The Olympia School District implemented a new schedule for K-12 students starting September 9, reducing Wednesday class periods to 50 minutes. This change affects bus routes and family planning, with the district noting it aligns with their focus on Authentic Learning and Healthy Living for 2027-28 standards. The adjustment follows district-wide updates to strategic planning, including serving 15,000 students across 20 schools with 130+ National Board Certified Teachers.
Thurston County activated its Emergency Coordination Center for coordinated response to an emerging situation, per county emergency management. The county also approved two bulkhead replacement projects along Summit Lake Shore Road, with public comment open until September 18, addressing failing structures for homeowners.
City Council set meeting dates for September through October 2026, with locations changing for some sessions. The Port Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for September 15 was canceled, with the next meeting set for October 20 at 4 p.m.
Thurston County officials held strategy sessions to address a $5.5 million budget cut for 2027, while also reporting swimmer’s itch at Clear Lake and launching a heat pump program. The State Auditor released updated finance resources for local government, including new tools for special districts and cyber response.
What to watch next: The $29.6 million clean building project funding from Washington State Department of Commerce, which includes Olympia, may accelerate local sustainability initiatives as the county navigates budget constraints.