Walla Walla Public Schools

Walla Walla Public Schools Official site of WWPS. Developing Washington’s Most Sought After Graduates. We welcome your comments and look forward to what you have to say.

Walla Walla Public Schools At A Glance
Students
Walla Walla Public Schools educates a diverse population nearly 5,600 students. The district is comprised of two high schools, two middle schools, five elementary schools, the Walla Walla Center for Children and Families (Birth-to-Five services), SEATech Skills Center, Walla Walla Online, Opportunity Program and Homelink. Programs
A broad range of co

urse offerings and programs that are aligned with the Washington State Learning Goals are offered to students at all grade levels. Staffing
Our district employs over 800 staff members - excluding substitutes and part-time coaches. Approximately 398 certificated staff are employed -- 73 percent of whom hold master’s degrees. Each year more than 1,000 volunteers team to provide learning opportunities for students. Local Levy Support
In 2020, Walla Walla Public Schools received a 72 percent YES vote on its replacement levy. Not only was the levy approval rating the highest in Walla Walla in 26 years, it was also the strongest approval rating statewide for All DISTRICTS of similar size and larger, setting the highest of bar for some 145 enrichment levy votes that were on the ballot statewide. Levy approval secures local funding for essential district programs and staff. WWPS FACEBOOK PAGE GUIDELINES
The Walla Walla School District page is provided to share information about the achievements of our employees, students, and school community, as well as to broadcast relevant and timely information. The following guidelines are intended to help us all engage in an open and respectful dialogue. The guidelines will be applied in an even and fair manner, and comments that violate these guidelines (even in part) will be removed in their entirety, regardless of the viewpoint expressed in the comment. Comments posted by third parties are not the views of the School District and should not be construed as such. However, we will remove postings that:
• Are not directly related to the District post being commented upon;
• Promote or advertise commercial services, entities, or products except as authorized by the district;
• Contain political statements assisting a campaign for the election of any person to any office or for the promotion of or opposition to any ballot proposition;
• Promote, foster, or perpetuate discrimination based on protected status, including age, gender, marital status, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, sexual orientation including gender expression or gender identity, or honorably discharged veteran or military status;
• Include vulgar, offensive, threatening, defamatory, or harassing language;
• Are obscene or contain sexual content or links to obscene or sexual content;
• Include illegal activity or encouragement of illegal activity;
• Compromises the safety or security of the public or public systems;
• Are from children under 13 (in order to comply with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act). By posting on the School District’s social media site, users acknowledge that they are at least 13 years old. The School District reserves the right to remove posted content that does not comply with these guidelines and limit access from users who repeatedly violate these guidelines. All posts and comments uploaded to School District’s Social Media sites that allow posts will be periodically reviewed. Communications made through this site in no way constitutes a legal or official notice, request, public records request pursuant to RCW 42.56, formal complaint, or comment to the School District. To comment about a specific school district project or program, please contact the appropriate department. Page administrators reserve the right to ban users from posting comments on this site for repeated violations of the above-stated guidelines. If you would like to report an inappropriate comment for review, contact [email protected].

Class of 2026 - Meet Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates Video SeriesChelsea Higgins, Lincoln High School - https:/...
06/09/2026

Class of 2026 - Meet Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates Video Series

Chelsea Higgins, Lincoln High School - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ch9mnCBtYw

Walla Walla Public Schools is continuing its video series this spring featuring seniors from across the school district. This series, Meet Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates, aims to showcase how prepared these graduates are for life after high school.

Please take a few minutes to watch these videos and see why these amazing students are great representatives of the district’s Vision Statement of Developing Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates. Congratulations Class of 2026!

Class of 2026 - Meet Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates Video SeriesKellen Van Slyke, Walla Walla High School - ht...
06/09/2026

Class of 2026 - Meet Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates Video Series

Kellen Van Slyke, Walla Walla High School - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bb_J6HvU9b4

Walla Walla Public Schools is continuing its video series this spring featuring seniors from across the school district. This series, Meet Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates, aims to showcase how prepared these graduates are for life after high school.

Please take a few minutes to watch these videos and see why these amazing students are great representatives of the district’s Vision Statement of Developing Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates. Congratulations Class of 2026!

Walla Walla Public Schools elementary students will soon have more opportunities to build safe bicycling skills thanks t...
06/09/2026

Walla Walla Public Schools elementary students will soon have more opportunities to build safe bicycling skills thanks to the statewide Let’s Go Bicycle Education Program coordinated by Educational Service District 123.

This week, Walla Walla Public Schools elementary physical education teachers participated in specialized training through ESD 123 to prepare for the program’s implementation during the 2026-2027 school year. The three-week bicycle safety curriculum is designed for students in grades 3-8 and will be taught as part of regular physical education classes.

The Let’s Go Bicycle Education Program aligns with Washington State Health and Physical Education standards and focuses on helping students develop safe riding habits while encouraging active transportation, recreation, and lifelong fitness. Through hands-on instruction, students learn bicycle handling skills, safety practices, traffic awareness, and responsible riding techniques that can be applied both in school and throughout their communities.

Each elementary school in Walla Walla will utilize the program for approximately one month during the upcoming school year. Participating schools receive loaner bicycles, helmets, adaptive trikes, instructional support, and professional development for physical education teachers at no cost to the district.

The program is funded by the Washington State Department of Transportation and administered by Cascade Bicycle Club in partnership with Washington’s Educational Service Districts. ESD 123 coordinates implementation throughout its regional service area, supporting Walla Walla Public Schools and neighboring districts.

Beyond teaching bicycle safety, the initiative aims to increase physical activity, promote healthy lifestyles, and build students’ confidence as they navigate their communities. The program continues to grow across Washington, with a statewide goal of reaching 90 percent of students by 2039.

For more information about the Let’s Go Bicycle Education Program, visit the ESD 123 website. https://www.esd123.org/services/content/bicycle_education

Students Earn Volunteer Hours While Supporting District Technology Needs!This week, 14 high school students are earning ...
06/08/2026

Students Earn Volunteer Hours While Supporting District Technology Needs!

This week, 14 high school students are earning volunteer hours toward their required 40-hour graduation requirement by assisting the Walla Walla Public Schools Technology Department.

Students are helping clean, inspect, and prepare Chromebooks returned from Garrison and Pioneer middle schools. To provide flexibility and maximize participation, the Technology Department is offering three-hour volunteer shifts twice daily throughout the week.

Help Desk Engineer Steve Rinehart said the students have been a tremendous help as the department works through the large number of devices. Once cleaned, inspected, and serviced, the Chromebooks will be returned to classroom carts at Garrison and Pioneer Middle Schools and assigned for 1:1 replacement devices at Walla Walla High School, ready for student use in classrooms next school year.

"The Technology Department appreciates the students' willingness to give their time and support district operations while earning valuable volunteer experience," said Rinehart. "Their efforts are making a meaningful difference in preparing technology resources for students and staff."

Thank you to all the students who have stepped up to help this week!

Walla Walla Public Schools Elementary LibrariesSimple Summer Fun Website: Explore, Learn and Enjoy This Summerhttps://ww...
06/08/2026

Walla Walla Public Schools Elementary Libraries

Simple Summer Fun Website: Explore, Learn and Enjoy This Summer

https://wwpselementarylibraries.my.canva.site/2026-wwps-elementary-libraries-simple-summer-fun

Looking for ways to keep your child engaged and learning during summer break? Walla Walla Public Schools Elementary Libraries invite families to visit the district’s Simple Summer Fun website for a variety of enjoyable and educational activities designed to inspire curiosity and creativity all summer long.

The website features exciting opportunities for students to build skills, explore STEM activities, listen to great books, and discover fun ways to relax and recharge. Whether your child enjoys reading, hands-on learning, or creative challenges, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Summer is a wonderful time to learn through exploration and play. Be sure to check out the Simple Summer Fun website and make the most of the weeks ahead.

Have a safe, fun, and memorable summer!

Class of 2026 - Meet Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates Video SeriesBruno Richardson, Walla Walla High Schoolhttps...
06/05/2026

Class of 2026 - Meet Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates Video Series

Bruno Richardson, Walla Walla High School
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbwnxKog-aw

Walla Walla Public Schools is continuing its video series this spring featuring seniors from across the school district. This series, Meet Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates, aims to showcase how prepared these soon-to-be graduates are for life after high school. New videos will be released leading up to graduation ceremonies in June.

Please take a few minutes to watch these videos and see why these amazing students are great representatives of the district’s Vision Statement of Developing Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates. Congratulations Class of 2026!


Out & About with Dr. G: Pioneer Sixth Graders Explore Science and Stewardship at WWCC’s William A. Grant Water & Environ...
06/05/2026

Out & About with Dr. G: Pioneer Sixth Graders Explore Science and Stewardship at WWCC’s William A. Grant Water & Environmental Center

VIDEO - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUMaqbR6oEs

Walla Walla Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Ben Gauyan recently visited the William A. Grant Water & Environmental Center on the campus of Walla Walla Community College to join Pioneer Middle School sixth-grade students for the latest episode of the Out & About with Dr. G video series.

During the visit, Dr. Gauyan participated in a variety of hands-on learning stations alongside students, exploring topics related to Mill Creek, local bird species, salmon habitats, and erosion. The interactive activities provided students with opportunities to deepen their understanding of environmental science while connecting classroom learning to real-world applications.

Out & About with Dr. G takes viewers inside classrooms, shops, and learning environments across the district, highlighting programs that provide students with meaningful, hands-on educational experiences. During each visit, Dr. Gauyan works alongside students and staff to gain a firsthand perspective of the learning taking place throughout Walla Walla Public Schools.

The series showcases the skill, creativity, and dedication found across the district while giving the community an authentic look at how students are developing practical knowledge and real-world skills that prepare them for future success.

The visit to the William A. Grant Water & Environmental Center offered another example of how community partnerships and experiential learning opportunities help engage students in meaningful educational experiences that extend beyond the traditional classroom setting.

A Fitting Finale: Former Students and Colleagues Surprise Roger Garcia at Final Garrison Concert!After decades of inspir...
06/05/2026

A Fitting Finale: Former Students and Colleagues Surprise Roger Garcia at Final Garrison Concert!

After decades of inspiring young musicians and helping shape music education in Walla Walla Public Schools, District Music Coordinator and Garrison Middle School band teacher Roger Garcia received a surprise tribute he will never forget during his final concert before retirement.

As the school year comes to a close, Garcia is preparing to retire after a distinguished career dedicated to students, music, and excellence. To celebrate his impact, approximately 50 former students, colleagues, and friends from Walla Walla and Pasco secretly assembled to perform in his honor during his last concert at Garrison Middle School.

The surprise band included current and former music educators, alumni, and community members whose lives have been touched by Garcia's mentorship and leadership. Several current WWPS music teachers participated in the performance, creating a powerful testament to the lasting influence Garcia has had across generations of musicians.

Much of the planning happened behind the scenes. Walla Walla High School Band Director Jacob Try played a key role in making the tribute possible, generously lending his time, expertise, and the Wa-Hi band room for rehearsals. Caleb Condie managed to quietly slip into Garcia's office after hours to locate and distribute the music needed for the performance.

Music Secretary Alisha Buttice coordinated countless details, helping organize participants and even working with middle school band students to ensure the surprise remained a secret. Garrison Principal Kim Doepker also helped coordinate logistics and planning to ensure the event unfolded seamlessly.

Leading the surprise ensemble was Hannah Cabasco, one of Garcia's former students and private clarinet pupils. During her time in WWPS, Cabasco earned second place at the state solo and ensemble competition as a clarinet soloist and, alongside Keeli McKern, captured first place honors as a duet. She later attended St. Olaf College in Minnesota and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Neuroscience at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland.

The event also brought former students back to their instruments. Ryan (Campeau) Boyle, a Pioneer Middle School English Language Arts teacher and former Garrison band student, said it was a special experience to participate.

"It was so fun to practice my saxophone for the first time in years," Boyle said.

For Garcia, the surprise performance was more than a concert, it was a reflection of the relationships, memories, and musical excellence he cultivated throughout his career. The gathering of former students, colleagues, and friends served as a heartfelt thank you to an educator whose influence extends far beyond the classroom and concert stage.

As Garcia closes this chapter, he leaves behind a legacy measured not only in performances and achievements, but in the countless students he encouraged, challenged, and inspired through the power of music.

Photo Credit: Owen Senter

Washington State Board of Education Selects Siri Mouat as New Student Board MemberThe Washington State Board of Educatio...
06/05/2026

Washington State Board of Education Selects Siri Mouat as New Student Board Member

The Washington State Board of Education and the Association of Washington Student Leaders are pleased to announce that Siri Mouat, a sophomore from Walla Walla High School, has been selected to serve as the Board’s next student board member. She will serve during the 2026–27 and 2027–28 school years.

“Siri will be an incredible addition to our team,” said Mary Fertakis, Chair of the Washington State Board of Education. “She brings an important rural student perspective that will strengthen the conversations we are having about educational equity across Washington. Her experience in legislative advocacy and student organizing will be a valuable asset to the Board’s work, and we look forward to working with her over the next two years.”

As a student representative, Mouat hopes to advocate for greater access and opportunity for students across Washington, especially students in rural communities who may face financial barriers at school.

“I think every student deserves a high-quality education with opportunities that prepare them for their future, regardless of their financial situation,” Mouat said. “I want to help decrease the gaps between larger schools in wealthier urban areas and smaller rural schools with fewer resources.”

Mouat is active in a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs. She is the vice president of Walla Walla High School’s Future Business Leaders of America chapter and serves as the state lieutenant governor for YMCA Washington Youth & Government, where she works on legislative advocacy and civic engagement initiatives. In addition, Mouat is involved in theater productions at both her school and local community theaters and serves as a student director for a children’s theater summer camp.

In the future, Mouat hopes to pursue a career in educational administration. She plans to further her education as much as possible so she can continue advocating for students.

“Too often, I see young people being disregarded because of their age, and this was a unique opportunity for me to represent my community and peers,” Mouat said. “I saw this as a chance to learn from and work with diverse groups of people to serve our educational system in any way that I can.”

About the Student Representatives Position
Serving on the State Board of Education is an important role for Washington's students. The Board's two Student Representatives represent over one million students statewide. Their view can make a difference for generations of Washington students to come. Notably, Washington is one of only six states and the District of Columbia who allow students to vote. In addition to attending board meetings, student representatives may attend community forums, site visits, and other outreach and engagement events developed by the Board and partner organizations such as the Association of Washington Student Leaders.

Class of 2026 - Meet Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates Video SeriesEvie Sarley, Walla Walla High Schoolhttps://ww...
06/04/2026

Class of 2026 - Meet Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates Video Series

Evie Sarley, Walla Walla High School
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXSTqs7tl4o

Walla Walla Public Schools is continuing its video series this spring featuring seniors from across the school district. This series, Meet Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates, aims to showcase how prepared these soon-to-be graduates are for life after high school. New videos will be released leading up to graduation ceremonies in June.

Please take a few minutes to watch these videos and see why these amazing students are great representatives of the district’s Vision Statement of Developing Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates. Congratulations Class of 2026!

Address

364 S Park Street
Walla Walla, WA
99362

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Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

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