David Wolfle Elementary Celebrates Groundbreaking of New Gymnasium

Construction has begun on a new 4,200-square-foot gym at David Wolfle Elementary, designed to provide students with a dedicated physical education space. This project addresses the community’s call for equitable access to facilities and programming. Wolfle’s current gym also serves as the cafeteria, auditorium, and meeting space, often impacting instructional time. Once completed, the new facility will free up the existing multipurpose space, allowing for more program flexibility. The gym is also designed for secure after-hours use, supporting community events.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held Wednesday, September 25, 2024, was attended by Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe Councilwoman Amber Caldera, a former David Wolfle Elementary student who reflected on the nearly century-long partnership between the school and the tribe. She spoke of the first school in Little Boston, built in 1936 by Mr. David Wolfle, which allowed local students to stay close to home, sparing Native American youth from the traumatic experiences of boarding schools. “Mr. Wolfle and Wolfle Elementary hold a special place in our hearts," Caldera said. "We thank the school for including us on this special day, and we’re happy about the improvements being made." Songs were shared by the Port Gamble S'Klallam Canoe Family, led by youth song leaders. Canoe Family leader Joe Price highlighted the significance of youth participation in these milestones.

Interim Superintendent Rachel Davenport expressed gratitude for the continued tribal partnership and thanked the community for supporting the 2022 levy, which made the gym project possible. She also acknowledged School Board members Edward Wright, Stacy Mills, Breane Martinez, Bassetti Architects, and Kassel & Associates, Inc. for their work.

The project, estimated at $4.5 million, is set to open in the spring of 2025.