The new school year starts Tuesday, Aug. 30!
Issaquah Schools Foundation’s Tools4School
Tools4Schools provides new backpacks filled with necessary school supplies for Issaquah School District (ISD) K-12 students. All families are eligible; registration is required. Last year, over 800+ backpacks were distributed throughout ISD. All backpacks and supplies will be available at your student’s specific school building. There will be no distribution event this year. Email questions to Jillian Born, ISF.
Free and Reduced Lunch Applications
Applications for free and reduced lunches are available here. Returning students will maintain last year’s free or reduced lunch status for the first 30 school days, or until new applications are processed. ISD allows school lunches to be purchased through myschoolbucks.com. Families can securely add money to student meal accounts using the online system. Account balances may be viewed at any time. Email ISD Food Services with questions.
ISD Cultural and Family Partnership Back-to-School Registration Events
- Online Enrollment Verification Assistance Program: ISD Cultural and Family Partnership Team will be available to answer back-to-school questions on Aug. 18-19 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The team will offer language support to register students for the upcoming school year using the ISD online verification processes. These events are held in-person at the ISD Administration Building, 5150 220th Ave SE, Issaquah. All sessions will offer English, Spanish and Mandarin interpreters. For all other language needs, email Lorna Gilmore.
- Tips and Resources for Families New to U.S.: Learn more about the ISD from the Cultural and Family Partnerships Team during two Zoom sessions. Topics include school and classroom expectations, behavior expectations, grading, homework, communications with school and teachers, course selection and planning points to consider. If you have questions or want to register, email Lorna Gilmore.
- High School Session: Aug. 23, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
- Middle School Session: Aug. 24, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Elementary School Session: Aug. 25, 6:30
Mandatory Kindergarten Bus Release Forms
Kindergarten students riding ISD busses must complete the required parent/guardian release form before the first day of school. Parents may provide up to six designees authorized to pick-up a student. Transportation personnel are dedicated to making daily bus rides safe and enjoyable experiences. Completed release form may be emailed to transportation-enews@issaquah.wednet.edu.
Grand Ridge PTSA Playdates for New Families
New or recently moved to Grand Ridge Elementary? The Grand Ridge PTSA is hosting three summer playdates at Central Park for families to meet and form PTSA connections. Stop by Central Park on Thursday, Aug. 18, 5-6 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 25, 10-11 a.m.; and Saturday, Aug. 27, 10-11 a.m. If you have questions, email Grand Ridge PTSA.
New to Issaquah High School Night
Mark your calendars for New to IHS Night on Aug. 29 at 5 p.m. Join other families new to IHS for an annual tradition. This is a great way to start the school year by learning about the latest news, touring the school, meeting Issaquah High PTSA members and connecting with club representatives to answer questions. Email IH PTSA with questions.
New Family Ambassadors
IH PTSA New Family Ambassadors offer social and educational opportunities, providing connections to established families, answering questions, offering support and sharing resources. They’re scheduling get-togethers, family dinners and events throughout the year! This is also a great time to consider becoming an ambassador. For questions or information on signing up, email IH PTSA New Family Ambassadors.
ISD All-School Volunteer Background Check
ISD volunteers are mandatorily required to complete online background checks, applications and training before volunteering or working in schools. Completing one background check covers all district-wide schools. Application processing takes about one week for approval. The ISD Volunteer Application can be found here.
ISD VOICE Mentoring
Looking for impactful, fulfilling volunteer experiences? VOICE Mentors is a great way to get involved. VOICE (Volunteers of Issaquah Changing Education) is an in-school mentoring program that pairs caring adults or high school volunteers with ISD students for one-on-one, supportive relationships. Learn more about ISD’s VOICE Mentor program. Background check, vaccination and training are required. If you have questions, email ISD VOICE Mentors.
Work for ISD
Be the best part of a student’s day! For some students, their bus driver, custodian, paraprofessional or office staff is their one-in-a-million! If you know someone who might be a great fit for our teams, learn more on our website. ISD is hiring bus drivers at $34.22 per hour. For videos about working with ISD, check out the “Working for Us” video playlist.
Tracie Jones is a Wisteria Park resident.
