🦸♀️ SUPPORT SQUAD SPOTLIGHT: Our Para-Educator Heroes! 🦸♂️
Today at Mary M. Knight, we celebrate our incredible para-educators, school nurse, and support staff - the vital Support Squad who help our OWLS soar to new heights!
Our Amazing Support Squad:
Mrs. Darlene Henson (Team DC)
With nearly three decades at MMK, Mrs. Henson embodies Supergirl's spirit, showing extraordinary endurance for her students. She treasures those magical "Ah Ha moments" when knowledge clicks for a student after persistent effort.
Mrs. Alyson Johnson (Team DC)
In her 21 years at MMK, Mrs. Johnson has developed the superpower of "listening and loving those around her." Students know her as someone who consistently "listens, cares, and gives comfort." She's proudly watched our students excel at district, state, and national competitions.
Mrs. Tawnya Strain (Team Marvel)
Channeling Iron Man's resourcefulness, Mrs. Strain brings kindness and creativity to our students daily. She's "absolutely fallen in love with the kids" during her 17 years in education, building individual connections with each student she supports.
Mrs. Kiah Oien (Team Marvel)
Mrs. Oien brings Superman's resilience to her work at MMK. Described as "artistic, caring, and sassy," she finds joy in breakthrough moments when students suddenly understand challenging concepts after persistent effort.
Mrs. Paula Goeders (Team DC)
Like Batman, Mrs. Goeders has been a "resourceful protector" for 12 years, using her superpower of "being the voice for those who cannot speak for themselves." Her favorite moments include when a struggling math student exclaimed, "I got it Miss Paula!" after persistent effort.
Mr. Tyler Thompson (Team Marvel)
Mr. Thompson's enthusiasm and dedication create a foundation where all students can build confidence and achieve their academic goals. His behind-the-scenes work makes a profound difference in our educational mission at MMK.
Mrs. Ashlee Hughes (Team Marvel)
With Captain Marvel's determination, Mrs. Hughes has spent 6 years building remarkable rapport with her students. Her philosophy: "You can't do it now, but you will learn how to do it. I'm here to help you" embodies the growth mindset she instills in students.
Mrs. Linda Warren (Team DC) - School Nurse
As our school nurse, Mrs. Warren guards the health and wellness of our MMK family. Her compassionate care and medical expertise keep our students healthy and ready to learn every day.
Mrs. Kathy Glover-Burget (Team DC) - MTSS Coordinator
Mrs. Glover-Burget orchestrates our Multi-Tiered System of Supports, ensuring every student receives exactly the level of support they need to thrive. Her coordination creates pathways to success for students facing various challenges.
Why Our Support Squad Matters:
These incredible team members make Mary M. Knight's educational mission possible by:
Creating connections with students who need additional encouragement
Providing one-on-one and small group instruction to reinforce concepts
Supporting students with diverse learning needs and styles
Ensuring health, safety, and emotional well-being for all students
Celebrating breakthroughs when "the lightbulb goes on!"
Join Us in Saying Thank You!
Today, our students are creating special notes of appreciation for our Support Squad. We invite community members to join us by sharing your appreciation in the comments or sending a note to school with your student.
Mary M. Knight is truly fortunate to have such an amazing Support Squad helping our OWLS spread their wings and soar!
#MMKRealHeroes #SupportSquadSpotlight #ParaEducatorAppreciation
🏀 MMK March Madness Magic! 🏀
Our halls were buzzing with bracket predictions, buzzer-beaters, and serious school spirit during this year’s NCAA March Madness competition! 🎉
We’re excited to announce the winners of MMK’s March Madness Bracket Contest – a fun and competitive way to build College Awareness with our amazing students and staff! 🙌🎓
🔥 Men’s Bracket & Overall Points Champ: Hayden Hughes
🏆 Women’s Bracket Winners (Tie!): Ms. Heidt & Carissa Reeves
Congrats to our basketball brainiacs! 🧠💥
Check out the photo of our champions below – smiles, brackets, and all! 📸👏
#MMKMadness #CollegeBound #BracketBosses #MMKSpirit
💫 SUPPORT SQUAD SPOTLIGHT DAY 💫
Today we celebrate the unsung heroes of Mary M. Knight - our amazing PARA-EDUCATORS! 🦸♀️🦸♂️
These incredible team members are the true sidekicks of education, working tirelessly to support our students and teachers. With superpowers ranging from patience and understanding to creativity and quick thinking, our para-educators make learning accessible and enjoyable for ALL students!
Hero Spotlight: What Makes Our Paras Super?
"My greatest superpower is being the voice for those who cannot speak for themselves." - Mrs. Goeders (12 years at MMK)
"I love watching the moment a student understands a frustrating task you've been working on together - the 'aha' moment!" - Mrs. Oien (5 years at MMK)
"My favorite thing about working at MMK is being able to be here with my own kids and now my grandkids." - Mrs. Johnson (21 years at MMK)
Our Support Squad members describe their superpowers as kindness, resilience, and the ability to listen and love on those around them. They carry essential tools in their superhero utility belts - from glitter, counselors, and rope to smiles, kind words, and "backup people who help sort out thoughts and ideas."
The Para-Educator Impact
When asked about their most memorable moments, our paras consistently mention those breakthrough instances when students finally understand a concept they've been struggling with. As Mrs. Goeders shares: "He worked on this math problem and gave me a HUGE smile. He said 'I got it Miss Paula!' He was so excited and yes he did get it. The lightbulb went on!!!"
These moments of connection and growth are what make our para-educators such a vital part of our educational team.
Today, students are creating special "Para Power" thank you notes and participating in recognition activities to show their appreciation for these everyday heroes.
Join us in celebrating our SUPPORT SQUAD - the sidekicks who often become the main heroes in our students' educational journeys!
#MMKRealHeroes #SupportSquadSpotlight #TeamMarvel #TeamDC
📢 Running Start Information Session 📢
We are pleased to announce that Grays Harbor College will be presenting a Running Start Information Session on April 17, 2025.
📍 Location: Bingham's Classroom
⏰ Time: 5:30 PM
👥 Who Should Attend? Interested 9th-11th grade students and their families
This session will provide valuable information about the Running Start program, which offers eligible high school students the opportunity to earn college credits while completing their high school education.
We encourage all interested students and families to attend and learn more about this excellent academic opportunity.
For any questions, please contact Alex Fisher. We look forward to seeing you there!
🦸♀️ SECONDARY TEAM MARVEL: CHAMPIONS OF KNOWLEDGE! 🦸♂️
Staff Appreciation Week continues with a spotlight on our SECONDARY educators - Team Marvel! These extraordinary heroes guide our students through the crucial middle and high school years with their remarkable powers and dedication!
Ms. Simone Kemp - Science Superhero
Channeling the intelligence of Shuri and the kindness of Spider-Woman, Ms. Kemp brings science to life in her classroom! In her 4th year of teaching, her superpower of empathy helps students connect with complex scientific concepts. Her utility belt always contains a calculator, periodic table, and Expo markers for those "aha" moments. Her favorite hero moments? "The delight in the students' faces anytime we get to do a cool demonstration/experiment."
Mr. Tom Kerr - Athletic Director & PE Champion
With Superman's strength and efficiency, Mr. Kerr has been building champions at MMK for 9 years! Students describe him as "Straight-Forward, Organized, and Knowledgeable," and his stopwatch and whistle are always at the ready. His proudest hero moments include "the 2019 MMK Baseball team making it to the playoffs for the 1st time in MMK history and watching the 2025 girls basketball team make their first state berth in a decade."
Ms. Karen Ehler - Math Mastermind
Wielding Wonder Woman's powers for 20 years at MMK, Ms. Ehler's superpower is seeing potential in others. With her "magic bracelets and lasso of truth" in her utility belt, she helps students discover connections in mathematics they never saw before. Her passion? "I love Mary M. Knight because it is a small school and I get to really know my students and see their growth."
Ms. Kristine Barratt - ELA Enchantress
With the creative spirit of Ms. Frizzle, Ms. Barratt has been transforming ELA education at MMK for 7 years. Her superpower? "The ability to love and empathize with the kids and understand mental health issues/needs." Her utility belt includes a paintbrush, books, and unlimited canvas. She treasures watching students grow "from their 7th grade searching selves to the confident graduates ready to conquer the world (or Matlock)."
Mr. Garrett Johannes - CTE Director & Skills Master
Channeling Hulk's strength and determination, Mr. Johannes has spent 7 years helping students develop real-world skills. His professional approach (always carrying "a pen because I'm a professional") and love of learning have taken MMK students all the way to national competitions. His proudest hero moment? "Traveling to Atlanta for SkillsUSA National Conference."
Ms. Connie Bingham - Math Magician
With Wonder Woman's courage, Ms. Bingham brings 23 years of teaching experience (3 at MMK) to her math classes. Her superpower? "To laugh even when I want to cry." Armed with her "Lasso of Accountability and truth," she builds relationships with students and families that last beyond a single school year. Her most memorable hero moment? "Accidentally being called Grandma by a student!"
Ms. Kristine Cole - CTE Innovator
Ms. Cole harnesses Thor's energy and creativity in her CTE classroom. With just 2 years at MMK, she's already making a powerful impact with her hammer, knife, and electrical tape in her utility belt! Her mission is "being a positive influence on our youth, helping build them up to believe in themselves and recognize their potential." She treasures those "aha moments when learning connections are made."
Mr. Todd Plaisance - History Keeper
Mr. Plaisance brings history to life for our secondary students, helping them understand how the past shapes our present and future. His engaging approach makes historical events relevant and meaningful to today's students!
Ms. Alex Fisher - Counseling Commander
As our school counselor, Ms. Fisher helps students navigate the challenges of adolescence with compassion and expertise. Her guidance supports students' emotional well-being, academic success, and future planning!
Ms. Molly Heidt - Special Education Defender
Embodying Storm's strength and adaptability, Ms. Heidt creates inclusive learning environments where all students can succeed. Her greatest superpower? Empathy. Her students see her as "funny, caring, and stern" - the perfect combination for a special education superhero. Her utility belt always contains "an Amp energy drink, phone charger, and a really good pen" to tackle any challenge that comes her way!
These Secondary Team Marvel heroes prepare our students for successful futures through their dedication, expertise, and unwavering support. Join us in celebrating their incredible work during Staff Appreciation Week!
#MMKRealHeroes #TeamMarvel #SecondaryHeroes #StaffAppreciationWeek
🦸♀️ ELEMENTARY TEAM DC: OUR CLASSROOM CRUSADERS! 🦸♂️
As Staff Appreciation Week continues, we're shining the spotlight on our amazing ELEMENTARY educators - Team DC! These incredible heroes shape young minds every day with their unique superpowers and unwavering dedication!
Mrs. Barb Lohman - Preschool Superhero
With the energy and creativity of Ms. Frizzle herself, Mrs. Lohman has been changing lives in education since 1981! Her superpower of "ideation" means she's constantly finding innovative ways to help our youngest learners succeed. Armed with painter's tape, a pencil, and a timer in her utility belt, she celebrates those magical moments when students exclaim, "It's working already!" during reading lessons.
Mrs. Jennifer Dodge - Kindergarten Champion
Channeling the powers of the Bionic Woman, Mrs. Dodge brings compassion and empathy to her kindergarten classroom. She values hearing "both sides to every story" and creates a supportive environment where young learners thrive. The MMK community has been so welcoming that she says it will be "hard to go back to the sub pool!"
Mr. Doug Richert - 1st Grade Defender
Mr. Richert guides our 1st graders with patience and wisdom as they build their foundational skills. His calm presence and encouraging spirit help our young heroes discover their own potential every day!
Mrs. Jackie Jewett - 2nd Grade Guardian
With over 20 years of heroic teaching experience, Mrs. Jewett's superpower is building genuine connections with every child she teaches. Her utility belt is always stocked with "love, smiles, hugs, appreciation and compassion." Students describe her as loving, giving, and fun - the perfect combination for nurturing 2nd grade minds!
Ms. Deanna Niles - 3rd Grade Protector
Ms. Niles creates a classroom environment where curiosity and discovery flourish. Her 3rd graders benefit from her dedication to making learning engaging and meaningful each day!
Ms. Susan Daniels - 4th Grade Mentor
Ms. Daniels empowers her students to reach new heights of learning in 4th grade. Her thoughtful approach helps students build confidence and skills as they prepare for the upper elementary years!
Ms. Josie Dewey - 5th Grade Navigator
Identifying with Aquaman's strengths, Ms. Dewey has spent 8 years at MMK "listening and caring for others." Students describe her as caring, honest, and funny, and her utility belt always contains the essentials: "hugs, snacks, and jokes." Her joy comes from "working with youth and watching them grow."
Mr. Patrick Ferguson - 6th Grade Leader
Mr. Ferguson expertly guides our oldest elementary students as they prepare for their middle school journey. His leadership helps 6th graders develop independence and confidence during this important transition year!
Mrs. Logan Chambless - Music & PE Powerhouse
With the spirit of NightCrawler, Mrs. Chambless brings helpfulness and enthusiasm to both music and PE. Her favorite hero moments? "Getting hugs from kids at the start and/or end of class & hearing them talk about how much fun class was." With her Time Turner, Pepsi, and Animal Translator in her utility belt, she creates classes where students thrive both physically and musically!
These Elementary Team DC heroes make Mary M. Knight a place where young minds are nurtured, curiosity is encouraged, and every child feels valued. Join us in celebrating their incredible work during Staff Appreciation Week!
#MMKRealHeroes #TeamDC #ElementaryHeroes #StaffAppreciationWeek
🎉🏆 Huge congratulations to our incredible MMK SkillsUSA competitors! 🏆🎉
Our Entrepreneurship team crushed it, earning 2nd place in state, and our American Spirit team dominated with a 1st place state victory—which means they’re heading to NATIONALS in Atlanta this June!🔥
These 7 outstanding students represented MMK with pride, passion, and determination at the SkillsUSA State Competition, and we couldn't be prouder! Let’s cheer them on as they prepare to take on the nation! 🎊👏
#MMKStrong #SkillsUSA #StateChamps #RoadToNationals #ProudMoment
Principal's Message
As we enter Spring Break, I'm proud of our March award winners and GRIT students who exemplify our MMK values! While school pauses, our athletes compete Thursday (Track) and Friday (Baseball). Don't miss the PTO meeting April 9th and their Blanket Sale fundraiser. Enjoy your break! See our full newsletter here: https://secure.smore.com/n/vrtjw
📢 Exciting News, MMK Families! 🎉
Your 2025-26 Academic Calendar is here! 📅✨ Start planning for another amazing year at Mary M. Knight School District, filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable experiences.
Looking for a PDF printer-friendly version? You can find the academic calendar on our website as well! 🖨️📄
Got questions? I’m happy to help! Feel free to call or email me, Shantel Freeman—I’d love to assist you. 💛📚
📞 360-426-6767 ext 101
📧 sfreeman@mmk.wednet.edu
💻 https://5il.co/3bwkf
Let’s make 2025-26 the best school year yet! 🎓🙌
#MMK #AcademicCalendar #ExcitedForANewYear #GoOwls
🚨 Game Update & Practice Reminder 🚨
Tonight's HS/MS doubleheader vs. Wishkah has been canceled due to Wishkah not having enough eligible players. The game has been rescheduled for Wednesday, 5/7.
Unfortunately, Wishkah will also have to cancel their remaining middle school games with us due to low participation numbers.
📢 Practice Reminder:
High School & Middle School practice today from 12:30-2:30. See you there! 💪⚾
#GoTeam #StayReady
📢 Athletic Schedule Updates & Early Release Info 🦉
Good morning, Owls! There have been some changes to our athletic schedules this week. Please review the updated event calendar below. Also, a reminder that students will be released early at 12:25 PM on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.
📅 Tuesday, 3/25
🏃♂️ HS Track at Toutle Lake – 3:30 PM (Depart 1:00 PM, Release 12:45 PM)
⛳ HS Golf at Oaksridge (Elma) – 3:30 PM (Depart 1:45 PM, Release 1:30 PM)
🚫 No MS Track practice
⚾ Baseball practice 3:00 - 5:00 PM
📅 Wednesday, 3/26
🏃♂️ MS Track at Raymond – 3:30 PM (Depart 1:45 PM, Early Release 12:25 PM)
⚾ HS/MS Baseball Doubleheader vs. Wishkah – 4:00 & 6:00 PM
🚫 No HS Golf or HS Track practice
📅 Thursday, 3/27
🚫 No events scheduled (Early Release at 12:25 PM)
🚫 No HS/MS Track or HS Golf practice
⚾ Baseball practice 12:30 - 2:30 PM
📅 Friday, 3/28
⚾ HS Baseball at LQ – 4:00 PM (Depart 1:00 PM)
🚫 No HS Golf or MS Track practice
🏃♂️ HS Track practice 12:30 - 2:30 PM
Thank you for your support, and let’s have a great week! Go Owls! 🦉🤍💚
Mary M. Knight PTO is excited to offer cozy owl blankets as part of our fundraising efforts to support our students! These soft and stylish blankets are perfect for showing school spirit or gifting to a loved one. Pre-sales end on May 5th, so be sure to place your order before the deadline. Blankets will be delivered to Mary M. Knight School within 7 business days after the sale closes. Your support helps us continue providing valuable resources and opportunities for our students—thank you for being a part of this fundraiser!
https://fundraise.team/products/mary-m-knight-pto?variant=44297994109104
🚨 Game Canceled 🚨
Due to forecasted rain and unplayable field conditions, today’s home baseball game vs. Shelton C has been cancelled. Unfortunately, at this time, it will not be rescheduled.
Stay dry and safe! ⚾🌧️
📢 Important School & Church Updates! 📢
📅 Wednesday, March 26, 2025 – Early Release at 12:25 PM due to conferences. 🚨 No Late Arrival – Normal school start time.
📅 Thursday, March 27, 2025 – Early Release at 12:25 PM due to conferences.
📅 Friday, March 28, 2025 – Early Release at 12:25 PM.
🎉 Spring Break: March 31 – April 4, 2025 – No school all week!
⛪ No Church Night at Matlock Church on Wednesday, March 26 due to conferences.
Please plan accordingly! 📚✏️ Enjoy your Spring Break! 🌸☀️
🦉 STUDENT ENTREPRENEURS IN ACTION! 🦉
Our amazing Mary M. Knight Entrepreneurship Class has been busy creating beautiful handcrafted items, and they're now available for purchase! Each item is just $5, and ALL proceeds directly support our students' future business projects.
Now Available:
✅ Decorative Wooden Bowls
✅ Colorful Pencil Holders
✅ Wooden Flowers
These items make perfect gifts or decorative pieces for your home or office! Stop by the MMK Front Office after school to purchase yours before they're gone!
For questions or to reserve your items, contact us at:
📞 360-426-6767
📧 mmkstore@mmk.wednet.edu
Thank you for supporting the entrepreneurial spirit of our Owls! Your purchase helps our students gain valuable real-world business experience while creating something beautiful for our community.
#MMKProud #StudentEntrepreneurs #OwlSpirit #SupportLocalStudents
🚨 Game Update 🚨
Due to continued rain and poor field conditions, tonight’s HS baseball game at Wishkah has been canceled. Information about a make-up game will be shared later on.
Stay tuned for more updates! ⚾️🌧️
Mary M. Knight Students Build Connections Through Teamwork!
Our creative problem-solvers from Ms. Niles' class took on an exciting engineering challenge in our library recently! Students wondered if they could connect bendy straws together and stretch them all the way around the room - and through teamwork and perseverance, they made it happen!
It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm and collaboration as students positioned themselves strategically around the library, arms raised high, carefully holding their sections of the connected straws. This hands-on activity fostered teamwork, spatial awareness, and brought joy to our young learners.
At Mary M. Knight, we celebrate these moments of curiosity and collective achievement. When our students ask "What if?" and work together to find answers, they're developing important skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
Special thanks to Mrs. Henson for encouraging our students to think creatively and supporting this fun learning opportunity!
#MMKPride #TeamworkMakesTheDreamWork #HandsOnLearning
📢 Spirit Week at Mary M. Knight School District! 🎉
Get ready to show your school spirit all week long! Here’s what’s coming up:
🦉 Monday: Owl Pride/Green Out Day – Wear your Owl gear or rock that green!
🏈 Tuesday: Jersey Day – Represent your favorite team with your best jersey!
🌍 Wednesday: Tourist Day – Dress like you’re on vacation!
🎭 Thursday: Mismatch Day – The crazier, the better—mix up those patterns!
🏖️ Friday: Beach Day – Bring the summer vibes with your beach gear!
Let’s make this week full of fun and school spirit! 💚✨ #MMKSpiritWeek #GoOwls
Our young astronomers in Mrs. Jewett's class have been on an exciting journey through space! After learning about planets and our solar system in their classroom, students expanded their cosmic knowledge with a special art project in the library.
Each student created their own unique canvas artwork featuring planets of their choice. It was truly inspiring to hear them thoughtfully explain which planets they selected and why. Some budding scientists even added black holes and stars to their cosmic creations!
These beautiful space-themed canvases will be coming home with students this upcoming week. We encourage families to ask your children about their artwork and what they've learned about our fascinating solar system!
At Mary M. Knight, we believe in connecting classroom learning with creative expression. Thank you to Mrs. Jewett and our library staff for providing this wonderful hands-on opportunity for our students to showcase their learning.
#MMKPride #SpaceExplorers #StudentArtists
Mary M. Knight baseball game update! ⚾️
Today's game has been moved to Shelton High School baseball fields at 3737 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton, WA 98584.
📅 Time: 4:00 PM
📍 New Location: Shelton High School
Come out and cheer on our Owls for their first game of the season! Let’s show them our support! 🤍🦉💚 #GoOwls #MMKBaseball
