Columbia School District #400

As another remarkable school year comes to a close, it is hard not to pause and reflect on all that our students, staff, families, and community have accomplished together. The 2025-26 school year has been filled with growth, achievement, resilience, and countless moments that reminded us what makes Columbia School District such a special place. From academic success and student recognition to athletic accomplishments, fine arts performances, community events, and meaningful relationships built throughout the year, there is much to celebrate across our district.

This year, we continued our commitment to providing every student with opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed. Our staff remained focused on supporting the academic, social, emotional, and extracurricular needs of students while strengthening the partnerships that make our schools thrive. Whether in the classroom, on the stage, in competition, or through service to others, our students continued to make us proud.

Among the many highlights from this year:

• Columbia Elementary School was recognized by the Washington State Board of Education through the Washington School Recognition Program for its outstanding work in Closing the Gaps for students.
• We implemented ParentSquare, a unified communication system helping parents and guardians to connect with the district.
• Our district continued advancing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to ensure every student receives the support and opportunities they need.
• Students excelled in academics, athletics, music, leadership activities, Career and Technical Education programs, and community service projects throughout the year.
• Families and community members once again demonstrated incredible support through attendance at concerts, performances, athletic contests, open houses, parent events, and both our fall and spring conferences.
• Staff across all departments continued to go above and beyond each day to create safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environments for students.

As we celebrate the accomplishments of the year, we now turn our attention to several special end-of-year events that honor the hard work and achievements of our students:

Upcoming End-of-Year Celebrations

•  CHS Academic Awards Night – Tuesday, June 2 at 7:00 p.m.
•  Baccalaureate Service – Thursday, June 4 at 7:00 p.m.
•  Columbia High School Commencement Ceremony – Friday, June 5 at 7:00 p.m.
•  Columbia Elementary Kindergarten Graduation – Tuesday, June 9 at 6:00 p.m.
•  Columbia Middle School 8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony – Thursday, June 11 at 6:30 p.m.

Our graduation ceremony serves as the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and growth for the Class of 2026. We invite our entire community to join us as we celebrate these outstanding young adults and recognize the families, teachers, coaches, advisors, and mentors who helped them reach this important milestone. Graduation is always one of the most meaningful traditions in our district, and we look forward to honoring our graduates as they take the next step in their journeys.

Friday, June 12, will also mark the last day of school for students and the official close of another successful academic year. While summer provides a well-deserved opportunity to relax, recharge, and spend time with family and friends, we encourage our students to continue reading, exploring new interests, and creating lasting memories throughout the break.

On behalf of the Columbia School District Board of Directors, administration, faculty, and staff, thank you for your continued support, partnership, and trust throughout the school year. Together, we have accomplished great things for our students and community, and we are excited about what lies ahead. We wish everyone a safe, healthy, and enjoyable summer. We look forward to welcoming students and families back for another great year when school resumes in September.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! Thank you for a wonderful school year, and as always... Go Coyotes!

Sincerely, Todd Hilberg,

Superintendent