include extracurricular clubs, sports teams, arts programs, field trips, and numerous other initiatives that help our students grow, learn, and thrive. Your generosity ensures that every student has the opportunity to explore their interests and talents, developing skills and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
We remain dedicated to providing high-quality education for every student, and your support is more critical than ever as we navigate the evolving challenges of K-12 education together.

Thank you for being an essential part of our school community.

Sincerely,
Bob Maxwell
Superintendent

Board Bulletin

Message From Our Board of Directors

On behalf of the Pullman School District Board of Directors, we congratulate our entire school community on another successful school year.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our teachers, staff, and administrators, whose dedication and hard work make effective instruction possible each and every day. We are also grateful to our parents, guardians, and families for the vital support they provide to our students.

Most importantly, we commend our students for their commitment, perseverance, and achievements throughout the year. Your efforts in the classroom, athletics, clubs, activities, service, and the arts reflect the strength and spirit of our schools.

We wish everyone a safe, restful, and enjoyable summer break!
 

Board Meeting Recap

A group of people sit at a long table during a Pullman School Board Meeting.

May 13, 2026 Regular Board Meeting Recap

The Pullman School District Board of Directors met on May 13 for their regular board meeting. The board received reports from Pullman High School ASB and the Superintendent. Program highlights included an overview from Exectuive Director Pollestad on the Asset Preservation Program and an overview from Superintendent Maxwell on the Skyward Qmlativ migration process.

Action was taken on updates to Board Policy 5404 Family, Medical and Maternity Leave and a new member was appointed to the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) Task Force. The board also took action on follow-up items from the joint meeting with the Pullman City Council. Discussion items included review of the 2026-27 Board Meeting Schedule and a resolution to revise and extend the 2025-26 General Fund Budget.

Read the full agenda at the link below:

Watch the Regular Board meeting at the link below:
A group of people sit at a long table during a Pullman School Board Meeting, with a play button overlay.

May 27, 2026 Regular Board Meeting Recap

The Pullman School District Board of Directors met on May 27 for their regular board meeting. The board presented the 2026 Dedicated Teacher Award to Johanna Erickson and received reports from Pullman High School ASB and the Superintendent. Program highlights included a showcase from Lincoln Middle School and Pullman High School.

The board conducted a public hearing to revise and extend the 2025-2026 General Fund Budget and took action on the 2026-2027 Board Meeting Schedule and approved the budget revision and extension. There were no discussion items.

Read the full agenda at the link below:

Watch the Regular Board meeting at the link below:
You can view the Pullman School District Board of Directors meeting schedule on our website. Board meetings are conducted at Pullman High School in the Board Room starting at 6:30pm and are open to the public. If you are interested in engaging with the school board during the public comment section, please visit our website for more information.

We make every effort to post board meeting packets prior to 5:00pm on the Friday before a board meeting. Please note that the most updated version of a board packet is posted online. No updates are made the 24 hours prior to a board meeting.
Board Meeting Documents
 

Pullman Community Update

An illustration of a newspaper with the headline 'NEWS'.

Pullman Public Schools - June

Board Article Submitted by: Deena Bayoumi, Board Director District 4

Principal Article: Jerrod Fleury, Pullman High School Principal

District Highlights

Johanna Erickson named 2026 “Dedicated Teacher Award” Recipient

A group of educators stands together, with one woman holding a certificate for the 2026 Dedicated Teacher Award.
Johanna Erickson, Math Teacher at Lincoln Middle School, was presented with the 2026 “Dedicated Teacher Award” from the Pullman Public Schools Board of Directors during the Regular Board meeting held on May 27, 2026. Annually, the board honors either an individual certificated employee with the "Dedicated Teacher Award" or a committed teaching team with the "Dedicated Teaching Team Recognition Award.” This recognition is in appreciation of a teacher or a team’s demonstrated dedication to students and to their school.

Johanna has served the Pullman School District for 5 years, and was recommended for this recognition by Lincoln Middle School Principal, Cameron Grow, who was inspired by Johanna’s love for students and ability to build meaningful relationships grounded in respect, high expectations, and care.

Principal Grow shared that “Johanna Erickson exemplifies excellence in every aspect of her work and makes a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the school community. Her instruction is thoughtful, data-informed, and engaging, ensuring that all students have access to high-quality learning. Her commitment to equity is evident in how she differentiates instruction, and advocates for every learner's success. In addressing opportunity and achievement gaps, Mrs. Erickson is deliberate and equity-driven. She identifies barriers to learning and implements targeted supports, such as scaffolding, flexible grouping, and culturally responsive teaching practices. She builds meaningful relationships with students and families, recognizing that connection is foundational to academic success. Mrs. Erickson’s commitment to student-centered decision-making and continuous growth directly supports Pullman School District’s long-term vision of every student learning at grade level and above. [Johanna] represents the very best of our profession and is deeply deserving of this recognition.”

From all of us here at Pullman School District, we extend our congratulations to Johanna!
 

2026 Dedicated Teacher Award Nominees:
  • Altaira Bogle, Pullman High School
  • Corina Andersen, Sunnyside Elementary School
 

2026 PSD Summer Meal Program Information

Pullman Public Schools offers free summer meals (lunch and breakfast) for ages 18 and under, available Monday-Thursday from June 22 to August 13, 2026.

JOIN US FOR FREE BREAKFAST AND LUNCH THIS SUMMER!

MEALS ARE COMPLETELY FREE TO ALL CHILDREN AGES 1-18 YEARS OF AGE

June 22 - August 13 | Monday-Thursdays Only
Grab & Go meals (free lunch and breakfast for the next day) available at (3) locations:

  • Kamiak Elementary (1400 NW Terre View Dr) between 11:30am-12:30pm
  • Reaney Park (690 NE Reaney Way) between 11:30am-12:30pm
  • Terre View Apartments (555 NE Terre View Dr) between 12:45pm-1:15pm

Notices:
  • Grab and Go bags are pre-packaged and offered at all (3) three locations, families are welcome to choose the location that works best for them—but please only pick up meals from one site
  • Parents/guardians picking up meals at pick-up sites are required to sign a form attesting they are picking up the meal for a child between the ages of 1-18 years old. 
Poster with a summer themed background that features a smoothie bike and the text "Summer Meals Kickoff" with the date, time and location featured in the center.

Summer Meals Kick-Off at Reaney Park!

Join us for the Summer Meals Kickoff at Reaney Park! Free meals for kids ages 1–18 - Fun, food, and community—we hope to see you there!

Date: June 22
Time: 11:30am-12:30pm
Location: Reaney Park (690 NE Reaney Way)

Spotlight on Our Partners in Education!

Image features the text 'Spotlight on Our Partners in Education' with a thank you message for Pullman Public Schools.

Washington State University - Center for Civic Engagement's (CCE) "Adopt-a-School" Program

The WSU CCE's Adopt-a-School program with Pullman School District is thriving! What began as a requirement for Teaching and Learning 301 students to complete five hours of Pre-K-12th grade classroom experience has expanded to include five additional Teaching and Learning courses, giving more opportunities to our future educators to gain the hands-on experience they need as they prepare to enter the profession. 
This spring, teachers at Jefferson Elementary, Kamiak Elementary, Sunnyside Elementary, Lincoln Middle School, and Pullman High School generously opened their classrooms to WSU Teaching and Learning students.

Volunteers supported K-12 learners in a variety of meaningful ways, including leading small reading and math groups, assisting with science labs, providing tutoring, and working one-on-one with special education students. At Lincoln Middle School and Pullman High School, WSU students volunteered at sporting events, including basketball games, wrestling meets, and track competitions. 

Over the course of Spring 2026, more than 100 WSU students contributed over 215 volunteer hours across Pullman School District, a testament to the strength of this growing partnership between WSU and the broader Pullman community. 

Upcoming District Events

School/District Events Calendar
 

SAVE THE DATES! 2026-2027 School Year

  • AUG 03: Annual August Updates - Returning families can complete their Annual August Updates in Skyward
  • AUG 17: Student Schedules available in ParentSquare and Skyward
  • AUG 17: Greyhound Gear-Up (Orientation event for students in grades 9-12)
  • AUG 19-20: Spartan Start-Up (Orientation event for students in grades 6-8)
  • AUG 25: Elementary Back-to-School Night (for all students in grades K-5)
  • AUG 26: First Day of School (students in grades 1-12)
  • AUG 31: First Full Day of Kindergarten (first full day of kindergarten, following kindergarten entry conferences)
  • SEP 07: Labor Day, No School
 
Graphic announcing 'District Office Summer Hours' with beach imagery.

District Office Transitioning to Summer Hours

The District Office will be switching to summer office hours starting Monday, June 22 and will go through Friday, August 14
  • Monday - Thursdays: 7:00am-4:30pm
  • Fridays – 7:00am -11:00am

If you have anything you need to drop off after hours, please do so in the blue drop box, located out in the front of Pioneer Center (240 SE Dexter St).

In addition, school/district facilities closed on the following dates:
  • Friday, June 19 - School/district facilities closed in observance of Juneteenth 
  • Friday, July 3 – School/district facilities will be closed to the public in observance of the Independence Day holiday on July 4.

PSD Employment Opportunities

Interested in Joining Our Team?

We are in need of:
  • Kindergarten Teacher (JES) beginning 2026-27 school year
  • 1st Grade Teacher (JES) beginning 2026-27 school year
  • 1st Grade Teacher (KES) beginning 2026-27 school year
  • 3rd Grade Teacher (JES) beginning 2026-27 school year
  • 3rd Grade Teacher (KES) beginning 2026-27 school year
  • 4th Grade Teacher (KES) beginning 2026-27 school year
  • 5th Grade Teacher (KES) beginning 2026-27 school year
  • 5th Grade Teacher (JES) beginning 2026-27 school year
  • 0.6 FTE Family and Consumer Sciences Instructor (Leave Replacement for 2026-27)
  • Maintenance Technician
  • 0.6FTE Health Career/Sports Medicine Instructor beginning 2026-27 school year
  • Psychologist/Counselor (beginning 2026-27 school year)
  • Regular Route Bus Drivers
  • Head Swim Coach (PHS)
We welcome all interested applicants and are committed to hiring the most highly qualified and professional teaching and support staff to serve the students of Pullman. 
 
To submit an employment application, click the button below.

For more information about employment with Pullman School District, please visit our website at: https://www.pullmanschools.org/human-resources
PSD Employment Opportunities

We Are Always Looking Substitutes!

​If you or anyone you know would be interested in subbing for Pullman Schools as a:
  • Emergency Substitute Teacher
  • Substitute Custodian
  • Substitute Nutrition Services Staff
  • Substitute Paraeducator
Please apply for these positions online at: 

If you or anyone you know would be interested in subbing for Pullman Schools as a:
  • Substitute Bus Driver 
  • Substitute Nurse
Please pick up an application at the District Office (240 SE Dexter St).

Questions about employment with Pullman School District?
Contact: Dagny Myers
Phone: (509) 332-3581 | Email: dmyers@psd267.org
​​
 
The Pullman School District Board of Directors and the Pullman School District shall provide equal educational opportunity and treatment for all students in all aspects of the academic and activities programs without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, honorably-discharged veteran or military status, sex, sexual orientation (including gender expression or identity), marital status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, participation in the Boy Scouts of America or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. The district will provide equal access to the Boy Scouts of America and all other designated youth groups listed in Title 36 of the United States Code as a patriotic society. District programs will be free from sexual harassment. The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination: Civil Rights Coordinator and Title IX Coordinator, Assistant Superintendent, (509) 332-3144, compliancecoord@psd267.org, and Section 504/ADA Coordinator, Assistant Director of Special Services (509) 332-3144, compliancecoord@psd267.org. 240 SE Dexter Street, Pullman, WA 99163. Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations in the application process by contacting the Personnel Coordinator at (509) 332-3584. Title IX inquiries may also be directed toward the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR): https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html. Information about the nondiscrimination and sex-based discrimination policies and grievance procedures, and how to report a concern or complaint: https://www.pullmanschools.org/hib-discrimination