BY PEPPER FISHER
Port Angeles – Now that work has begun on building a new middle school in Port Angeles, you might think it will still be called Stevens Middle School when it opens in 2027. But that does not appear to be the case.
A committee appointed by school superintendent Marty Brewer has been tasked with recommending names for Stevens Middle School. The committee, composed of staff, students, tribal representatives, and community members will, at this Thursday’s school board meeting, propose four names for the Board’s consideration. Each proposed name is accompanied by rationale—including cultural, geographic, and symbolic relevance—as well as a summary of potential benefits and concerns.
The 4 names selected are: Hurricane Ridge Middle School, Riverstone Middle School, Elwha River Middle School, and Port Angeles Middle School.
Based on the rationale behind each of the proposed names, Hurricane Ridge Middle School appears to be the frontrunner, as the ridge is visible from the school property, is a popular and recognizable landmark, is sacred to local tribes, and the name can represent multiple local animal species.
(PASD photo: Middle School Groundbreaking ceremony in April)
(Below is the short list produced by the committee with the 4 suggested names and rationales)
Report to the Board: Committee Recommendations for Stevens Middle School Renaming
Background: Pursuant to district policy regarding the naming of school facilities, a superintendent-appointed committee was tasked with recommending names for Stevens Middle School. The committee was composed of staff, students, tribal representatives, and community members. The committee has proposed four names for the Board’s consideration. Each proposed name is accompanied by rationale—including cultural, geographic, and symbolic relevance—as well as a summary of potential benefits and concerns.
1. Hurricane Ridge Middle School
• Iconic Location: A well-known and unique landmark deeply associated with the
Olympic Peninsula.
• Visible from School: Hurricane Ridge can be seen from the school campus, reinforcing
geographic connection.
• Culturally Relevant: Sacred to the Klallam people; reinforces cultural respect and
visibility.
• Environmental Identity: Symbolic of protection, climate, and elevation.
• Wildlife Connection: Name can represent multiple local animal species.
• Regionally Recognized: Known throughout the broader region, supporting school pride
and identity.
• Accessible Landmark: Popular and reachable for residents and visitors alike
2. Riverstone Middle School
• Natural Imagery: Emphasizes river strength and the formation of stones from glacial
and mountain runoff.
• Metaphorical Meaning: Stones shaped by water symbolize resilience and
transformation—powerful themes for middle school.
• Broad Applicability: Not tied to one geographic location, allowing for interpretive and
branding flexibility.
• Sacred Symbolism: “Sacred stones” may connect with Indigenous or natural traditions,
pending clarification.
• Limited Local Connection: No direct tie to a specific place or landmark in the Port
Angeles area.
• Lacks Regional Identity: May not evoke a strong sense of belonging or pride for
students and community.
• Generic Feel: Perceived as broad or abstract, lacking the grounding of a familiar or
iconic feature.
3. Elwha River Middle School
• Cultural Significance: The Elwha River is sacred to the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and
central to regional Indigenous history.
• Historical Importance: Site of the Tribe’s creation story and home to 13 ancestral
villages.
• Environmental Legacy: One of the nation’s most significant ecological restoration
projects; home to all five Pacific salmon species.
• Educational Opportunity: Supports integration of tribal history, environmental science,
and place-based learning.
• Majestic Symbolism: The river embodies natural power, cultural memory, and
ecological resilience.
• Water as Lifeline: Recognizes the foundational role of water in sustaining life and
community.
• Tribal Approval Required: Formal tribal consultation and approval would be necessary
before proceeding.
• Community Concerns: Some stakeholders may require additional context to fully
understand the river’s significance.
• Proximity Concerns: While locally relevant, the Elwha River is not directly visible from
the school.
4. Port Angeles Middle School
• Direct Association: Clearly identifies the school with the city and the school district.
• Administrative Simplicity: No need for additional interpretation, branding, or external
approval.
• Public Recognition: Familiar to families and staff; avoids potential controversy.
• Lacks Distinctiveness: Does not differentiate the school from others in the area or reflect
a unique narrative.
• Missed Cultural and Geographic Opportunities: Foregoes the chance to honor the
region’s Indigenous heritage or natural landmarks.
• Minimal Aspirational Value: May not evoke strong school spirit or student inspiration.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The committee has provided a shortlist of four names for Board consideration. Each reflects a distinct approach—ranging from geographic recognition to cultural significance and symbolic meaning. The Board is now invited to review the proposals and select a name in alignment with district policy.