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Longview, WA, USA

Leading True North

Monday, August 24, 2026

2026 All-Staff Welcome Back marks the launch of a new school year and Strategic Plan 

Longview Public Schools employees came together Monday morning for the district’s annual All-Staff Welcome Back, officially kicking off the 2026–27 school year and launching the district’s new six-year Strategic Plan. 

Acting Superintendent Patti Bowen centered her remarks around the theme “Leading True North,” emphasizing the Strategic Plan as the district’s roadmap and the student experience—I Belong. I Believe. I Achieve.—as its true north. 

Dr. Tammy Campbell, CEO and Founder of The Scholar First, who helped facilitate the district’s strategic planning process, delivered the keynote address and challenged staff to turn the shared vision developed through the planning process into action for students. 

The morning also provided an opportunity to celebrate the people who make Longview Public Schools special. The district welcomed new employees and recognized staff celebrating 10, 20, 30 and 50 years of service to Longview students and families. 

Among those recognized was Jim Rhodes, who reached an extraordinary 50 years of service with Longview Public Schools—a remarkable milestone representing five decades of dedication to the district and generations of students. Over the course of his 50 years, it is estimated that Jim has been responsible for helping deliver more than 28.5 million elementary school meals to our students.

A complete list of this year’s Years of Service honorees is included alongside this story.

With students returning Wednesday, the gathering set the direction for the year ahead: bringing the Strategic Plan to life and creating a school experience where every student belongs, believes and achieves. Staff left the morning ready to begin the new year with a shared purpose and commitment to Every Student. Every Day. Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow.

A woman stands at a podium on a stage with balloons and flowers in the foreground, while a large screen displays %22Welcome Back%22 and event details in the background.
A man and woman stand on a stage with a podium and balloons in the foreground, while a large screen in the background displays %2250 Years of Service%22 and %22Jim Rhodes.%22
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A group of people stand on a stage in front of a large screen, with a red table and audience in the foreground.
Two women stand on a stage in front of a dark curtain, with a podium adorned with a logo and a colorful mum plant in the foreground, and balloons to the left.
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Three people stand in the foreground, with a large framed painting of a building and historical figures in the background.
Three people stand in a hallway with clipboards, while a welcome sign and a plaque are visible in the background.
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Four smiling people stand in front of a brick building with a red door.

Celebrating Years of Service