From our schools here on the Port Madison Reservation to classrooms far and wide across the country and globe, more than 400 Suquamish tribal members and their descendants are now heading back to school this month.
They are among the 150 little ones enrolled at the Marion Forsman Boushie Early Learning Center. There are 80 sixth graders through high school seniors at Chief Kitsap Academy, and 40 of our students are attending college and other institutions of higher learning this Fall.
This year, we are focusing on a few important priorities we believe will make a real difference for our students:

• Working together as a community – Parents, Elders, and community members all play an important role in helping our students succeed. We want to keep building strong partnerships so our young people grow in both knowledge and cultural identity.
• Caring for the whole student – Success in school isn’t just about grades. We are strengthening supports for students’ social, emotional, and cultural well-being, so they feel balanced, confident, and ready to learn.
• Preparing for the future – Whether it’s college, a career, or joining the local workforce, we are developing clear pathways to help students reach their goals. By working with colleges, tribal enterprises, and local employers, we can open doors to many opportunities.
• Using information to improve – We are improving how we track student growth and well-being. This helps us advocate for stronger programs and fair resources, ensuring every student has what they need to thrive.
  Our students are at the heart of everything we do.

Together – with families, teachers, and the wider community, we can lift them up and celebrate their achievements. I look forward to seeing all the great things they will accomplish this year!

Welcome back, and let’s make this school year a strong and joyful one.
By Brenda Guerrero
Education Division Director / CKA Superintendent