When We Return: Strength, Community, and Hope

Due to the Spokane Complex Fire, CSTA Washington Eastern North VP Trish Henry and her family were among the over 65K residents evacuated from their homes in early August. While she is now back home – a home that has now been inspected as safe – many of her neighbors were not so fortunate. Over 700 homes and other structures were lost due to the Spokane Complex Fire. The following is her message to her fellow computer science educators.

Eastern Washington—and Spokane in particular—has been deeply impacted by severe fires this summer. As our community begins the difficult work of recovery, many students, families, and school staff are facing the heartbreaking reality of being without homes.

For many of our school districts, the new school year begins next week. We know that returning to school will look different for some of our students and colleagues. Schools are more than places for learning—they are places of safety, connection, stability, and community.

As computer science educators, we know the importance of problem-solving, collaboration, creativity, and resilience. Those same qualities will help our communities move forward. We are recovering, supporting one another, and rebuilding—one day and one community at a time.

To our educators, students, families, and school communities across Eastern Washington: we see you, we stand with you, and we are moving forward together.

Our thoughts are with everyone affected by these fires as the new school year begins. May this year bring healing, hope, and strength to our communities.