Looking ahead to 2025

Happy New Year! As we welcome 2025, I hope the holiday season brought you cherished moments with loved ones and a chance to recharge. This time of year invites us to reflect on the past and dream big for the future—and I am filled with gratitude and optimism as I look back and ahead.

2024 Reflections: Gratitude and Excellence

This past year has been remarkable in so many ways. I am incredibly grateful for the time I’ve spent learning from our nearly 2,000 students. Whether visiting classrooms, attending assemblies, cheering at games, or admiring performances, I am continually amazed by their thoughtfulness, creativity, and determination. From our youngest preschooler to our graduating seniors, each student brings unique gifts to our district.

As adults, we owe it to them to provide the tools they need to thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally — so they can emerge as the leaders our world so desperately needs.

Our students’ accomplishments in 2024 showcased their dedication and talent. From record-breaking swimmers to scholar-athletes maintaining exceptional GPAs while competing, Eatonville students are raising the bar. The highlights from this fall’s athletic achievements alone are worth celebrating:

Swim: 8 swimmers to state, 3 school records broken, and a league sportsmanship award.

Cross Country: Grace Coonrod, a league champion, broke the school 5K record.

Soccer: 11 wins, league honors, and a first-year coach recognized as Coach of the Season.

Football, Volleyball, and Tennis: Countless honors, all underscoring their hard work and commitment.

These moments are a testament to the spirit and dedication of our students, families, and coaches. Congratulations, Cruisers!

Honoring Our Staff

Equally inspiring are our staff members, who work tirelessly to ensure students have the support they need to succeed. From teachers and paraeducators to bus drivers and administrators, each team member plays a crucial role in fulfilling our Eatonville Promise: Every student will be known, valued, and supported.

One of my greatest joys as superintendent has been listening to and learning from our dedicated staff. Their passion fuels our shared mission, and I am committed to supporting their efforts every step of the way.

2025: A Year of Opportunity

As we step into this new year, we have much to celebrate and even more to accomplish. January marks School Board Appreciation Month, and I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our board members for their countless hours of service and unwavering commitment to our students and community. Please join me in thanking them for their leadership.

I’m also proud of the progress we’ve made on our five-year strategic plan, shaped by the voices of nearly 1,500 students, parents, staff, and community members. This plan keeps us focused on our goals, including our Portrait of a Graduate, which ensures our students are prepared not just for graduation but for life beyond.

Finally, I want to thank our community for your steadfast support, particularly through the approval of vital levies. Your trust allows us to provide the resources our students need to succeed, and we are working hard to honor that trust every day.

Looking Ahead with Hope

As we journey through 2025, I am confident that together we can achieve great things for our students. Let us continue to pull together, staying true to our shared values and commitment to academic excellence. Thank you for being an integral part of this incredible community.

Here’s to a productive and inspiring year ahead. We are Eatonville Strong!

With gratitude and hope,

Superintendent Jay Brower