Joy of Learning
The NTPS theme for the 2024-25 school year is Joy of Learning!
Each of our 24 schools offers high-quality learning environments where students grow academically and socially. We want students to master knowledge, explore their interests, find their voice, and contribute to the community. It is important to us that students discover the joy that comes from learning.
Learning should be rigorous and challenging. It should also be joyful—that excitement when a student masters a math concept or explores a new art form. In addition to our strong core instruction, we offer many opportunities for students to explore interests from music to world languages to career and technical education classes. We also offer various clubs and activities to support students in developing their interests.
Meaningful learning opportunities foster curiosity and a Joy of Learning while developing academic and social skills to meet high standards.
On this page, you will find examples of students from around the district experiencing the Joy of Learning. Each day, our skilled educators creatively bring concepts to life and support students in their educational journey. We are grateful for strong community partnerships with businesses, nonprofits, and volunteers who support joyful learning!
Introduction to Joy of Learning Theme
Superintendent Troy Oliver reflects on why we want students to discover the joy in learning and how our teachers nurture it!
Portable Planetarium
An inflatable planetarium came to Komachin Middle School to give students an immersive experience of learning more about our planet and solar system.
Seal of Biliteracy
NTPS students can earn the Washington State Seal of Biliteracy through World Languages classes and testing their proficiency. Listen to North Thurston World Languages students talk about their experiences.
Chinook Middle School STEM Class
In STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) class, students engage in hands-on learning that combines collaboration and experimentation while building Rube Goldberg machines.
Robotics at Ignite Family Academy
Students at Ignite Family Academy learn the basics of design with building bricks in their robotics class.
Gamification in the Classroom
One of our teacher development professional development sessions focused on teaching and learning through games. Listen to Instructional Specialist Alyssa Knudtson talk about her training on integrating gamification into the classroom and some teachers' impressions of the training.
Future-Ready Kindergarten
Students in our Future-Ready Kindergarten programs gain academic and social skills that help prepare them for kindergarten! Through art, science, social activities, and more, they gain a love for learning.
Lydia Hawk Bilingual Reading Buddies
At Lydia Hawk Elementary, older students read books in English and Spanish to younger students to help them find joy in reading.