Yelm High School
Yelm High School
Introduction: Yelm High School
Located in the heart of Thurston County, Washington, Yelm High School serves as a vital educational hub for the growing city of Yelm and its surrounding areas. As part of the Yelm Community Schools district, the high school not only provides a solid academic foundation for students but also offers a wide array of extracurricular opportunities and community support. With a strong commitment to preparing students for life beyond graduation, Yelm High School continues to grow and evolve as a cornerstone of the community.
History and Background
Yelm High School has a long-standing presence in the region, dating back decades as one of the primary educational institutions in the area. The school is deeply integrated into the fabric of Yelm, reflecting the city's values of community, perseverance, and innovation. Over the years, the campus has undergone multiple renovations and expansions to accommodate the needs of a growing student population and to integrate modern facilities and technologies.
The school is part of Yelm Community Schools, a district that emphasizes continuous improvement and student-centered education. The district's mission is to equip every student to be a life-long learner and a responsible citizen.
Campus and Facilities
Yelm High School boasts a modern campus with facilities that support academic learning, arts, and athletics. Key features include:
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Science and Technology Labs: Equipped with state-of-the-art tools for STEM learning.
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Library and Media Center: A well-resourced hub for student research and reading.
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Performing Arts Center: Used for theater productions, concerts, and school assemblies.
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Athletic Facilities: Including a football stadium, gymnasiums, track fields, and training areas.
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Career and Technical Education (CTE) Labs: Supporting hands-on learning in automotive, construction, culinary, and health sciences.
These facilities ensure that students have access to the resources they need to excel in a variety of disciplines.
Academic Programs
Core Curriculum
Yelm High School offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to meet state educational standards while preparing students for college, careers, and life. Subjects include:
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English Language Arts
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Mathematics (Algebra, Geometry, Calculus, etc.)
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Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, etc.)
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Social Studies (U.S. History, World History, Government)
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World Languages (Spanish, French)
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Physical Education and Health
Advanced Placement (AP) and College Credit
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AP English Literature and Composition
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AP U.S. History
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AP Calculus
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AP Biology
These courses allow students to earn college credit while still in high school, giving them a head start in their post-secondary education.
Running Start Program
Through Washington’s Running Start program, Yelm High School juniors and seniors can enroll in college courses at nearby institutions like South Puget Sound Community College, earning both high school and college credit simultaneously. This option is popular among motivated students looking to challenge themselves and reduce the cost of college.
Special Education and Support Services
Yelm High School is committed to inclusivity and offers a wide range of support services for students with special needs. Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), academic counseling, and classroom accommodations are provided to ensure all students can thrive.
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Yelm High School places a strong emphasis on Career and Technical Education (CTE), preparing students for careers in high-demand industries. Some CTE pathways offered include:
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Automotive Technology
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Construction Trades
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Health Sciences
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Culinary Arts
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Computer Science and Digital Media
These programs offer hands-on experience, certifications, and even internships with local businesses, giving students a real-world advantage.
Extracurricular Activities
Athletics
Known as the Yelm Tornados, the teams compete in a wide range of sports:
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Football
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Basketball
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Baseball & Softball
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Track & Field
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Cross Country
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Volleyball
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Wrestling
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Soccer
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Golf
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Cheerleading
The football team, in particular, has garnered regional attention for its strong performance in recent years, including state-level competition.
Clubs and Organizations
Yelm High School supports a dynamic array of student clubs that reflect the diverse interests of its student body:
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National Honor Society
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Future Farmers of America (FFA)
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Robotics Club
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Drama Club
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Environmental Club
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DECA (Business & Marketing)
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Key Club (Community Service)
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Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA)
These clubs foster leadership, creativity, and civic responsibility while offering students a chance to connect with peers who share similar interests.
Performing Arts
Students participate in:
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Theater productions
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Choir and band performances
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Dance and talent shows
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Pep assemblies and parades
Seasonal performances attract families and community members, making arts a celebrated component of the Yelm experience.
Student Life and Culture
Diversity and Inclusion
Yelm High School embraces a diverse student population and promotes a culture of inclusion. Programs and initiatives encourage respect, equity, and acceptance across all demographics. The school's Equity Team works closely with staff and students to foster a safe and welcoming environment.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school integrates Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) into the curriculum to help students develop essential life skills such as:
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Conflict resolution
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Emotional regulation
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Goal setting
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Empathy and communication
Counselors and wellness coordinators are available to support students' mental health and well-being.
Leadership and Service
Student leadership opportunities abound at Yelm High School. Through Associated Student Body (ASB) and leadership classes, students plan events, manage school spirit campaigns, and work on projects that benefit the school and broader community. Service learning and volunteer hours are also encouraged for graduation and college applications.
Community and Parent Engagement
Yelm High School maintains strong ties with families and the local community. Parents are involved through:
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Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA)
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Booster clubs for athletics and the arts
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Volunteer opportunities at school events
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Regular newsletters and parent conferences
The school also partners with local businesses, civic organizations, and government agencies to provide students with job shadows, internships, and mentorship opportunities.
Achievements and Recognition
Yelm High School has received various recognitions for academic excellence, student growth, and community engagement. Notable achievements include:
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High graduation rates above the state average
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Strong performance in state-level sports competitions
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Recognition for outstanding CTE programs
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Students earning scholarships and college acceptance to prestigious universities
The school’s commitment to continuous improvement has made it a model for other schools in the region.
Post-Graduation Success
Graduates of Yelm High School pursue a variety of paths, including:
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Four-year universities such as the University of Washington, Washington State University, and Western Washington University
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Two-year colleges and technical programs
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Apprenticeships and skilled trades
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Military service
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Direct entry into the workforce with industry certifications
The school offers college and career counseling, FAFSA workshops, and college fairs to support students and families in navigating life after high school.
Challenges and Opportunities
Like many public schools, Yelm High School faces challenges such as:
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Ensuring equity across all student populations
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Meeting the mental health needs of students
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Adapting to rapid population growth in the district
However, these challenges also present opportunities. The school continues to adapt through innovation, community partnerships, and data-driven decision-making.
Vision for the Future
Yelm High School’s leadership is focused on the future with goals that include:
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Expanding STEM and CTE offerings
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Increasing access to dual-credit programs
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Deepening equity and inclusion efforts
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Improving facilities and technology infrastructure
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Strengthening career readiness pathways
These strategic goals reflect the school’s mission to ensure every student is ready for college, career, and life.
Conclusion
Yelm High School stands as a beacon of educational excellence in Washington State. With a commitment to student achievement, inclusive culture, and community involvement, the school continues to prepare young people for the future. Whether through academics, athletics, the arts, or technical education, Yelm High School empowers students to dream big and make a difference in the world.
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