Care, Connection, and Summer Support

Dear Wenatchee School District Staff and Families, As we approach the final three days of what has been an extraordinary school year, my heart is filled with a mixture of emotions. We are all still navigating the profound grief from the tragic loss of the Decker girls. This sadness weighs heavily on us, and our thoughts continue to be with the Decker family and the entire Lincoln Elementary community. Yet, even in our sorrow, we also recognize the incredible achievements and moments of joy that have marked this past year. From kindergarteners taking their first steps towards independence, to the proud graduations from 5th grade, 8th grade, and high school. Along with countless awards ceremonies and academic successes – there is so much for us to celebrate and be happy about as a district. These milestones are a testament to the hard work of our students, the dedication of our staff, and the relentless support of our families. As our students transition from our daily care to the summer months, their well-being remains our top priority. We understand that the impact of recent events, combined with the change in routine, may bring continued challenges for some. Please know that our commitment to supporting our students and families does not end when school lets out. Support Services Available This Summer: We want to ensure that mental health resources remain accessible throughout the break: Elementary Student Support Specialists (SSS):  Our dedicated Elementary Student Support Specialists are available throughout the summer to connect with families and provide guidance. Parents can connect with an SSS by calling the district office at  (509) 663-8161 . Daybreak Health (Virtual Therapy):  For our secondary students and district staff, virtual therapy services through Daybreak Health remain available. This is a convenient and confidential way to access support during the summer months. You can find more information about their services at  daybreakhealth.com . Please encourage your children to talk about their feelings, and don't hesitate to reach out if you or your child needs support. While summer brings opportunities for rest and rejuvenation, it's also a time to stay connected and care for our emotional well-being. Thank you for your incredible resilience, compassion, and dedication throughout this challenging year. I wish all our students, staff, and families a safe, healthy, and restorative summer break. Sincerely, Kory Kalahar  Superintendent 

Wednesday, Jun 11 2025

Continuing Our Support and Healing Together

Dear Staff and Families, Yesterday, we shared the devastating news of the tragic passing of three of our beloved Lincoln Elementary students: Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia Decker. As we enter this second day, the profound grief continues to settle upon our community. My heart, and the hearts of the entire Wenatchee School District leadership, remain with the Decker family, the Lincoln Elementary community, and all who knew and loved these precious girls. Tomorrow, in their honor, I am directing all of our schools to fly their flags at half-staff until sunset on June 12th. We understand that the impact of such a profound loss extends far beyond the walls of Lincoln Elementary. Every school, every classroom, and every family within our district may be touched by this tragedy in some way. Children, staff, and parents across all our campuses may be experiencing a range of emotions, from sadness and confusion to anxiety and fear. It is crucial that we acknowledge and support these feelings wherever they arise. Continuing Our Commitment to Healing and Well-being: Our commitment to your well-being, and the well-being of your children, is unwavering. In addition to the immediate support available at Lincoln Elementary, we want to ensure that mental health resources are accessible to our entire district community as we navigate this challenging time. We are actively partnering with local organizations to broaden our support network: Columbia Valley Community Health (CVCH):  CVCH has six licensed therapists who have cleared their schedules for the remainder of the week to be available for same-day appointments. Individuals may walk in or call to schedule an urgent visit. Contact Information for Appointments: 📞 Main Line: (509) 662-6000 ext. 1073 📞 Direct Line: (509) 661-3618 Daybreak Health (Virtual Therapy):  Recognizing that some may prefer virtual care, we also want to highlight Daybreak Health, a virtual therapy platform that offers free, accessible, and confidential support for WSD students and staff. More information about their services can be found at  daybreakhealth.com These resources are available to assist in the healing process, offering a safe space for individuals to process grief, anxiety, and other emotions they may be experiencing. Please do not hesitate to reach out for support if you or your child needs it. I have also attached copies of a guide to speaking with children after a death from the Coalition to Support Grieving Students. Across all our schools, our staff are being encouraged to be especially mindful of student and staff emotional states, providing extra compassion and understanding. We encourage parents to continue open conversations with your children and reassure them that it's okay to feel sad and to seek help. This journey of healing will take time. We will continue to stand together as a district community, supporting one another through this profound loss. Your resilience, compassion, and shared commitment to our children are what make our district strong. We will continue to provide updates and resources as appropriate. With deepest sympathy and unwavering support, Kory Kalahar Superintendent

Wednesday, Jun 04 2025