Leaders of Olympic Educational Service District 114 (OESD) visited Northwater on February 18, 2026, as part of a Program Learning Walk series. Northwater is the region’s specialized program supporting students with intensive academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs. The visit offered a firsthand look at classrooms, staffing, and student supports.
Northwater opened in Fall 2024 at the former Breidablik Elementary School in Poulsbo and operates in partnership with ChanceLight Behavioral Health and Education. The program serves students from across and beyond the OESD 114 region, with the goal of helping them build the skills needed to return to their home districts. This work is already making a meaningful difference in the lives of students and their families.
As of February 2026, Northwater enrolls 25 students from eight districts and is supported by a leadership team that includes a Behavior Coordinator, Social Worker, and Program Director. The program’s dedicated staff includes five teachers, four behavior specialists, four instructional aides, and additional support personnel. Each classroom—capped at eight students—is staffed with a certified special education teacher, an instructional aide, and a behavior specialist to ensure a safe, structured, and responsive learning environment.
Northwater currently operates four classrooms: Lower Elementary (grades 1–3), Elementary (grades 4–6), Middle School (grades 6–8), and High School (grades 9–11). The Program Learning Walk highlighted the program’s commitment to creating positive, student-centered pathways that help learners thrive.
Thanks to the staff and students at Northwater for their warm welcome and meaningful tour.
For information about Northwater and its programs, please contact Lee Collyer at lcollyer@oesd114.org or call 253-514-2292.
Additional information: https://chancelight.com/outcomes/featured-partnership-case-studies/northwater-regional-school-opens-to-support-students-in-need/
