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Shoreline Shines: Super Jumbo New Year Edition
"Shoreline Shines" celebrates the bright moments happening across our schools. It highlights student and staff accomplishments, uplifting stories, and feel-good news that reflect the heart of our community. It’s a reminder of the great things we can achieve together—and a chance to share a little joy along the way. Pull up a comfy chair for this long-scroll round-up of great things happening in Shoreline schools! January 30 #OurFutureFriday Student, Kaalo Crowder-Jacobson! This week’s #OurFutureFriday student is Edwin Pratt Early Learning Center’s Kaalo Crowder-Jacobson! Kaalo’s teachers shared that he has grown so much during his time at Edwin Pratt and brings kindness, confidence, and curiosity to his classroom each day. He is a thoughtful friend and a natural helper, and his classmates often seek him out because they know he has great ideas and answers to share. His teachers also note that Kaalo confidently uses his voice to advocate for himself, asking for support when he needs it and showing strong problem-solving skills along the way. He consistently demonstrates what it means to be kind, safe, and respectful, making his classroom a better place for everyone. When Kaalo looks ahead to the future, he shares that he wants to become an ocean biologist so he can study everything that lives in the water and spend time on research vessels. We are so proud of you, Kaalo, and can’t wait to see all you accomplish as you head to kindergarten! January 23 #OurFutureFriday Students, Max Mejias and Kidus Gezat! This week’s #OurFutureFriday students are Echo Lake Elementary School 5th graders Max Mejias and Kidus Gezat! Max and Kidus are outstanding members of the Echo Lake community who model Echo Lake Expectations of being safe, respectful, responsible, and kind on a daily basis. They can always be counted on to lead by example, whether in the classroom or throughout the wider school community. When asked what they enjoy and appreciate most about school, Max responded immediately to say he loves art, especially painting. Kidus said that he loves orchestra and has really enjoyed learning the violin, which he hopes to continue at middle school. Max and Kidus both agree that learning new things from teachers and staff is what they appreciate most about being at school. Outside the school day, Kidus is really looking forward to being able to play on sports teams as he moves to middle school and beyond. He is passionate about lots of sports and really enjoys the team aspect that athletics provides. Kidus' favorite sports are soccer and football. Max loves to write, and his goal is to continually improve this skill. He would love to be a famous artist one day. We are so proud of Max and Kidus and can’t wait to see all they accomplish in the years ahead! January 16 #OurFutureFriday Students, Penelope Kramer, Audra MacDicken, and Morgan Hicks! This week’s #OurFutureFriday students are three dedicated Cascade K–8 Community School 6th graders, Penelope Kramer, Audra MacDicken, and Morgan Hicks! Penelope, Audra, and Morgan are being recognized for their leadership, teamwork, and commitment to serving their school community through a Technology Student Association (TSA) service project focused on improving the school’s community garden. Penelope, Audra, and Morgan are working together to make the garden more accessible and meaningful for everyone. Their project includes organizing gardening tools for community use, creating a seed library, and partnering with Kindergarten and 1st grade students to help plant their garden boxes and learn the basics of gardening. Through this work, they are building connections across grade levels and helping younger students develop a love for growing and caring for plants. Their dedication to service and learning reflects the spirit of #OurFutureFriday . We are so fortunate to have Penelope, Audra, and Morgan at Cascade K–8 and look forward to seeing the positive impact of their project for years to come. Pictured, left to right: Morgan, Audra, Penelope December 12 #OurFutureFriday Students, Layla Lasconia and Emma Jacobson This week’s #OurFutureFriday students are two outstanding Brookside Elementary 5th graders, Layla Lasconia and Emma Jacobson! Layla and Emma are being recognized for their kindness, positive attitudes, and the way they help build a welcoming school community every day. Layla builds community by encouraging and supporting others, being friendly, and noticing when those around her need help. She brings a strong work ethic to school each day and takes on new challenges with a positive mindset. Layla shared that her favorite thing about school is getting to spend time every day with friends she’s grown up with at Brookside. An athlete, Layla dedicates time and energy to soccer and swimming, and she hopes to continue playing soccer for as long as she can, including in college. Emma also makes a daily commitment to kindness, welcoming others with her smile and positive attitude. She helps make every day at Brookside awesome for her classmates and is a steady example through her patience and cooperation. Emma says her favorite thing about school is learning how to write. Outside of school, she spends weekends learning about her Korean culture and language, and she’s also a dancer who hopes to keep dancing for many years because she truly loves it. Big Blue Jay Shout-Out to Layla and Emma for their kindness, dedication, and the positive difference they make at Brookside every day! Pictured: Layla, left; Emma, right December 5 #OurFutureFriday Student, Khedira Gonzalez This week's #OurFutureFriday student is Briarcrest 5th grader Khedira Gonzalez! Khedira is an exceptional student who brings her whole self to our school community. As part of the school's Dual Language program, she confidently uses her voice in both Spanish and English to share her experiences, culture, and knowledge, which enriches learning for everyone around her. She is the kind of student who makes sure everyone feels welcome. Whether she’s offering a kind word, jumping in to help a classmate, or supporting younger students as a Playground Pal, Khedira leads with empathy and kindness. When Khedira's not helping others, you can find her creating origami or dancing—two of her favorite hobbies! And when she grows up, she hopes to become a teacher. We already see the heart, leadership, and care of one in everything she does. We are so proud of you, Khedira, and all you continue to accomplish! Athletics and Competitive Performance Teams Thrive We’re shining a spotlight on the benefits of participating in athletics in our schools. Nearly 45% of Shoreline students in grades 7–12 participated in athletics last school year—and many students took part in more than one sport or team. That’s nearly 2,000 students building skills, confidence, and community through school activities. Middle school is where athletics involvement begins in Shoreline schools! At Kellogg and Einstein, 42% of 7th and 8th graders jumped into athletics across four sports seasons. Students can explore cross country, basketball, volleyball, football, wrestling, softball, and track & field—trying new things and finding what they love. The excitement doesn’t stop at middle school! At Shoreline’s high schools, 46% of students participate in athletics and competitive performance groups available all four years. From traditional sports to dance, drill, flags, and cheer, students have year-round opportunities to compete, perform, and belong. Even in the face of recent years' budget challenges—and despite necessary increases to student fees (always waived for families in need)—no extracurricular programs have been cut. Thanks to ongoing levy support from our community, every sport and activity remains available to students. As WIAA reminds us, participation in school athletics supports stronger student outcomes—and that’s why Shoreline remains committed to keeping athletics accessible, inclusive, and strong for all of our students.
Shorewood High School Jazz 1 is headed to New York City! The ensemble has been selected as a finalist for the 31st annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival, widely regarded as the most prestigious high school jazz competition in the nation. Shorewood is one of just 20 schools nationwide chosen to perform this spring. Under the direction of Dan Baker, this marks Shorewood’s first appearance at the Essentially Ellington finals since the 2000s, with previous finalist selections in 2000, 2001, 2005, and 2008. The band features many outstanding student musicians, including Marcus Torzillo (bass) and Oscar Clingenpeel (piano), both recently selected for the 2026 Washington All-State Jazz Band. As Principal Bill Dunbar shared, “This is the high school jazz band equivalent of going to the Super Bowl! Shorewood has one of our largest band programs ever. Students love learning with Dan and are having fun in every band avenue, from marching to jazz.” Congratulations to Mr. Baker and all of the Jazz Band members on this stellar, once-in-a-lifetime accomplishment! Preschoolers Enjoy New Breakfast Quesadillas Please allow us to interrupt your scrolling with our favorite kind of post: adorable preschoolers enjoying nutritious food and time together with their classmates and teachers at Edwin Pratt Early Learning Center
As our amazing Shoreline School District Food & Nutrition Services Program and central kitchen continue the shift toward meals with less added sugar across all of our schools, they recently introduced a new menu item: breakfast quesadillas! Students in Teacher Melodie’s class gave them enthusiastic thumbs up, and many cleaned their plates! Even our pickiest preschool eaters enjoyed the whole-wheat tortilla filled with egg and cheese. And this is just the beginning! Older students can look forward to new, lower-added-sugar menu items rolling out over the next 18 months as our team continues to develop and test fresh options for our school communities. Superintendent and School Board Advocate for Full K-12 Funding Dr. Susana Reyes shared: Student Board Representatives, School Board President Sylvia Gil, Vice President Sara Betnel, and I participated in yesterday’s Education Advocacy Day in Olympia. Our students, Izzy, Paige, Iris, and Nina led the way in our meetings with our legislators! They were firm and confident in sharing information, data, and most importantly, stories about the critical importance of sufficient funding for schools and the direct impact on students.
And, thank you, Board Legislative Representative, Meghan Jernigan, for your leadership in the development of Shoreline’s legislative priorities! Thank you, also, Board Members Emily Williams and Lama Chikh! Shorecrest Students Past and Present Advocate for Less Social Media Access and Use by Youth Shorecrest High School 9th graders Lucy Dotts and Ruby Davis recently completed health advocacy projects for their Health for Life class that focused on negative effects of social media and "doomscrolling" on kids and teens. Ruby contacted our Public Information Office to help amplify her message to the community, spreading awareness of what she learned about how social media use can lead to anxiety, depression, and eating disorders in teens. We thank you for reaching out to us, Ruby! At the health advocacy fair, Ruby was also proud to share that she has greatly decreased her own device use, spending more time reading books and participating in other analog activities, and that she's seen her own mood brighten as a result of her behavior changes! Meanwhile, in the other Washington, in a very "full circle" kind of moment, Shorecrest graduate Emily Cherkin testified at a Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing titled "Plugged Out: Examining the Impact of Technology on America’s Youth." See her full testimony We are so proud of these current and former Shoreline students for exploring topics that are important to them and striving to make the change they see is needed in the world! Student Voice in Action! Shorewood High School senior Nicholas Oh recently testified before the Washington State Senate Early Learning & K–12 Education Committee in support of SB 5574, which would expand instruction on Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander history in public schools. Watch Nicholas’ thoughtful, powerful, and inspiring testimony in which he speaks up for a topic he deeply believes in. 
Congratulations to Shorecrest High School DECA Students! Shorecrest High School students from Marketing classes and the DECA club competed in the Area DECA competition alongside more than 1,000 students from 20 schools. Shorecrest was well represented, sending 55 students to compete in 49 events. Students demonstrated their skills through role-play scenarios and prepared presentations focused on real-world marketing campaigns. We’re proud to share that Shorecrest students qualified in 35 of 49 events, which is a 70% qualification rate that earns many students the opportunity to advance to the state competition in late February. We’re incredibly proud of the dedication, teamwork, and extra effort shown by Shorecrest DECA students and by their student leaders, who created additional learning opportunities outside of school. Please join us in celebrating the following students for their hard work and outstanding achievements: Apparel and Accessories: 3rd: Fiona Cane 5th: Maline Reins 10th: Emily Werner 12th: Josephine Smith Automotive Services: 2nd: Charlotte Phillips 3rd: Beatrice de Bakker 6th: Gabe King Business Finance: 1st: Yamna Shiekh Business Services: 7th: Anna Bendiksen Entrepreneurship: 3rd: Jasmine Forinash Entrepreneurship Innovation Plan: 9th: Michael Woods Food Marketing: 4th: Anika Wallace Hospitality Services Team: 6th: Elliot Gowens/Nicky Somoza Hotel and Lodging: 9th: Naami Greenstein Human Resources: 2nd: Lucia Shadduck 3rd: Molly Baker 5th: Kash Yalowicki Integrated Marketing Campaign- Event: 6th: Addison Werner 13th: Mahiya Malhotra Marketing Communications: 1st: Lori Huang 4th: Zara Saifee 12th: Isaiah Mark 13th: Rai Young Quick Serve Restaurant Management: 3rd: Nicky Trofin Restaurant Food Service: 1st: Isaiah Ma 4th: Keely Nevens 5th: Ransom Roberton 12th: Ava Whorely Retail Merchandising: 5th: Kasia Planeta 7th: Avi Wylen 10th: Evan Reyes 13th: Samantha Guerrero Sports and Entertainment: 1st: Asher H.R. 10th: Tristan Leedom 13th: Laith Salem Congratulations to Shorewood High School DECA Students! Many outstanding Shorewood High School DECA members competed alongside more than 1,200 students at the Area 2 DECA Career Development Conference, which is the first step toward qualifying for the state conference. We’re proud to share that 40 of the 52 Shorewood competitors advanced to the next level of competition, which will take place at the end of February! Please join us in celebrating the following students for their hard work, professionalism, and impressive achievements: Accounting Applications 7th - Landon Bowker Automotive Services 4th - Max Wilhite Business Financial Services 4th - Kyson Castellano Buying & Merchandising Marketing - Team 10th - Henry Daily and Lucas Mortimer 2nd - Amin Derakhti and Maya Morgan Entrepreneurship - Individual 6th - Kristina Topalova 2nd - Sadie Chou Entrepreneurship Innovation Plan 10th - Gus Gentry, Jared Miranda-Lopez and Sebastain Sanchez 7th - Margot Allen, Sophia Dickerson and Sarah Nottingham 1st - Aria Nair Entrepreneurship - Team 10th - Abraxas Steinhagen and Aiden Witt Food Marketing 7th - Riyo Challman 3rd - Alexander Resendiz Hospitality Services Marketing - Team 13th - Aumi Baral and Maya Tewolde Hotel and Lodging Management 4th - Reese Davison Integrated Marketing Campaign - Event 1st - Sarah Norton Integrated Marketing Campaign - Service 12th - Scarlett VonGunten and Allie Mae Gallagher 5th - Maily Fly, Rilan Fly and Mila Miropolskaya 4th - Caleb Butler, Beni Hawkins and James Mitchell 2nd - Nati Araya and Barkot Biratu Marketing Communications 8th - Eldana Aberra 5th - Selina Glasser Quick Service Restaurant Management 2nd - Wyatt Hamilton Restaurant and Food Service Management 13th - Yoseph Tesfaye Travel & Tourism Marketing - Team 13th - Raya Martinov and Elise Timss Shorewood Cheer Shines at HarborCheerFest! Shorewood High School's cheer team competed at HarborCheerFest last weekend, earning 2nd place with their Game Day routine—an exciting accomplishment for the team! Last month, the team officially qualified for State at Alpine Accent, hosted by Rogers High School in Puyallup. The Stormray cheerleaders will now head to Battle Ground, WA, for their 4th appearance at the WIAA State Cheerleading Championships, February 6-7. Congratulations to these hard-working athletes. We can’t wait to see what you do at State! Ridgecrest 5th Graders Present Essays to Families and Superintendent Reyes Before leaving for Winter Break, proud Ridgecrest Elementary School 5th graders had the opportunity to read essays they had written for families and guests in attendance.
The students in Mrs. Feltner's class were tasked with creating a habitable island, about which they crafted their essays to describe the culture, climate, geography, and people of their imaginary islands. Peers, invited guests, and even Superintendent Reyes joined to hear the students share their work! Shorecrest Students Participate in Model United Nations A special #ShorelineShoutOut from advisor Brandy Alley and Activity Coordinator Johanna Phillips to Shorecrest High School's incredible Model UN students! We recently took a fantastic group of 18 students to PACMUN—our second and largest Model UN conference of the year! For 11 of these students, it was their first or second conference, and they spent two full days debating at the Sheraton Grand in downtown Seattle, from 8 a.m. Saturday to 7:30 p.m. Sunday. We are so proud of all of them! Model UN can be challenging to step into—especially walking into a room of 80 delegates and speaking up with confidence. Our new members showed tremendous courage, and our returning delegates were amazing leaders, helping guide and support their peers throughout the weekend. A special shoutout to Oliver Peoples, who earned Honorable Mention in a committee of roughly 70 delegates! If you know any of these students, ask them about their committee, what they debated, or—maybe most importantly—how much sleep they didn't get. Stay tuned for our third conference in March! Students who attended:
Back Row: Kaijin Fu, Jumpolphat Benjamongkolchai, Rhys Hobgood, Oliver Peoples
Middle Row: Mila Trujillo, Adelle Cross, Elle McNally, Liwza Kebede, Molly McCarrier, Ryan Dessert, Liya Kebede, Daniah Issa
Front Row: Brandy Alley, Serena Chen, Mariam Desta, Wendy Liu, Micaela Gutierrez, Sophie Magnusson, Rosie Campbell
Shorewood Students Explore Opportunities in Healthcare This past weekend, Shorewood High School HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America) headed to the Washington HOSA Fall Leadership Conference at Tacoma Community College!
Students took part in hands-on workshops and sessions covering everything from Red Cross first aid and disaster preparedness to primary care procedures and the life of an OBGYN nurse. They also explored leadership opportunities to help them grow and make an impact in their community. A big thank you to science teacher and HOSA advisor Danny Wilks for supporting our future health leaders! A huge Shorewood THANK YOU! The PALS Club and Life Skills Program would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the amazing Shorewood families who made generous contributions to their Food Drive benefiting Hopelink! The students were able to donate 1,590 pounds of non-perishable food to support local families who may have otherwise gone without this holiday season. And the best part? Hopelink shared that this is their largest donation in the last three months! Thank you for showing what the Shorewood and Shoreline community is all about—compassion, generosity, and taking care of one another. We are so grateful for our incredible PTAs and PTSAs! Every day, these dedicated partners enrich our schools in countless ways — supporting classroom needs, organizing events, building community, celebrating staff, and creating opportunities for students to learn, lead, and thrive.
Pictured above:
Shorecrest Senior Spree
PTA Council Reflections reception
Brookside’s Move-A-Thon
Echo Lake fair play signage
Highland Terrace’s Festival of Cultures
Kellogg’s lunchtime game room
Briarcrest art docent activity
Syre’s STEM Night
Meridian Park’s family food pantry
Not pictured:
All the late-night prep
All the early-morning setup
Trunks, garages, and kitchen tables filled to bursting
Change-making legislative advocacy
Countless staff appreciation events
…and so much more!
Thank you for all the heart, time, and creativity you pour into our schools. Shoreline schools are stronger because of you! Huge gratitude to Sno-King School Retirees! Each fall, the Sno-King School Retirees (SKSR)—an organization of active and retired employees from the Edmonds, Northshore, and Shoreline School Districts—awards educator mini-grants to support classroom learning. Since 1998, SKSR has awarded more than $158,000 in grants, with $75,155 going to Shoreline Schools. Shown here: Ridgecrest librarian and students excited to enrich their library with more books about science and technology!
This year, 34 Shoreline educators received grants to enrich student experiences across our district. We are so grateful for SKSR’s continued support of innovative teaching and meaningful learning opportunities! Congratulations to this year’s Shoreline grant recipients: Briarcrest
Savannah Garcia (2nd): Alternative seating options
Beth Heinz (LAP): Materials to support letter formation and handwriting
Emma LeBlanc (1st): A Little Spot books
Susan Vieira (Nurse): Nutrition education books, posters, stickers & more
Linda Watson (P.E.): Pedometers for a walking unit
Brookside
Megan Nandi (1st): Decodable fiction & nonfiction readers
Kristin Vincini (2nd): Universal Math Museum stations for Family STEAM Night
Cascade K-8 Mark Burpee (7th/8th): Independent reading books Echo Lake
Kathryn Pihl (2nd): Books to support animal & biography units
Allan Rand (5th): Transportation to the Kraken Community Iceplex
Joe Wack (LFP newspaper advisor): Transportation to the Seattle Times building
Lake Forest Park
Natalie Campbell, Jessica Hendrick, April Johnston, Heidi Langsdorf & Pauline Olson (1st/2nd): IXL math subscriptions
Ingrid Rigsby (MLL): Spanish and bilingual books
Paige Robson (Counselor): Zones of Regulation resources
Maggie Smith (Music): Timpani mallets, metal stools & elastic stool leg bands
Parkwood Ellyn Holman, Emily Miller & Stephanie Wiper (K): Word Work mats, LCD pads, literacy aids & storage Ridgecrest
Susan Clyde (1st): Hands-on workshop by Kids Science Labs
Joanna Freeman (Library): Technology-focused books
Stephanie Laviola (4th): Sets of six titles for reading groups
Sheryl Lundahl (MLL): Spanish fiction, nonfiction & chapter books
Monica Wood (4th): Books about National Parks
Shorewood High School
Wendy Jordan (Culinary Arts 9–12): Transportation for Hood Canal field trip
Shannon McMaster (Apex/TSA Club): Solar vehicle kits & more for TSA projects
Syre
Heidi Alexander (Dean): Headphones with microphones
Patrick Broderhausen (P.E.): Class set of basketballs
Katie Dawdy (5th): Bins for student organization
Marybeth Scherf (LAP): Two sets of decodable books
Sarah Taillie (2nd): Tickets to Ada Twist, Scientist
Thank you, SKSR, for supporting our educators and students in such meaningful ways. These grants make a real difference across our classrooms every day! Dual Language Teachers Collaborate Our Dual Language teachers from elementary, middle, and high school came together with Dual Language Coordinator Maria Trevino to learn, collaborate, and strengthen bilingual instruction for multilingual learners. This marks the first time educators from all three levels have had the opportunity to connect and work together. This is an exciting step forward for our Dual Language program, which now runs through 9th grade! Pictured, left to right: James Spies (Kellogg), Ellen Kaje (Director), Jorge Tamez (Briarcrest), Blanca Valles Lopez (Briarcrest), Tahlia Sanchez (Shorecrest), Renzo Chavez (Shorecrest), Maria Trevino (Coordinator), Waldo Nambo (Kellogg), Sarah Soares (Kellogg), Toby Rose (Briarcrest), Betsy Dimas (Briarcrest), Jafeet Corral (Briarcrest). Staff Recognition Spotlight At a recent School Board meeting, Echo Lake Title I/LAP Teacher Ranice Innocent was honored for her leadership and dedication to advancing literacy education in Washington State, as recognized by the Professional Educator Standards Board. Ranice served on the Reading Endorsement Work Group, where she helped review and update the state’s Reading Endorsement Competencies to ensure they reflect current, evidence-based reading practices. Over ten months, Ranice contributed her expertise in literacy research, provided thoughtful feedback beyond meeting times, and consistently kept the needs of P–12 students at the center of the work. Her commitment, collaboration, and insight made a meaningful impact on this important statewide effort. Thank you, Ranice, for representing our district and supporting educators and students across Washington! Shorewood Cross Country Coaches Earn Statewide Honor Congratulations are in order for Shorewood High School's own Coach Reese and Coach Villanueva, who were selected as Boys Cross Country 2025 State Coaches of the Year! Paul Villanueva has been the head XC coach at Shorewood for 16 years! He's also coached Track & Field for 25 years and spent 7 years as an assistant football coach. Joel Reese has been coaching Stormray WC runners for ten years and Track & Field for almost as long. Please join us in thanking these coaches for their coaching, leadership, and mentorship of so many students in their careers and celebrating their well-deserved honor! District Athletic Director Don Dalziel Honored Shoreline's very own Athletic Director Don Dalziel will be inducted into the Washington Secondary School Athletic Administrations Association (WSSAAA) Hall of Fame! WSSAAA reserves this award for those who represent the highest degree of merit in their profession. Don got the call to learn he'd be receiving this honor while surrounded by colleagues and friends: Athletics Technician Vicki Klein, Superintendent Susana Reyes, Stadium Lead George Edwards, Assistant Superintendent Brian Schultz, and Shorewood Athletic Director Joann Fukuma. Don was first hired in Shoreline Schools in 1991 and has been the district's athletic director since 2004. His contribution to local and statewide athletics is immeasurable, including countless leadership roles in WESCO, WIAA, WSSAAA, and even the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association. Please join us in congratulating Don for this well-deserved recognition! Want more Shoreline Shines? For more bite-sized bits of goodness guaranteed to brighten your day, follow us: Facebook | Instagram
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Shoreline Schools Update - January 29, 2026
This week's update contains information about: Use ballot drop boxes to ensure your vote is counted Replacement levies info session Wed., Feb. 4 Shoreline Big Band Dance at Shorewood this Saturday February is Black History Month ICYMI: Our Commitment to Student, Staff, and Family Safety School Board happenings Reminders: Kindergarten enrollment information Black Lives Matter at School Week What families need to know about measles Major dates for 2026-27 school year set Replacement levies on the February 10 ballot Winter weather need-to-knows The Works clothing closet open each Wednesday Ballot Drop Boxes Recommended Instead of US Mail The Washington Secretary of State’s Office cautions voters: Do not use a mailbox within 7-10 days of the election.
Local and state election officials are warning that voters who mail their ballots for the February election could have their ballots thrown out because of cost-cutting measures by the United States Postal Service leading to postmarking delays. Election officials are urging voters to instead use any of the 85 ballot drop box locations across the county. Local drop boxes:
Shoreline Library: 345 NE 175th St.
Shoreline Park & Ride: Aurora Ave. N & N 192nd St.
Lake Forest Park City Hall: 17425 Ballinger Way NE
Ballots are due no later than 8 pm on Tuesday, February 10. Use a drop box to make sure your vote counts! Learn More About the Replacement Levies February 10 Special Election ballots have arrived! If you would like to learn more about the two Shoreline School District replacement levies on the ballot, you are invited to attend this community information session: Wednesday, Feb 4, 7-8 pm Join via Zoom
Webinar ID: 848 4943 4474
Passcode: 576028
Dial-In Phone Numbers: 1-253-215-8782 or 1-669-900-6833 Can't make a session but want to learn more? Visit ssd412.org/Levies26 Support Music Programs at the Big Band Dance! Shoreline Big Band Dance Saturday, January 31 Shorewood Commons (17300 Fremont Ave. N) 6-10:00 pm The Shoreline Big Band Dance is a community event featuring live music from jazz programs in the Shoreline Schools and dance instruction. This family-friendly event runs 6-10:00 pm in the Shorewood Commons. Don't know how to swing dance? Two left feet? Or maybe you need some review? The night begins with a group swing dance lesson from a professional instructor 6-7:00 pm! Live music kicks off at 7:00 and showcases the jazz programs in Shoreline: Kellogg MS, Einstein MS, Shorecrest HS, and Shorewood HS. Desserts and refreshments will be available. Join us for an evening of great music, dancing, food, and support of music in our local schools! $15 for adults $10 for students/seniors Buy your tickets in advance
Need even more reason to lace up your dancing shoes? Shorewood High School Jazz 1 has been selected as a finalist for the 31st annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival, to be held this spring in New York City. Essentially Ellington is widely regarded as the most prestigious high school jazz competition in the nation. Shorewood is one of the 20 schools nationwide selected to perform at this year’s festival. Under the direction of Dan Baker, Shorewood High School is making its first appearance at the Essentially Ellington finals since the 2000s. Shorewood was previously selected as a finalist in 2000, 2001, 2005, and 2008. The ensemble features many outstanding student musicians, including Marcus Torzillo (bass) and Oscar Clingenpeel (piano), both of whom were selected for the 2026 Washington All-State Jazz Band. The Shoreline Big Band Dance is an essential fundraiser to send students to New York City for this exciting opportunity!
February is Black History Month
Join us in recognizing and honoring Black History Month throughout the month of February! Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by Black Americans and a time for recognizing the central role they played in U.S. history. It was the brainchild of noted historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent Black Americans. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating Black history. Resources to Learn From and Honor Black History Shoreline School District’s commitment to respect, empathy, and collaboration and our recognition that diversity makes our community stronger does not start nor does it end with any month, observance, or occasion. As stated in the School Board Race and Equity Policy #0150 , “The Shoreline School District acknowledges that institutional racism exists within public school systems and is committed to working until race is no longer a predictor of overall student outcomes.” Further, “The entire community benefits when every child succeeds; therefore, we have a collective responsibility and require accountability to ensure that children of every race, national origin, language, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, socioeconomic status, and ability, reach their full potential.”
Acting in Alignment with Our Values to Support All Members of Our Community
With increased immigration enforcement activity and related violence occurring in cities across the country, Shoreline Schools is sharing information about how we would handle an immigration enforcement presence at our schools and resources for families during this challenging time. Our priority is ensuring that Shoreline schools remain safe, welcoming places for learning Our Commitment to Student, Staff, and Family Safety School Board Happenings In this section of the Shoreline Schools weekly update, we provide a recap of any board meetings and action that was taken in the preceding week. School Board Regular Meeting January 27 Agenda | Recording Annual Strategic Plan Monitoring Report District Academic Officer Mike VanOrden provided the Board with the district’s annual monitoring update on progress toward Strategic Plan targets in literacy, graduation, and student well-being. It summarizes current performance against long term goals, highlights key trends, and identifies areas of strength, areas for continued focus, and planned next steps aligned with district priorities. The purpose of this update is to support the Board’s oversight role by providing a clear picture of progress toward adopted goals. A Strategic Plan Indicators Data Appendix is also included in the packet for reference. The appendix provides the indicator-level data, monitored by staff, for reference. Additional monitored indicator data, will be shared during the secondary programs presentation in February. Presentation | Data Appendix | Recording The study session originally scheduled for February 3 has been canceled. A School Board retreat has been added to the calendar for February 7.
Kindergarten Enrollment 101
If you have a child who turns 5 years old before August 31, here are a few things you need to know about enrolling in Shoreline Schools.
Kindergarten in Shoreline is FREE!
Register online at ssd412.org/enroll or through your neighborhood school
Open enrollment for the 2026-27 school year runs January 31 - February 27, 2026
More kindergarten enrollment information
Plan to attend Kinderfest! Kinderfest is an opportunity to meet and ask questions of principals and staff of all elementary schools, Cascade K-8 School, and the Home Education Exchange. You can also learn about: Transportation, Food and Nutrition, Multilingual Learners, Student Services, Highly Capable Program, School Nurses, PTA, and YMCA Child Care.
Kinderfest 2026
Saturday, January 31, 2026
10 am - 12 pm
Shoreline Center, North Entrance
18560 1st Ave. NE, Shoreline
Interpreters will be available for Amharic, Korean, Mandarin, Spanish, and Vietnamese. School tables will have devices for remote interpretation services in other languages. Superintendent Susana Reyes will give a welcome address to kick off at 10 am.
BLM at School Week is Feb. 2-6
Shoreline schools will celebrate Black Lives Matter at School Week February 2-6, 2026. During this week, Black Lives Matter at School lessons will be delivered that cover the themes of equity and justice in the Black community. Teachers are provided lessons that are appropriate for the grade level they teach, from preschool through high school. Learn more about Black Lives Matter at School Week in Shoreline Fast Facts About Measles Last week, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) confirmed a measles outbreak in Snohomish County. The outbreak comes as measles cases are rising across the United States, with multiple states reporting increased activity. Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, breathes, or talks. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours, meaning people can get infected even after a sick person has left the area. Measles can cause serious health complications, especially for babies and young children. Measles symptoms start 7-21 days after exposure, and include:
High fever, cough, runny nose
Red, watery eyes,
Rash which begins on the face and spreads down the body
If you or your student has symptoms or believe you were exposed to measles, call your healthcare provider right away. Do not bring your student or others in the household to school. Find more information about measles The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the strongest protection against measles and is safe and highly effective: one dose is 93% effective and two doses are 97% effective. Two MMR vaccines are required for school entry in Washington State, except for those with medical or religious exemptions. If you have questions about your student's MMR status, contact your healthcare provider or your school nurse. Provider map for adult and childhood vaccines
Key Dates for the 2026-27 School Year
Tue., September 1: First day of school for grades 1-12
Fri., September 4: First day of school for kindergarten Note that kindergarten families will need to attend a WaKIDS conference with their teacher on one day, September 1-3
Mon., September 7: No school - Labor Day
Wed., November 11: No school - Veterans Day
Wed., November 25: Half-day release
Nov. 26-27: No school - Thanksgiving Day and Native American Heritage Day
Dec. 21 - Jan. 1: No school - Winter Break
Mon., January 18: No school - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
February 15-19: No school - Presidents Day and Mid-Winter Break
April 19-23: No school - Spring Break
Mon., May 31: No school - Memorial Day
Thu., June 17: Likely last day of school
To be scheduled:
First day of school for preschool
Fall conference week (there are no spring conferences)
Early release Wednesdays
No-student staff work days
Possible make-up days
Note that as of January 15, 2026, all dates above are likely to stand, but they are still pending finalization with the district and the Shoreline Education Association (SEA), as well as final school board adoption of the 2026-27 calendar, which will include all of the items listed as "to be scheduled." Shoreline School District Has Two Replacement Levies on February 2026 Ballot Shoreline School District voters will see two replacement levy propositions on the February 10, 2026, ballot: a replacement Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy and a replacement Capital Levy for Technology . If approved by voters, the replacement levies would take effect in January 2027 and would not overlap with the current levies. The EP&O levy and the technology levy will appear as two separate ballot propositions, allowing voters to vote on each independently. Levies require a simple majority (50% plus one) to pass. Prop. 1: Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy EP&O replacement levy funding supports school programs and services that are not fully funded by the state of Washington. These include staffing to maintain class sizes, professional development, multilingual learner programs, inclusive learning supports, school-based student support staff, transportation, athletics, performing arts, and extracurricular activities. The current EP&O levy provides approximately 16.5% of the district’s General Fund operating revenue.
The proposed EP&O levy would collect between $39 million and $46.5 million annually over four years, with tax rates estimated between $1.67 and $1.72 per $1,000 of assessed property value, depending on year and assessed valuation growth. Prop. 2: Capital Levy for Technology (Tech Levy) The proposed replacement tech levy would fund maintenance and replacement of student and staff devices, network infrastructure and cybersecurity, classroom technology, digital curriculum and assessment systems, and districtwide technology support and training. These are considered capital investments and are separate from operational costs funded by the EP&O levy.
The technology levy would collect $7 million annually from 2027–2030, with estimated tax rates ranging from $0.30 to $0.26 per $1,000 of assessed value over the life of the levy. Both measures are designed to replace existing levies that expire at the end of 2026, with collections proposed for 2027–2030. Local Education Funding Context Washington State funding has not kept pace with rising operating costs or the academic, social, and behavioral services our students require. Since 2021, Shoreline School District estimates that insufficient state funding has resulted in a cumulative gap of approximately $136 million, including shortfalls in salaries and benefits, special education, utilities, and insurance. Local Education Taxes Owners of property in Shoreline School District contribute to local education funding with a portion of their property taxes. This funding for local schools goes toward both bonds and levies. This graph illustrates the total local school taxes collected per $1,000 of assessed property value from 2023 through 2030. The total includes bond repayments, the tech levy, and the EP&O levy, including current and proposed amounts. Tax rates peaked in 2024, followed by decreases in 2025 and 2026 (even with the one-year supplemental levy approved in August). The projected tax rates shown for 2027–2030 reflect estimates if the proposed replacement EP&O and technology levies are approved by voters in February. Election Timeline Ballots will be mailed beginning January 21, 2026. Election Day is February 10, 2026, and ballots must be postmarked or returned to a ballot drop box by 8:00 p.m. that day. Learn More Shoreline School District Superintendent Susana Reyes will host community forums via Zoom in January and February to share information and answer questions about the replacement levies:
Monday, Jan. 26 5:00 - 6:00 pm
Thursday, Jan. 29 Noon - 1:00 pm
Wednesday, Feb. 4 7:00 - 8:00 pm
Zoom links and more information about the levies are available at ssd412.org/Levies26 . Inclement Weather Schedules When winter weather hits, our top priority is the safety of students and staff. We also recognize that school delays and closures disrupt family schedules and the school year may have to be extended. Our district’s geography is taken into account when the decision is made; one part of our district may be clear, while other areas are struggling with snow or ice. Teachers and essential staff who live outside of the district must also be able to safely get to work in time to begin their workday. Two options may be used for emergency conditions: 1. Shoreline Schools are closed
All schools will be closed for the day.
All meetings, field trips, after-school activities, etc. will be canceled for the day.
2. Shoreline Schools are open and starting two (2) hours late
Note that buses may operate on regular or snow routes on late-start days. (Bus snow routes will be available the week of Dec. 8.)
Find more details about two-hour late starts
In the event of a school delay or cancelation, families, staff, and secondary students will be contacted by phone, email, app notification, and text (if opted in) using our ParentSquare mass notification system. Please be sure your contact information is current at your child's school. School cancelation, delay, and early dismissal procedures You may find school delay/cancelation announcements on local television and radio stations, or online at:
ssd412.org
facebook.com/shorelineschools
instagram.com/shorelineschools
Free Clothing Store Open Every Wednesday The Works is a free student clothing room that provides high quality, clean, gently used children’s and teen clothing and self-care items to Shoreline School District children. Shoreline families can bring their children to “shop” for gently used, stylish clothing. Shop Wednesday nights, 6:30-8:00 pm! To shop at The Works:
Families must have a Shoreline School District address or have a child who attends a Shoreline School District school.
Each qualifying family may shop once each month on a Wednesday night between the hours of 6:30 and 8:00 pm.
Walk-ins will be accepted from 6:30 pm until 7:30pm, after which time no families will be allowed to start shopping. All shopping must be completed by 8:00pm.
The Works is located on the north end of the Shoreline Center (near the Shoreline soccer fields) at 18560 1st Ave. NE. You may also bring donations when The Works is open: Gently used clothing
Clean - we do not have a washer or dryer at the store
No holes, stains, broken zippers, missing buttons please
In style - children or teens would wear it!
Gently used shoes - not worn out or dirty
New socks and underwear (we do not accept used, even if laundered)
New, unexpired deodorant, toothpaste, and toothbrushes
See The Works wish list of most-needed items Learn more about shopping at or supporting The Works