In schools that value meaningful learning, it is important to begin with a clear sense of purpose. Educational researcher Richard DuFour framed two foundational questions that guide effective teaching and learning: What do we want students to know and be able to do? and How will we know if they have learned it? At EVPP, these questions help us focus on the heart of learning rather than simply completing assignments or moving through the curriculum. As a community of families and educators, we have an opportunity to think together about the most important knowledge, skills, and habits we want our students to develop. This might include strong reading and writing skills, mathematical reasoning, curiosity about the world, and the character traits that help students grow into thoughtful and capable adults.

The second question—How will we know when students have learned it?—invites us to think about evidence of learning. In a parent partnership, learning can be demonstrated in many ways: thoughtful discussions, written work, projects, presentations, problem-solving, or creative expression. Rather than focusing only on tests or grades, we want to consider the many ways students can show understanding and growth. By talking together about these questions, we can build shared clarity between families and the school about learning goals and how we recognize progress. This conversation is not about adding pressure, but about making sure that the work students are doing is purposeful, meaningful, and helping them move forward with confidence.

On April 30th, from 5:00-6:30 PM, EVPP will be holding its Spring Exhibition of Learning which will be a similar format to the Student Showcase held in our drill hall last November. We are planning to build on the strong foundation of the showcase by adding an important element of student learning to the beautiful work students are completing. Our goal is to give students an opportunity to reflect on their work in the sense of what they have learned as a result of working diligently on their projects and assignments in Math, Science, Social Studies, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, and more. Please mark your calendars and plan to join us for this fun family event! Much more information will be shared in the coming weeks! 

Go Owls!

Warm Regards,

Jabez Harlan

Principal, EVPP

March can be a tricky time of year. The excitement of the holidays is long past, spring break may still feel far away, and the weather often keeps us indoors more than we would like. Many students (and adults!) start to feel that this month can be a bit of a slog. This is a perfect time to talk about the PACE character trait of diligence.

Diligence means continuing to do our best work even when something feels long, difficult, or tiring. It means showing perseverance, focus, and responsibility even when motivation is low. Just like runners in a long race, sometimes the middle stretch is the hardest part—but it’s also where resilience grows the most.

Throughout the month, we are encouraging students to practice diligence by:

One way families can reinforce diligence at home is by celebrating effort, not just outcomes. When children hear messages like “I noticed you kept trying even when that was hard,” it helps them build confidence in their ability to persevere.

As we move through these final winter weeks, we remind students that growth often happens during the slow, steady parts of the journey. With patience, effort, and encouragement, we can all finish the month strong and be ready to welcome the energy of spring.

Thank you for partnering with us in helping students develop strong character and resilience.

With Gratitude,
Mary-Hope Lakin
School Counselor

Meet our officers!

Abby Wright - President

Rebekah Flock - Vice President

Addison Mobley - Vice President

Connor Craig - Treasurer

Isaiah Flock - Secretary

ASB has been busy this year, from helping host the Student Showcase to putting on a Winter Semi-Formal Dance and two Spirit Weeks so far. We’re excited to share that our Spring Fling Dance will take place on Friday, May 27th, from 6–9 p.m. Students who wish to bring a guest from outside EVPP can pick up a permission form in the office. Please remember that tickets must be purchased in advance, as we won’t be accepting cash at the door.

Looking ahead, we’re thrilled for the upcoming Exhibition of Learning (Spring Student Showcase), as well as our Family Fun Night and the End‑of‑Year Dance. It’s shaping up to be a wonderful finish to the school year, and we can’t wait to celebrate with our students and families.

If your child or their friend has ever dreamed of "ruling the school" even just for a day, have we got an opportunity for you.... this month you can enter them for the chance to be "Principal for the Day". Opportunity tickets are as low as $1 a piece, bundles available. 

There is a song that seems to be stuck in my head lately, something to do with peanuts and cracker jacks... If your family is looking for a great way to hear "Take Me Out the Ballgame" in person, we have a great deal for you. We have access to Seattle Mariners tickets as low as $15 and $23 for the following games; May 16, July 18, and September 6, 2026. 

All details and Cheddar Up QR codes can be found on the PTO Bulletin Board and via email.

Elsie Babbitt, Omari Smith, Roxanne Sacpopo, Olivia Caraway, Josiah Morton, Carly Todhunter, Amelia Clark, Jordan Faraon and Adeline Alexander.