Issaquah Special Education PTSA – March Events
Each month, the Issaquah Special Education PTSA hosts parent connection events, which provide an opportunity to meet other parents, ask questions, and share ideas and resources with each other. There are several scheduled dates throughout the month. Visit the website to learn more. Send questions here.
ParentWiser’s Forefront Suicide Prevention: LEARN Saves Lives
It’s downright frightening not knowing what to do when a loved one or peer shows suicide warning signs. Developed by Forefront, the five simple and effective LEARN® steps empower individuals to help others move in the direction of hope, recovery and survival. Amy Paulson’s passion inspires and equips others in mental health, parenting support and leadership development. She currently serves as a Forefront in The Schools program specialist, coach and community trainer. Her background includes over 20 years of creating and facilitating parent education programs, crisis intervention, high school and higher ed mental health support in educational settings, community organizations and corporate settings. Register here for the Zoom presentation on March 7 at 7 p.m.
Clark Elementary: The Emperor’s New Clothes
Congrats to all the amazing Clark Elementary students participating in the annual musical production “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” Clark PTA recorded the production for those unable to attend in-person or to share with family members. Find the recording here and program here.
FLASH and HIV/AIDS Curriculum Information
Issaquah School District is offering two presentations for parents/guardians of fifth grade students, previewing Family Life and Sexual Health curriculum. The presentation is designed for adults only, including a discussion highlighting the laws, district procedures, curriculum and options for exempting students. (Parents have the right to exempt child from sexual education instruction at any time. Exemption must be annually renewed.) FLASH curriculum can also be previewed through the King County Department of Public Health. The first session is March 9 at 6 p.m. and the second is March 11 at 9 a.m. Both presentations take place at the ISD Administration Building, 5150 220th Ave SE, Issaquah. Email questions to Michelle.
Apply for the Dual Language Program (1st – 3rd Graders)
Enrollment for the Dual Language Program begins in kindergarten. Due to a high number of applications, there will likely be a waiting list for entry. A level of Spanish speaking proficiency is required for students moving forward through the program. Students without Spanish speaking experience are unable to be accepted into the dual language program beyond first grade. The deadline for applications is March 10, and the lottery will be held on March 22. Download the dual enrollment applications here. Send questions via email or call 425-837-7120.
King County ARC: Strengthening Inclusionary Practices
Join us to learn how the Community Conversation Toolkit can be applied to strengthen your school-family partnerships and provide structures to support the success of inclusionary practices. The Zoom meeting takes place on March 11 from 9-11 a.m. Goals include utilizing tools to engage and partner with families and community-based partners in inclusive practices; examining and evolving your family engagement practices to be equitable, accessible and inclusive; and understanding and applying Gracious Space. Register for the workshop here.
Class of 2023 Graduation Fundraiser
Show your Issaquah High School pride to say “CONGRATULATIONS!” with a senior graduation sign. It’s perfect for your front lawn, back yard, window or even the graduation party. Find more details online. The deadline to secure your sign is March 14. All proceeds benefit graduation events for the Class of 2023.
Information Night for Incoming Kindergarten Parents
Join the information night for incoming 2023-24 kindergarten families—who are new to the country and unfamiliar with the U.S. school system—to better understand the Issaquah School District. The event takes place over Zoom on March 15, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Each elementary school will also hold events to welcome families—check your child’s elementary school for specific kindergarten information. Language services are available in English, Spanish and Mandarin. (Other languages also presented upon request.) Topics include what kindergarten looks like, age of students entering, kindergarten preparedness, school feeder patterns, attendance boundaries, transportation, lunches, school readiness strategies, costs/fees, hours, school supplies, health and immunizations. Send questions via email.
Enter the 6th Annual Influence the Choice Video Contest
Youth can positively influence and encourage each other to stay mentally and physically strong against the pressures of drugs and alcohol. While most students don’t abuse drugs and alcohol, they are confronted with a choice. The Influence the Choice Drug Prevention Alliance for Youth is sponsoring a video contest to inspire students to positively influence each other by producing two-minute public service announcements. Find more information and rules here. The deadline to submit a video is March 19.
Last ParentWiser Event of 2022-23: Understanding Eating Disorders
What do you know about eating disorders? Experts have indicated teen eating disorders exploded since the pandemic. Eating disorders are linked with high achievement and a stress form coping mechanism, along with anxiety and loss of control. Betsy Malm, from Eating Recovery Center in Bellevue, will help us understand causes, how to recognize signs and symptoms, and how parents and counselors can support. The Q&A panel will include students discussing their personal experiences. This event is brought to us by the Issaquah High Healthy Student Program and Issaquah PTSA Council. Register for the Zoom event on March 20 at 7 p.m.
Clark Elementary PTA 2023 Cultural Fair
Clark Elementary PTA is excited to bring back the Cultural Fair this spring. Cultural Fair is an exciting and educational event, celebrating the rich diversity of cultures we represent at Grand Ridge Elementary. Everyone is encouraged to share their heritage with friends and the community. However, families are needed to host a country or volunteer. For more details, email Daphne. Join the festivities on March 31 at 6 p.m.
ISD Science and Technology Elementary Magnet Programs
Issaquah School District will offer three Science and Technology Magnet Programs, serving 4th and 5th grade students within Clark, Cascade Ridge and Briarwood elementary schools. The application process closes March 31. Find the application here. Call 425-837-7120 with questions.
Issaquah Special Education PTSA – March Events
Each month, the Issaquah Special Education PTSA hosts parent connection events, which provide an opportunity to meet other parents, ask questions, and share ideas and resources with each other. There are several scheduled dates throughout the month. Visit the website to learn more. Send questions here.
Tracie Jones is a Wisteria Park resident.
