Bremerton High School Faces Setbacks: Lack of Accreditation, Poor Performance, and Reversal of Strategic Plan

Bremerton High School’s non-accreditation status is a serious concern in light of the district’s poor academic performance, with just 32% of students reading at grade level and only 23% achieving proficiency in math (see Performance Fact support below). Now, with James Crawford out of the way, the Bremerton School Board has signaled its intention to undo the very strategic plan that he, along with the community, worked hard to implement. This move threatens to undo the progress we’ve made toward a better educational future for our children.

At the September 19, 2024, School Board meeting, members expressed plans to dismantle the district's strategic plan, a roadmap that was developed with input from teachers, administrators, and the broader community. The strategic plan was an essential part of addressing the very challenges that plague the district, including underperformance and the lack of accreditation, which could have helped secure a brighter future for students.

By reversing these critical efforts, the School Board is putting students at further risk, particularly in an environment where they already struggle to meet basic academic standards. Accreditation plays a vital role in ensuring that students’ diplomas are recognized by colleges and employers, and undoing the strategic plan removes a key tool in improving educational outcomes.

The Board will continue discussions at the next regular meeting, and it’s crucial for the community to stay informed and involved. As decisions are made that could profoundly impact the futures of Bremerton’s children, now is the time to demand transparency and accountability from the School Board.

Our children deserve better than this reversal of progress. It’s time for us to come together and fight for the educational future they deserve.