Puyallup Elementary Blog

I hope the start of the 2025–2026 school year has brought joy and encouragement to your family. Whether you’ve been part of CCS for years or are joining us for the very first time, we are so glad you’re here. Welcome to the CCS family!

Leading by Example: WATCH D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students)

We recently hosted our third annual WATCH D.O.G.S. launch, and what a success it was! Father figures and their students gathered across our district to volunteer, play games, and, of course, share pizza (because what dad event would be complete without pizza?).

Scripture reminds us in Ephesians 6:4 (NIV): “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”

At CCS, we believe that fathers and father figures play a vital role in raising children with Christ at the center. Through WATCH D.O.G.S., dads are given the opportunity to live this out by modeling servant leadership, encouraging their children, and strengthening our school community through presence and example.

It was inspiring to welcome so many new dads this year. The laughter, connection, and sense of mission reminded us just how much fathers matter in shaping a strong, Christ-centered community.

Keeping the Cascade Christian Community Safe: Reunification Training

Now, let’s turn to an important topic: reunification. Reunification is the process of reuniting students with their families after an emergency. This could be the result of an inconvenience, like a burst pipe, or a real crisis, like an earthquake. This year, we’re intentionally training both staff and families in the I Love U Guys Foundation® Standard Reunification Model (SRM), in partnership with EPIC Emergency Management so that we have well-established procedures in place before an emergency occurs. Our prayer is that we never need to use these tools, but preparation is an act of stewardship. By preparing in advance, we can protect and care for the students God has entrusted to us.  

You’ll be hearing more about reunification in the coming months. In the meantime, if you’d like a head start, visit the I Love U Guys Foundation website for helpful videos and resources here: SRM ♥ The "I Love U Guys" Foundation.

Protecting the Future: Veteran’s Security Operations

You’ll also notice our security officers from Veteran’s Security Operations (VSO) on every campus. These men and women are deeply committed to keeping our schools safe. Be sure to give them a smile or a fist bump. They’re here to serve our CCS family, and we are grateful for their presence.

Continuing Education with Integrated Security Group

Our partner, Integrated Security Group (ISG), continues to strengthen our district’s safety readiness. Over 200 employees have now been trained in Stop the Bleed®, reunification, and other emergency response protocols. These trainings equip our teachers and staff to act with confidence and care in a crisis, ensuring that your children are protected with the highest level of preparedness.

Get Involved!

If you’d like to learn more about WATCH D.O.G.S. or join the program, connect with your campus leader or sign up by contacting your campus.

For more information about reunification and emergency preparedness, visit:

• SRM ♥ The "I Love U Guys" Foundation
• About | EPIC Emergency Management Portal
• Business Partners - District - Cascade Christian Schools
• Training | Stop the Bleed
• ISG
• VSO

Thank you for your continued support, encouragement, and prayers. Together, we are building not only a safer school environment, but also a stronger, Christ-centered community where students can grow in wisdom, faith, and character.

In Christ,

Jake Petersen, MSc

Associate Superintendent of Operations 
Cascade Christian Schools