Silas High School—Principal’s Weekly Message—January 25, 2026—

Silas Core Beliefs

Every student can learn and grow at high levels.

Every student brings valuable prior knowledge to school.

Every student shall have a trusted adult at school with whom they connect.

Every student shall have access to guaranteed and viable curriculum.

Every student shall leave Silas High School prepared for post-secondary options.

The January Equity Theme centers around: LANGUAGE

Language shapes the way we interpret the world and express who we are. It helps us to connect, make meaning, and build community—but it can also create distance, confusion, or exclusion. From the words we choose to the tones we use, the stories we tell, and the jokes we share, language carries power. Sometimes it opens doors, and sometimes it shuts people out—intentionally or not. If we truly value belonging, we must be willing to examine and adapt our language, especially when it causes harm, EVEN UNINTENTIONALLY.

• How has language created connection of disconnection in your experience?
• What role does inclusive language play in shaping team culture?

Important Dates

• Monday, January 26—Ram Takeover at the Ram Restaurant!
• Wednesday, January 28—Late-start, 9:15 am—PLC
• Friday, January 30—Semester Break—no school for students while staff sub it grades and prepare for second semester
• Monday, February 2—Second Semester and School Counselor Appreciation Week begin

Ballots mailed to registered voters

Ballots for the Feb. 10 Special Election were recently mailed to registered voters. 

Voters in the Tacoma Public Schools boundary will consider two replacement levy measures that impact every school.

Proposition 1 funds 17% of daily operations, including about 500 staff members, along with arts, music and athletics. It also funds school safety improvements and maintenance to plumbing, heating and ventilation systems for clean air and safe water.

Proposition 2 provides access to technology for students and staff in all neighborhood schools.

Both are 4-year replacement measures. The existing levies are due to expire this year.

Please vote by the Feb. 10 deadline. Every vote counts!

Get more information about the levies at TacomaSchools.org/Vote.

If you’re not yet registered to vote, you still have time! Find out more about how to register.

Black History Month Essay Contest #1: WA-10 Black History Month Essay Contest  - Marilyn Strickland

I’m meeting with a community partner later this week to get the details of the second essay contest opportunity. Writers stay tuned…

Feb. 3 Maritime|253 enrollment information event

The community is invited to learn more about the new Maritime|253 Skills Center at an in-person enrollment information event:

• Tuesday, Feb. 3
• 6:00–7:30 p.m.
• Foss Waterway Seaport (705 Dock St., Tacoma)

This event is an opportunity for students, families and community members to meet Maritime|253 staff, connect with industry and education partners, and learn about program offerings and career opportunities within the maritime industry.

Students and families invited to basketball night at UPS

Tacoma Public Schools students and parents are invited to a free night of Logger Basketball at the University of Puget Sound. Join the school for a reception and refreshments between the men’s and women’s games to learn about the UPS experience and the Sound Scholars Program.

Students of all ages are welcome, but there's no childcare at the event. Students at or below 8th grade must have a chaperone to attend. Students should bring their student ID.

When: Tuesday, Feb. 3, from 5 – 8:30 p.m.
Where: University of Puget Sound/Memorial Fieldhouse, 1500 N. Warner St., Tacoma
Register here: 2026 Tacoma Public Schools Basketball Night

RamTV News: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3zcAT4BLNM

RECRUITING NEW TEAM MEMBERS NOW!

Students interested in helping to produce RAM TV each week should connect with their counselor as soon as possible.

What inspired me this week?

As we approach second semester, I’m inspired by meeting with students who want to TRANSFER TO SILAS.

Students—are you taking advantage of opportunities your teachers are offering? Any study sessions to ensure you perform well on any final assessments? Helping your friends to ensure they are also prepared to do well? Asking questions to gain clarity on anything you don’t understand? FINISH STRONG in this last week of the semester!

GO RAMS.