Columbia School District #400

As we head into May in the Columbia School District, our students are working hard and staying focused while also becoming increasingly aware that June 12th is starting to look pretty close on the calendar. This time of year represents a critically important stretch in the academic calendar, as students engage in spring assessments, complete major projects, and continue building the skills they’ve worked on all year. At the same time, our classrooms are alive with meaningful learning and academic growth, comple mented by
our students’ continued dedication in athletics and extracurricular competitions. Altogether, May is a time to reflect on growth while encouraging every student to stay focused and finish the year strong.

In addition to the excitement inside our schools, there are important developments taking place around our campus that will benefit both our students and the broader community. A couple of months ago, we first shared information about the upcoming sidewalk and roadway improvement project near Columbia School District facilities. Since that time, Walla Walla County Public Works has made a few adjustments to the project after working with the Washington State Department of Transportation and gathering community feedback. The project will focus on improvements along Columbia School Road, Humorist Road, and nearby intersections, including the addition of sidewalks, safety buffers, and roadway enhancements designed to better separate pedestrian and vehicle traffic and improve overall safety for everyone.

These improvements are especially meaningful as they support safer travel for students who walk, bike, or are dropped off near our schools. The addition of new sidewalks will help create a safer environment for everyone in our school community. It is important to emphasize that this is not a Columbia School District project. The work is being funded through grant dollars secured by Walla Walla County, including funding connected to the state’s Climate Commitment Act. While the district is not managing or funding this project, we are very appreciative of the County’s investment and their commitment to student safety. Projects like this demonstrate the value of strong community partnerships and the positive impact they can have on our students’ daily experiences.

If you would like to view the updates in the most recent project map, please visit the CSD website (csd400.org) and look for the updated story and link information under the LATEST NEWS section.

As we look ahead, we are entering one of the most celebratory times of the school year. From awards nights and performances to field days and graduation ceremonies, there are many opportunities to recognize the hard work and accomplishments of our students. We encourage families and community members to join us in these events and help celebrate the growth, resilience, and achievements that define this school year.

Together, let’s continue to support our students, celebrate their successes, and finish the year strong. Thank you for being an important part of the Columbia School District community.

Sincerely, Todd Hilberg,

Superintendent