Vision

The vision of Centennial Elementary is to facilitate the maximum educational growth of each child. We strive for excellence by challenging all individuals to realize their fullest potential.

Raising Expectations and Standards

1. We use the Essential Academic Learning Requirements to guide student learning.
2. We have grade level action plans for teaching communication arts and math.
3. Along with state assessments, the staff conducts grade level assessments to carefully monitor student growth.
4. Title 1 implemented an Extended Day Program, which focused on math for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students & reading instruction for 4th grade students.
5. In 2007-2008, there was a district-wide focus on improved mathematics instruction with a new textbook, Everyday Mathematics.

Unique Programs

1. Independent Learning Center (ILC) program for special-needs students
2. Active Associated Student Body
3. Students With Athletic Talents (SWATS) who perform at community events
4. Spot Light Cubs Drama

Parent and Community Involvement in Learning

We believe every child's growth is dependent upon the collective efforts of everyone to create a positive and supportive environment for learning. We actively seek to promote a strong and positive bond between school and community.

Committed Staff

Centennial Elementary has 36 teachers which average 13 years of experience. About 58 percent have a master's degree.

We have a fabulous staff that ensures the following:

1. A clear and shared vision and purpose
2. High standards and expectations for academics and behavior for all students
3. Effective leadership
4. High levels of teamwork
5. Curriculum and instruction that aligns to the state standards
6. Closely monitored teaching and student progress
7. Ongoing staff training/ professional development
8. A safe, healthy and supportive learning environment

Community Connections

Centennial is a center for many community activities. Our school is used by Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Garden Club, aerobics, and PTA. Centennial hosted Bethel Rec teams for all sports. Other organized groups are invited to inquire about facility use.

Adequate Yearly Progress

Centennial did not meet adequate yearly progress (AYP), as defined by the No Child Left Behind Act. Of the 36 areas tested, the school met all but six of the required benchmarks. AYP is determined primarily by year-to-year student achievement on the Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) in reading and mathematics.

Each year individual schools and the school district must "raise the bar" in gradual increments so that by 2014, 100 percent of students achieve proficiency in each subject area. Centennial met the benchmarks in each category for all student sub-groups.

WASL Overview

Our WASL scores showed strong improvement across all grades and content areas. We will continue to help all students succeed!

Bethel School District

Bethel School District serves about 17,500 students in 17 elementary schools, five junior highs (with another opening its doors in 2010), three comprehensive high schools, one alternative junior high/high school, and an online academy. The district has won national awards in technology and communications, as well as state awards in professional development, energy conservation, and the arts. In addition, five district teachers have earned "Washington State teacher of the Year" in the last 25 years - more than any district in the state.

The Bethel School District covers 202-square miles in south Pierce County. The area is one of the fastest growing in the Puget Sound region. In 2006, district voters passed both a four-year levy for operations and a $175 million bond to build new schools. As part of the first phase of the bond, two elementary schools and one junior high (temporarily housing Spanaway Lake High School) were opened in September 2009.

In 2007-2008, the district's budget was $158 million, about 80 percent of which went to salaries and benefits. About 1,050 certificated staff and about 1,000 classified (support) staff work for the district. Tom Seigel joined the district in 2001 as superintendent. He previously worked in Boulder, CO as a superintendent. Prior to his work in public education, Seigel served in the U.S. Navy for 25 years, completing his military career as a Commander.