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Ellensburg School District

Empower Learners, Inspire Growth

About Us

Our Mission

 

To foster a nurturing and inclusive learning environment that empowers every student to achieve academic excellence, develop critical thinking skills, and become responsible, compassionate citizens.

Our Vision

To inspire a community of lifelong learners who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values to lead and succeed in a diverse and dynamic world.

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District Details

Guided by our mission to empower learners and inspire growth, Ellensburg School District serves over 3,200 PK–12 students across Kittitas County. Supported by roughly 500 educators and staff, our eight school campuses offer state-of-the-art learning environments, featuring recently constructed and renovated facilities tailored to support diverse learning needs, critical thinking, and holistic student development.

 

View the District Profile

School Info

  • Northglen Elementary – Amy Gregson, Principal

    Southdale Elementary – Henry Herrera, Principal

    Eastland Elementary – Lauryn Shah, Principal

    Westhill Elementary – Beatrice Bell, Principal

  • Lakeside Middle

    Mountainside Middle

    Brookside Middle

    Bayside Middle

  • Mesa High

    Valley High

    Hill High

    Canyon High

  • Riverglen Head Start

    Crestbrook School – independent study

    Creekline School – K12 special needs

    Streamview Adult School

     

Strategic Plan

A comprehensive roadmap designed to guide our district towards excellence in education over the next five years, our plan reflects our unwavering commitment to academic achievement, innovation, and community engagement. By exceeding state standards and fostering a supportive, inclusive environment, we aim to empower every student to reach their full potential. This strategic plan outlines our goals, strategies, and actions to ensure that Mountain SD remains at the forefront of educational excellence, preparing our students for success in a rapidly changing world.
 

Read the Strategic Plan

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  • Schoolchildren reading in the library
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Programs and Services

We offer an array of exceptional programs and services that cater to diverse student needs, fostering academic excellence, creativity, and holistic development.

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Academic Programs

  • Strong core curriculum that meets or exceeds state standards
  • Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs for high school students
  • Gifted and Talented programs to challenge advanced learners
  • Special Education programs to support students with special needs
  • Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs to provide students with job-related skills

Extracurricular Activities

  • A variety of sports teams for students of all interests and abilities
  • Visual and performing arts programs, such as band, choir, orchestra, and theater
  • Clubs and organizations that focus on a variety of interests, such as academic clubs, student government, and cultural clubs

Student Support Services

  • School counselors to provide academic, social, and emotional support
  • School psychologists to assess and address students' mental health needs
  • Social workers to connect students and families with community resources
  • Speech-language pathologists to help students with communication difficulties

Family and Community Engagement

  • Strong communication between schools and families
  • Parent-teacher organizations (PTOs) or home school associations (HSAs) to provide opportunities for parents to get involved in their children's education
  • Community partnerships with businesses, organizations, and institutions of higher learning

Additional Resources

  • Before- and after-school programs
  • Summer school programs
  • English as a Second Language (ESL) programs
  • Professional development programs for teachers and staff
  • Technology resources, such as computers, tablets, and internet access
  • Safe and secure school facilities
     

Sustainable Learning for Our Future

Mountain SD is dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint and fostering a culture of sustainability within its schools and central office.

Sustainability is a core value for our district, and we strive to create a learning environment that promotes environmental responsibility for future generations.

The district has implemented a comprehensive program that includes a variety of initiatives. These include:

  • installing solar panels on school rooftops to generate clean energy
  • implementing a robust recycling and composting program to reduce waste
  • promoting the use of electric school buses for cleaner transportation
  • parterning with local farms to source fresh, locally-grown food for its cafeterias

These efforts are not only benefiting the environment, but also creating a more engaging learning experience for students. Through school gardens and outdoor classrooms, students are actively involved in understanding environmental issues and exploring sustainable solutions.

Mountain SD is committed to continuing its leadership in sustainability and inspiring other school districts to adopt similar practices.

Hear From Our Teachers!

A smiling teacher is standing in a classroom with students sitting at their desks in the background.

Margaret Johansen, First Grade Teacher

"The parents here are so supportive, and the teachers all collaborate to share ideas and help each other out. We have a real sense of teamwork, which makes such a difference. Every day, I get to see the wonder and curiosity in my students' eyes. I feel like I'm truly making a difference, and that's what makes it the best job in the world!"

A teacher is sitting at a desk in a classroom smiling.

Susanna Park, Middle School ELL Teacher

"Walking into this district as a brand new teacher could've been intimidating, but the support I've received has been amazing. From day one, everyone has been so welcoming and helpful. They've shared their best practices, given me tips on navigating the curriculum, and even helped me brainstorm fun activities to keep my students engaged."

A teacher is standing in a classroom with students in the background.

John Pletha, High School Social Studies Teacher

"For over two decades, I've had the privilege of calling this district my home, and I can honestly say it's the most rewarding place a teacher could ask for. The students' thirst for knowledge and passion for learning about the past never cease to amaze me. Plus, the ongoing professional development opportunities keep me sharp and ensure I'm delivering the best possible education for my students."

A teacher is sitting at a desk in a classroom with a chalkboard and a bulletin board behind her.

Pashmina Arroyo, Substitute Teacher

"Subbing at Mountain View is like a breath of fresh air! Mountain View's plans are clear, concise, and incredibly well-organized. They lay out the entire day, from activities to assessments, with all the materials I need readily available. It makes a world of difference. I can confidently walk in, greet the students, and dive straight into the lesson."

A smiling teacher is standing in a classroom with students sitting at their desks in the background.

Margaret Johansen, First Grade Teacher

"The parents here are so supportive, and the teachers all collaborate to share ideas and help each other out. We have a real sense of teamwork, which makes such a difference. Every day, I get to see the wonder and curiosity in my students' eyes. I feel like I'm truly making a difference, and that's what makes it the best job in the world!"

A teacher is sitting at a desk in a classroom smiling.

Susanna Park, Middle School ELL Teacher

"Walking into this district as a brand new teacher could've been intimidating, but the support I've received has been amazing. From day one, everyone has been so welcoming and helpful. They've shared their best practices, given me tips on navigating the curriculum, and even helped me brainstorm fun activities to keep my students engaged."

A teacher is standing in a classroom with students in the background.

John Pletha, High School Social Studies Teacher

"For over two decades, I've had the privilege of calling this district my home, and I can honestly say it's the most rewarding place a teacher could ask for. The students' thirst for knowledge and passion for learning about the past never cease to amaze me. Plus, the ongoing professional development opportunities keep me sharp and ensure I'm delivering the best possible education for my students."

A teacher is sitting at a desk in a classroom with a chalkboard and a bulletin board behind her.

Pashmina Arroyo, Substitute Teacher

"Subbing at Mountain View is like a breath of fresh air! Mountain View's plans are clear, concise, and incredibly well-organized. They lay out the entire day, from activities to assessments, with all the materials I need readily available. It makes a world of difference. I can confidently walk in, greet the students, and dive straight into the lesson."