Inside this issue City Approves Biennial Budget - WINTER 2021 - the City of Sedro-Woolley
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SEDRO-WOOLLEY
WINTER 2021
Inside this issue
City Approves Biennial Budget
Skiyou Farm Lives-
Hoehn Bend & Fender Farms
SWSD Adapting to
Challenges During Covid
CONTACT YOUR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Bill Chambers, Director
COUNCIL MEMBER 325 Metcalf Street
(360) 855-9924
it.director@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us
WARD ONE LIBRARY
Brendan McGoffin Jeanne Williams, Library Director
277 Klinger St 802 Ball Street
Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 (360) 755-3985
Phone: (360) 333-8783 admin@centralskagitlibrary.org
ward1@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us MUNICIPAL COURT
Brock Stiles, Judge
325 Metcalf Street
WARD TWO (360) 855-0366
JoEllen Kesti courtclerk@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us
694 Brickyard Blvd
POLICE
Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284
Lin Tucker, Police Chief
Phone: (360) 391-7609 325 Metcalf Street
ward2@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us (360) 855-0111
For any emergency or officer dispatch
please call: 911
WARD THREE PUBLIC WORKS
Brenda Kinzer Public Works Director
100 Nelson Street
Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284
CITY DIRECTORY Mark Freiberger, P.E.
325 Metcalf Street
Phone: (360) 421-4541 CITY HALL (360) 855-0771
ward3@ci.sedro-woolley wa.us 325 Metcalf Street mfreiberger@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us
Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284
Public Works Assistant
(360) 855-1661
Julie Rosario
WARD FOUR Mayor 325 Metcalf Street
Julia Johnson (360) 855-0771
Glenn Allen
325 Metcalf Street
316 Talcott St Engineering/City Engineer
(360) 855-9922
Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 swmayor@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us David Lee, P.E.
Phone: (360) 885-2216 325 Metcalf Street
City Administration (360) 855-0771
ward4@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us
Doug Merriman, Ph.D. dlee@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us
City Supervisor/Finance Director
325 Metcalf Street Public Works Operations: Parks, Facilities,
WARD FIVE (360) 855-9921 Streets, Stormwater & Cemetery
Chuck Owen dmerriman@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us Nathan Salseina
Public Works Operations Supervisor
833 Waldron Street Finance
409 Alexander Street
Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 Jill Scott, Finance Manager
(360) 856-5167
Phone: (360) 982-0783 325 Metcalf Street
ward5@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us (360) 855-1661 Park Department Business Office and Reservations:
jscott@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us 325 Metcalf Street
(360) 855-1661
Serena Mynatt, Utility Billing Clerk
325 Metcalf Street Solid Waste
WARD SIX
(360) 855-0929 Leo Jacobs, Solid Waste & Fleet Division Supervisor
Karl de Jong
315 Sterling Street
1030 Warner Street DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
(360) 855-1884
Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 John Coleman, AICP
Phone: (360) 333-8911 Planning Director/Building Official Wastewater Division
ward6@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us 325 Metcalf Street Debbie Allen, Wastewater Division Supervisor
(360) 855-0771 401 Alexander Street
jcoleman@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us (360) 856-1100
AT-LARGE FIRE DEPARTMENT SEDRO-WOOLLEY HOUSING AUTHORITY
Dean Klinger, Fire Chief Hillsview
Kevin Loy
325 Metcalf Street 830 Township Street
128 Garden of Eden Road (360) 855-2252 (360) 855-0404
Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 Emergency: 911
Phone: (360) 421-8396
councilatlarge
@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us
What’s Going On
at City Hall?
What’s Inside
Listed below are locations of posted WINTER 2021
meetings, notices of public hearings
Sedro-Woolley City Scene
and passed ordinances. is published by the 2 City Hall
• City Hall bulletin board City of Sedro-Woolley | City Directory
325 Metcalf Street Editor: Jana Hanson | Council Corner
• City website: jhanson@ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us | What’s Going on at City Hall
www.ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us Design & Production: | From the Mayor
• All notices of public hearings and passed Rhay Design LLC | City Supervisor
ordinances are posted in the Skagit
Valley Herald. 5 City News
n City Council agendas, meeting
SEDRO-WOOLLEY | Chamber of Commerce
minutes, videos and audio of regularly-
scheduled meetings are posted on the CITY SCENE 7 Community
city website. MAGAZINE | Helping Hands Food Bank
n Planning Commission agendas and Philips Publishing Group | Making Lemonade out of Lemons
meeting minutes are posted on the has unfortunately closed | Skiyou Farm Lives -
city website. its business, therefore the Hoehn Bend and Fender Farms
If you have any questions regarding City of Sedro-Woolley will
| Imaging Advancements coming to
meeting times, places, agendas or ADA no longer publish a printed
PeaceHealth United General Medical
access, please call City Hall at version of City Scene magazine.
Center
(360) 855-1661 for assistance. However, we will continue to
| United General District 304 -
provide the same quality of
Trainings & Programs for
news and stories through an
CITY HALL MEETINGS online publication. The online
a Healthier & Happier 2021
City Council, Planning Commission and publication, still under the 17 Sedro-Woolley
Housing Authority Board meetings are name Sedro-Woolley City Scene, School District
generally held at the times and days noted is available at:
below: | Learning with COVID-19
https://www.ci.sedro-woolley.
City Council regular meetings: wa.us/flipbook/index.html | Virtual Teaching at
2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month State Street High School
If you wish to receive City Scene
6:00pm | Maintaining Athletic Programs
via email, you may sign up by
During COVID
City Council study sessions: going to:
1st Wednesday of each month 6:00pm | Online Schooling Experience -
https://www.ci.sedro-woolley. A Student’s Perspective
Planning Commission meetings: wa.us/community/cityscene-
| Skagit STEM Network-5 Years Old
3rd Tuesday of each month 6:30pm magazine.php
and Going Strong!
City Council Study Sessions, City Council We appreciate the community’s | Skagit STEM Network Begins New
Meetings and Planning Commission interest and support for Project Aimed at Working Together
Meetings will be held virtually using Sedro-Woolley City Scene as a Community to Develop our
Zoom Webinar until restrictions due magazine. We hope you will Future Workforce
to Covid-19 are lifted. To join in on a continue to read
City web meeting, go to https://www. and enjoy the new online 23 History
ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us/governing_ quarterly publication.
bodies/city_council/meetings.php then | The Creation of SWSD 101
Thank you!
click on City Council and Planning
28 Events
Commission Meetings schedule. Select
the desired meeting, click on “More ...” | Museum Events
and follow the instructions for joining. COVER PHOTO: | Easter Egg Hunt
Sedro-Woolley Housing Authority Board Norah Pennell, age 4 with Cora | Tea and Tulips
meetings are generally held on the at Hoehn Bend Farm Stay
| High School Sporting Events
third Thursday of even months except
October at 10:45am, Hillsview 830
Township Street
Meeting times and places occasionally
change, so it is advisable to contact City Hall
24 hours prior to a scheduled meeting to
confirm the location, date and time.
WINTER 2021 ■ SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE 3
CITY HALL | F R O M T H E M A Y O R
“It Takes AVillage...”
ADA Advisory Board: The ADA
committee includes local citizens who are
members of the disability community, or
who work closely with persons who are
(TAKEN IN PART FROM AN AFRICAN PROVERB) disabled. This committee, only recently
composed, are tasked with identifying
barriers and making recommendations
WE HAVE ALL HEARD
for improvements to new and/or existing
THE SAYING, ‘IT
TAKES A VILLAGE’, “Volunteers are the city services and facilities, as it relates
to Title II of the ADA. The community
AND TRULY IT DOES.
The Free Dictionary only human beings participants are Christina Sanchez,
Matthew DesVoigne, Michelle Salgado,
defines this idiom as,
“Many people’s help or on the face of the Eric Johnson, and Judy Jones.
involvement needed
BY MAYOR
JULIA JOHNSON
to achieve some earth who reflect this Central Skagit Sedro-Woolley Library:
The City of Sedro-Woolley and the
goal”. Sedro-Woolley
is not unlike that proverb; our city is nation’s compassion, Central Skagit Library entered into an
agreement in 2018 to provide library
characterized by city government and
citizens working together to achieve an unselfish caring, services to the community and construct
a new library within the city. The Board
effective, safe, and vibrant community.
Most are familiar with the City patience, of Trustees is made up of four individuals
who provide direction and their expertise
Council, but very few are aware of the
commissions and boards that are filled by
and just plain loving to the board. The current trustees are,
Tim Howland, Mindy Coslor, Darcy
those citizens who volunteer their time,
energy, and service to over-seeing critical
one another.” Resetar, and Jane Zillig.
roles that must be filled, thus allowing — ERMA BOMBECK As we begin the New Year, I want to
city government to run more efficiently. I take this opportunity to acknowledge and
would like to share briefly what they do, thank those citizens who volunteer on city
and mention with much gratitude, the government boards and commissions. It is
citizens who serve on them. the city, is the term limits; one member
always an honor when they are willing to
serves a period of two years, one a period
serve more than one term, as it provides
Planning Commission: The role of the of four years, and one a period of six
valued knowledge in that related field.
Planning Commission is to research years. The Civil Service Commission, in
Without their dedicated service, these
and fact-find on behalf of the City part, assures law enforcement officers
are recruited through open competition, relatively unknown, yet significant boards
Council. This agency, consisting of seven
hired, and promoted on the basis of and commissions would be a loss for the
commissioners, makes recommendations
merit, and are demoted, suspended, or city. As Mayor, I see a critical need for
to the City Council on annexation
removed from office for cause. these boards and commissions. Not only
and amendments to zoning maps,
development regulations, and the city’s are they a way for the citizens of Sedro-
Comprehensive Plan. Each Planning Housing Authority of Sedro-Woolley Woolley to engage in the democratic
Commissioner serves a six-year term, (SWHA): With 80-units of subsidized process and participate in the practice
with option to renew at the end of each housing, making it possible to provide of self-government, but they aid in the
term. Our current Commissioners are, housing for more than 150 people with promotion of effective, responsible and
Danielle Freiberger, Stacy Penno, Joseph low incomes, the SWHA manages and efficient government. So thank you, to
Franett, Joe Fattizzi, Silas Maddox, Eric provides for our community’s most all who have, are, or will in time serve on
Johnson, and Patrick Huggins. vulnerable. Based upon a contract one of the city’s boards or commissions,
between the SWHA and the King because it does take a village.
Sedro-Woolley Civil Service County Housing Authority, the SWHA One last invitation: With the new year
Commission: Commissioners Ken Commissioners work to include high- beginning, I invite you to click on the
Clark, Ken Van Liew, and Mike Janicki, quality housing for the economically link below and read my 2021 Budget
compose the three-member commission. disadvantaged families, seniors, and Letter to learn about the projects the city
It is a requirement of Washington State persons with disabilities. Our Board of has planned for the year. https://www.
that every city with full-time paid police Commissioners for the Sedro-Woolley ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us/Departments/
officers, have an appointed three-person Housing Authority are, Laurie Fellers, Finance/Forms%20&%20Documents/
civil service commission. What makes Reta Stephenson, Dona Cowan, Kacy Budget/2021_Budget_Message_from_
this commission unique to others within Johnson, and Lee Elliott. Mayor.pdf
4 SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE WINTER 2021
CIT Y SUPERVISOR | CIT Y HALL
2021-2022 • A total of $9,250 appropriated for a
new alternative Community Court
Budget Highlights
program focused on non-violent
misdemeanor crimes. Community
Court addresses the provision of
connecting non-violent offenders with
much needed services.
DURING THE capital budget component presenting
• All operational costs such as salaries,
DECEMBER 9, 2020 a cautiously optimistic rollout of
benefits, equipment, training and
CITY COUNCIL street and arterial improvements,
vehicle costs for the increased staffing
MEETING, the Sedro- the construction of a much-needed
of four new full-time police officers
Woolley City Council Public Works Operations building, and
as a result of funding provided by
approved the City’s the siting and land improvements for
Proposition 1.
2021-2022 Biennial enhanced storage and safety capacity
BY DOUG
Budget. This new • A total of $62,000 in 2021 for a
MERRIMAN , Ph.D.
for our Fire and Police Departments.
two-year format has Parks Master Plan effort to assess
City Supervisor/ The Mayor and City Council, along with
been adopted in an appropriate levels of service ($32,000)
Finance Director city staff, are continually monitoring
effort to broaden the as well as the development of an ADA
economic impacts attributable to the
strategic planning horizon used by the Transition Plan ($30,000) to assess
COVID pandemic, and have options to
Mayor and City Council when directing accessibility to Parks for disabled
adjust the biennial budget should such
future city operations. The $42.2 million- persons.
changes be necessary.
and $36.5 million-dollar budgets for Other programs or projects • $50,000 for the renovation of
fiscal years 2021 and 2022, respectively, highlighted in the 2021-2022 Biennial Memorial Park.
are structured to maintain or improve Budget include: • $50,000 is appropriated in the Street
current operational services, with the Fund #103 for improvements related
CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
2021 REVENUES - ALL FUNDS
Beginning Cash
27.50%
Taxes
19.25%
Transfers
18.30%
Licenses/
Permits
Interfund 0.82%
Loans/
Custodial
3.05%
Miscellaneous
Revenues Intergovernmental
0.88% 6.88%
Fines & Pentalties Charges for Service
0.19% 23.15%
2021 EXPENSES - ALL FUNDS
Services Capital Outlays
13.79% 13.07%
Supplies
1.99% Debt Service
1.93%
Benefits Interfund
5.66% 6.88%
Salaries &
Wages
19.96% Transfers
16.09%
Ending Cash Reserves
23.47%
WINTER 2021 ■ SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE 5
CITY NEWS | C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E
BRING ON
2021-2022 BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS • $7,500 for EDASC (Economic Devel-
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5
2021!
opment Alliance of Skagit County) for
continuing support of business growth
to the city’s ADA Transition Plan. A
and job creation in Sedro-Woolley.
total of $263,000 in capital outlays
for the Street Fund #103 ($150,000) • A continued effort to enhance the
and the Arterial Street Fund #104 city’s operating capital to Best
($113,000) for repairs and overlays to Practices levels established by the
2020 WILL Governmental Finances Officers
FOREVER BE
improve roadway surfaces.
Association (GFOA).
KNOWN AS THE • $706,156 is appropriated for a capital
In the city’s 2021-2022 Biennial Budget
YEAR THAT project to construct improvements
message, Mayor Julia Johnson outlined
CHANGED US to the Township and State Route 20
the development of an enhanced Capital
ALL. While we are intersection; $610,825 of the project
Improvement Plan linked to the city’s
excited to close will be paid for via a STPUS Grant from
new Biennial Budget format – a change
BY POLA KELLEY the chapter on the State of Washington.
Executive Director,
which will move the city’s fiscal planning
Sedro-Woolley
2020 and head • Capital funding is appropriated in the process from a one-year perspective to
Chamber of into 2021, I hope amounts of $3,194,120 and $962,000, a longer-term strategic planning horizon
Commerce
we can find ways in 2021 and 2022, respectively, for which effectively links the city’s primary
to avoid feeling lonely and instead improvements to sewer system planning documents.
a bit more connected. No matter infrastructure, engineering and design For additional information on the City
where in the world you live, the work, and the replacement of the of Sedro-Woolley 2021-2022 budget,
shared experiences of 2020 brought city’s laboratory/operations building. please see our website at https://www.
us together, even while we were ci.sedro-woolley.wa.us/departments/
apart. finance
Social Awakening- COVID-19: In
general, we have been severely
challenged by the pandemic. Under 2022 REVENUES - ALL FUNDS
Beginning Cash
extraordinary circumstances, 26.02%
Taxes
communities found ways to 22.77%
Other Financing
connect, learn and grow. We 11.61%
have come to accept the ideas of
Interfund
masking, social distancing, and Loans/ Licenses/
avoiding those who have been Custodial Permits
3.53% 0.99%
infected.
Miscellaneous
With the stakes high, people Revenues
went to social media platforms 1.09%
to make their voices heard. Our
Intergovernmental
global community came together Fines & Pentalties 6.15%
0.23%
like never before and elevated
Charges for Service
important issues that mattered 27.60%
more than ever.
What will 2021 bring? We have
already made the decision to cancel 2022 EXPENSES - ALL FUNDS
WoodFest again this year. We do Services Capital Outlays
16.67% 6.79%
have hopes however, that by June Supplies
2.55% Debt Service
we can enjoy one of our favorite 2.22%
events, Blast From the Past. Benefits Interfund
7.94% 2.79%
We will still be zooming our
Chamber lunches, and other
Salaries & Custodial
meetings until the time comes when Wages 0.58%
we can once again resume life and 23.34%
activities as we did before. Transfers
Personally, I look forward to a 8.94%
very happy, healthy New Year.
Ending Cash
28.18%
6 SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE WINTER 2021
HELPING HANDS FOOD BANK | COMMUNIT Y
HELPING HANDS FOOD BANK
seeks additional support to continue record-breaking numbers
for C.H.O.W. (Cutting Hunger On Weekends) Program
BY NICOLE LONG, DIRECTOR OF the C.H.O.W. program online at www.
DEVELOPMENT-HELPING HANDS FOOD BANK
weekendfood.org and feed all school-age
W
children in their home. The restrictions of
hen Helping Hands the area were also lifted to ensure no matter
Food Bank was where a family lives, they will still receive
approached in 2018 this essential service in Skagit County.
about expanding their The program has increased from 1,200
Food 4 Kids program students a week to now an average of 2,250.
to the Children’s Weekend Meal Program, Helping Hands is continuously seeking
it was a no-brainer for the organization. support for C.H.O.W. and hopes to have
Partnering with Skagit Publishing the restrictions remain removed through
and United Way of Skagit County, the the 2020-2021 school year.
program expanded even further in 2018 The Coronavirus has brought unique
and was renamed to C.H.O.W. - Cutting circumstances into the lives of students in
Hunger On Weekends. Entering 2020, the the community. Helping Hands and its
program fed 1,200 students each week in (Above) The Lieutenant is a graduate of MVHS partners are committed to providing this
the Sedro-Woolley and Mount Vernon serving those in need necessary support to Skagit Youth. When
School Districts. (Below) National Guard men and women students have full bellies, they can focus on
Students on free and reduced lunch feeding our children in Skagit County their education rather than how they will
programs qualified to receive this free get their next meal.
service, and with food delivered to their attention at school. The program is a The Staff and Volunteers at Helping
homes, families could feel more secure welcomed relief for the many at risk Hands would like to thank donors for their
and children avoided the unwanted families in our community, a need which support to ensure we never have to say no
has been steadily increasing. to the children of Skagit County. If you
Then COVID-19 came into our lives. would like to support the program, the cost
Suddenly many families were finding of one bag, containing seven meals is $4.25
themselves in situations never imagined. or $221 for 52 weeks.
Children were at home learning remotely To support C.H.O.W., please visit: www.
and parents left scrambling to make ends helpinghandsfoodbank.org/donate
meet as their careers became impacted by To volunteer and deliver C.H.O.W. bags,
restrictions. The need exploded overnight please visit: www.helpinghandsfoodbank.
and fortunately calls came flooding in to org/volunteer
support Skagit County youth. You can also call us Monday through
Helping Hands’ Executive Director, Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM at: (360) 856-2211
Rebecca Larsen immediately acted and Mail is received at: P.O. Box 632, Sedro-
removed all restrictions for children to Woolley WA 98284
receive food. Families can now enroll for
WINTER 2021 ■ SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE 7
COMMUNITY | L E M O N A D E F R O M L E M O N S
Making Lemonade
Out of Lemons BY MATTHEW DESVOIGNE,
CITY ADA ADVISORY GROUP MEMBER
ALONG WITH MILLIONS OF OTHERS,
THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC HAS TAKEN
A TOLL ON ME. Some have experienced
economic hardship, some mental or
emotional hardship, some who have
contracted the virus, physical health
related hardship. For myself living single,
I rank the pandemic as the third most
emotionally challenging and unstable
position I have experienced. While I
consider myself very fortunate to work
from home, there was a period when the
four pillars in my life, work, church, gym,
and line dancing class, were all closed,
leaving me emotionally drained. I cannot
recall a time when I was more starkly
reminded of my incapacity to possess a
driver’s license so I could at least enjoy a
change of scenery.
“... I rank the pandemic as
the third most emotionally
challenging and unstable
position I have experienced.”
While I do not pretend to be a mental
health expert, I do feel that I know
something of the basics. Losing interest in
things which once gave me pleasure was a
sign that I needed to take action in order to
preserve my mental well-being. The answer
was not going to come entirely from a
phone app either (although my phone apps
can help). I picked up the summer issue of
Sedro-Woolley City Scene hoping for some City Scene magazine summer 2020 issue; Betty Bittle with photo of Matthew
uplifting news in my town. There was an
article by Mayor Julia Johnson about the
rise in volunteerism at the local food bank, I contacted David Bricka at Country that were published in the summer City
an article by Interim Chamber of Commerce Meadow to inquire if the pen pal program Scene issue. Remembering the City Scene
Director Monique Brigham about shopping was open for public participation or if it article to shop local, I ordered flowers from
local, and an article by Country Meadow was only open to school children. David Sedro-Woolley Flowers for the occasion.
Village Program Director/“Fun Guy” David welcomed my letter which I printed The experience for me was uplifting at a
Bricka regarding a new pen pal program to on paper and mailed in a stamped time when I needed it most. I thank David,
aid retirement communities through times envelope. What a novel concept. After Betty, and Country Meadow for
of isolation. I was not alone. I wanted to put some correspondence back and forth, I the opportunity.
these articles into action to better myself had the opportunity to meet my Pen Pal
and my community. Betty Bittle and re-enact the pictures CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
8 SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE WINTER 2021
LEMONADE FROM LEMONS | COMMUNIT Y
(Right) Presenting Betty with flowers, From Left to Right,
Matthew, David Bricka and Betty Bittle
(Below) City Scene magazine summer 2020 issue reenactment-
Matthew and Betty Bittle
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8
“While I hope this is the first and last global
pandemic that I live through, it has taught me
something about finding hope in situations that
seem hopeless and there are always opportunities
to reach out to touch others ...”
I look forward to life getting back to normal, whatever
normalcy might look like post pandemic. I look forward to seeing
humans again more in flesh than in illuminated pixels. While I
hope this is the first and last global pandemic that I live through,
it has taught me something about finding hope in situations that
seem hopeless and there are always opportunities to reach out to
touch others and insure domestic tranquility in accordance with
the Preamble to the United States Constitution.
WINTER 2021 ■ SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE 9
COMMUNITY | H O E H N B E N D A N D F E N D E R FA R M S
Skiyou Farm Lives
Hoehn Bend Farmshouse
Hoehn Bend Farm
A
BY TERRY SAPP AND JEAN EAGLESTON
s we walked into the barn
talking about the possible
sequence of activities for the “Many of our favorite guests were 3-generation families.
day, we were abruptly met Most guests stayed at the farm for two to five days and
by four-year-old Andrew. He
had a very stern frown on his brow and a they came to participate in active farm life.”
single finger swiped across his lips. “NO
TALKING!” he forced on a breath before visitors. Most of our guests were from the “Christmas tree” forest, Frog Pond, and
turning and weaving his way through the greater Seattle area and nearly all groups Mother’s Woods. In the fall, our Farm Stay
hay bales, feed area, and three gates, then of guests included children. Many of our guests were able to harvest pumpkins,
moving quickly past the calving pens to favorite guests were 3-generation families. squash, and gourds from the garden where
retake his seat on a bale of hay with his Most guests stayed at the farm for two to we grew up to 40 varieties of such plants.
older sister and his anesthesiologist mother. five days and they came to participate in With squeals such as, “Look at this warty
There, snuggled up close to each other were active farm life. We tried to include our one”, the guests agreed that this activity was
our three Farm Stay guests—watching a guests in all of our regular daily chores. In akin to an Easter egg hunt in the autumn.
cow in advanced labor. The wide-eyed, addition, we tailored activities to make the Fender Farm has been in Terry’s family
silent trio sat just a few feet from the on-the-farm experience special—walking since 1910 and was originally farmed
rear end of the occasionally moaning miniature donkeys on leads through around the old-growth stumps by his
bovine, separated by the welded wire pastures; supplementing the pig’s diet with grandparents, George and Elizabeth
and steel fence of the small pen. This was food scraps, apples, or other treats; feeding Fender. During this first generation of
momentous for the cow that was birthing a saltine crackers to our Kinder goats; ownership, the farm was an “everything”
new member to our herd of Dexter cattle, carrying hens around in clasped arms; and, farm. “Everything” because the Fenders,
for our guests who were getting a rare and occasionally, on rainy days, building hay like many of their ilk, grew and sold or
special close-up opportunity to see such a forts in the haystack. ate everything possible on the fertile, flat
birth, and for us as we appreciated what we We also toured our nearby Fender bottom land of the Skiyou community.
could offer to our Farm Stay guests. Farm in an open 1953 Willy’s Jeep They milked a few cows that produced
For eight years we operated a Farm Stay pulling a trailer with hay-bale seating a couple cans of milk for the roadside
at our farm. Hoehn Bend Farm is located to accommodate guests. This hayride stand, grew berries which were sold to
east of Sedro-Woolley at the sharp bend included wending around Fender Creek, the cannery in Sedro-Woolley, proudly
on Hoehn Road. The old, remodeled the old farmstead, the north-leg pasture, maintained an apple orchard of many
farmhouse accommodated hundreds of Christmas Meadow and forty-year-old varieties, and husbanded a small flock of
10 SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE WINTER 2021H O E H N B E N D A N D F E N D E R FA R M S | C O M M U N I T Y
Fender Farm
“... introducing people to farming returned the greatest rewards.
Most of all, coaching little kids to be comfortable with farm
animals and to understand their nature and needs was the
most satisfying reward.”
Hoehn Bend Farm chickens.
sheep to address the blackberries around
the creek and farm margins. All of this
work was managed by the hands of George
and Elizabeth, their two daughters, Alma
(born in 1910) and Margaret (1911), and Terry with newborn calf and cows.
one horse, Colie, until George died in 1930.
Thereafter, Alma continued farming with major cities—San Francisco, Los Angeles, nature and needs was the most satisfying
her husband, Verne Sapp, and later, sons New York, and Seattle—Terry and his reward. Feeding hay up close to a string
Rick and Terry. wife, Jean Eagleston, came to Skagit Valley of cattle in stanchions in the barn, forking
Alma lived on Fender Farm her entire separately in 2006 and 2008. Jeanie came manure off of the bedding, leading goats
life except for the quarters at Bellingham from Palo Alto, California after a career as and donkeys, and collecting eggs, all
Normal School (now Western Washington a Stanford University-trained psychologist. produced realms of memorable responses
University) and her first year of teaching It was a big leap for Jeanie, who had not from our Farm Stay guests.
in Ardenvour, Washington. After that year, previously been on a farm, to join in the Nonetheless, Terry and Jeanie put the
she returned to the farm and taught at purchase of the former Mulder Dairy Farm Stay business “out to pasture” in
Lyman School, then Cascade Junior High (now Hoehn Bend Farm) in 2008, the 2019, just before the pandemic. The timing
until retirement. Many current residents development of a Dexter cattle operation, was fortunate, as it would have been a
of Sedro-Woolley remember their teacher the care of a variety of farm critters, as well prohibited enterprise during the pandemic.
Alma Sapp. as the Farm Stay enterprise. The decision was based at the time,
Alma loved her farm, including the With their histories in psychotherapy however, on the reality that running a herd
woods that we now label Mother’s Woods. and teaching, Jeanie and Terry were thrilled of up to 65 head of cattle, producing up to
She would not allow trees to be cut in by the “people part” of hosting guests three cuttings of hay, and farm and home
the second-growth woods, because she at their farm. The vast variety of urban maintenance was sufficiently demanding
insisted, “there needed to be a place for settings and international careers of our for a couple at around 70 years of age.
the wild things.” In her later years, she was guests generated endless conversations With a little extra time on their hands,
delighted by the deer who enjoyed the about worlds far-flung and far different Jeanie and Terry took on the restoration
fallen apples in the orchard even as the from small-scale farming in the Skagit of a 1910 Craftsman house in downtown
blackberries reclaimed the boundaries of valley. People from seventeen different Sedro-Woolley. Some will know the house
the farm. countries visited. But Terry and Jeanie both as the former Valley Hospital on Ferry
Having inherited his mother’s love for agree that introducing people to farming Street. Now living only a couple of minutes
her farm, Terry awaited an opportunity to returned the greatest rewards. Most of from the Fender and Hoehn Bend Farms,
return to the family farm in Skiyou. After all, coaching little kids to be comfortable cattle ranching and maintaining the farms
careers in finance and education, living in with farm animals and to understand their will keep us focused until the next chapter.
WINTER 2021 ■ SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE 11COMMUNITY | P E A C E H E A L T H
Imaging Advancements coming to
PeaceHealth United General
Medical Center BY CHRIS JOHNSTON, CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER,
PEACEHEALTH UNITED GENERAL MEDICAL CENTER
IN 1895, WILHEM CONRAD RÖENTGEN project to upgrade specialized imaging imaging has the potential to help them
DISCOVERED X-RAYS QUITE technologies in our Diagnostic Imaging identify functional disease at an earlier,
ACCIDENTALLY while testing whether Center. These will include the addition of more treatable stage and often well
cathode rays could pass through glass. nuclear medicine imaging and upgraded before conventional imaging and other
This breakthrough – more than a century cardiac computed tomography (CT) and tests would reveal the abnormality.
ago – profoundly changed the practice cardiac magnetic resonance imaging Nuclear medicine exams specifically
of medicine by allowing physicians and (MRI) capabilities. use a radioactive material called a
other scientists to see the inside of the These advancements are especially radiopharmaceutical or radiotracer that
living body. Since then, advancements beneficial for patients who previously is introduced into the patient’s body via
in modern medicine and imaging have had to travel outside the area for an injection, ingestion or inhalation.
continued to transform and improve specialized imaging studies. In particular, The radiotracer accumulates in the area
physician’s abilities to diagnose disease the addition of nuclear medicine will of the body under examination where
at earlier stages and offer more effective allow specialists like Anthony Holmes it gives off a small amount of energy
and personalized treatment therapies. MD, a PeaceHealth cardiologist, the in the form of gamma rays. The energy
Like the transformation of medicine, opportunity to see what’s happening is picked up on the scan to provide
PeaceHealth United General Medical with structures – like the heart – at physicians with a clearer picture of what
Center continues to advance our ability the cellular level rather than static is happening in the body.
to serve patients with investments anatomical images of soft and hard Nuclear medicine offers the potential
that bring service improvements. In tissues produced with conventional to be proactive rather than reactive with
the second and third quarters of 2021, imaging. Physicians know that disease care which may save lives. A nuclear
we will complete a $3 million capital begins at the cellular level and nuclear medicine scan of the heart offers a very
accurate test for diagnosing coronary
artery disease in patients who
may be at risk for a heart attack.
(Right) Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
of heart showing aortic valve for diagnosis of heart This imaging is also used to
disease (Getty Image). detect other cancers, heart
(Below) Siemens Symbia Evo™ molecular and disease and brain disorders.
nuclear medicine system PeaceHealth United General
imaging will add Siemens
technologies nuclear medicine
in April and cardiac MRI and CT
imaging in July 2021.
With five cardiologists and
many specialists practicing
at the Sedro-Woolley Clinic,
PeaceHealth United General has
quickly established itself as a
place for quality, comprehensive
care. The further expansion and growth
of imaging technologies for use by our
physicians adds up to patients receiving
the best possible care close to home.
Investing in our community makes
us stronger and it’s our commitment
to create a healthier Skagit County for
years to come.
12 SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE WINTER 2021UNITED GENERAL | COMMUNIT Y
Trainings and Programs for a
Healthier and Happier 2021
BY MARJORIE BELL,
COMMUNICATIONS AND GRANT WRITER FOR UNITED GENERAL DISTRICT 304
LIFE-LONG LEARNING ALLOWS US HAVE A HEART, LEARN CPR: We can blended online training will be held
TO GROW AND MAKE DECISIONS that now offer Adult & Infant CPR, AED, during Children’s Mental Health
keep ourselves and our loved ones and First Aid classes for individuals, Awareness Week, February 1st-
healthy and safe. One of our roles at groups, and organizations in our 7th. For questions, or to register,
United General District 304 is to offer community. Trainings are led by our email Alice.Michaelson@UnitedGeneral.
classes and skill-building workshops own American Red Cross certified org or call 360-854-7150.
that can make life better today and trainer, Stephanie Morgareidge, in
prevent problems down the road. Which a variety of formats and learning We look forward to getting back
is why community and professional styles. Interested? Email: Stephanie. to in-person learning as soon
education has been, and continues Morgareidge@UnitedGeneral.org or call as possible. Until then, we will
to be, a focus area in our services as 360-854-7179. continue to seek out and offer new
a public hospital district. Our work programs, trainings, and classes
is based on the philosophy that an YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID: This that meet the needs of our community—
informed and empowered community is FREE virtual class teaches parents, most at no or low cost to participants.
a healthier community! family members, teachers, school Make sure you don’t miss out on any
Throughout 2020 - thanks to staff, neighbors, and other adults how of our great offerings by subscribing to
Zoom and other virtual options - we to help an adolescent who is United General District 304’s monthly
offered a variety of trainings and experiencing challenges with mental newsletter and following us on Facebook
workshops for community members and health or addiction. This 6-hour @UnitedGeneralDistrict304.
professionals alike. This year, we have
new opportunities for online learning,
with something for virtually everyone.
Upcoming offerings include:
QPR (QUESTION, PERSUADE, REFER)
SUICIDE PREVENTION TRAINING: We all
have a role to play in preventing suicide.
Like CPR, QPR provides the knowledge
and skills to save a life. This FREE,
virtual, 60-minute training is open to
anyone 16 and older. Classes are offered
weekly and you can register online
here. For questions about QPR, or to
schedule a group training, contact:
Alice.Michaelson@UnitedGeneral.org
STRENGTHENING FAMILIES PROGRAM
FOR PARENTS AND YOUTH AGE 10-
14: Are you the parent or caregiver
of a 10-14-year-old? Join us for one
of four free, virtual programs
this winter! Over seven weeks,
families learn communication skills,
stress management tools, and ways
to connect. Available in English and
Spanish. Class sizes are limited, so
register here soon!
WINTER 2021 ■ SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE 13SWSD | L E A R N I N G W I T H C O V I D - 1 9
Learning with COVID-19 the school district that lack internet
connectivity. This by no means solves the
inequity we see in our 395 square miles,
THE ERA OF COVID HAS our students (and many of our parents) but it has filled gaps. My hope is that the
BEEN CHALLENGING learned how to use Google Classroom and connectivity inequity we are experiencing
FOR ALL OF US. In the Canvas. We have found that many of our will be addressed by our state legislators
world of education, students are flourishing in this model. But in the near future.
it’s been challenging we are also learning the value of in-person We have great staff that are dedicated
because we have been learning and the inequities within our to teaching and serving our children.
tasked to continue the school system. They all want to be able to return safely
BY PHIL BROCKMAN to in-person school. In the New Year it my
mission of teaching For many years we have heard about
SWSD
Superintendent and learning in a non- the digital divide. Now we know that it is sincere hope our students are able to get
traditional way. For real. The Sedro-Woolley School District back to in-person school. I am looking
many years teachers have been using was fortunate that our community forward to the vaccine, lower COVID rates
technology as a tool to enhance the supported the safety and technology levy and some normalcy.
educational experience for our students. in 2014. Because of the levy, the school For nearly eight years I have had the
Students have computers with software district was able to purchase portable pleasure to work with many of you as
programs for writing papers, developing computers for all of our students. We we passed levies, developed programs
creative graphics, learning how to code have what is referred to as one-to-one such as the STEM Network, improved
and program robots, and even fly drones. computing in our classrooms. However, student achievement, and addressed
Students even took a few on-line classes to we learned that one-to-one computing inequities within our system. I have a
enhance their educational experience and in our schools does not translate to our great appreciation for Sedro-Woolley and
in some cases make up classes. However, families. In order to support remote will cherish my time as superintendent
during COVID, the educational world was learning for all of our students, the as the highlight of my career as I will be
forced to pivot to remote learning as its school district has provided nearly retiring at the end of June. Thank you for
primary instructional model. Our teachers 2,500 Chromebooks and over 500 Wi-Fi your continued support of our students, it
learned how to Zoom and Loom, and hotspots to compensate for areas in is sincerely appreciated.
Virtual Teaching school year as I could create a more typical
science experience for students.
Although labs help make science more
WHEN I FOUND OUT we all navigate remote learning. normal, there is nothing normal about this
THAT WE WERE As a science teacher I knew that students year. Some students are thriving in this
GOING TO START learn best with hands on labs and setting because there is less judgement
THIS SCHOOL YEAR demonstrations and I also knew that I by their peers, reduced anxiety of being
REMOTELY, I was very didn’t have enough science lab materials in class, and there is more capacity for
unsure of how it would to create kits to send home with students, anonymity which allows students to be more
all go. As staff we have so I was bracing for the most boring open and expressive. I have loved seeing
BY CARLY BOYD these students open up and show their
worked together since hands-off science year of all time. I was
State Street High
School Science & March to try new tools, worried my students would disengage in potential. I also know that many students
Health Teacher to troubleshoot, and learning and I was worried for my own are struggling, and the hardest part of this
to figure out what engagement in teaching. I was trying year is not being able to connect with these
would work best for our students. It was to think of ways to create engagement students in person every day. Not being able
messy, frustrating, and exhausting, but we without hands on labs and I was really to walk by a student working and check in to
worked out the kinks together and still rely struggling. Over the summer, I learned see if they need help and immediately give
on each other as new challenges arise. I that I had won the National Science them reinforcement is hard since so much of
am thankful to work with such supportive Teaching Association’s Shell Lab Challenge teaching is built on those daily relationship
admin and staff that helped make this grant, awarded to select teachers who building moments. There is definitely a
transition as smooth as possible. Going show innovative teaching practices with disconnect that will need to be rebuilt
through the struggles ourselves helped limited science materials. When I got when we go back to teaching in person.
to better understand what issues our the call, it felt like this enormous weight If anything, teaching remotely has shown
students might have and better prepare was taken off of me because I was able to that staff and students are resilient, flexible,
us for that. Every day is a new adventure purchase science kits for all of my classes and no matter what will show up every day
and we still come across issues, and the which allow students to do hands on labs and do whatever it takes to create the best
students have been helpful and patient as at home. This made me eager for the learning environment possible.
14 SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE ■ WINTER 2021ONLINE SC HOOL | SWSD
Online
Schooling
Experience
SWHS - Maintaining Athletic
Programs during COVID-19
BY JERRY GARDNER, JR.
ATHLETIC DIRECTOR-SEDRO-WOOLLEY HIGH SCHOOL
BY GABRIEL ENDICOTT
STATE STREET HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR
S
2020 HAS BEEN CHALLENGING FOR ALL FACETS OF EDUCATION here in Sedro-
Woolley and around the State. One big thing our students have lost is that ability o far school has been a long
to socialize, workout and stay healthy through athletics. ride, a lot of ups and downs,
As the pandemic rolls on, Athletic Directors have been working tirelessly to which can make catching up
find ways to get students re-engaged safely in workouts and team activities. on work a complete nightmare.
With much cooperation around Skagit County, we have been able to build plans Then all of a sudden we start
that are safe and sustainable to allow coaches and athletes to get together and doing online school.
work out safely. These plans took months to build, with many variations and I’ll admit I was very skeptical about
restrictions; but in July our Sedro-Woolley High School students were able to how well online schooling would work
start working out with coaches. out, but as far as organization goes it isn’t
From July to the end of August (and again in Sept-early October), Sedro- all too bad. I haven’t had to worry about a
Woolley High School student-athletes were able to work through general single missing sheet of paper in months,
conditioning and exercise regiments with volunteer coaches. These workouts and all of my assignments are in one place
were designed to ramp up in intensity with the goal of getting kids out of the at all times.
house and back to sports. Students were coming twice a week and working out I also constantly get emails that an
for 45 minutes outside at the High School Stadium. Students worked in small assignment is due, or that grades are about
pods of five, wore masks, and maintained social distance. Overall, we had over to be submitted.
Although the accessibility, and
45+ students participate in our “conditioning only” programs.
organization is easier, online school is
In October, the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association and
hard to get used to. In the first place, and
Governor’s Office loosened up athletic restrictions slightly to allow for athletic
for one very important reason, the in-
departments to redefine plans in cooperation with the Skagit County Health person interaction between teacher and
Department; and opened workouts to “Sport Specifics” with some indoor student allows students to learn faster. I
workouts as well. With masks on, strict cleaning, testing and contact tracing have noticed that in-person we usually
protocols in place; about 250 students were able to work in pods of six and focus get through one subject and on to the
on sport-specifics. This change along with a highly organized schedule, resulted next much quicker as opposed to the
in more students participating, and enjoying time doing the sports they love. online experience.
It was wonderful to see students back on campus working with coaches and Also, not all teachers (or students)
teammates, even if in small pods. are tech geniuses. So there are quite
We have had a few challenges along the way with logistics/equipment/staffing, a few drawbacks as far as technology
restrictions changing, losing the ability to workout indoors, etc., but through it all, experience goes.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
WINTER 2021 ■ SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE 15SWSD | S K A G I T S T E M N E T W O R K
Skagit STEM Network
MAINTAINING ATHLETIC PROGRAMS
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15
our staff and students are enduring; 5 years old and going strong—
and thriving with what we are offering.
We have been pleased with the care Preparing our students to be job ready
and diligence that participating families
have given to their health and keeping IT IS HARD TO BELIEVE THAT JUST OVER 5 YEARS AGO ago I was
us apprised of any issues that may sitting around a conference table in the Sedro-Woolley City Hall
jeopardize our kids, staff, and the with Mayor Keith Wagoner, City Supervisor Eron Berg, School
workouts. Through it all students are District Superintendent Phil Brockman and Jana Hanson. At
showing up and putting in the work. that time significant changes were occurring in schools, new
Coaching staffs are excited to see the standards were being implemented and high school graduation
athletes and work with them, and as we requirements were evolving. We talked about the dual
work towards 2021, we will continue to BY MICHELLE
challenges of better preparing students to be job ready and
JUDSON , DIRECTOR
plan for next steps to bring sports back promoting job growth to align with local industry drivers.
NW Washington
all the way for the students. Go Cubs! STEM Network Given the community’s century long history of technology
development and innovation, the team’s belief was that “A
strong partnership between education (pre-K, primary, secondary and higher
education), industry, and community based organizations would be a key element
in delivering the vision for where the City of Sedro-Woolley wanted to be now and in
the future”.
Through the efforts of many we have built awareness and enthusiasm for the
value of a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education and
are providing students with real world learning opportunities at the same time
that they are learning the academic and technical skills that will prepare them
to succeed in early career jobs. During the current COVID impacted job market
STEM jobs and jobs requiring some level of STEM literacy have been insulated
from volatility.
Successful Career Connected Learning requires a commitment from many
people so that students see real life and what professionals do. Sedro-Woolley
continues to take a lead role in the development and early adoption of new
innovative programs. In writing this article I reflected on the many people and
organizations who given generously of their time and resources.
• EDASC has been a great partner to effectively engage the business community
in seeing the value of investing in creating talent and preparing our students
ONLINE SCHOOLING EXPERIENCE to be job ready.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15
• Mayor Julia Johnson for continuing the legacy of Sedro-Woolley leadership
and sitting on our advisory board.
I am not too sure which school
districts are doing the No School • The more than 60 Skagit businesses and individuals who have participated as
Wednesday schedule, but in the past few mentors in the STEM Like ME! Program that is now available to all 7th grade
months this schedule has been the most students in Skagit. Starting this January, we will have the tools to bring even
stress reducing school schedule I have more mentors into the classroom virtually so they can continue to interact
experienced. I am very thankful to the with students in a remote/hybrid learning environment.
Sedro-Woolley School District for using • Our annual ‘Spotlight on Women in STEM’ event for middle-school and high
this new schedule during this stressful school girls is made possible each year by 20+ businesses leading hands
transition. on activities, ‘Notable Women in STEM’ sharing their career journeys and
All in all the transition to online school councilors/educators from every school district working to make the day a
was a little rocky at first, and even though
success. In March 2021, the event will be hosted on a live virtual stage.
it’s smooth sailing now, we occasionally hit
a bump once in a while. But that’s just life Thanks to the interest and continued support of educators, business leaders
keeping us on our toes. and community organizations, the Skagit STEM Network is expanding to include
I have to thank the lovely staff at State Island, San Juan, Skagit, and Whatcom Counties. The Skagit STEM Network
Street High School for being the most will continue to operate under the organizational umbrella of the new NW
understanding and generous teachers I Washington STEM Network. For more information and to get involved visit us at
have had the pleasure of meeting. https://www.nwwashingtonstem.org.
16 SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE WINTER 2021SK AGIT STEM NET WORK | SWSD
Skagit STEM Network Begins New Project
Aimed at Working Together as a Community
to Develop our Future Workforce
THE SKAGIT STEM Plan is authentic and relevant for every importantly, families play an important
NETWORK STARTED A student. Educators can purposefully role in their students’ HSBP process
PROJECT IN FALL 2020 connect their instruction with by supporting them and asking them
to align the graduation- student career aspirations and give regularly about it. So families, at your
required High School students opportunities to explore a next school conference, be sure to ask
and Beyond Plan variety of career areas. Businesses about your student’s High School and
(HSBP) with Career can make themselves available to Beyond Plan!
BY SHAUN DOFFING
Connected Learning* students through Career Connected For more information, please contact,
Program
Manager-Skagit opportunities that Learning activities like Worksite Tours, Shaun Doffing, Program Manager-Skagit
STEM Network are currently taking Internships, Job Shadows and STEM STEM Network, 360.941.6929, sdoffing@
place throughout Like Me! so students can be made aware swsd101.org
Skagit County. The HSBP is a fantastic of what jobs are available and have Or you can always reach out to your
opportunity led by the Sedro-Woolley an opportunity to explore them. Most student’s school principal or counselor!
School District to help students identify
their strengths and passions and assist
them with finding a career pathway that
fits them best. The HSBP also supports
the future workforce needs of businesses
in our community by enabling students
to come out of high school with a
purpose; prepared for their post-
secondary education, and ultimately a
rewarding career. Additionally, educators
will enjoy much more engaged students
if students are able to connect their
learning with their interests and careers
they are working towards.
Students aligning their educational
plans with career pathways available
in our community is an incredible
opportunity. It will take ALL of us to Industry Mentors interacting with students
ensure the High School and Beyond
*Career Connected Learning:
Career Connected Learning
(CCL) is a continuum of awareness,
exploration, preparation and
work experiences developed
through strong public and private
partnerships. Students connect
with industry professionals to
develop, apply, and assess on
academic, technical, trade,
entrepreneurial, and 21st Century
skills that support their future
career success.
WINTER 2021 ■ SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE 17HISTORY | S W S C H O O L D I S T R I C T 1 0 1
The Creation of Sedro-Woolley
School District 101
BY SHARON HOWE, RESEARCH LIBRARIAN
H
SEDRO-WOOLLEY MUSEUM
ow did Sedro-Woolley
School District
101 come to serve
students over nearly
400 square miles of
central Skagit County,
taking in all or parts of more than 30
elementary school districts that had
existed during the preceding half century?
This ultimate consolidation happened by
degrees as communities grew, declined,
or disappeared; as transportation brought
communities closer together, and as
the Great Depression and wars brought
changes to the region. By 1944, most of
Central Skagit’s elementary schools had
been consolidated into the new District
101, along with union high school districts
at Sedro-Woolley and Hamilton. “By 1944, most of
Beginning in 1883, school districts Central Skagit’s
formed as communities sprouted along the
upper Skagit River and in the surrounding elementary schools
forests. Each school formed its own
district and elected a board of trustees.
had been consolidated
Before 1895, when Washington passed into the new District 101,
the Barefoot Schoolboy law to provide
some state funding for schools, district
along with union
residents paid all costs. The earliest high school districts
buildings literally came from the forests.
They were built of logs and cedar shakes at Sedro-Woolley and
or were rough wood bunkhouses which Hamilton.”
were abandoned as logging operations
moved on. Residents donated materials,
helped with construction, or pledged cash
to pay teachers, who made from $40 to $60
a month. These early schools offered one used in J.B.Ball’s logging operations. Miss
or two sessions a year lasting three or four Eva Wallace taught students who walked
months each. as many as four miles to school. Some even
As communities came and went, came from Clear Lake by boat and canoe. district was divided; residents of the east
districts consolidated, dissolved, or In 1885, residents built a log half from Skiyou (east of Sedro) to Lyman
reconfigured themselves by vote of the schoolhouse on David Batey’s ranch east formed Wilson District. Yet another log
residents. For example, the area’s first of Sterling and closer to Mortimer Cook’s schoolhouse was built on the Van Fleet
school district was organized in 1883 to growing town of Bug (later called Sedro). homestead in Skiyou. The first three-
serve the territory from Sterling (west However, Sterling formed a new district month term started in November 1886,
of Sedro) to Lyman. The first session of and built another log cabin school where with teacher Miss Faerie Cook, daughter
Sterling School was taught in spring 1884 the town had moved farther from the river of Sedro founder Mortimer Cook. In 1886,
in a river-front bunkhouse that had been to escape flooding. By summer 1886, the Lyman formed its own district, and Skiyou
18 SEDRO-WOOLLEY CITY SCENE WINTER 2021You can also read
