Chelan schools balance new technology with foundational skills

CHELAN — As artificial intelligence rapidly changes the way people work, the Lake Chelan School District is entering the 2026-27 school year focused on preparing students for that changing world without losing sight of the foundational skills they will need regardless of where technology leads.

Superintendent Brad Wilson said the district's continuing priorities are student learning, safety and well-being, with opportunities stretching from preschool through graduation intended to prepare students for whatever postsecondary path they choose.

One emerging challenge, Wilson said, is determining where rapidly developing technology belongs in that education.

“Artificial intelligence is changing our world and how people do work rapidly, but we must ensure our students have foundational skills in reading, writing, math, science, social studies, health and fitness, technology, and career knowledge that build into higher order skills such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and the ability to make informed judgements,” Wilson said.

“Threading the needle on how to best use technology while doing this is an interesting conundrum.”

Students will also see some physical changes when they return.

Chelan Middle/High School has a redesigned commons area with new graphics and tables, completed through a Healthy Kids-Healthy Schools grant. Morgen Owings Elementary has freshly painted hallways and a new upstairs water bottle filling station, while maintenance and custodial crews spent the summer deep cleaning buildings and improving district grounds.

Work is also underway to upgrade the district's soccer field with new grass, irrigation and lighting. The project, funded primarily through a state Recreation and Conservation Office grant, is expected to be ready for use in the spring.

Beyond facilities, Wilson pointed to the breadth of programs available across the district as something he hopes receives attention from the community.

Elementary students continue to have access to art, music, band, library and physical education, along with visiting science experts and field trips. Middle school electives include STEM offerings, financial literacy, agriculture, drones and publishing.

At the high school level, Career and Technical Education offerings span medical sciences, business, technology, construction, agriculture, culinary arts and industrial arts. College-bound students can choose from more than 20 courses offering college credit through the University of Washington, Central Washington University, Eastern Washington University or Wenatchee Valley College.

The Chelan School of Innovation offers competency-based education centered on project-based learning, along with a digital academy for students better served by primarily working online.

Wilson said the district also provides student support through counselors in each building, a graduation specialist, student advocate, college and career coordinator and student assistance professional, along with a partnership with Columbia Valley Community Health for mental health services.

Financial and facility questions remain challenges for the district.

The district is considering asking voters in February to approve a bond to replace Morgen Owings Elementary. Wilson said the proposal would be smaller than the district's previous measure and would not include other projects. The School Board is expected to decide by Dec. 1 whether to place the measure on the ballot.

Wilson said the district expects to finish the fiscal year at the end of August with reserves above the School Board's 8% goal, but declining enrollment continues to affect state funding. He also cited inadequate state funding for materials, supplies and operating expenses including insurance and utilities.

As the school year begins, Wilson encouraged families to remain involved and communicate directly with teachers, principals and district leadership.

“We value their partnership and want to hear from them,” Wilson said. “I encourage all our students and families to reach out to their teacher, principal, or myself when they have ideas, questions, or concerns about how we can best serve students and their learning.”

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media