Eastmont raises expectations for attendance, career prep and device use

EAST WENATCHEE — Eastmont School District students returning to classrooms for the 2026-27 school year will encounter higher expectations around attendance and personal electronic device use, along with expanded opportunities to explore careers through internships and job shadows.

Superintendent Spencer Taylor said that career-connected learning, attendance and cell phone use are three of the district's primary focuses as the new school year begins.

“More students will have opportunities to complete job shadows and internships out in the workforce as they develop their plans for post graduation,” Taylor said.

The district is also tightening its approach to personal electronic devices, which Taylor said will not be allowed in Eastmont schools in an effort to keep students more connected both academically with their schoolwork and socially with peers.

“Personal Electronic Devices are not allowed in our schools to help our students engage with learning and with each other,” Taylor said.

Attendance will receive increased attention as well. Taylor said the district plans more communication with parents and additional support for students who are chronically absent. That could include meeting with a counselor to identify and remove barriers preventing a student from attending school or requiring students to make up missed class time.

Career-connected learning is the initiative Taylor said he is particularly excited to see develop during the coming year.

“Many students don't know the options they have for a career in the future and what it takes to attain their chosen career,” Taylor said. “We are bringing employers to students, having students study a variety of career options, and sending students out into the workforce to experience different careers through internships and job shadows.”

While students will see those changes inside schools, Taylor identified the condition of some of the district's buildings as Eastmont's biggest challenge.

Three district elementary schools — Kenroy, Cascade and Lee — are between 60 and 70 years old and have aging and obsolete systems, Taylor said. Eastmont is asking voters to approve a bond measure to modernize the three schools.

“The state does not fund schools which need major facility repairs and modernizations,” Taylor said. “School Districts must ask the community to support a bond.”

The bond effort joins implementation of the district's strategic plan and providing the community a return on its investment among Eastmont's broader priorities for the year.

As families prepare for another school year, Taylor said the district's message to them is simple.

“We are honored to work with their children and are here to help them grow great kids!” he said.

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