29 February . 2016
Spotlight On: Best-in-class Schools
Roshelle and Robert Lee had one thing on their minds when shopping for a home: a quality education for their young daughters.
“Our number one priority was their schooling,” said Roshelle. “We kept hearing about the highly rated Donald Eismann Elementary, and once we found out it was in the center of this amazing community, we were hooked!”
“We moved here from Spokane, not knowing anybody,” she said. “Now all of our friends and our kids’ friends are our neighbors. I help out in my first grader’s class two days a week, and we really feel like we’re part of something special.”
As the principal of Donald Eismann Elementary, Susie Black added, “Children come first in everything we do.” The school is widely respected and recognized for its strong academics and willingness to embrace the latest in classroom technology. “For example, each classroom is wired with state-of-the-art tech boards in place of chalkboards for an optimum learning experience.”
The school’s fifth graders have the highest scores in science in the Sumner School District and are participating in an iPad pilot program, with iPads donated by Tehaleh. Because the school is located in a forested environment, field trips often turn into science projects while still remaining inside the safety and familiarity of the community.
Homeowner Roshelle appreciates the combination of a strong school and access to the outdoors. “We feel like we found the total package,” she said. “We love how our home backs to the green belt, walking trails, and parks. We also love our home’s design, especially the media room, which is a real hub of activity. Plus, I can walk our first grader to school. It all adds up to a great lifestyle.”
The school grows by the week with more families finding their new home at Tehaleh. “The school has been a great way for families to connect,” said Black. “Our school used to be in an urban location where all of the students were bused in. We prioritized finding a new location where the school would be the center of a community. We are connected through the belief that, together, everyone will achieve excellence.”