Pullman School District Monthly Newsletter
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You're Invited! Multicultural Night at Pullman High School
Hosted by the PHS Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) club in cooperation with the WSU International Center and the PSD English Language Development Program.
Learn more about this event at the link below:
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As the legislative session continues, lawmakers are making their way through bills from the opposite house, with critical deadlines approaching. To remain viable, all bills must clear their opposite house Policy Committee by April 2, followed by a deadline of April 8 for the Fiscal Committee. Afterward, legislators will engage in intensive floor sessions until April 16 to finalize bill approvals before shifting focus to reconciling the Operating, Capital, and Transportation Budgets. |
The latest revenue forecast, released on March 18 by the Economic & Revenue Forecast Council, indicates a mixed financial picture. While revenue for the remainder of the 2023–25 biennium is slightly higher than previous estimates, long-term projections show an $844 million decrease compared to November’s forecast. Despite this, overall revenues continue to grow, albeit at a slower rate than anticipated.
The projected budget shortfall remains a contentious issue. Estimates vary widely, with figures ranging from $4.9 billion to $16 billion over the next four years, depending on the source. With budget balancing required by law, legislators face the challenge of aligning spending with available revenue while addressing critical funding needs.
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In response to the revenue forecast, both the House and Senate are set to release their respective budget proposals on March 24. While there has been collaboration between budget-writers, differences between the proposals are expected, which could impact the session’s timeline. School districts, currently working on local budgets, are particularly interested in the outcome, as delays could complicate financial planning. |
To address funding needs and Washington’s regressive tax structure, Senate Democrats have proposed a comprehensive revenue package, which includes:
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Financial Intangibles Tax: A wealth tax on financial assets over $50 million, estimated to generate $4 billion annually.
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Payroll Expense Tax: A 5% tax on large employers’ payroll above the Social Security wage cap, expected to raise $2.3 billion annually.
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Property Tax Increase: Lifting the 1% growth cap to allow increases based on population growth and inflation.
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Repealing Tax Preferences: Eliminating select tax exemptions to generate approximately $1 billion over four years.
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Sales Tax Reduction: Cutting the state sales tax from 6.5% to 6.0%, reducing revenue by $1.3 billion per year.
These proposals aim to generate approximately $17 billion over four years—exceeding the projected shortfall. The debate now centers on how these funds will be allocated and whether the public will support these measures.
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Among the most significant proposals is the Financial Intangibles Tax, intended to provide new funding for public schools, including special education and operational costs. However, as the revenue would flow into the state’s General Fund rather than a dedicated K–12 account, concerns remain over whether these funds will be reliably directed toward education.
Meanwhile, two key education bills—SB 5192 (MSOC funding) and SB 5263 (Special Education)—remain under consideration in the House Appropriations Committee. Their passage will be closely watched by school administrators statewide.
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With multiple budget proposals expected, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the final spending plan. The alignment—or divergence—of House and Senate budgets will dictate the difficulty of negotiations and whether lawmakers can meet their April 27 deadline for session adjournment. As always, timely resolution will be critical for school districts planning their own budgets and resources for the upcoming year. |
Warm regards,
Bob Maxwell
Superintendent
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Stay informed and engaged with "Board Bulletin," a new section of our monthly newsletter featuring updates from our School Board. Each month, we’ll share key highlights from board meetings, important decisions, and a message from the Board to keep you connected to the work shaping our schools. |
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Survey administration presented by Pullman School District's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging (DEIB) Task Force |
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Families with students not currently enrolled that would like to enroll with PSD for the 2025-2026 school year, can submit an enrollment application online. |
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- Hiring Update: PHS Principal & Assistant Director of Special Services Hired - Assistant Superintendent Position Update
- Pullman Aquatic Center
- March is Music in our Schools Month
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April 7-11: No School, Spring Break
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We welcome all interested applicants and are committed to hiring the most highly qualified and professional teaching and support staff to serve the students of Pullman. To that end, the district will actively seek applicants who best meet the needs of the district. |
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Message from Our Board of Directors
On behalf of the Pullman School District Board of Directors, we sincerely thank everyone who attended the Community Listening Session and those who have shared their input on the district's budget priorities.
Your engagement and feedback are invaluable as we navigate important decisions for our schools. We appreciate your time, thoughtful perspectives, and commitment to our students and community. Your voices help shape the future of our district, and we remain dedicated to open, transparent dialogue.
Thank you for being a part of this ongoing conversation—we look forward to continuing to work together.
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At the March 12, 2025, board meeting, the Pullman School District Board of Directors received reports on various topics, including a PHS ASB update, a transportation services review, and a showcase from Pullman High School's Treble Triad. The superintendent recognized Education Support Professionals Week. The board approved the superintendent’s evaluation process and reviewed the proposed 2025-2026 fee schedules, course approvals, and WIAA membership, which will be revisited at a future meeting.
Read the full agenda at the link below:
Watch the Regular Board meeting at the link below:
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At the March 26, 2025, board meeting, the Pullman School District Board of Directors received updates on district activities, including a PHS ASB report and recognition of National Board Certified Teachers. Reports featured a showcase from Kamiak Elementary, an update on curriculum adoption, and a review of maintenance, facilities, and the asset preservation program. The superintendent recognized School Retiree Appreciation week and provided a report on elementary conference attendance along with district attendance rates. The board approved the 2025 Pullman High School ASB Constitution, and approved the fee schedules, course approvals, and WIAA membership for the 2025-2026 school year.
Read the full agenda at the link below:
Watch the Regular Board meeting at the link below:
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You can view the Pullman School District Board of Directors meeting schedule on our website. Board meetings are conducted at Pullman High School in the Board Room starting at 6:30pm and are open to the public. If you are interested in engaging with the school board during the public comment section, please visit our website for more information.
We make every effort to post board meeting packets prior to 5:00pm on the Friday before a board meeting. Please note that the most updated version of a board packet is posted online. No updates are made the 24 hours prior to a board meeting.
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District Article Submitted by: Juston Pollestad, Executive Director of Operations
Principal Article Submitted by: Evan Hecker, Kamiak Elementary Principal
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Shaping Community Efforts in Pullman Public Schools
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The Pullman School District Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Task Force is seeking input from families, staff, and secondary students to guide our efforts in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all.
This survey will help us:
- Evaluate the effectiveness of current events, activities, and materials related to equity and inclusion.
- Explore potential community partnerships to better support students in need and improve equitable access to opportunities.
- Identify the barriers our school communities face in reporting incidents of Harassment, Intimidation, bullying (HIB) or discrimination.
- Develop strategies to promote meaningful conversations about diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging among staff, students, and the community.
Your feedback is invaluable in shaping our inclusion and equity initiatives. The survey will remain anonymous. Thank you for your time and input!
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2025-2026 Enrollment & Kindergarten Open House |
Families with students not currently enrolled that would like to enroll with PSD for the 2025-2026 school year, can submit an enrollment application online. Translated paper copies of the enrollment application will be available. If your child is already enrolled in one of our schools, there is NO need to complete the enrollment process again.
If you have a child who will be 5 years old by August 31, 2025, this will be the time to enroll them in kindergarten.
Visit our website for more information about enrolling your student in Pullman School District at:
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Check out the webpage linked below to learn more about our kindergarten program and enrolling for kindergarten.
Where will my student go to school?
Students are initially assigned to a school based on where the student lives. Type your address into the Find my School tool to find which school your address falls into. If you would like your child to attend another school than the school in your boundary, you may submit an in-district transfer request. View the in-district transfer page for more information.
SAVE THE DATE! 2025-2026 KINDERGARTEN OPEN HOUSE
Each of our elementary schools will be hosting an open house for children who will be 5 years old by August 31, 2025, and will be entering kindergarten in one of our elementary schools for the 2025-2026 school year.
Date: Thursday, May 29
Time: 4:30pm-6:00pm
Locations:
Franklin Elementary - 850 SE Klemgard - Ph. 509-334-5641
Jefferson Elementary - 1150 NW Bryant St. - Ph. 509-332-2617
Kamiak Elementary - 1400 NW Terre View Dr. - Ph. 509-336-7205
Sunnyside Elementary - 425 SW Shirley - Ph. 509-334-1800
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We are pleased to announce that Dominick Ventresco has been hired as the Assistant Director of Special Services.
Dominick has been serving as our Interim Assistant Director of special Services for the 2024-2025 school year and previously supported the district as a special education teacher on special assignment (TOSA). Prior to serving as a TOSA, Dominick served as a special education teacher at Franklin Elementary.
We are excited for Dominick to continue his leadership in supporting our students, staff, and families in this role.
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Jerrod Fleury has been hired as the next Principal of Pullman High School, starting July 1, 2025. Mr. Fleury is currently serving as an Administrator and Athletic Director at Central Kitsap High School and was selected after an extensive and thorough selection process.
Learn more about Jerrod Fleury's journey and the selection process at:
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As we continue our search for a new Assistant Superintendent, we wanted to provide an update on the status of the position. The role has been reposted, and the application period will close on April 3, 2025. We are hopeful for a strong pool of candidates who are committed to the success of our district and the students we serve.
Thank you for your continued support as we work to fill this important leadership position.
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In the late 1990s, the Schweitzer family generously asked how they could support the Pullman School District. The superintendent at the time suggested that a pool would be a wonderful asset for our schools and the community. In response, the Schweitzer's funded the construction of what we now know as the Pullman Aquatic Center.
Since its opening, the City of Pullman has operated and maintained the facility through an interlocal agreement with the school district. While the district owns the land and the building, the city staffs, runs programs, and helps maintain the pool. Over the years, Ed and Bea Schweitzer have continued to provide financial support for necessary upgrades.
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This past August, Ed and Bea met with the City of Pullman to discuss a major remodel needed to keep the pool facilities in good condition. Around the same time, the school district, like many others, was—and continues to be—facing funding challenges. Meanwhile, the district and the city were working on a new interlocal agreement for the operation of the Aquatic Center. These developments raised concerns in the community about the future of the Aquatic Center and its importance for exercise and social activities. |
Over the past few months, discussions have taken place among the City of Pullman, the Pullman School District, Ed and Bea Schweitzer, and Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) to explore a solution that ensures the pool remains a community asset.
Ed Schweitzer formally proposed that SEL purchase the pool facility and the land from the Pullman School District. Under this proposal, SEL would take on responsibility for operating and maintaining the Aquatic Center, with Ed and Bea funding the necessary renovations.
This generous offer has the potential to benefit the school district, the city, SEL, and, most importantly, the entire community. While we are still in the very early stages of evaluating this proposal, we wanted to share this information with you as soon as possible, knowing that public discussion will likely follow soon.
As we navigate the many details, rules, and regulations associated with this decision, we appreciate your patience and understanding. There will certainly be many details to work through in the weeks ahead. However, all parties involved are optimistic about finding a path forward that benefits everyone.
We will keep you informed as more information becomes available. Thank you for your dedication to our schools and community.
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Pullman High School Drama Presents:
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical
Dates: May 1-3, 2025
Times: 7:00pm Shows & Saturday 2:00pm Matinee
Location: Pullman High School (510 NW Greyhound Way)
A Midsummer Nights Dream - Classic Shakespeare
Dates: May 15-17, 2025
Times: 7:00pm Shows & Saturday 2:00pm Matinee
Location: Pullman High School (510 NW Greyhound Way)
Admission:
- $5 - Students
- $10 - Adults
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Join us at Pullman High School on April 15 at 7:00 PM for a powerful evening with Legacy Holocaust Speaker Andrew Laszlo.
Hear the story of growing up in Hungary, surviving the Holocaust, and coming to America. Free admission—open to all!
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PSD Employment Opportunities |
We are in need of:
- Assistant Cook/Cashier (PHS)
- Assistant Superintendent
- 1.0 FTE Occupational Therapist beginning the 2025-2026 school year
- 1.0 FTE Special Education Teacher beginning the 2025-2026 school year
- 1.0 FTE Psychologist/Counselor beginning the 2025-2026 school year
- 1.0 FTE Counselors beginning the 2025-2026 school year
- Itinerant Head Cook
- Regular Route Bus Driver
- Assistant Volleyball Coach (PHS)
- Assistant Girls Swim Coach (PHS)
For more information, please visit our website at:
https://www.pullmanschools.org/departments/human_resources.
We welcome all interested applicants and are committed to hiring the most highly qualified and professional teaching and support staff to serve the students of Pullman.
To submit an employment application, click the button below.
For more information, please visit our website at:
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If you or anyone you know would be interested in subbing for Pullman Schools as a:
- Emergency Substitute Teacher
- Substitute Custodian
- Substitute Nutrition Services Staff
- Substitute Paraeducator
Please apply for these positions online at:
If you or anyone you know would be interested in subbing for Pullman Schools as a:
- Substitute Bus Driver
- Substitute Nurse
Please pick up an application at the District Office (240 SE Dexter St).
Questions about employment with Pullman School District?
Contact: Dagny Myers
Phone: (509) 332-3581 | Email: dmyers@psd267.org
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The Pullman School District Board of Directors and the Pullman School District shall provide equal educational opportunity and treatment for all students in all aspects of the academic and activities programs without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, honorably-discharged veteran or military status, sex, sexual orientation (including gender expression or identity), marital status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, participation in the Boy Scouts of America or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. The district will provide equal access to the Boy Scouts of America and all other designated youth groups listed in Title 36 of the United States Code as a patriotic society. District programs will be free from sexual harassment. The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination: Civil Rights Coordinator and Title IX Coordinator, Assistant Superintendent, (509) 332-3144, compliancecoord@psd267.org, and Section 504/ADA Coordinator, Assistant Superintendent (509) 332-3144, compliancecoord@psd267.org. 240 SE Dexter Street, Pullman, WA 99163. Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations in the application process by contacting the Personnel Coordinator at (509) 332-3584. Title IX inquiries may also be directed toward the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR): https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html. Information about the nondiscrimination and sex-based discrimination policies and grievance procedures, and how to report a concern or complaint: https://www.pullmanschools.org/families/hib-and-discrimination/discrimination_sexual_harassment.
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