The South Kitsap School District Board of Directors met on January 7, 2026, for a regularly scheduled board meeting and study session that celebrated board service and advanced the district’s long-term strategic vision.

Honoring School Board Service

January is School Board Appreciation Month, and the district recognized board members Jay Villars, Kate Espy, Brian Pickard, Megan Higgins, and Andy Brandon for their continued dedication and leadership in service to students, staff, and families across South Kitsap. Board members were honored for their commitment to governance, community engagement, and ensuring high-quality educational opportunities for all learners.

Study Session Focus: Board Retreat & Strategic Alignment

Following the recognition, the Board held a study session focused on the annual Board Retreat, centered on reviewing the district’s 2024–2027 Strategic Plan and reaffirming alignment with district priorities. Guided by the theme “Rooted Together — The SK Way,” board members reflected on district progress and discussed opportunities for continuous improvement.
A key emphasis of the conversation was the idea of “getting better every day,” identifying small, meaningful changes that can strengthen systems, processes, and outcomes districtwide.

Setting the Standard for a High-Performing District

The Board reaffirmed its shared vision of Setting the Standard—a district where every student is known, every classroom delivers excellence, and leadership is intentional, aligned, and visible. The discussion reinforced a people-first culture rooted in belonging, innovation, equity, and exceptional student outcomes across academics, behavior, and attendance.

Five-Year Vision: 2025–2030 Priorities

The Board reviewed the district’s Five-Year Plan (2025–2030), which outlines key focus areas to support sustained success:

• Deepening a Culture of Belonging by ensuring students, staff, and families feel seen, heard, and valued
• Growing Aligned Leadership Capacity through development and shared accountability across the district
• Elevating Student Achievement through MTSS, strengthening Tier 1 instruction and interventions
• Strengthening Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to support staff growth and student success
• Modernizing Operations to enhance facilities, systems, transparency, and financial stewardship
• Celebrating Success and Building Community Pride by sharing stories that reflect the SK Way

Additional study session topics included facilities, technology needs, safety and security, and district culture.

Looking Ahead

The next South Kitsap School District Board Meeting will be held Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 5:30 p.m., in person at the district office and livestreamed via Zoom.
Community members are encouraged to view meeting agendas, presentations, minutes, and recorded videos through the district’s official channels.

View this Smore newsletter on the web: https://app.smore.com/n/1azmw