Home of the Cougars
Our mission is to create a caring learning environment that encourages cooperation, teaches responsible thinking, promotes respect and fosters positive self-esteem. We will work to help each student achieve the skills and strategies necessary to function as a successful and positive contributing member of our ever-changing world.
- Be safe
- Be respectful
- Be responsible
PSO is an open-door school that encourages parent and community involvement. Come visit our school and you’ll find a great place! We are open to visitors, volunteers and parents 100 percent of the time and hold frequent family activities.
Our story is one of finding opportunities to excel.
One of the defining moments in our history is the April 1972 tornado that demolished most of the building. Students at the then-nearby Fort Vancouver High School rushed over to help. While the tornado sent children and staff members to the hospital, fortunately there were no fatalities. The school was quickly rebuilt and reopened in November 1973.
As a Title I school, we work hard to close achievement gaps. As a result of our progress, we received Title I Distinguished School Awards in 1998 and 2004-05. The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction called us a regional success story in 2004 because of dramatic increases in state test scores.
We also were selected in 2007 as one of four Vancouver schools to pilot full-day kindergarten before it became standard across the district in 2013.
Our focus on anti-bullying and clear expectations for students and teachers has led to a reduction in bullying behaviors. Ogden students report that they feel safe and respected.
Ogden is a great place to be. Check out our podcast to hear about all the amazing people that make this a special place to work and learn! We look forward to serving children and families for many years to come!
Fall 1992 — The school is remodeled.
Spring 1998 — Peter S. Ogden Elementary School is one of three schools in Washington state to receive the 1998 National Title I Distinguished School Award. The U.S. Department of Education and the National Association of State Coordinators of Compensatory Education sponsor the award. The school also is honored at the International Reading Conference.
March 2005 – Ogden is one of four schools in Washington state to win a Title I Distinguished School Award for closing the achievement gap in reading.
November 2007 – Peter S. Ogden is one of four schools to pilot all-day kindergarten.
February 2017 — Voters approve a bond measure to rebuild several schools, including Ogden.
Fall 2019 — The new Ogden Elementary opened on Aug. 27 for the start of the 2019-2020 school year.
February 2024 – Governor Jay Inslee visited Ogden in a visit focused on special education.