The first day of school at Pleasant Valley Primary School began, not with a bang, but with a whisper.
In Salina Machida’s second-grade classroom at the Battle Ground Public Schools’ campus Monday, gentle music played while students colored “Back to School” worksheets. Pastel-colored paper lanterns filled the room with soft, glowing light.
It was a peaceful beginning for Machida’s second-graders that belied the whirlwind of activity over the last 2½ weeks, while teachers in the district were on strike for 12 days. Battle Ground’s teachers were on the picket lines longer than any other group in the state, with Tumwater teachers approving their contract Monday afternoon.
Battle Ground’s strike ended Sunday with teachers overwhelmingly approving a contract with across-the-board raises. Most of the district’s 13,500 students returned to class Monday, with kindergartners slated to begin classes Thursday.
Jessica Brown, another second-grade teacher, said she was “totally pumped” to see her students returning to school after the long delay.
“I was that much more excited to get back here and be with the kids,” she said between shaking her new students’ hands.
Parents dropping their children off said they were excited to return their children to campus, but added they were glad the district’s teachers settled on raises.
“They deserve the money,” said Robert Welck, whose 6-year-old daughter, Maygen, is starting first grade. “I want them paid to teach our children.”
Kelsey Drake scooped up her daughter, 6-year-old Sasha, for a few final moments of snuggles before sending her off to first grade.
“We’re just proud of the teachers,” Drake said. “We’re proud of their union.”
Sasha woke up early in the morning, excited to start school, Drake said.
“I’m just looking forward to art,” Sasha said.
Principal Mike Michaud greeted arriving students and families in front of the primary school campus, smiling and chatting before making his rounds around the campus.
There’s excitement and relief now that school is finally back in session, Michaud said, both for staff and the families.
But after days of delays for the north Clark County district, it’s time to return to the routine.
“I ask myself what I ask of my students: to be kind, work hard and show courage,” he said. “It’s the same here as any other day at Pleasant Valley.”
