AWSP Blog

School leaders are uniquely positioned to help educate parents about firearms, particularly safe storage. Securing firearms is a sensible way to prevent curious kids from handling firearms, preventing accidents and suicides. While most gun owners responsibly lock up their guns, increasing awareness through you, your parent organization, and your school district will help build stronger, safer communities. In advance of October School Safety Month, we want to bring some resources to your attention as you consider increasing awareness about gun safety.

As we move into fall, we are closer to the important general election in November that will elect a new President and Governor and numerous new legislators and other statewide elected officials. Three initiatives are on the ballot as well. The makeup of legislative committees and leadership positions will change somewhat as a result of the elections, so significant change in Washington’s political landscape is coming.

Each year, AWSP’s Advocacy Advisory Council has the opportunity to select a state-level public servant who has demonstrated support of principals and the principalship in the education of all students. We’re thrilled to announce that our 2024 Torch of Leadership Award is presented to Representative Paul Harris (R-Vancouver), who currently serves on the Health Care & Wellness, Appropriations, Education, and Rules committees.

In addition to all the work of running a school building, school administrators must also take on the role of instructional leader, supporting and coaching teachers, and communicating with families about their children’s learning in meaningful, accessible ways. As school and district leaders across the country begin navigating the challenging yet necessary shift to science of reading-based instruction, they have more on their plates than ever. Fortunately, the science of reading can help Washington administrators engage in these conversations with specific knowledge drawn from rigorous research. Lexia® is eager to support school leaders in sharing information in open, clear, and critically reflective ways that help them push their schools and districts toward meaningful change.

You know what time it is…pumpkin spice latte season. Even more importantly, it’s back-to-school time all around the state. Some of you have been back at it for a week or more, and some are starting soon. Either way, writing an effective back-to-school email newsletter is crucial for principals to communicate important information to teachers, parents, and students. Start the year on the right foot by creating a great culture with clear and helpful communication with your school community.