Yelm Community Schools

Welcome to the 2022-23 school year at Yelm Community Schools!

As a district we are incredibly optimistic about what the 2022-23 school year will bring for our students and families.  Yes, we are continuing to emerge from the pandemic and recover from its multiple impacts.  However, the new school year brings fewer restrictions and increased opportunities.  In our district, our focus will not be on a return to “normal.”  Rather, our focus will be on being the best schools we can be each day.  By doing that, we know high growth and achievement will follow. 

One challenge I have put in front of our staff  for the year is to build the stronger sense of belonging for students than we have ever had.  All students need to be able to walk onto a campus, into a class, or into an event knowing they belong, are welcomed, and have numerous positive relationships with adults who care about their success.  Coming back from the pandemic we noticed an increase in racially motivated or other biased-based language at our schools.  Students and staff should never be subjected to language that deteriorates their sense of belonging.  We are extending significant time and resources into training staff how to respond and report such incidents.  We have to create environments where all students and staff are comfortable and able to perform at their best. 

We know we live in a community that will always step in and support students and their schools.  We are thankful for every Graduate Yelm! partner, our business partners, our boosters and PTA/PTO members and our volunteers who join us in the work of educating students. I want to invite our families and our community to engage with us in creating an incredibly positive and successful school district. 

Please take time to review this handbook with your student.  The handbook contains strong information about school procedures, safety and insight on how schools work.  I would also invite everyone to access the website of your student’s school.  There is critical information present to help you access resources, staff and supports. 

Yelm Community Schools policies and procedures are available on our district website at www.ycs.wednet.edu. Our staff at each school and our district office can also assist you in accessing this information.  

If you have any questions, please contact us at 360.458.6139.

Brian Wharton
Superintendent