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Dear Port Angeles School District Families and Community,

I am following up regarding the September 10^th situation at Port Angeles High School and the significant attention it has received on social media and throughout our community. We know this situation has raised concerns, and I want our families and community to understand that we are taking this matter very seriously. A thorough investigation is underway, and we are committed to carefully reviewing the circumstances and responding appropriately based on the information gathered.

We also want to be clear about our expectations. Clothing or materials that depict, promote, or celebrate violence are not allowed in our schools. When concerns arise, school and district staff respond in accordance with district policies and procedures, while ensuring students receive appropriate due process. Students have the right to hold different opinions and express their views. At school, however, that expression must remain consistent with school rules and cannot substantially disrupt the learning environment, threaten safety, or constitute harassment, intimidation, or bullying.

This morning, all PAHS staff began the day with Assistant Superintendent Rhonda Kromm and Principal Mace Gratz to ensure our expectations are clear and that staff understand their responsibilities in maintaining a safe, respectful, and orderly learning environment. Following that conversation, PAHS teachers shared a consistent message with students about these expectations. Students were also reminded that if they see or hear something at school that concerns them, they should tell a teacher, administrator, counselor, or another trusted adult. This is a proactive step to support students and staff and help ensure the school remains focused on teaching and learning.

We recognize that social media can amplify situations quickly and that members of our community want information and answers. At the same time, the district has a responsibility to investigate concerns thoroughly, follow established processes, protect student privacy, and make decisions based on the facts and information available to us.

Our responsibility today, and every day, is to provide schools where students and staff feel safe, respected, and able to focus on learning. We ask our students, families, staff, and broader community to help us uphold that responsibility by treating one another with respect.

If you have information or concerns related to this situation, or any concern involving our schools, please contact our district administration directly. We take those concerns seriously and appreciate our community’s continued partnership in supporting our students and schools.

Sincerely,
Michelle Olsen
Superintendent
Port Angeles School District

Port Angeles School District is aware of a photo circulating showing a student wearing clothing that did not meet District dress code expectations or the community standards we expect in our schools.

We first want to be very clear that clothing that depicts, promotes, or celebrates violence is not permitted or tolerated in our schools.

We take this issue seriously and have a responsibility to respond thoughtfully, consistently, and with appropriate due process.

Because student disciplinary matters are protected by privacy requirements, we cannot discuss actions involving individual students. We can share that appropriate corrective action is being taken consistent with district policy on this matter.

PASD supports students’ rights to express their views. However, those rights exist alongside our responsibility to maintain safe, respectful learning environments and to enforce District policies.