Wahluke school work on schedule

MATTAWA - Wah?luke School District Superintendent Aaron Chavez reports that work necessitated by the reconfiguration of schools is on schedule.

"Everything will be done by the time school starts," he said

There is construction work and painting and the moving of classroom equipment. It is being directed by maintenance and grounds supervisor Gil Favela.

"We are having our maintenance staff do most of the work. We do have volunteers coming in, though," Chavez said.

The volunteers include several members of the Wahluke High School football team. The Warriors are doing a lot of the heavy lifting.

"Thanks to everyone (former staff, students, community members)  who have chipped in to help paint," Chavez said.

Forced by the state to make changes, the school district settled on three K-5 schools next fall, one junior high (6-8) school and one high school. Last fall it had a K-1 school, a 2-4 school, a 5-6 school, a 7-8 school and a high school.

In other school district news, Chavez announced the administration has been reduced by two people. Assistant Superintendent Leonor de Maldonado was let go in a position cut.

Morris Schott Middle School Principal Paul Voorhies was hired in Grandview. That led to a reduction in principals from seven to six.

This fall's administration, by building, will be:

Principal Jeff Pietla, high school.

Vice Principal Mia Benjamin, high school, alternative school.

Principal Dale Hedman, junior high school

Principal John Mullen, K-5 school.

Principal Missy Stevenson, K-5 school.

Principal Amanda Anderson, K-5 school.

Also on the administrative team will be new junior high dean of students Andy Harlow. He will also be the athletic director for the junior high school.