🎓✨ Senior Awards Night – A Community of Generosity ✨🎓
What an incredible night celebrating our seniors!
Thanks to the unwavering support and generosity of our community, nearly $300,000 in scholarships was awarded to the Class of 2026—opening doors, creating opportunities, and fueling dreams for the next chapter.
💙 To our scholarship donors:
Your kindness and belief in our students does more than provide financial support—it sends a powerful message that our seniors are seen, valued, and supported as they take their next steps.
Because of you, futures are brighter.
Because of you, dreams feel possible.
Because of you, this night mattered in a big, lasting way.
We are deeply grateful for your investment in our students and our community.
👏 Congratulations to our seniors—we are so proud of you!
What an incredible night celebrating our seniors!
Thanks to the unwavering support and generosity of our community, nearly $300,000 in scholarships was awarded to the Class of 2026—opening doors, creating opportunities, and fueling dreams for the next chapter.
💙 To our scholarship donors:
Your kindness and belief in our students does more than provide financial support—it sends a powerful message that our seniors are seen, valued, and supported as they take their next steps.
Because of you, futures are brighter.
Because of you, dreams feel possible.
Because of you, this night mattered in a big, lasting way.
We are deeply grateful for your investment in our students and our community.
👏 Congratulations to our seniors—we are so proud of you!
🚀 Innovation. Creativity. Leadership. 🚀
Our High School and Hawkins Middle School TSA students recently delivered an outstanding presentation to the Board, showcasing the incredible work they are doing through the Technology Student Association (TSA)! 👏
Students highlighted projects and experiences in areas including 🤖 robotics, 👗 fashion design, and 💙 community fundraising — demonstrating impressive creativity, dedication, and initiative along the way.
Beyond the projects themselves, students shared how TSA has helped them build valuable life skills such as public speaking, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. These future leaders represented their schools with confidence and pride!
The Board commended the students for their accomplishments and for being such positive representatives of our schools and community. We are so proud of all they have achieved! 🌟
Our High School and Hawkins Middle School TSA students recently delivered an outstanding presentation to the Board, showcasing the incredible work they are doing through the Technology Student Association (TSA)! 👏
Students highlighted projects and experiences in areas including 🤖 robotics, 👗 fashion design, and 💙 community fundraising — demonstrating impressive creativity, dedication, and initiative along the way.
Beyond the projects themselves, students shared how TSA has helped them build valuable life skills such as public speaking, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. These future leaders represented their schools with confidence and pride!
The Board commended the students for their accomplishments and for being such positive representatives of our schools and community. We are so proud of all they have achieved! 🌟
🚀 SPEED MENTORING at Amazon HQ! 🚀
A group of NMHS students had an incredible opportunity to visit Amazon Headquarters in downtown Seattle for a hands-on Speed Mentoring experience!
👏 21 Amazon employees generously volunteered their time to mentor students through three engaging rounds of conversations. Students gained valuable insights on:
✨ Internships & first jobs
✨ Interview tips
✨ Networking strategies
✨ Career pathways and more
Through meaningful dialogue and reflection, students discovered just how important transferable skills are in today’s workforce—especially building relationships and strong communication.
Opportunities like this help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world careers, and we are so grateful to Amazon and all the mentors who made it possible!
A group of NMHS students had an incredible opportunity to visit Amazon Headquarters in downtown Seattle for a hands-on Speed Mentoring experience!
👏 21 Amazon employees generously volunteered their time to mentor students through three engaging rounds of conversations. Students gained valuable insights on:
✨ Internships & first jobs
✨ Interview tips
✨ Networking strategies
✨ Career pathways and more
Through meaningful dialogue and reflection, students discovered just how important transferable skills are in today’s workforce—especially building relationships and strong communication.
Opportunities like this help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world careers, and we are so grateful to Amazon and all the mentors who made it possible!
🌟 Student Spotlight: Samantha Neil 🌟
Records run in the family at North Mason! 💙
Back in 1972, Ken Van Buskirk set a school javelin record—now, decades later, his granddaughter, Samantha Neil, is making history of her own. The sophomore pole vaulter recently cleared a school-record 11 feet, the top mark in the state for 2A this season! 🎉
A two-time Olympic League champion, Samantha continues to soar—building on her runner-up finish at state last year. With hard work, dedication, and a passion for the sport, she’s proving that anything is possible! 💪✨
We can’t wait to see what she accomplishes next!
Records run in the family at North Mason! 💙
Back in 1972, Ken Van Buskirk set a school javelin record—now, decades later, his granddaughter, Samantha Neil, is making history of her own. The sophomore pole vaulter recently cleared a school-record 11 feet, the top mark in the state for 2A this season! 🎉
A two-time Olympic League champion, Samantha continues to soar—building on her runner-up finish at state last year. With hard work, dedication, and a passion for the sport, she’s proving that anything is possible! 💪✨
We can’t wait to see what she accomplishes next!
🐾🏃♂️ JV Bulldogs shine at the Olympic League JV Championships!
The JV Track & Field team traveled to Bainbridge Island on Monday and came home with an impressive 26 personal records, plus 2 league champions, 2 silver medals, and 4 bronze medals!
🏆 Champions: Cameron Williams (Long Jump) & Nickolai Mars (300m hurdles)
🥈 Silver: Eleanor Bailey (1600) & Kaydance Torres (Discus)
🥉 Bronzes included strong performances in hurdles, sprints, discus, and the boys’ 4x100 relay.
PRs were everywhere—from sprints and hurdles to relays, throws, and jumps—highlighted by Nathaniel Kingsbury PR’ing in all three throws!
👏 Outstanding effort by the entire JV squad. Way to go Bulldogs! 🐶💚
The JV Track & Field team traveled to Bainbridge Island on Monday and came home with an impressive 26 personal records, plus 2 league champions, 2 silver medals, and 4 bronze medals!
🏆 Champions: Cameron Williams (Long Jump) & Nickolai Mars (300m hurdles)
🥈 Silver: Eleanor Bailey (1600) & Kaydance Torres (Discus)
🥉 Bronzes included strong performances in hurdles, sprints, discus, and the boys’ 4x100 relay.
PRs were everywhere—from sprints and hurdles to relays, throws, and jumps—highlighted by Nathaniel Kingsbury PR’ing in all three throws!
👏 Outstanding effort by the entire JV squad. Way to go Bulldogs! 🐶💚
🏟️🐾 Another Olympic League Championship meet is in the books for our Bulldogs!
Saturday featured a stadium record in the boys’ 800, 13 new personal records, and 13 podium finishes as our athletes continue their journey toward districts at Bremerton High on May 20 & 22.
🌿 Huge thank you to Brother’s Nursery for the beautiful shrubbery that made the podium area shine! Special Bulldog pride goes to Sam Maupin—former Bulldog distance standout and Brother’s Nursery team member. We appreciate your continued support!
👏 And an enormous shout‑out to our outstanding grounds/maintenance team — Ron, Devin, Ricardo, and Mark!
The facility, especially the throws area, was in phenomenal condition and drew rave reviews from visiting teams: “The best we’ve ever seen!”
💚 So proud of our athletes, our supporters, and our staff. Go Bulldogs! 🐶🏃♂️🏃♀️
Saturday featured a stadium record in the boys’ 800, 13 new personal records, and 13 podium finishes as our athletes continue their journey toward districts at Bremerton High on May 20 & 22.
🌿 Huge thank you to Brother’s Nursery for the beautiful shrubbery that made the podium area shine! Special Bulldog pride goes to Sam Maupin—former Bulldog distance standout and Brother’s Nursery team member. We appreciate your continued support!
👏 And an enormous shout‑out to our outstanding grounds/maintenance team — Ron, Devin, Ricardo, and Mark!
The facility, especially the throws area, was in phenomenal condition and drew rave reviews from visiting teams: “The best we’ve ever seen!”
💚 So proud of our athletes, our supporters, and our staff. Go Bulldogs! 🐶🏃♂️🏃♀️
🐎💙 NMHS FFA at State Horse Evaluation CDE 💛🐎
NMHS FFA traveled to Ellensburg to compete in the State Horse Evaluation CDE, and our team did an outstanding job representing our chapter! Their professionalism, determination, and strong knowledge of the equine industry truly shined throughout the competition.
All the hard work and dedication they put in during the season paid off, making this experience a great success. We are incredibly proud of our members for their outstanding effort and for representing NMHS FFA so well at the state level.
👏 Congratulations to our team! 👏
NMHS FFA traveled to Ellensburg to compete in the State Horse Evaluation CDE, and our team did an outstanding job representing our chapter! Their professionalism, determination, and strong knowledge of the equine industry truly shined throughout the competition.
All the hard work and dedication they put in during the season paid off, making this experience a great success. We are incredibly proud of our members for their outstanding effort and for representing NMHS FFA so well at the state level.
👏 Congratulations to our team! 👏
Congratulations to the NMHS Marching Band and Color Guard for an outstanding performance at the Long Beach Loyalty Days Parade!
🥈 The Marching Band earned 2nd place in their division
🥇 The Color Guard brought home 1st place
Adding to the pride, the Bulldogs have now placed in the top two at Long Beach for 15 consecutive years—an incredible tradition of excellence!
👏 We’re also proud to share that the Hawkins Middle School Band attended the parade, continuing to represent our district with pride and helping build the future of our outstanding music programs.
📣 Catch the next performance this Saturday the 16th in Bremerton—come out and support our amazing musicians!
🥈 The Marching Band earned 2nd place in their division
🥇 The Color Guard brought home 1st place
Adding to the pride, the Bulldogs have now placed in the top two at Long Beach for 15 consecutive years—an incredible tradition of excellence!
👏 We’re also proud to share that the Hawkins Middle School Band attended the parade, continuing to represent our district with pride and helping build the future of our outstanding music programs.
📣 Catch the next performance this Saturday the 16th in Bremerton—come out and support our amazing musicians!
🔧🎓 Career Exploration in Action! 🎓🔧
NMHS students recently visited Bates Technical College for hands-on program tours and a glimpse into what’s possible after graduation. With 50+ programs and 45 Associate of Applied Science degrees, Bates offers powerful pathways into high-demand careers.
Students explored programs such as Diesel Mechanic, Carpentry, Welding, Fire Science, and more—learning directly from instructors and seeing real-world skills in action.
Experiences like this help our students connect interests to opportunities and imagine what’s next beyond high school. We love seeing NMHS students explore, engage, and plan for their futures! 💙🧡
NMHS students recently visited Bates Technical College for hands-on program tours and a glimpse into what’s possible after graduation. With 50+ programs and 45 Associate of Applied Science degrees, Bates offers powerful pathways into high-demand careers.
Students explored programs such as Diesel Mechanic, Carpentry, Welding, Fire Science, and more—learning directly from instructors and seeing real-world skills in action.
Experiences like this help our students connect interests to opportunities and imagine what’s next beyond high school. We love seeing NMHS students explore, engage, and plan for their futures! 💙🧡
🎓✨ Senior Signing Day at North Mason High School ✨🎓
Friday we proudly celebrated our seniors during our first annual Senior Signing Day all‑school assembly—a day dedicated to honoring every pathway and every future.
During the assembly, 10 seniors shared their post‑graduation plans, reminding us that while their paths may differ, they all share a strong foundation as North Mason High School graduates. Seniors then exited the gym through the staff tunnel and gathered in the Commons, where each received a handwritten “Senior Shout Out” card from a staff member—small notes filled with pride, encouragement, and appreciation.
We are so incredibly proud of the Class of 2026 and all they have accomplished. Congratulations, seniors—your future is bright, and you will always be part of the NMHS family! 💙🧡🎉
Friday we proudly celebrated our seniors during our first annual Senior Signing Day all‑school assembly—a day dedicated to honoring every pathway and every future.
During the assembly, 10 seniors shared their post‑graduation plans, reminding us that while their paths may differ, they all share a strong foundation as North Mason High School graduates. Seniors then exited the gym through the staff tunnel and gathered in the Commons, where each received a handwritten “Senior Shout Out” card from a staff member—small notes filled with pride, encouragement, and appreciation.
We are so incredibly proud of the Class of 2026 and all they have accomplished. Congratulations, seniors—your future is bright, and you will always be part of the NMHS family! 💙🧡🎉
🌍 International Flavors Week — May 5–9 High School & Middle School
We're taking your student on a global culinary adventure! Next week, our Child Nutrition team is serving up an International Flavors menu at the High School and Middle School. Each day features a different country's cuisine — two entrée choices daily, all included with your student's regular meal.
🍁 Monday, May 5 — True North Eats (Canada) Montreal Chicken Sandwich · Poutine
🌮 Tuesday, May 6 — Cinco de Mayo (Mexico) Mini Tacos · Flautas with Churros
🍕 Wednesday, May 7 — Little Italy (Italy) Pizza · Meatball Sub
🍜 Thursday, May 8 — Tokyo Bowl (Japan) Ramen Bowl · Egg Rolls
🥨 Friday, May 9 — German Food Fest (Germany) Bratwurst · Ham & Swiss on a Pretzel Bun
Students will choose one entrée each day as part of their regular school meal. We hope this week inspires curiosity and a love of global flavors! Questions? Contact our Child Nutrition office.
We're taking your student on a global culinary adventure! Next week, our Child Nutrition team is serving up an International Flavors menu at the High School and Middle School. Each day features a different country's cuisine — two entrée choices daily, all included with your student's regular meal.
🍁 Monday, May 5 — True North Eats (Canada) Montreal Chicken Sandwich · Poutine
🌮 Tuesday, May 6 — Cinco de Mayo (Mexico) Mini Tacos · Flautas with Churros
🍕 Wednesday, May 7 — Little Italy (Italy) Pizza · Meatball Sub
🍜 Thursday, May 8 — Tokyo Bowl (Japan) Ramen Bowl · Egg Rolls
🥨 Friday, May 9 — German Food Fest (Germany) Bratwurst · Ham & Swiss on a Pretzel Bun
Students will choose one entrée each day as part of their regular school meal. We hope this week inspires curiosity and a love of global flavors! Questions? Contact our Child Nutrition office.
🚲 Bikes Are Back at Hawkins Middle School! 🚲
We love this time of year at HMS! As the weather improves, our amazing PE teachers roll out the bicycles and turn campus into a cruising zone. Students are pedaling their way through PE, building confidence, balance, and lifelong skills—sometimes for the very first time on two wheels!
From first‑time riders finding their balance to experienced cyclists enjoying the ride, it’s all about growth, encouragement, and having fun while staying active. Way to go, Huskies and a big shout‑out to our PE team for creating such memorable learning moments! 🙌💙
We love this time of year at HMS! As the weather improves, our amazing PE teachers roll out the bicycles and turn campus into a cruising zone. Students are pedaling their way through PE, building confidence, balance, and lifelong skills—sometimes for the very first time on two wheels!
From first‑time riders finding their balance to experienced cyclists enjoying the ride, it’s all about growth, encouragement, and having fun while staying active. Way to go, Huskies and a big shout‑out to our PE team for creating such memorable learning moments! 🙌💙
Student Leadership Spotlight – Hawkins Middle School
The Board was energized by an outstanding presentation from Hawkins Middle School ASB student leaders, who shared inspiring highlights of their school culture, student engagement, and leadership opportunities. A heartfelt thank you to ASB Leadership Teacher Bailey Bachelor for her guidance and support in developing strong student leaders.
ASB President Bristol Hackett, Vice President Ashlynn Hicks, Treasurer Allie Stack, and Secretary Ellie Broughton spoke with confidence, clarity, and enthusiasm, offering thoughtful insight into their middle school experience. Each student demonstrated impressive communication skills, preparation, and leadership, proudly representing Hawkins Middle School and the positive culture thriving on campus. Their presentation was a powerful reminder of the impact of student voice and leadership in our schools.
The Board was energized by an outstanding presentation from Hawkins Middle School ASB student leaders, who shared inspiring highlights of their school culture, student engagement, and leadership opportunities. A heartfelt thank you to ASB Leadership Teacher Bailey Bachelor for her guidance and support in developing strong student leaders.
ASB President Bristol Hackett, Vice President Ashlynn Hicks, Treasurer Allie Stack, and Secretary Ellie Broughton spoke with confidence, clarity, and enthusiasm, offering thoughtful insight into their middle school experience. Each student demonstrated impressive communication skills, preparation, and leadership, proudly representing Hawkins Middle School and the positive culture thriving on campus. Their presentation was a powerful reminder of the impact of student voice and leadership in our schools.
Preliminary April 28 election results show the North Mason EP&O levy passing at 53.61%, pending certification on May 8. Thank you, North Mason voters, for your support!
This renewal levy continues funding for essential student programs over the next four years, including athletics, safety, arts, music, activities, counseling, nursing, technology, and classroom support. Levy dollars help fill the gap where state funding falls short, and we’re grateful for your continued investment in our students, schools, and community.
—Dr. Kristine Michael, Superintendent
This renewal levy continues funding for essential student programs over the next four years, including athletics, safety, arts, music, activities, counseling, nursing, technology, and classroom support. Levy dollars help fill the gap where state funding falls short, and we’re grateful for your continued investment in our students, schools, and community.
—Dr. Kristine Michael, Superintendent
🎓✨ Career & College Expo Success! ✨🎓
Our high school was proud to host a Career & College Expo, giving our 9th–12th grade students the opportunity to explore careers, colleges, trade programs, and local organizations. We were also excited to welcome our 8th graders, giving them an early look at the many paths available for their future!
It was great to have NMRFA Chief Bakken and Deputy Matt Colbenson from the Mason County Sheriff’s Department stop by to connect with students and share insight into careers in public service.
Events like this help students make real‑world connections, ask great questions, and start imagining what’s possible beyond high school. Thank you to all the community partners who made this such a meaningful experience for our students! 👏
Our high school was proud to host a Career & College Expo, giving our 9th–12th grade students the opportunity to explore careers, colleges, trade programs, and local organizations. We were also excited to welcome our 8th graders, giving them an early look at the many paths available for their future!
It was great to have NMRFA Chief Bakken and Deputy Matt Colbenson from the Mason County Sheriff’s Department stop by to connect with students and share insight into careers in public service.
Events like this help students make real‑world connections, ask great questions, and start imagining what’s possible beyond high school. Thank you to all the community partners who made this such a meaningful experience for our students! 👏
🌊🔬 Real Science. Real Experience. Real Learning! 🔬🌊
Our North Mason High School Aquaculture students took their classroom knowledge into the field this month during a hands‑on Water Quality Field Trip at Fair Harbor Marina!
Led by Aquaculture teacher Sommer Landers and joined by Mark LaRivier from the Case Inlet Fishery Task Force, students spent the afternoon exploring the proposed site for the future Coho Delayed Release Enclosure, learning how to collect water samples, and discovering the challenges (and surprises!) of real‑world field research.
Even when the specialized water‑sampling tool didn’t cooperate, students adapted—collecting surface and bottom samples to bring back to the classroom for analysis. That’s science in action! 💡💧
Half the group also visited the Port of Grapeview float, where they got an up‑close look at aquatic vegetation, starfish, crabs, and other marine life thriving in the low‑tide habitat.
The combination of marine biology, environmental science, and hands‑on exploration made for an unforgettable learning experience. Our students asked incredible questions, showed curiosity at every turn, and represented NMHS wonderfully! 💙🐾
Our North Mason High School Aquaculture students took their classroom knowledge into the field this month during a hands‑on Water Quality Field Trip at Fair Harbor Marina!
Led by Aquaculture teacher Sommer Landers and joined by Mark LaRivier from the Case Inlet Fishery Task Force, students spent the afternoon exploring the proposed site for the future Coho Delayed Release Enclosure, learning how to collect water samples, and discovering the challenges (and surprises!) of real‑world field research.
Even when the specialized water‑sampling tool didn’t cooperate, students adapted—collecting surface and bottom samples to bring back to the classroom for analysis. That’s science in action! 💡💧
Half the group also visited the Port of Grapeview float, where they got an up‑close look at aquatic vegetation, starfish, crabs, and other marine life thriving in the low‑tide habitat.
The combination of marine biology, environmental science, and hands‑on exploration made for an unforgettable learning experience. Our students asked incredible questions, showed curiosity at every turn, and represented NMHS wonderfully! 💙🐾
🌏✨ What an incredible night at the International Festival! ✨🌏
A huge thank‑you to everyone who came out to celebrate the many cultures, traditions, and stories that make our community so special. From delicious dishes to traditional clothing, music, and the 7th Grade WA State History Showcase — the night was truly filled with learning, laughter, and connection.
Our students and families brought so much heart and energy to this event, and we are so grateful for the amazing turnout. 💙🐾
It was a fantastic evening… and we can’t wait for the next one!International Festival Slideshow
🌊🐟 Aquaculture Students Dive Into Field Science!
Our NMHS Aquaculture students in the Natural Resources Pathway recently spent the day at the Union River gaining real hands‑on experience in the field!
During this trip, students practiced:
🔹 Fish identification
🔹 DNA sampling and staining
🔹 Mark‑and‑recapture protocols used by professional biologists
These activities give students authentic training as they work toward their Capstone and Industry Recognized Credential (IRC) in the Natural Resources career field.
💡 What is a Capstone?
The capstone is the final course in a series of CTE classes aligned to a specific career pathway. It’s designed to prepare students for entry into the workforce with the skills, experience, and credentials employers value.
We’re proud of these students for stepping outside the classroom and into real‑world science.
Their hard work today helps build tomorrow’s environmental leaders! 🌲🐾🌊
Our NMHS Aquaculture students in the Natural Resources Pathway recently spent the day at the Union River gaining real hands‑on experience in the field!
During this trip, students practiced:
🔹 Fish identification
🔹 DNA sampling and staining
🔹 Mark‑and‑recapture protocols used by professional biologists
These activities give students authentic training as they work toward their Capstone and Industry Recognized Credential (IRC) in the Natural Resources career field.
💡 What is a Capstone?
The capstone is the final course in a series of CTE classes aligned to a specific career pathway. It’s designed to prepare students for entry into the workforce with the skills, experience, and credentials employers value.
We’re proud of these students for stepping outside the classroom and into real‑world science.
Their hard work today helps build tomorrow’s environmental leaders! 🌲🐾🌊
🥣 Happy National School Breakfast Week! (March 2–6)
Did you know that starting the day with a healthy breakfast helps students stay focused, learn more effectively, and feel their best? Every morning, our amazing Nutrition Team is hard at work preparing and serving meals that fuel student success — and we appreciate them so much. 💛
A huge thank you to our kitchen staff for the smiles, the early mornings, and the care you put into serving our students. Your work makes a difference every single day!
✨ Did you know?
North Mason School District applies for the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) grant every year so that all students can receive FREE breakfast and lunch daily — ensuring no child starts the day hungry.
Did you know that starting the day with a healthy breakfast helps students stay focused, learn more effectively, and feel their best? Every morning, our amazing Nutrition Team is hard at work preparing and serving meals that fuel student success — and we appreciate them so much. 💛
A huge thank you to our kitchen staff for the smiles, the early mornings, and the care you put into serving our students. Your work makes a difference every single day!
✨ Did you know?
North Mason School District applies for the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) grant every year so that all students can receive FREE breakfast and lunch daily — ensuring no child starts the day hungry.
💙🤼♀️ GIRLS WRESTLING – STATE RECAP 🤼♀️💙
Our North Mason Girls Wrestling team had an amazing weekend at the WIAA State Championships, bringing home multiple medals and showing incredible Bulldog strength!
🥉 Camrynn Pike – 3rd Place
🏅 Natalie Roberts – 4th Place
🎖️ Evelyn Talbot – 6th Place
These athletes battled through tough brackets and delivered standout performances on the biggest stage of the season.
We are so proud of the dedication, grit, and heart our girls showed all year long. Congratulations on an incredible State finish, Bulldogs! 💙🐾
#NorthMasonPride #GirlsWrestling #GoBulldogs
Our North Mason Girls Wrestling team had an amazing weekend at the WIAA State Championships, bringing home multiple medals and showing incredible Bulldog strength!
🥉 Camrynn Pike – 3rd Place
🏅 Natalie Roberts – 4th Place
🎖️ Evelyn Talbot – 6th Place
These athletes battled through tough brackets and delivered standout performances on the biggest stage of the season.
We are so proud of the dedication, grit, and heart our girls showed all year long. Congratulations on an incredible State finish, Bulldogs! 💙🐾
#NorthMasonPride #GirlsWrestling #GoBulldogs
