Washington Middle School cafeteria, hallway to be renamed after prominent school figures

Washington Middle School in Olympia is set to rename two different school spaces, the cafeteria and electives hallway, after a longtime technology teacher and principal. 

Principal Bonnie Hauschka said the change came about after community members and students asked about how to honor the contributions of two retiring staff members who had served the school for decades. 

Paul Anders, Principal at Washington Middle School (WMS) for 19 years, will be the inspiration of the new cafeteria space. 

“Known for his wisdom, humor, and the strong connections he forms with students, staff, and families, Paul has left a lasting impact on our school community. … Renaming this area The Anders Commons honors his legacy of care, connection, and commitment to our school,” according to a  document that addresses the renaming of the spaces.

The cafeteria’s name will either be The Anders’ Café or Paul Anders Cafeteria. 

The electives hallway will bear the name of Tech Arts and Marketing Teacher Brian Morris, a Washington Industrial Technology Education Association (WITEA) awarded educator, who served the school for 39 years. 

“When we think of Mr. Morris, we always think of him in the tech arts area. If you've ever been to WMS, please come check out that space. It's pretty amazing, and that's due to the longevity that he had there and a lot of the work that he was able to do,” Hauschka said. 

The hallway will be named Morris Arts and Tech Hall or Morris Tech and Arts Hall. 

Members of the Olympia School District Board of Directors are slated to schedule an action item to decide on the names later this summer. 

Public process 

In compliance with Board Policy 6970P on renaming public areas on school sites, the school formed a nine-member advisory committee to start the process. 

The committee consisted of one-third community members, one-third staff and one-third students to recommend chosen names. 

The advisory committee held two public hearings virtually and in person to receive input and feedback from the community.  

The committee invited the community to submit names, in addition to their own list. 

The list was then narrowed to two name suggestions for each space, which are unique within the district and do not have any negative connotations. 

Hauschka told the school board members that the committee is fine with any of the two suggestions for each space.