Civil Municipal - April 2024

student receives a quality education.” APPROACH TO INNOVATION While navigating demographic shifts and anticipating future challenges, the Steilacoom Historical School District focuses on empowering students and engaging with the community,”Weight affirms. “Whether through early literacy initiatives, expanding dual credit opportunities, or addressing infrastructure needs, our goal is to ensure every student receives a quality education.” One of the cornerstones of Steilacoom’s success lies in its strategic utilization of grants, which have served as catalysts for innovation and improvement. Through partnerships with Joint Base Lewis- McChord and rigorous grant processes, the district has embarked on transformative endeavors spanning social-emotional learning, math development, STEM education, world languages, and early literacy. Weight highlights the significance of these grants, not only in providing resources and technology but also in encouraging a culture of data-driven decision-making. The grants have empowered the district to invest in professional learning for staff, equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to deliver impactful instruction. Lewis emphasizes the importance of evidence-based strategies and the allocation of resources toward teacher training, tools, and additional time for students. By leveraging the expertise of its educators and embracing best practices, the district ensures that every student receives the support they need to thrive academically and emotionally. APPROACH TO ATTRACT AND RETAIN TALENT Attracting and retaining top talent remains a key priority for the Steilacoom Historical School District. Weight stresses the district’s ability to recruit from far and wide, aided by streamlined application processes and close relationships with educational institutions. However, the district’s unique focus on social-emotional learning and neural education sets it apart, attracting educators who share its holistic student development vision. Under Weight’s tenure of nearly 12 years, the district has cultivated a sense of stability and purpose that resonates throughout its schools. The longevity of both administrative and teaching staff speaks volumes about the district’s commitment to its 271 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 5, ISSUE 04 STEI LACOOM HISTORICAL SCHOOL DISTRICT