Columbia School District #400

As December arrives and the temperatures drop, our schools are filled with warmth, energy, and excitement for what lies ahead. The holiday season reminds us to pause and celebrate both our students’ accomplishments and the bright futures they’re building every day. Across the Columbia School District, our middle and high school students are not just learning, they’re preparing for life beyond graduation. This month, we want to highlight a few events and opportunities that showcase how our educators, partners, and students are working together to help every Coyote discover their path forward.

This past month, Columbia High School transformed into a hub of opportunity, ambition, and big dreams during our annual CHS College & Career Fair. Students explored a wide variety of post-secondary pathways including college, trade programs, military service, and the workforce. Students had the chance to engage in meaningful conversations with professionals and recruiters shaping our region’s future workforce. Representatives from Washington State University, Eastern Washington University, the U.S. Army National Guard, Walla Walla County Sheriff's Office, Washington State Patrol, fire department, electrical apprenticeship programs and more were on hand to share their experiences and answer student questions.

Our goal is to work with our Coyotes who are steering themselves toward dreams with confidence, purpose, and excitement. A special thank-you goes out to our CHS counseling team, leadership class, and community partners for making this incredible day possible. Several of our students also had an outstanding experience going off campus to explore and experience Apprenticeship Week 2025, where they learned about the many rewarding careers available through skilled trades and union apprenticeship programs. Thanks to the collaboration of Local Pipefitters 598, Carpenters Local 59, and IBEW Local 112, students gained valuable hands-on insights into fields such as welding, electrical work, and carpentry. These experiences not only introduced students to high-demand career options but also helped them understand the real-world skills and training required to succeed after graduation. The event reinforced that “college and career ready” means multiple pathways and every one of them can lead to success. Events like this remind us that the future is bright for our Columbia students!

This spring, Columbia School District will continue our expanded focus on High School and Beyond Planning for students as early as middle school. Specific activities will differ based on the grade level and age of students. During Spring Conferences middle and high school students will work directly with parents and district staff and counselors to begin exploring academic, career, and personal goals for their future. This effort aligns with our district’s ongoing mission to help every student identify their strengths, explore interests, and plan actionable steps toward college, career, or technical pathways. More information and resources will be shared as we approach spring conferences.

As 2025 comes to a close, we want to express heartfelt appreciation to our students, families, staff, and community partners who make Columbia such a special place. Your support, encouragement, and pride in our schools and community keep Burbank strong. May this holiday season bring you peace, joy, and time with loved ones. We look forward to continuing our work together in the new year, helping every student dream big, work hard, and believe in their future. Happy Holidays and Go Coyotes!

Sincerely, Todd Hilberg,

Superintendent