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BPS staff gather together at Sehome High School for All-Staff Kick-Off

A staff member makes a heart shape with hands while walking into the event
A staff member hugs a cheerleader while arriving at the event
A student stands on a stage and sings the national anthem
Cheerleaders from three high schools gather together for a photo outside the school
The BPS school board poses for a photo while seated at the event
Two staff members smile and one waves at camera while seated at the event
Staff members smile and wave while walking in from buses at the event
The BHS showstoppers stand on stage at the event
Superintendent Dr. Greg Baker stands on stage with retired educator Steve Clarke
Superintendent Dr. Greg Baker stands on stage with retired educator Steve Clarke
Staff hold up signs with school names as folks enter the gym
BPS staff gather together at Sehome High School for All-Staff Kick-Off

Bellingham Public Schools hosted its annual all-staff kick-off at Sehome High School on Thursday, August 28.

The event is a special opportunity for every staff member to gather in One Schoolhouse spirit as we prepare for and celebrate the new school year.

Hazel Clapp, assistant principal at Kulshan Middle School, and Aaron Darragh, principal at Roosevelt Elementary School, were this year's emcee hosts.

Superintendent Greg Baker shared a kick-off address, which featured a surprise bonus guest.

Retired educator Steve Clarke, whose career spanned more than three decades and included 13 years as principal at Bellingham High School, shared about the impact of showing care and respect.

Before the event, staff were welcomed by cheerleaders and enjoyed coffee and refreshments donated by Starbucks Coffee and Woods Coffee. Squalicum High School student Antonio Malpica performed the national anthem before Sehome paraeducator Natalie Angaiak read the land acknowledgement.

The event also included a student performance from the BHS Showstoppers. Staff had the chance to view videos showcasing Promise Award recipients, levy information, a What’s Up Doc? interview with middle school student previously interviewed as kindergartners, and the hard work of our custodial staff over the summer break.

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