Administrative Assistant
Sharlyn Young
One of my most favorite things to experience is the joy a child expresses when he or she learns something new. The sparkle and shine in their eyes when something that was hard finally clicks. The obvious accomplishment and pride they wear like a badge for a job well done. As a young girl I got my first experience working with young children as the neighborhood babysitter at the tender age of 10. And then again, as an adult with my own two children. I have always loved being surrounded by kids. When my youngest child started school at Fireweed Academy, I was presented with an amazing opportunity to become part of the staff as a paraprofessional. I leapt in with both feet, arms akimbo, mind fully engaged and hit the ground running. In my free time I enjoy multiple forms of art, fiber arts, spending time with my family and friends, and enjoying the quiet of our family cabin in Tutka Bay.
Contact Information
907-226-1260
Message from our Principal
On behalf of our staff and the Academic Policy Committee, I would like to welcome you to Fireweed Academy. Over the years, our school has taken pride in providing a unique educational program that makes our school special. We strive to provide a learning environment in school that develops a community of learners through our focus on the school’s newly developed “We Believe” statements:
We believe that students learn best through hands-on experience and reflecting on those experiences.
- We spark curiosity and ignite critical thinking through engaging projects and theme studies.
- Knowledge is founded on a process of observation, investigation and collaboration.
- We seize learning opportunities when they arise; no timeframe is too short!
We believe that music, arts, and creative self-expression nurture strong learners and responsible citizens.
- The arts are integrated throughout subject areas.
- Fireweed Frescoes provides group violin instruction to grades K–2, further enriching academic and social learning.
- Partnerships with local artists and organizations expand opportunities for creative expression, movement and community connection.
We believe in nurturing a compassionate learning community
- Students develop social and academic skills in small classes through cooperative learning, multi-age groups, and mentoring opportunities.
- Students learn individual responsibility, conflict resolution, and compassion through restorative practices.
- Celebrating learning is at heart of what we do.
We believe that the natural and cultural community of Kachemak Bay are fertile grounds for learning.
- Fireweed prioritizes outdoor play, exploration and discovery beyond school walls.
- Students build a sense of belonging as they become stewards of our community.
- Place-based education helps our students learn about themselves, each other, and the world around them.
We believe in building skills for engaged and responsible citizenship.
- Fireweed helps the whole child grow by fostering leadership, character development and civic responsibility.
- Social and emotional skills are developed through coaching, modeling and practice.
- We teach media literacy and critical thinking skills to help young people navigate a changing world.
Welcome to the 2022-2023 school year! I am honored and excited for the incredible opportunity to be joining the Fireweed Family as the new principal. I look forward to building relationships with you and your family as we learn, grow, and thrive together as a school community.
As we look ahead to our first day with students on August 16th, I’d like to share some updates and information, as well as briefly introduce myself and our new staff.
I come to Fireweed with a background in public education, school administration, and non-profit work. When my wife and I moved to Homer in 2019, we knew we had found our home in this amazing community. My passions include outdoor education, project-based education, social emotional learning, and building resilience factors to help kids and families succeed. I look forward to continuing to engage the community in multiple capacities while working alongside our wonderful Fireweed staff, families, and APC.
Please join me in welcoming our new amazing staff:
- Carly Garay – 5th/6th grade
- Krystal Evenson – 4th/5th grade
- Elizabeth Maver – 3rd/4th grade
- Jenni Medley – Title 1 Intervention Teacher
Additional Important Information:
School Start/End Times
The district made the decision to increase instructional time. By adding only 10 minutes, our students will gain an extra 30 hours of time spent learning while also decreasing time spent waiting on buses!
New times are as follows:
***Note: This is a correction to the previous email***
- Little Fireweed (K-2nd) Start 7:50am End 2:25pm
- Big Fireweed (3rd-6th) Start 8:00am End 2:50pm
Lunch Program:
With Covid relief funds no longer available, an application will need to be filled out by each family for Free and Reduced meals. I encourage you to fill out this form even if you don’t think you will qualify. http://mealapp.kpbsd.org
Fireweed Phone Number:
The new main number for Fireweed is 907-226-1260.
The old number will be forwarded, but please note the change in your contact information.
Important Dates:
- August 8th and 9th – Open Enrollment
- August 12th – Class Lists Posted at 4pm (at both school locations)
- August 15th – Meet your teacher! Come stop by and see your class (Time TBD)
- August 16th – First day of school!
This is going to be a wonderful year! I have an ‘open door’ policy and welcome any communication, feedback, or ideas that you would like to share with me.
Best,
Kyle Darbonne