Irwin School Programs at Washington State School for the Blind

Please pass the Principal...

WSSB Families, 

I'm in my fourteenth school year at WSSB, seventh year as Principal, and my appreciation for our school's community continues to grow.  We've been through a lot together with our students through the years, especially the past couple.  It's in the difficult times that our strength is defined and sheds light on the work that our students, educators, families, and volunteers have done to cultivate our school's culture.  Our values remain student-centered and focus on equity, accessibility, and relationships as the cornerstones of why we show up and how we support students in their journey.

Everyone at our school, especially staff, are learners, focused on continuous improvement.  As we aim to improve and move forward in our shared work, we sometimes move sideways and backward, yet we are always committed to our students moving forward to reach their full potential.  I sometimes hear students tell me and other staff, "I can't do that because I'm not independent" or "because I'm blind."  As an educator who cares about our students, these are some of the most difficult words of defeat to hear.  As a staff, we always encourage our students to consider how they're talking about themselves, and that they wouldn't let anyone else talk to them that way.  We acknowledge that's it's okay to be frustrated with doing something difficult, but that doesn't mean that you won't be successful in the future.  

Whenever I hear a student say, "I'm not independent," I reply with, "YET."

Words matter because they shape our actions and feelings which make us who we are.

I'm looking forward to continuing to provide high-quality learning experiences for students that empower them and make them feel better as the individuals they are.  And when we fall short as school, please let us know.  When we clearly identify what we're not doing, or doing well, there's an opportunity to add the word 'YET' to that statement.   

Wishing you and your families a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with love and cheer.  

Gratefully,

Sean McCormick

WSSB Principal