Dear Anacortes School District Families,

We wanted to inform you of a recent update to the student calendar for February. The "Evening Conferences" scheduled for February 12 have been removed. Please see the corrected schedule below:

• February 10: K-5 Half-Day (Conference Planning)
• February 11: K-5 Half-Day (Afternoon Conferences)
• February 12: K-5 Half-Day (Afternoon Conferences)
• February 13: K-12 Half-Day (Afternoon & Evening Conferences, No Pre-K)
• February 14: K-8 Half-Day (Students Only)
• February 17: No School – Presidents Day  

For your convenience, the updated printable calendar is available here: 2024-25 Student Calendar.

A friendly reminder that the week of February 10 to 14, 2025 is conference week for our K-12 students! Please be sure to mark your calendars and prepare for these important discussions about your child’s progress.

Thank you for your attention to these updates. If you have any questions, please email us at information@asd103.org.   

Sincerely, 

Anacortes School District 

Dear Anacortes School District Community,

I am sharing an update with you on the district’s financial challenges and the steps we must take to ensure the long-term health of our schools. These decisions are not made lightly, and we are committed to maintaining transparency throughout this process.

It is important to understand that Anacortes School District is not alone in navigating these financial difficulties. Many districts across Washington State face similar challenges, and this issue is part of a broader trend impacting public education statewide.

Like other districts, we are facing significant financial pressures, including:

• Declining Enrollment: We’ve seen a decrease in enrollment by about one percent annually, which reduces both state and local funding tied to student numbers. A further decline of one percent is expected in the coming years.

• Compensation Levels Exceeding Revenue: Employee contract compensation levels continue to exceed the revenue we receive from the state.

• Rising Costs: Inflation has significantly increased the costs of materials, supplies, and operational necessities, especially insurance premiums and utilities.

• Insufficient State Revenue: State funding has not kept pace with increasing costs, leaving a growing budget gap.

As a result, the district’s fund balance is projected to drop to 1.36% by the end of this school year, significantly below the required minimum of 4%. Over the past three years, we have implemented financial reductions, including a 20% reduction in administrative roles, a 14% reduction in classified staff, and a 3% reduction in teaching positions. These measures have been essential in helping us maintain a balanced budget despite ongoing financial pressures.

Total Reductions: 

• 2022-2023: $900,000

• 2023-2024: $3,200,000

• 2024-2025: $1,300,000

Looking ahead to the 2025-26 school year, we anticipate needing to reduce an additional $1.5 to $2 million from the $50 million budget. This challenge is compounded by expected enrollment declines, employee contract costs exceeding state revenue allocations, and potential increases from employee group bargaining in the coming years. 

The projected budget reductions for the next few years are as follows:

• 2025–2026 School Year: A reduction of $1.5 to $2 million, driven by enrollment declines and potential employee contract obligations.

• 2026–2027 School Year: A reduction of at least $600,000 due to projected enrollment declines and potential employee contract obligations.

• 2027–2028 School Year: A reduction of at least $600,000 due to projected enrollment declines and potential employee contract obligations.
  2028–2029 School Year: A reduction of at least $600,000 due to projected enrollment declines and potential employee contract obligations.

To address these challenges, we are committed to a thoughtful and collaborative process. While staffing reductions may be necessary, these discussions will take place internally, in accordance with our labor group process, and with the utmost respect for the confidentiality of personnel matters. We will continue to keep staff, families, and community members informed as we work through these difficult decisions.

While these reductions are challenging and complex, our commitment to providing high-quality education for every student remains steadfast. We are committed to navigating these challenges and securing a sustainable future for our schools.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support during this challenging time.

Sincerely,

Dr. Justin Irish, Superintendent 

Dr. Becky Clifford Named Next Superintendent of South Whidbey School District

We are proud to announce that Dr. Becky Clifford, our Assistant Superintendent, has been named the next Superintendent of South Whidbey School District, effective July 1, 2025. While her departure is bittersweet, we celebrate her outstanding contributions to Anacortes and know she will bring the same passion and dedication to her new role.

Reflecting on her time in Anacortes, Dr. Clifford shared: "I am incredibly excited for this new opportunity, but I will deeply miss this community—the students, staff, families, and our amazing partners. Serving Anacortes has been an honor, and while I look forward to my next chapter, we still have important work to accomplish before I leave. Saying goodbye will not be easy."

Dr. Clifford’s leadership has been pivotal in advancing key initiatives, such as enhancing curriculum and instructional practices, expanding social-emotional learning and mental health services, strengthening partnerships with local organizations, and overseeing the transformation of our special education services. Her ability to foster collaboration and champion student success has left a lasting impact on our district.

Superintendent Dr. Justin Irish reflected on her time in Anacortes: "Dr. Clifford and I began our journey in Anacortes together, and it has been an incredible experience working alongside her these past several years. Her commitment to students and her collaborative spirit have profoundly shaped our district. While we will miss her leadership, I am excited to see her thrive as she serves the South Whidbey community."

Dr. Clifford will remain in her current role through June 30, 2025, ensuring a smooth transition. Details regarding the process to fill this position will be shared in the coming weeks.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Clifford on this remarkable achievement and wishing her every success in her new role.

If you have any questions please email information@asd103.org. 

Anacortes School District Statement on Recent Student Tragedy

It is with profound sadness that the Anacortes School District confirms the loss of one of our High School students. Our hearts break for the family, friends, classmates, and staff members affected by this tragic event. The Anacortes School District is committed to fostering an environment where every student feels safe, supported, and valued. 

In response to this tragedy, we are taking immediate steps to provide support and resources to all students, staff, and families affected:

1. Grief Counseling and Support Services:  We encourage anyone in need to seek support, and details on how to access these services will be communicated to all students and families.
   
   Mental health professionals were available at the Anacortes High School campus today. Continued support will be available at Anacortes High School on:
   
   Date:  Monday, July 29, and Tuesday, July 30
   Time: 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm
   Location: Anacortes High School 1600 20th Street, check-in at the main office.
    

2. Community Resources: We are collaborating with Island Health to provide comprehensive support to staff and students. A list of these resources is on our website.

As families, your role in helping your students process this loss is crucial. Encourage open conversations, listen to their feelings, and reassure them that it’s normal to grieve. On our website, you’ll find helpful resources specifically designed to assist children in coping with tragedy and grief. These resources offer valuable support during challenging times, helping children process their emotions and find ways to heal.

The Anacortes School District remains committed to the well-being of its students and staff and will continue to work hard to support those affected by this loss. 

Anacortes School District Launches Comprehensive Back-to-School Guide for 2024-2025 School Year

The Anacortes School District is thrilled to announce the release of its all-in-one Back-to-School Guide for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. This digital resource provides families with essential information to kick off the school year on a successful note. Click HERE or scan the QR code below.

What you will find in our guide: 

• School Supply Lists: Get organized with grade-specific supply requirements.
• Technology Information: Navigate digital tools, platforms, and device guidelines.
• Bus Routes and Transportation Info: There have been changes to our bus routes for the 2024-2025 school year. Stop times and locations due to the new bell times. If your student rode a bus last school year, please check their route information on the My Ride K-12 app. If you have not yet downloaded the app the instructions are included in the guide! This has replaced the Ride 360 app.
• Student Calendar: Mark important dates, holidays, and events. Download the one-page student calendar now!
• Student Handbook (Coming Soon): Your go-to manual for policies, procedures, and campus information.
• Bell Schedule: For the 2024-2025 school year the bell schedule has been adjusted for Island View Elementary, Fidalgo Elementary, and Mount Erie Elementary. There are no changes to the bell schedules for Whitney Early Childhood Education Center, Anacortes Middle School, Anacortes High School, and Cap Sante High School. Download the easy-to-read bell schedule!
• Daily Class Schedule: Know when and where to be.
• School Meals: The Anacortes School District has several schools that offer free meals (breakfast and lunch).  ALL STUDENTS at Mount Erie Elementary, Fidalgo Elementary, and Cap Sante High School will receive meals at no cost in the school year 2024-2025! Thanks to House Bill 1238 (HB 1238), it mandates that Local Education Agencies (LEAs) provide meals at no cost to students enrolled at elementary schools where 30% or more of children are eligible for free or reduced-price meals and we now qualify.

  In prior years, the threshold for free or reduced-price meals was 40% or more. 

  Apply for the Free and Reduced Price Meals Program, fund your student's lunch account using MealTIme Online, and more!
• Medication Information: Guidelines and forms for student health.
• Get Involved: Learn about how you can get involved with our schools PTA groups!
• Back-to-School Signs: Capture your first day back at school and share your photos with us! Download a digital Back to School Sign, print it out, snap a photo, and post it on social media using the hashtag #ASDFirstDay. No sign? No problem! We’d still love to see your back-to-school moments. Just tag @Anacortes School District on Facebook so we can enjoy all the cheerful smiles!

“We believe that well-informed families contribute to a thriving educational community,” said Dr. Justin Irish, Superintendent of Anacortes School District. “Our Back-to-School Guide empowers parents and students to navigate the academic journey seamlessly.”

Whitney Early Learning Center Campus Opens September 3, 2024

Boys and Girls Clubs of Skagit County is excited to expand program offerings on Fidalgo Island!

If you are interested in services, please complete the Online Interest Form so we can capture information and contact you when registration opens. Individuals using this form will be given one week of priority access to ensure space is secured for their families.

Opening Date: 

School-age Before- and After-School Care will begin on the first school day, September 3, 2024. Because of the licensing process, the program may open unlicensed for a brief period. Until the initial provisional license is achieved, we cannot accept the Working Childcare Connections Subsidy (WCCC). For families enrolled in the WCCC program, we will honor your monthly copay as the only payment required to ensure a smooth transition for your school-age child and family between existing services and the new services provided by Boys and Girls Clubs of Skagit County.

Hours: 

• Opens at 6:30 am. 

• Closes at 6:00 pm. 

• Transportation to/from school is provided by the Anacortes School District. There is no additional charge for scheduled early release or late start days.

Tuition/Dues/Fees:

More information is available in this document.

Discounts: 

A maximum 10% Discount is available for Families with Multiple Children enrolled in Club programs or Families with at least one parent who works for the following: any branch of the United States Military, Anacortes School District, City of Anacortes, Island Health, Anacortes Family Center (AFC), or Boys and Girls Clubs of Skagit County.

Future Expansion of Services: 

Services for Infants, Toddlers, and Preschool children will open as classrooms become licensed and staffing is secured. Based on the census of requests from our Online Interest Form, our current priority will be services and programs for Toddlers, followed by Infants. Families with Preschool students should contact the AFC Discovery Center at 360-545-9544.

All Club Programs are CLOSED the week of August 26th for Training and Health, Safety, and Hygiene protocols.

For more information go to: https://skagitclubs.org/

Twenty-four members have been appointed to the district’s Budget Advisory Council (BAC), which will meet throughout the year to provide input on the district’s budget priorities, strategic goals, and overall financial health. Nearly half of the members served on the council last year. 

“The Budget Advisory Council has helped guide our tough budget decisions, and ensured that we have broad community input,” said Superintendent Justin Irish. “It’s nice to have so many returning members, in addition to our new appointees.” 

The Anacortes School District has been engaged in a proactive budget planning process since spring, 2022, to proactively address the district’s budget challenges. The district’s 2023-24 budget of $46 million reflects nearly $3 million in reductions that the district made over the last year and a half. The district is planning for additional reductions for the 2024-25 school year. While the specific target is not yet known, the district anticipates reducing at least another $1 million from its expenditures. 

The BAC members represent staff, school board, students, parents, and community. Appointed members are: 

• Alexis Gentry - Parent 
• Amy Wilt - Parent 
• Brandie Hendricks - Parent 
• Camille Flinders - Parent 
• Carrie Worra - Parent 
• Cindy Simonsen - Community Member
• Darene Follett - Parent 
• Diana Farnsworth - School Board 
• Elliott Johnson - Parent 
• Erin Glick - Staff 
• Helen Worthington - Parent 
• Jack Curtis - School Board 
• James Yandle - Staff 
• Jay Ferrario - Staff 
• Jeanine Dickison - Staff 
• John Satzinger - Community Member 
• Katelyn Jones - Staff 
• Kia duNann - Staff 
• Lida Ahsaei - Student 
• Mike VanQuickenborne - Parent 
• Miranda Blake - Staff 
• Nicholas Genovese - Parent 
• Pat Barrett - Community Member 
• Romany Kerr - Parent 
• Sarah Davies - Parent 
• Suzanne Butler - Parent 

The BAC meetings will also be open to the public to view the process. 

The meeting schedule, and additional information is posted on our website: https://www.asd103.org/District/Department/26-Finance/1063-Untitled.html

The BAC meetings will be held in the Anacortes High School library. 

Questions? Contact Mike Sullivan, Executive Director of Finance and Operations, (360) 503-1213 or masullivan@asd103.org 

We invite the community to visit Veterans Memorial Plaza at Anacortes High School this Veterans Day and show appreciation to all the brave men and women who have served, and continue to serve, our country.  

The plaza will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 11. No events are planned; rather we invite the community in for reflection and tribute. The plaza is comprised of a memorial designed by local architect Brooks Middleton, with input from the Veterans Memorial Committee, as well as a display honoring two Medal of Honor recipients with local connections. Restrooms will not be open during this time. The Anacortes School District is closed on Friday, November 10 in observance of Veterans Day. 

Questions, please contact the Superintendent’s Office at (360) 503-1211 or information@asd103.org 

Nicole Tesch has been hired as the Anacortes School District’s Assistant to the Superintendent and School Board/ Communications Coordinator. Tesch brings an extensive background in both corporate and government relations, having served with Island County, the City of Oak Harbor, the City of Anacortes, and most recently, as Executive Assistant with Amazon Web Services. Tesch is also a member of the Oak Harbor School Board. Tesch replaces Torhil Ramsay who is leaving the district for another organization after nearly eight years in the Superintendent’s office. 

“This is an integral role for our district, responsible for all district-wide communications, outreach, risk management, public records, in addition to coordination and organization of the Superintendent’s office and School Board. I am confident in Nicole’s abilities to manage the many facets of this job.” said Superintendent Justin Irish. “I would like to express my gratitude to Torhil Ramsay for dedicating eight years of service to our students, staff, and community. Her exceptional support has made a significant impact, and we extend our best wishes to her as she embarks on her next career endeavor.”

Tesch also noted that she is excited to bring her background and experience to the district. 

“I believe my background in public service, grant and project management, board administration, communications, and work on legislative matters will serve me well for this role,” said Tesch. “I’m looking forward to learning more about the school district and serving the families, staff, and students of Anacortes.” 

Tesch will begin with the district on November 1, 2023. 

The latest issue of the Anacortes Pride - the district's newsletter - is out now! Be sure to check it out for the new alma mater mural at AHS, mental health support for students, athlete profiles, your shout outs, and more! 

For questions, comments, or to request additional copies, please contact the Superintendent's Office: 360-503-1211 or information@asd103.org