Superintendent Update - Happy Thanksgiving

Dear UPSD Parents and Families: 

Before we leave for the holiday weekend, I want to wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving.  I know I speak for all UPSD staff when I share my deepest gratitude for the ongoing support we receive from parents and community members.  It is abundantly clear that the University Place community values education, celebrates educators and puts children and students first. We feel this support every day.  Thank you.

Please read on for a few important odds and ends:)

Thanksgiving Break Starts Tomorrow! 
Our annual Thanksgiving weekend officially begins tomorrow, Wednesday, November 26th with no school for students for the rest of the week. The district office is open tomorrow from 7:30 AM -12:00 PM if you need assistance or have questions. Students return to classes on Monday, December 1, 2025.

Winter Weather Preparation
My phone shows a "frozen mix" predicted for Sunday and Monday!  While this weather will not impact school schedules, now is a good time to review inclement weather procedures on our website. Next week, we will conduct test alerts on both the FlashAlert and ParentSquare apps.  The ParentSquare app is our primary parent notification tool.  The FlashAlert app will also be used to notify the media and community members of school delays or closures, but parents and staff can also use this tool.

HearMeWA - A Safety Resource for Washington Youth 
HearMeWA is a new, state-funded, state-operated crisis response program for youth.  The program operates every day - 24 hours per day.  Trained crisis counselors are available by app, phone, website, and chat to field calls, triage reports and connect youth with resources in their community.  When necessary, UP schools will be notified of concerns by HearMeWA staff to give support to students and/or respond to threats or other safety issues.  For more information, visit the HearMeWA website.

Levy and Bond Election in February
Three propositions will be on the ballot for UP voters to consider in a special election on February 10, 2026.  We have included lots of information on our website about these propositions and why they are needed.  Information is also available about school tours and community presentations. Please review and share this information and be sure to cast your ballots in February.

Have a very Happy Thanksgiving and a wonderful holiday season.

Best regards, 

Jeff Chamberlin
Superintendent