CB20, English

Cultural Bridges INFORMATION TO HELP FAMILIES NAVIGATE THE ISSAQUAH SCHOOL DISTRICT

NUMBER 20 | JANUARY / FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

ENGLISH

20 Organizations for ISD Families Dual Language Program Science Technology Magnet Program Holi

8 11 14 20

Lunar New Year

22

Dear Readers, In this New Year, we are celebrating our Cultural Bridges magazine that was created to meet the needs of our diverse community. The magazine has become equally valuable for families of all backgrounds in the Issaquah School District.

Our publications contain lots of useful school-related information from kindergarten to high school, communityrelated information about resources available to our families, and cultural-related information to help our communities in their process of developing cultural competence.

Our articles are also a good tool that provides educators with resources for building cultural awareness and effectively engaging all families in their classrooms. Students and parents write many of our Cultural Bridges articles. They share their experiences, what worries them, or what they want their community to know about their own cultures.

All of this is possible thanks to the hard work of our editors who make sure that the products that we present every quarter are truly a gift to all our families. The support of the Issaquah Schools Foundation donors and sponsors means that we can continue providing Cultural Bridges magazines for the families in our district.

4 8 11 12 14

Now, in this commemorative number of our magazine, as we celebrate the effort of our team, we also reflect upon the last year while looking ahead to future possibilities.

20

Last September, when students went back to the school buildings, they also had to learn many new health and safety guidelines. They were equally excited and anxious. And we understand that after spending a few months in the school buildings, families have a better idea of the harm inflicted by the pandemic in their student’s learning and well-being.

22

The Impact of the Pandemic 20 Organizations for ISD Families Dual Language Program Calendar of Events Science Technology Magnet Program Holi

Lunar New Year

Every child had a different experience, but in general, most of the students had to quickly adjust to school while still dealing with emotional challenges exacerbated by the neverending pandemic.

One of the families we work with shared with us how her kindergarten son was happy to be back playing with kids. Still, his parents were anxious because he was constantly getting into trouble for not following some social rules. It was hard for him to understand that at recess you could only play with some kids and some toys. That same family has a daughter in one of the middle schools that changed boundaries. Their daughter was missing some of her old friends. She was nervous about kids vandalizing bathrooms as a result of a TikTok phenomenon and other discipline problems that did not exist before COVID. And their high school student was struggling academically. It is obvious to the family that she has moved on to the next grade unprepared. She is missing key building blocks of knowledge necessary to succeed this school year.

For this family, their plan to move forward in 2022 looks different for each of their children.

But in all cases, finding calm in the chaos left from the pandemic will help move them in the right direction. We invite you to take stock of the impact of the pandemic on your family. And after doing that exercise, we invite you to read about the resources available to all Issaquah School District parents and create a plan with your family.

How are you going to move forward in 2022? Our Cultural Bridges program wants you to know that after all these years and all these issues of our magazine, we are still here to support you and your family in all your endeavors! Happy New Year 2022!

Cultural Bridges Issaquah Schools Foundation

ALICIA SPINNER Program Manager

CHRISTIANA SCHUMANN English Editor KELLY BURCH Cover Designer LAURA NI Editorial Assistant MINAL DESAI-MONGA Cover Photographer NANA TSUJINO Japanese Editor NATALIA ARGUTINA Russian Editor NORMA RODRIGUEZ Spanish Editor SONG PARK Korean Editor

Alicia Spinner Cultural Bridges Manager alicia@isfdn.org

Like us on Facebook @CBforeducation

TRAM PHAM Vietnamese Editor YINGYING CUI Chinese Editor

Cultural Bridges Magazine, all rights reserved. Cultural Bridges Magazine is a free community magazine distributed locally and subsidized by Issaquah Schools Foundation. Its mission is to provide our community readers information that will enrich their quality of life covering topics such as education, health, nutrition, current events and the diverse culture in the city of Issaquah. Cultural Bridges for Education does not necessarily endorse or represent the views expressed in articles and advertisements found in the magazine, and is not responsible for the information, products and services that our advertisers published. Some parts of this publication may be a reproduction, translation or reprint where prior authorization is requested.

Greetings Foundation Family and Friends!

As we welcome the new year, we express our heartfelt thanks to all of you, our readers and supporters of the Issaquah Schools Foundation and our Cultural Bridges program. We are proud to celebrate this issue as our 20th magazine publication!

Thank you allowing us the opportunity to provide valuable information that we hope you found helpful.

We must give thanks and recognition to Alicia Spinner, Program Manager, Laura Ni, Assistant Editor, and our seven multilingual editors/translators that have helped to make our magazine a success!

We would be remiss if we did not give thanks to all our contributors including local community partners, the Issaquah School District, the ISD Family Engagement team, and our students and parents who have authored incredible articles and useful information to share with our readers. We are extremely grateful for your impactful stories that you have so graciously written and shared with our community. Thank you!

ISSAQUAH As we move towards recovery from SCHOOLS the pandemic, we find more children in need of help now more than ever.

FOUNDATION The remote learning experience and the economic challenges has widened the academic and funding gap. As we return to in-person learning, these are targeted areas of focus: • Mental Health & Social Emotional Support: The pandemic and recent events have created a mental and emotional toll on students and parents. By funding student interventions, speakers and workshops that address stress, anxiety, substance abuse, suicide prevention, and racial trauma, we collaborate with the district and other organizations in a manner that empowers and educates students and parents. Programs include Where Everyone Belongs (WEB), Character Strong and soon, Mental Health First Aid Training.

• Academic Support: Free after school homework help and labs, curriculum training and materials, online resources such as Learning Ally, library and audio books, Student Academic Grants for tutoring or learning services, and Teacher Grants that fund innovation, and summer reading programs.

• Equitable Access to Educational Resources: K-12 online digital resources for reading and writing at all grade levels including Reading A-Z, Newsela, and No Red Ink. • Basic Student Needs: Tools 4 Schools provides 1,000 backpacks, school supplies, food aid support, funding for the Nurse’s Fund, Cultural Bridges community outreach resources and publications in seven languages.

• Enrichment Programs: STEM, robotics clubs, dedicated fine arts, choir, band, and orchestra support, Great Careers Conference, STEMposium and more!

• Visit www.isfdn.org for more program information and for ways to get involved.

Please consider engaging with the Foundation. There is always work to be done to ensure that every student at every school has access to the best educational opportunities possible. Please consider volunteering or donating to the Issaquah Schools Foundation. Generous people like you possess the attitude of sharing and caring that makes our community strong. Your action today brings comfort, encouragement, and hope for tomorrow.

Thank you for your support. Wishing you all the best for a healthy and safe year ahead!

To read/download all Cultural Bridges publications in Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish or Vietnamese, visit: http://isfdn.org/culturalbridges-magazine/

To every child’s success,

Cornell Atwater Executive Director cornell@isfdn.org

Donate Today • isfdn.org/donate 3

PARENT ED

New Year's Reflection Questions

Take stock of the impact of the pandemic in your family. What has happened during the pandemic that you believe will have a lasting effect on your family? What has affected all the members of your family, their relationships, and their mental health? In what ways do you think you have become resilient (or how can you become resilient) in overcoming this trauma or stressor? How can you limit the long-term impact of this stressful event? What resources do you need to help each member of your family? What do you wish for your future selves?

The Impact of the Pandemic

BY KATIE MOELLER Youth Services Manager at Influence the Choice

6

4

For most parents, having students back in school was the answer to our deepest desires for our children, a step towards a sense of normalcy. Students, parents, and teachers are feeling both hope and concern about this reentry into school, sports, work, and everyday life, as we know it.

The words “new normal” have been heard so many times over the past 20 months. But what does that phrase truly mean in the eyes of our students? Here are some thoughts from a sampling of middle and high school students: - Classrooms are much quieter than before the pandemic because people are less willing to speak out, making discussions harder. It creates a less cooperative environment.

- Students are having difficulty sitting and concentrating after a year of having on-screen education. Students are getting out of their seats when the teacher is talking; it is very distracting and disrespectful.

- Total disregard for school property.

- Lunch used to be a time of connecting with friends.

Now it is isolating.

- Students are having a more challenging time talking with the teachers and asking for help because of this quiet atmosphere.

- The amount of social interactions and the process of getting ready every day sets me up for more productivity and daily routine.

- Yet, at the same time, there’s social drainage. I am getting extremely tired, almost stressed, from social relationships. Especially because a lot has changed between friendships over quarantine.

- It is very tiring to go to school every day and do extracurricular activities after school after staying at home all the time.

- Sports season is so much fun, and being active is great, but there have been concerns with COVID spreading.

We recommend that parents find time to ask their students about their feelings. Really listen! Try your best not to interrupt or provide solutions. Ask your student how they would like your help. This time allows them to process what they are experiencing and helps them cope.

Everyone’s world has been turned upside down with COVID. Parents have also had to adjust their work life over the past 20 months. First, they had to become accustomed to having students at home and now have to become accustomed to having them back in school. Many parents have found themselves working at odd hours because they have been working from home. Now it is harder to keep a regular schedule with their children going off to school. Just getting a child out the door for an activity or making dinner while juggling work calls can be stressful. Try to set realistic boundaries with your work so you can have more to give your family.

Simple coping strategies for your family: - Have a daily schedule - Set realistic expectations of yourself and your children - Give yourself and others grace - Speak kindly to yourself - Humor – a smile goes a long way!

- Make time for self-care - Try and get enough rest - Nutrition – healthy food and snacks - Have family dinners!

These past 20 months have been unprecedented. We are all coping with it in different ways. Your students may be displaying some different behaviors. We encourage you to interact with them with an open mind and heart.

And remember, you are not alone! Reach out to trusted friends who will listen and support you. Join a parent support group if you need extra help. Do not be afraid or ashamed to ask for professional help (counselors, doctors, or spiritual guides) if you are feeling the need.

There are people who can help you if you ask.

Finding CALM in the Chaos

6

One of the great resources that our Issaquah School District families have is ParentWiser.

This program brings the latest research and educational information into the homes of our students’ families to support parents in raising thriving individuals. This program is made possible by a partnership with the Issaquah PTSA Council and Issaquah Schools Foundation.

part of good childcare.

Also, the best thing parents can do when they interact with their children is to learn to selfregulate their emotions, practice techniques to calm down, take control of their behavior, have selfawareness, and manage their stress.

Last October, ParentWiser invited Dr. Laura Kastner to discuss strategies to help our children, partners, and ourselves find calm in the chaos. The conversation was titled: “Building Resilience and Positive Coping Skills”.

Dr. Kastner explained that the biggest problem parents usually have is trying to control their children when they are having a meltdown. DO NOT argue with somebody who is having a meltdown; just wait and be quiet.

Parents need to make sure their kids are safe but should not talk to them when their brain is offline.

Self-Care and Self-Regulate Yourself

Most parents are experiencing Pandemic Parental Burnout. They feel exhausted and desire to escape. Some parents are emotionally distancing themselves from family and friends. Therefore, a positive mindset is always optimal for facing any challenge: Be persistent, bounce back, be realistically optimistic, and stay motivated.

Dr. Kastner asked the parents to keep in mind that their stress affects their child’s well-being.

And in the same way, if children have depression, anxiety, or behavioral difficulties, this will affect parents’ health. It goes in both directions.

Dr. Kastner emphasized that all parents need to start with self-care and self-regulation. Self-care is childcare! Parents have a responsibility to take breaks and learn to take care of themselves. It is

Help Your Children to Calm Down

Remembering this CALM protocol when a child has a meltdown is helpful: Cool down and reduce heart rate; Assess your options and get the brain online; Listen with empathy and validation; Map a plan for problem solving.

There are different methods that Dr. Kastner provided during the lecture for both parents and children to calm ourselves and to regulate heart rates: 1.

4-7-8 Breathing: Exhale completely, then inhale through the nose for the count of 4, hold the breath for the count of 7, exhale audibly through the mouth for the count of 8, and repeat the above steps four times.

2.

4 Square Breathing: Breathe in for 4 seconds, Hold the breath for 4 seconds, Breath out for 4 seconds, and hold it for 4 seconds.

3.

Activate our diving reflex (a function of our bodies that triggers our nervous system to calm us down immediately) using ice, cold water, or frozen peas.

4.

Another method to help self-calm is putting feelings into words.

Most people feel better after talking about their feelings. Parents should model to their children or teenagers how to name their feelings. Parents need to talk more about their own feelings. If adults do not have their own vocabulary about feelings, they cannot expect their children to be good at it.

Long-term Relationships Dr. Kastner gave some suggestions on ways to develop long-term relationships with others: Listening: Show empathy, be responsive, show warmth, create secure attachments, keep conversations open, hang out and enjoy being with them.

Praise: Encourage others and give rewards.

Collaboration and problem solving is important.

Routines: Set rules and be consistent following through. Have limits.

Consequences: Establish punishment and negative consequences or penalties. However, this should not be a major part of parenting.

PARENT ED

During the pandemic, there are extra goals for parenting: -Use more positive feedbacks (instead of negative ones or complaining and fighting each other).

-Use more planned ignoring (the opposite of providing your attention) for annoying behaviors.

-Spend more positive time together. Have more fun!

At the end of the lecture, Dr. Kastner used Alexander Graham Bell’s quote, “When one door closes, another door opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us.”

The pandemic might have changed a lot for parenting and family relationships and has added lots of stress.

However, Dr. Kastner invited the families to be resilient.

Parents should remember that using positive coping skills and strategies can still help them find calm, manage the pressures, and build healthy family relationships during a crisis.

To watch Dr. Kastner’s fulllength lecture, visit https:// www.parentwiser.org/ or to get more resources, go to her website: https:// laurak astnerphd.com/ lkastner/.

Dr. Laura Kastner is a clinical professor in both the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and the Department of Psychology at the University of Washington.

She is the author of numerous academic articles on such topics as adolescent suicide, sexuality, and mental health.

5

PARENT ED

6 6

Supporting Whole-Child Development: Getting Kids Ready to Take on the World!

BY JERRY BLACKSBURN M.Ed., SUDP

Historically in education, we have seen support for academic success and social emotional well-being swing between opposing focal points. It is easy to consider that the most productive approach lies somewhere in the middle. That is, it is possible to create an environment where students can succeed in their academic pursuits while having all the necessary social emotional skill to take that success into their futures.

For our youth to succeed in whichever endeavors they pursue, they need to develop social-emotional skills, resilience, and a growth mindset.

So how do we support whole-child development?

6

• Make space for a wide range of emotional expressions. Emotional intelligence, or the identifying and managing of a continuum of emotions, is a characteristic of youth development. Help your student put names to feelings. Ask “How are you?” first, rather than “How did you do?”

• Allow your child to experience what I term constructive adversity. That is to say, let your student manage ageappropriate life difficulties. This will help them become better equipped to successfully do so independently in the future when they encounter more complex situations. Teach the value of a challenge and hard work by identifying it when you see it.

“Wow, that must have been hard!”

• Help youth differentiate between pride and arrogance. Be mindful of systems and structures that support the latter. Arrogance is rarely seen as a resume builder! Help students understand success is different than winning.

• Encourage activities that support belonging vs. just participation.

Emotional connections and community provide a foundation for compassion and inclusion.

• Normalize the idea of need as a universal experience. This allows youth to more easily ask for help when needed and find empathy for others when they see it.

SCHOOL STAFF

• Help students develop internal validation systems. Example: “You worked hard on that.” vs. “That is beautiful.” The development of internal worth and esteem will support their success. This is not to say we cannot voice pride in their efforts.

• Practice gratitude as an action.

Being of service to others is a profound developmental experience.

Support volunteer opportunities to give back to the community.

Creating a young adult is certainly not easy! However, taking a moment to consider what we would like success to look like for our youth can go a long way in providing clarity and focus for our parenting strategies.

Jerry Blackburn is a community educator and consultant around the broad topics of youth behavioral health, wellness, and student emotional success. In addition to this work, Jerry is an adjunct faculty member in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at Seattle University.

SCHOOL STAFF

How to Talk with Kids to Build Motivation, Stress Tolerance, and a Happy Home!

Another ParentWiser event during the fall featured book authors, William Stixrud, PhD, and Ned Johnson. They spoke about how to talk to kids, how to help kids have a healthy sense of control to build motivation, and how to guide them while still giving them room to make their own decisions.

best message parents can give an adolescent besides “I love you!” is “I have confidence in your ability to make decisions about your own life and to learn from your mistakes. I want you to have a ton of experience doing that before I send you off to college.”

A Healthy Sense of Control

3. Encourage kids to solve their own problems neurologically.

When kids feel stress, parents want them to be able to go into coping mode instead of running away or freaking out. Offer suggestions instead of giving solutions to them.

Dr. Stixrud and Mr. Johnson pointed out that one of the most important things parents can do for their kids is to help them develop a healthy sense of control over their own lives. This can help them feel less overwhelmed, anxious, or exhausted and not feel hopeless or helpless.

They recommend letting children develop a sense that they can manage their life and that their decisions matter. A healthy sense of control is greatly related to mental health. It is also crucial for developing internal motivation (self-drive).

The foundation of having a healthy sense of control is the communication used to build connections in their relationships.

A close relationship with parents is the key to protecting kids against the harmful effects of stress.

6

PARENT ED

Empathy and validation are the tools that can help build close connections between parents and kids. When parents use these, kids can trust them with their feelings. These are the two most important and effective tools to help handle strong emotions.

All kids have strong emotions. When kids show these strong emotions, the way parents respond can often push kids away from them rather than draw them closer. As humans, we naturally have a tendency to try to help solve problems instead of calming strong emotions.

Dr. Stixrud and Mr. Johnson recommend that parents use empathy to listen without judging when talking to kids.

Parents should repeat back the child’s feelings, validate or seek to understand the child’s perspective, and demonstrate that the child can handle these strong feelings. They should hang there with them while the kids are experiencing a strong emotion instead of immediately moving past it onto the solution. During conversations with kids, when parents know to repeat the facts instead of purely agreeing with them, it is a signal to the kids that their parents have listened. Their parents have tried to understand their perspective, which calms strong emotions. It also puts the child in a position of being able to calm themselves so that they can begin to solve problems on their own.

Then, Dr. Stixrud and Mr. Johnson talked about the idea that parents could see themselves more as consultants to the kids rather than as their manager or their boss. Ultimately, the role of a parent is to help kids figure out who they want to be and how to create the life they want. Parents’ goal is for kids to be able to run their own lives before they leave home.

There are three suggestions to help parents be consultants: 1. Offer help/advice/wisdom but do not force it. Repeating the same words or lecturing to kids is not effective communication.

2. Let kids make their own decisions when they are little.

Provide them options and let them make a choice. Encourage their decision-making or opinions because it is respectful. The

In a consultant role, parents should not use force.

Acknowledging that force does not always work is very empowering. By taking away the option of force, parents have to trust that their kids can think on their own and they are trying to move in the right direction.

Dr. Stixrud and Mr. Johnson also mentioned the language of a non-anxious presence. How can parents convey a non-anxious presence? Try to use more positive language. When talking to kids, think about using 5-1 method (5 positive interactions vs. 1 negative interaction) to maintain a positive relationship.

Remember, negative words are more powerful than positive words. As best as they can, parents should try to be really purposeful about the words they use. This can help them move in the direction of being a non-anxious presence. Work on practices that may help children be less anxious.

As a parent, remember to use a collaborative problemsolving method as much as possible, particularly with teens.

Be consultative and move from trying to monitor the kids to mentoring them. Change from trying to have power over them, where there are no long-term winners, to influencing them.

Talk with kids about the pursuit of happiness. The formula for happiness: PERMA – Positive emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment. Discuss with kids what is meaningful to them. Let kids know how important relationships are and how important they are to the parents, not just their achievements, but just in helping.

During the last part of the lecture, Ned talked about consequences and how important it is to support autonomy for kids. When kids sense that this is their life and they have control, it can motivate children. But consequences still exist.

Natural consequences are normal. If kids make a decision, and this is how the world responds, let them handle their own problems and find solutions. Discipline is not punishment.

Teach kids about life experiences. Share wisdom, values, hopes, and dreams with kids. As a parent, it is important and effective to communicate limits with kids, but also to share values and information.

To watch Dr. Stixrud and Mr. Johnson’s full-length lecture, visit https://www.parentwiser.org/ or to get more resources or join their private Facebook Group, https://www.facebook.com/ groups/selfdrivenchild.

William Stixrud, PhD is a clinical neuropsychologist and founder of the Sixth Food group, a faculty member at the Children's National Medical Center, and an assistant professor of Psychiatry and Pediatrics at George Washington University, School of Medicine. Ned Johnson is an author, speaker, and founder of Prep Matters, an educational company providing academic tutoring, educational planning, and standardized test preparation.

7

20 Organizations That Are The Heart of our Community!

Our Issaquah School District community is a very special place.

We have many organizations that support our families with services, locations, activities, and things for free or at an affordable price. But it can be hard to know how to get these resources, especially for those who are new in the area or have not needed or heard about them.

1. Issaquah School District is a public school district that serves close to 21,000 students and has 26 schools in the cities of Issaquah as well as portions of Sammamish, Renton, Bellevue, and Newcastle.

FREE OR REDUCED LUNCH PROGRAM This school year, lunch is free for all kids in the District. It’s still important that you fill out an application, as you may be eligible for additional benefits: https://www.myschoolapps.com FAMILY LIAISONS Do you have any questions about your child’s school programs? Do you need help filling out forms or connecting with your child’s teacher(s) or counselor?

Feel free to contact them: https://www. issaquah.wednet.edu/family/culturaland-family-partnerships/FPL FAMILY EDUCATIONAL EVENTS In these (in-person or Zoom) events, families learn about schools and programs in the District. Parents have an opportunity to ask questions and talk to District staff and other parents.

Chinese and Spanish are available, and you can request an interpreter in another language. These events are hosted in partnership with the Cultural Bridges Program. To learn more, go to page 13 or https://www.issaquah. wednet.edu/family/cultural-and-familypartnerships/events SCHOOL COUNSELORS Issaquah schools provide counseling services in each school. All students have the right to participate. To get help, contact your student’s teacher or the counselor at your school. To learn more, go to page 17.

PRESCHOOL ACADEMY A program designed to prepare each student to be ready for kindergarten and beyond. Now they are offering 3 locations for the 2021-2022 school year! To learn more: https://www. isdpreschoolacademy.com/

8

NURSES' FUND Each school nurse has access to a fund to help pay for glasses, eye exams, medical needs, and some basic needs. For more information, contact your school nurse.

2. Issaquah Schools Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides: CULTURAL BRIDGES MAGAZINE We offer this publication in 7 languages: Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, and Vietnamese.

Here you can find lots of useful schoolrelated information from Kindergarten to High School, community-related information about resources and events available to our families, and cultural-related information to help our communities in their process of developing cultural competence. To read or download the magazine: http:// isfdn.org/cultural-bridges-magazine/ COMMUNITY RESOURCES PRESENTATION During these Zoom events, we present information about resources available to families. The information is shared in English, Spanish and Chinese. Other languages are available if needed. To learn more, go to page 13.

TOOL 4 SCHOOLS PROGRAM Provides backpack filled with new school supplies for kids who need them. There is an event at the beginning of each school year, and the backpacks are also available at the schools’ offices during the year. To learn more: https://isfdn.org/tools-forschool-registration/ STUDENT ACADEMIC GRANTS For students who need help paying for tutoring and other academic assistance programs. Grants are awarded up to $500 per student for those most in need of academic support. The family is responsible for setting up the tutor or other academic support they wish to use and will be asked about their choice in the application. Any grant money awarded will be given directly to the service provider. To learn more: https://isfdn.org/academicgrants.

SUMMER PROGRAM Offered in 4 locations: Talus, Downtown Issaquah, Renton, and Sammamish.

Three sessions in August. Students get books, art materials, and snacks.

For questions, email culturalbridges@ isfdn.org

GREAT CAREERS CONFERENCE This event introduces 9-12 grade students to secondary education options outside the typical four-year career path. To learn more, go to pages 18-19 or: https://isfdn.org/ourpurpose/connecting-students-to-theirfuture/great-careers-conference/ 3. School PTA/PTSAs are parentteacher non-profit organizations that support their school and offer programs, events, and volunteer opportunities. Every school in the District has a PTSA or PTA. Some examples of the activities that they organize are: CULTURAL EVENTS Families participate by hosting a table to represent their culture. They offer activities for kids and traditional food.

Everybody in the school is invited.

These events are great for families to share a little bit of their culture or to learn about their neighbors’ cultures.

FAMILY FUN EVENTS Bingo parties, movie nights, talent shows, etc. They are very good opportunities for families to get to know each other.

ANGEL PROGRAM Anonymous parents (known as “Angels”) donate basic necessities to students who need them. To learn what is offered at your school, check your PTA/PTSA website: https://www. issaquah.wednet.edu/family/PTSA

More information here: https://www. issaquahfoodbank.org/issaquahpower-packs GROCERIES TO GO PROGRAM Home delivery service for families facing transportation, health, aging, or other challenges. Clients receive an order based on household size, delivered directly to their door, once every two weeks. To get this service, email or call Jaek 360-525-3619, jaek@issaquahfoodbank.org SEASONAL CLOTHING EVENTS Families get new or very gently used clothes. For an update on when the next event is taking place, visit: https:// www.issaquahfoodbank.org/specialprograms/ HOLIDAY GIFT BARN PROGRAM To make the holidays special, the food bank turns Pickering Barn into a toy store. Parents get what they want for each child. To help keep everyone safe, the last two years they offered instead gift cards. To learn more: https://issaquahfoodbank.org/holidaygift-barn 5. Eastside Baby Corner is a non-profit organization that provides: KID'S CLOTHES (0-12) They work with different partners.

If you are interested in getting their help, contact the Issaquah Food and Clothing Bank or a Nurse at your school.

4. Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank is a non-profit organization that provides:

6. ParentWiser is a non-profit organization that provides:

FOOD The food bank looks like a small grocery store and it’s open every other week.

Families can visit one time each week they are open. They will ask you for an ID, but it’s not required. To register: https://www.issaquahfoodbank.org/

PARENT EDUCATION In these events, local and nationally known experts share the latest information on effective parenting with caregivers. To learn more, go to page 13 or https://www.parentwiser.org/

SUMMER LUNCH PROGRAM During the summer (when kids are not receiving free/reduced school lunch), families get a week’s worth of breakfast, lunch, and snack foods. To register: https://www.issaquahfoodbank.org/ special-programs/ POWER PACKS PROGRAM Provides about a weekend's worth of kid-friendly breakfast, lunch, and snack items to any school-aged child. They are distributed through the school. To receive Power Packs, contact your child’s counselor or teacher.

7. 424 Tutoring, EmP, and Mission InspirEd are three student led nonprofit organizations that provide: TUTORING 424 Tutoring [https:// www.425tutoring. org/] provides support for K-5 grade students, EmP [https://www. emeraldparents.org/tutoring-program. html] for K-8 grade students, and Mission InspirEd [https://www. missioninspired.org/] for K-12 grade students.

8.

Club Inclusive is a community organization that provides: MEETINGS FOR KIDS OF ALL ABILITIES Members hang out and participate in art workshops by Epic Art. These meetings are every 2nd Thursday of every month from 7 to 8:30pm at The Garage in downtown Issaquah.

9. Influence the Choice is a non-profit organization that provides: COMMUNITY EDUCATION Programs and events to prevent substance use and promote mental, physical, and social wellness of our youth. To learn more: https://www. influencethechoice.org/ 10. Friends of Youth is a non-profit organization that provides: MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE USE COUNSELING Services are by appointment only.

Monday through Friday, from 8:30am to 5pm, virtually and in their offices in Issaquah.

11. Eastside Legal Assistance Program (ELAP) is a non-profit organization that provides: LEGAL SERVICES Families can meet one-on-one with a lawyer. Their clinics cover topics that include housing, family law, domestic violence, immigration, debt collection and bankruptcy, and more.

WILLS CLINICS Qualifying participants will receive a Simple Will, Power of Attorney, and/or an Advance Medical Directive for free during a 2-hour appointment with a professional attorney. Interpretation is available for these events.

LEGAL SERVICES Families can get individualized legal help, free legal clinics, educational webinars, and access to legal resources. To learn more: https://elap. org/ 12. Hopelink is a non-profit organization that provides: ENGLISH FOR WORK PROGRAM For adults who would like to improve their English language skills for employment. To learn more: hopelink. com 13. Issaquah Community Services is a non-profit organization that provides:

HELP WITH RENT AND UTILITIES Funds are sent to landlords or utility companies based on the severity of need. To learn more: https://www. issaquahcommunityservices.org/needhelp/ 14. The Ruby Room is a non-profit organization that provides: FORMAL WEAR A wide selection of formal dresses in every color and sizes ranging from 0 to 30. Students can choose from brand new and lightly used dresses with a few designer labels throughout their collection! Shoes and jewelry are also available. A limited collection of men’s formal wear includes suits, tuxes, ties, and accessories. To learn more: info@ rubyroomseattle.org 15. Religious organizations in our community support our families with different resources. Some examples are: DENTAL VAN EVENT This service is for adults. The Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank Case Manager schedules the dental appointments for the van: rebecca@issaquahfoodbank. org TURKEY GIVEAWAY EVENT Eastridge Church gives families a turkey, a bag of groceries, and some winter accessories for children. This event happens every year before Thanksgiving.

RENTAL ASSISTANCE St. Vincent de Paul volunteers visit the homes of those in need with rental assistance, food, clothing, and furniture. To learn more: https:// sjcissaquah.org/st-vincent-de-paul ENGLISH CLASSES Jubilee REACH offers English language classes for adults to improve their communication skills in order to find employment, build relationships, and thrive in our communities. To learn more: https://www.jubileereach.org/esl 16. King County Library is a public organization that provides: BOOKS, READING PROGRAMS, HOMEWORK HELP, CULTURAL AND FAMILY EVENTS All the cities of our community have libraries: Issaquah, Sammamish, Renton, Bellevue, and Newcastle. To learn more: https://kcls.org/

A SPACE FOR FAMILIES Some of our cities have community centers: Issaquah [https://www. issaquahwa.gov/768/CommunityCenter] and Renton [https://rentonwa. gov/cms/one.aspx?pageId=8838936].

Some examples of the activities that they offer are exercise classes, open gym, drop-in activities, indoor track, and toddler time. Look for the schedule of their activities on their websites. And note that they offer scholarships for their programs.

18. The Garage – A Teen Café is a nonprofit organization that provides: A SPACE FOR TEENS High School teens can drop in to hang out with friends, grab a coffee and a snack, play a game, play music, watch TV, talk over homework, meet with a counselor, and much more! To learn more: https://www.issaquahteencafe. org/ 19. Seniors Centers are organizations that provide:

public

A SPACE FOR SENIORS Some of the cities of our community have senior centers: Issaquah [https:// wwwissaquahwa.gov/1744/Seniors], Renton [https://rentonwa.gov/cms/ one.aspx?pageId=8715840], and Bellevue [https://bellevuewa.gov/ city-government/departments/parks/ community-centers/north-bellevuecommunity-center].

20. Eastside Friends of Seniors is a non-profit organization that provides: HOME VISITS This service is provided to seniors living independently.

MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION A door-to-door service from their home to their health care provider’s office, and back.

SHOPPING AND ERRANDS Not just a ride, but help in the store and putting their groceries away at home, if they need it.

There are many more resources available to all Issaquah School District families. This is just a sample of how these wonderful organizations are helping our families to make a home in our communities.

During the pandemic, we learned that no one is exempt from adversity. If you can help, these organizations are always looking for donations and volunteers. We all are in charge of our community. We all can make a difference in the lives of our children.

To learn more about how to help or how to get any of these or any other resource, send an email to culturalbridges@isfdn.org.

Some examples of the activities that they offer are exercise classes, hot lunch, rooms with puzzles, ping-pong, and billiard tables.

20

17. Community Centers are public organizations that provide:

9

6

At home in the community.

It’s more than hospitals and clinics. It’s knowing what your family needs.

And your first name. It’s getting kids to be active, and young adults through college.

Making it easier to live well. It’s creating healthier communities, together.

SWEDISH ISSAQUAH

751 NE Blakely Drive Issaquah, WA 98029 425-313-4000 www.swedish.org/issaquah-kids

Dual Language Immersion Program

6

ISSAQUAH SCHOOL DISTRICT

Did you know that the Issaquah School District now has a Dual Language/Spanish Immersion Program? Each year a new group of kindergarten students are added to the program. The previous year’s students move to the next grade level.

love for him to be able to communicate with his family from Argentina. Also, I think knowing a second language is a great tool to have for his future.

EA: Because I am Mexican, and I want my son to be able to speak two languages.

The Dual Language Program has been in place for three years. It provides instruction in all subjects to students in two languages: Spanish and English. Over several years, students who participate in this program can become proficient and literate in both languages.

The program helps students achieve high academic standards across subjects. Students also develop cross-cultural understanding and skills. The goal is to balance the number of students in each class who are native English speakers with native Spanish speakers and other multilingual learners. This program is made possible because of the strong community support and the approval of the 2018 Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy.

3. What was your expectation of this program? Do you think it meets your expectation? Why? SB: I didn’t know what to expect from this program because we applied the first year it opened. As the year went by, I loved it more and more. After a few months of starting school, my son was saying almost complete sentences in Spanish. He was more interested in learning new words.

EA: My expectation is that my son would be around more Spanish-speaking people, and he would be able to understand me better.

4. Does your child like this program? What’s your child’s favorite part of this program?

Look for application information for the Dual Language Program as a part of kindergarten registration.

To get more details about this program, visit their website: https://www.issaquah.wednet.edu/district/ departments/elementary/DLIP or send an email to: DualLanguage@issaquah.wednet.edu.

SB: My son really likes to be part of the Dual Language Program. I think his favorite part is the relationship and connection that he has with his classmates. They all started this program together and will continue through elementary school.

EA: Yes, my son likes this program. His favorite part of the program is math.

Parents Sharing their Experiences

5. What are the tips or advice you can give to future Dual Language students?

Esperanza Alvarez (mom of a first-grade student) and Sofia Beecorft (mom of a second-grade student) shared their experiences in the Dual Language Program with our readers:

SB: I’d say not to be afraid and enjoy this opportunity! The teachers are amazing and make it so much fun to learn this beautiful language!

EA: The teachers are doing a great job!

1. Did your child speak or understand Spanish before participating in this program?

6. Could you list ONE thing that you want to make a change in this program?

SB: My son understood some Spanish before starting the program. I speak it at home since it’s my first language.

EA: My son understood a little bit of Spanish.

SB: The only thing that I’d like to change is their sibling policy. Currently, younger siblings are not automatically accepted into the program, and I feel they should be. One reason is that they could learn and practice at home with each other, and parents are part of it too.

2. Why did you choose the Dual Language Program?

SB: The main reason why I chose this program is that I’d

11

CALENDAR ALL SCHOOLS

Jan. 17: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, No school for students Jan. 28: Teacher Work Day, No school for students or staff Feb. 21 - 25: Second Winter Break, No school for students or staff Mar. 18: No school for students or staff OR first weather make-up Day

Cougar Ridge Jan. 4: 4th Grade Student Council Meeting, 8:15 AM Jan. 5: 5th Grade Student Council Meeting, 8:15 AM Jan. 18: PTSA General Meeting Feb. 1: 4th Grade Student Council Meeting, 8:15 AM Feb. 2: 5th Grade Student Council Meeting, 8:15 AM Feb. 15: PTSA General Meeting Mar. 1: 4th Grade Student Council Meeting, 8:15 AM Mar. 2: 5th Grade Student Council Meeting, 8:15 AM Mar. 15: PTSA General Meeting Creekside Mar. 15: PTSA General Meeting, 7pm

Jan. 20th: Katie Hurley LCSW on Stress and Anxiety, 7pm Feb. 16th: Dr. Devorah Heitner on Balancing Technology Use, 7pm ParentWiser events are FREE for PTA or PTSA members of any school in the Issaquah School District, or $10 donations are requested for non-members or guests from other districts.

For registration information, visit: https://www. parentwiser.org/events

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

6

Jan. 11-14: Second Grade Highly Capable Testing, CogAT/TTCT Feb. 1 – Mar. 4: Kindergarten Registration Feb. 16: ISD 5th Grade Transition to Middle School Information Night for Families New to the U.S., 6:30 PM Mar. 8-11: 2nd Grade Highly Capable Testing, IOWA Mar. 16: Elementary Trimester 2 Ends and Report Cards available Apollo Jan. 31: Talent Show Video submission OPEN Feb. 2: PTA General Meeting, 6:30 PM, Zoom Feb. 11: Read At Home Winter Roadmap Submission Deadline Feb. 16: Talent Show Video Submission Deadline Feb. 18: Read At Home Winter book handout Mar. 4: Talent Show Virtual Performance Mar. 30: Multi-Cultural Night, 6 PM Briarwood Jan. 10: PTA General Meeting, 6:30 PM Feb. 1: Digital Talent Show Starts Mar. 14: PTA General Meeting, 6:30 PM Mar. 30: Multi-Cultural Night Cascade Ridge Jan. 3: New Family Connection Jan. 10: Eager Reader Begins Jan. 20: PTSA Membership Meeting, 6:30 PM Jan. 27: Talent Show Feb. 3: Spelling Bee Mar. 1-4: Book Fair/Read Across America Cedar Trails Feb. 3: PTSA General Meeting, 6:30 PM Feb. 5: Fill the Truck Fundraiser Challenger Jan. 11: PTA General Meeting, 6:30 PM Mar. 8: PTA General Meeting, 6:30 PM Clark

Jan. 19: PTA General Meeting, 6:30 PM Jan. 25: Coffee with Christy, 9:30 AM Mar. 15: Coffee with Christy, 9:30 AM Mar. 16: PTA General Meeting, 6:30 PM

12

Discovery Jan. 9: Last Day of Bellevue Ice Skating fundraiser Endeavour Jan. 9: Last Day of Bellevue Ice Skating fundraiser Grand Ridge Jan. 25: PTSA General Meeting, 7 PM Feb. 8-10: Spelling Bee Mar. 14: PTSA General Meeting, 7 PM Issaquah Valley Jan. 9: Last Day of Bellevue Ice Skating fundraiser Jan. 19: PTA General Meeting 7 PM Mar. 16: PTA General Meeting Maple Hills Jan. 25: PTA General Membership Meeting, 6:30 PM Jan. 26: Variety Show Auditions, 1:30 PM Feb. 2: Variety Show Dress Rehearsal, 1:30 PM Feb. 2: Kinder Family Orientation, 7 PM Feb. 4: Variety Show, 6:30 PM Mar. 9-11: Science Fair Newcastle Feb. 7: General Meeting & Principal Chat 7 PM Sunny Hills Jan. 5 – Feb. 8: Eager Reader Program Jan. 20: Winter Family Event, 6 PM – 8 PM Jan. 27: 5th Grade Musical Feb. 3: PTA General Meeting, 6:30 PM Mar. 10: 2nd Grade Music concert Mar. 20: Fill the Truck Fundraiser, 10 AM – 12 PM Mar. 24: PTA General Meeting, 6:30 PM

MIDDLE SCHOOLS Jan. 26: ISD 8th Grade Transition Night New to U.S. Families, 6:30 PM Mar. 17: Grading Day – Early Dismissal Cougar Mountain Jan. 21: PTSA General Meeting, 10AM Mar. 25: PTSA General Meeting, 10AM Issaquah Jan. 9: Last Day of Bellevue Ice Skating fundraiser Jan. 10-11: Theatre Auditions, 2:45 PM – 4:15 PM Jan. 12: Theatre Call Backs, 3:30 PM – 4:45 PM Jan. 13: Theatre Dance Call, 2:45 PM – 4:15 PM Jan. 14: Temperance and Good Citizenship Day Jan. 14-28: Clash of Cans Jan. 18-21: We Rise Above Week Jan. 18: Theatre Rehearsals Start, 2:45 – 4:15 PM Jan. 19: PTSA General Meeting, 6 PM Jan. 21: Spirit Day Jan. 21: Cocoa with Carrie, 10 AM – 10:45 AM Jan. 21: PM Assembly – Motivational Jan. 25: Career Day Jan. 27: MVP Celebration Feb. 16: PTSA General Meeting, 6 PM Feb. 18: Spirit Day

Feb. 18: MVP Celebration Feb. 18: Cocoa with Carrie, 10 AM – 10:45 AM Feb. 28 – Mar. 4: We Are Silent Week Feb. 28: 5th Grade Visit Mar. 1: 5th Grade Parent Night Mar. 3: Music Open House, 6:30 PM – 8 PM Mar. 4: PM Assembly Schedule for Registration, 1:45 PM – 2:45 PM Mar. 8: Chorus Concert, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM Mar. 10: Orchestra Concert, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM Mar. 15: Band Concert, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM Mar. 16: PTSA General Meeting, 6 PM Mar. 25: Spirit Day Mar. 25: MVP Celebration Mar. 25: Cocoa with Carrie, 10 AM – 10:45 AM Mar. 31: Talent Show Auditions.

Maywood

Jan. 9: Last Day of Bellevue Ice Skating fundraiser Jan. 20: PTSA General Membership Meeting Pacific Cascade

Jan. 6: PTSA General Meeting, 1 PM Jan. 13: Vision and Hearing Screenings Jan. 19: Java with Jeff, 7 PM Feb. 10: Java with Jeff, 7 PM Mar. 3: PTSA General Meeting, 12 PM Mar. 16: Java with Jeff, 7 PM Pine Lake Mar. 4: Hoe Down Event for all the community

HIGH SCHOOLS Mar. 21: Early Dismissal Gibson Ek Jan. 11: PTSA Membership Meeting, 6:30 PM Mar. 8: PTSA Membership Meeting, 6:30 PM Issaquah

Jan. 9: Last Day of Bellevue Ice Skating fundraiser Jan. 10: Senior Yearbook Parent Ads CLOSE Jan. 12: Staff Appreciation Breakfast Jan. 14: Grant Applications Due Jan. 14: PTSA General Meeting, 9:30 AM Jan. 18: NFA: Capri Cellars Monthly Mixer, 6:30 PM Jan. 22: Solo Ensemble Festival Performance Jan. 27: Holocaust Remembrance Day Jan. 29: ACT Practice Exam Feb. 5: SAT Practice Exam Feb. 10: ACT/SAT Score & Feedback Session @ IHS Library, 7 PM Feb. 11: PTSA General Meeting, 9:30 AM Feb. 12: Swingin' in Vienna, 7 PM – 9 PM Feb. 15: NFA: Capri Cellars Monthly Mixer, 6:30 PM Feb. 16: Staff Appreciation Breakfast Mar. 1: WA State Game Development Submissions Due Mar. 1: WA State PTA Essay Contest Due Mar. 1: WA State PTA Scholarship Entries Due Mar. 11: PTSA General Meeting, 9:30 AM Mar. 15: NFA: Capri Cellars Monthly Mixer, 6:30 PM Mar. 16: Staff Appreciation Breakfast Liberty Jan. 6: Field Trip: DECA Jan. 18: PTSA Membership Meeting, 6:30 PM Jan. 22: Field Trip: NJROTC, Kapowsin HS Mar. 4-6: Field Trip, Robotics team Mar. 25-27: Field Trip, Robotics team Skyline Jan. 27: PTSA General Meeting, 6:30 PM Mar. 3: Skyline String & Chamber Orchestra Concert, 7 PM Mar. 24: PTSA General Meeting, 6:30 PM

CALENDAR

Inclement Weather In our district, it is common that school activities get altered when the weather conditions become extreme. School closures and delays are announced early in the morning, usually between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m.

Please check for an announcement on the Issaquah School District website: www.issaquah.wednet.edu or check the recorded messages at (425) 837- 7000.

6

If you would like to receive information straight from the District: • Make sure you are receiving District E-News. To sign up: https://issaquah. wednet.edu/news/ENews • Weather delay notifications will NOT be sent via individual school E-News.

• Subscribe to receive weather delay and closure news from transportation department at www.FlashAlert.net.

The District will announce that the school is 1 hour late, 2 hours late, or closed.

Please check the table below to determine if your student's activity or activities are canceled or delayed.

It is important to remember that students will be returned to the same bus stop where they were picked up in the morning, regardless of afterschool road conditions.

Please note that the final decision on whether or not to send your child to school is yours. If you ever disagree with the District’s decision regarding school delays or closures, please know that it is considered an excused absence if you decide to keep your child home from school.

Please inform your school via an email to your attendance line, a call to the attendance office, or a signed note the day your student returns to school.

To see where your snow route bus stops are located and for more information, please visit: https:// www.issaquah.wednet.edu/district/ emergency/closures.

When the District Announces: AM preschool ECE/ECEAP PM preschool ECE/ECEAP Grades K – 5th Middle School High School ACT Out-of-District Transportation Before School Activities Field Trips, Athletics, After School Activities AM BASC PM BASC Activity (EDA) Routes

Regular Route 1 Hour Late

Regular Route 2 Hours Late

Snow Route 1 Hour Late

Snow Route 2 Hours Late

Schools Closed

Not Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Not Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Canceled

Not Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Per School Announcement

Per School Announcement

Per School Announcement

Per School Announcement

Canceled

Open at 8:30 a.m.

Open at 9:30 a.m.

Open at 8:30 a.m.

Open at 9:30 a.m.

Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Not Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

Canceled

The District's Family Partnership organizes events in collaboration with our program Cultural Bridges. All families with students in the District are welcome to attend. Sessions are in English, Spanish, and Mandarin. Interpreters in other languages available upon request.

If you need an interpreter in another language, contact Lorna Gilmour at: gilmourl@issaquah.wednet.edu.

For more information, visit: https://www. issaquah.wednet.edu/family/culturaland-family-partnerships/events JANUARY 19th from 6:30-8pm 8th grade Transition Night for Families New to High Schools in the U.S. (Zoom) This is a general information event for families new to the U.S. high school system. Check school website for specific high school 8th grade transition event for families familiar with U.S. high school system.

Topics: what high school credits are and how credits are earned each year for graduation requirements and college applications. Other topics include possible high school opportunities, and state and college testing information.

District staff will be available to answer questions.

FEBRUARY 16th from 6:30-8pm 5th grade Transition Night for Families New to Middle Schools in the U.S. Course selection information, elective class options such as orchestra and choir, PE/Health classes, sports, clubs, health/ immunization, costs/fees, and supplies.

Check school website for specific school 5th grade transition event for families familiar with U.S. middle school system.

MARCH [TBD] Welcome to the ISD for Incoming Kindergarten Families Information will include: kindergarten preparedness, general school day schedule, general classroom information, transportation, immunization, on-site before and afterschool care program, and differences between school systems in U.S. vs. some other countries.

13

ISSAQUAH SCHOOL DISTRICT

Science Technology Magnet Program

Are you familiar with the Issaquah School District program known as Science Tech? Cultural Bridges invited one Science Tech teacher, Amy Krohn, and three former Science Tech students to share their experiences and knowledge about this program.

BY AMY KROHN ISD Elementary Teacher, Science Technology The full name of Science Tech is the Science Technology Magnet Program, which is Issaquah School District’s only elementary school option program. It is located at three elementary schools in the District: Briarwood, Cascade Ridge, and Clark. Students who wish to attend submit an application in the spring of their 3rd-grade school year. Since there are limited spots for the program, the District determines placement in the program through a lottery. Students who are not chosen in the lottery to attend Science Tech are put on a waitlist. Students chosen in the lottery then enroll at the school they are selected for and stay for 4th and 5th grade. All 3rd-grade students are welcome to apply.

Science Tech is a 2-year program where students stay with us for BOTH 4th and 5th grade. We are a multiaged classroom and work collaboratively in all subject areas. We also integrate STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) into everyday learning.

Students benefit from a mentor relationship in our classroom, with 5th graders being given leadership opportunities as they move through the program.

Uniqueness

What is the same?

• The standard District-adopted curriculum is used. Reading, Writing, Eureka Mathematics, Social Studies, science kits • District programs like F.L.A.S.H. and 5th Grade Camp • SBA testing (+WCAS Science for 5th grade) • Specialists - P.E., Music, and Library • Social emotional learning embedded • Behavior expectations for the classroom & school are the same as any school in the District • Students encouraged to participate in the school’s activities • Students with IEPs will have scheduled pull-out times that align with their minutes • Students in SAGE will continue with SAGE services at the new school site • Math is taught at grade level

What is different?

The teaching approaches and student learning are different: • Team teaching approach (2 teachers) in 2 joined classrooms • Multi-age classroom • Project Based Learning • Technology used across all content areas • Engineering Design Process • Learning stations • Large whole group and small group work • Parent volunteers • Online Portfolios • Field trips • Focus on community, collaboration, creativity & personal connections to real-world applications • We are currently working on developing more lessons that integrate content

Which group of students will be a good fit for this program?

Students who do well in our program are organized, self• 4th/5th Grade Multi-Age motivated, and like to work in groups. With 50+ students Classroom: 2 classrooms, in the classroom (25/26 in each 4th and 5th grade), 2 teachers there is a lot of movement and discussion. We have • Two-year program an inquiry-based learning model where students need • Diverse classroom family: to be comfortable with solving problems and revising 50-51 students! constantly. Science Tech is an innovative classroom • A significant amount of collaborative group work experience. It moves quickly. Students with intrinsic • Leadership and mentoring from older students motivation and determination, who desire to keep • Deeper and extended coverage of science curriculum digging and learning, do well in our programs.

This magazine science is published and additional units by Cultural Through culturally sensitive support offered Bridges, Foundation What are the benefits families’ native language or in En- for the students • Units an andIssaquah projectsSchools involving engineeringeither and inthe run program that helps build relationships glish, Culturalwho Bridges helps parentsin feel Engineering Design Process participated this program? between families, theiracross children, the subjects • Technology integration all content and Students leave the in Science Tech program prepared more confident becoming involved school Issaquah School District, and the broader integrated content to handle middle school successfully.

They develop and supporting their students at home.

Issaquah community through outreach, • Greater access to technology devices and tools, project management and time management skills. They events, mentoring, and translation includingThis opportunities innovativeintechnology become comfortable with taking risks to explore and be services. magazine toisuse published To read/download our Students publications: • Lots of field trips and expert guest speakers from creative. learn how to be independent and selfChinese, English, Japanese, Korean, http://isfdn.org/cultural-bridges-magazine/ STEAM Spanish, fields and Vietnamese. sufficient problem solvers because of the multi-grade Russian, • Amazing parent volunteers collaboration. Being in a large classroom gives students opportunities for independence and leadership.

14

What did you like the most and the least about this program? Any advice to the families who want to apply to this program or currently have students in this program? How was your transition to middle school?

Nicole Liu, 10th, Former Science Tech Student The most beneficial experience from this program was probably inspiring young children in different interests before middle school and high school, where your freedom starts. Different topics we covered, whether in science or in technology, introduced me to things that I never would have thought would be interesting.

6

I enjoyed working with different types of technology such as Spheros, drones, and robots. We learned to code and worked with them to do simple and complex tasks. As someone who did not have any particular interest in technology beforehand, I actually began to take an interest in coding and robotics. Other than working with coding programs, we also did many workshops such as building electrical circuits and other hands-on building projects. These projects brought curiosity to many students making them want to learn more about the different projects. For science, we did different projects that involved labs.

Our ecology unit was my favorite because we assembled an aquarium and terrarium in the classroom, and we took care of it. Another fun project we did was a bottle rocket launching competition to see what type of structure for a rocket would make it shoot the highest. We had access to many guest speakers and field trips, which was an informative experience outside the classroom.

It’s important to be fully immersed and focused in every experiment or project because all of it is beneficial for not only middle school, but also high school.

Noah Ojerio, 9th, Former Science Tech Student We did a lot of different styles of writing throughout Science Tech.

This helped improve my writing skills significantly. The writing assignments were challenging, but they increased my confidence and prepared me for middle school.

I loved all the field trips we did. My favorite was when we went on a boat and explored Puget Sound. We saw a giant octopus that was super cool.

We did a bunch of activities on the boat as well. One activity I remember was when we had several tanks filled with sea creatures. We went around to each tank to touch each creature.

They were all so interesting! I didn’t like that the classroom was so crowded. Fifty-two kids in one class is a lot! It makes it hard to focus and pay attention when everyone is so compact. I also found it weird to have fourth and fifth graders in the same class. Sometimes, like for math, we would split up the grade levels because we were learning different things.

It’s important to be organized and not procrastinate. Things go by very fast in this class, so don’t fall behind.

It is very hard to catch up. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The teachers promote independence and relying on your classmates and not the teacher.

ISSAQUAH SCHOOL DISTRICT The transition to middle school was very easy for me. I felt like the workload in middle school was less intense than in Science Tech.

Also, the organizational skills and study habits that I gained were very beneficial.

Cultural Connections

Students Sharing their Experiences

I really liked having a class that I would spend two years with, where friendships would really stay strong.

In fourth grade, the fifth-grade students were good mentors, and it was nice having older kids to connect with. In fifth grade, being older meant having a chance at leadership within the classroom. The strong friendships help a lot for the transition from Science Tech to middle school and even high school. Usually, you will see the fifth graders that were once in Science Tech when you were in 4th grade. It’s very encouraging to see people you already know and who help you with the transition.

In the Issaquah School District, we take Tech Smart, an informative tech class everyone takes in sixth grade. I found that students in Science Tech already knew most of the material. It was an easy class to get an A in.

Elina Reevosh, 6th, Former Science Tech Student The teachers challenge you to get ready for the future, and they encourage you every step of the way.

One thing I loved about Science Tech was that it got me ready for middle school. It helped me learn how to transition quickly between classes. Also, I did learn how to organize myself, which is key for middle school. I also loved doing more hands-on projects too! When we transitioned to online school, the teachers still made it fun. I did not enjoy moving schools and having to get driven to school instead of taking the bus. It is a problem for parents because they may have to figure out how to get their kids to school. It may also upset the student because they may have to attend a different school for the Science Tech program.

I had personal experience with that and, luckily, it did turn out ok.

Do your best ALWAYS! Don't get too stressed. The teachers are always willing to help. Never be embarrassed about your mistakes. You can always learn from them. Luck has nothing to do with success. You have got to work hard to achieve your success.

After the program, you will be ready to face your challenges and meet your goals in middle school! Just remember to work hard and do your best!

Testing is available at: Bellevue College https://www.solvhealth.com/ book-online/gdZeQA UW Medicine testing sites https://www.uwmedicine.org/

15

23

PARENT ED

Urgent care for the entire family.

No appointment needed.

16 6

h Pk amis amm

ke S

E La

Overlake Clinics – Issaquah

wy S

SE B

lack

get Rd Nug

Overlake Clinics – Issaquah Urgent Care Every Day, 7 a.m.–11 p.m.

Phone: 425.688.5777

E

5708 E Lake Sammamish Pkwy SE Issaquah, WA 98029

Overlake Clinics – Sammamish

SE 4th St

228th Ave SE

Get in line online at overlakehospital.org/urgentcare

Overlake Clinics – Sammamish Urgent Care Monday–Saturday, Noon–10 p.m.

Phone: 425.635.3080 22630 SE 4th St, Suite 300 Sammamish, WA 98074

Ask your Counselor: High School The Issaquah High School PTSA, with the help of counselors from their school, hosted an event in late October to talk about the most common questions new families usually have. Marisa García Struck, IHS FACE Coordinador, presents here some of the questions and valuable information for families with students in all high schools of the Issaquah School District.

When to contact a counselor and who are they?

Counselors can help families with: 1. Academic questions: College, Career Exploration, Course Planning, and in navigating academic challenges.

2. Mental health support or referral to Teen Health Counselor 3. Talking through challenges and, 4. Connecting to resources.

6

Counselors and administrators are assigned by your student’s last name. In the following table you can find the name and email of the counselor for your student according to his or her last name. For example, if you have an Issaquah High School student with the last name Smith, you need to contact Amber OwenClifford. To find a time to talk with your student’s counselor, please email them.

Gibson Ek High School All students Shawn Mulanix Issaquah High School A-COL Alan Waite COM-HAM Emily Combellick HAN-LA Christian McKone LB-OL Jennifer Martinson OM-SN Amber Owen-Clifford SO-Z Jennifer Schwarts Skyline High School A-COA Kirsi Varsa COB-HOL Todd Caffey HOM-LOA Megan Laedtke LOB-PAT Stephanie Anderson PAU-SPZ Deborah Walters SQA-Z Kristen Flemer Liberty High School A-E Colleen Schiller F-LT Vicki Kenney LU-RI April Flores RJ-Z Robin Klym

What is Flex or NEST time?

Issaquah and Skyline High School offer this opportunity to students.

At Issaquah High School, students have NEST time on Tuesdays from 9:20 to 9:55 AM and on Wednesdays from 2:55 to 3:45 PM. During this time, students can ask for academic help from a teacher or have an appointment with his/her counselor.

Students must make an appointment with their teachers or counselors to visit them at this time. NEST meets in a specific classroom with an assigned teacher, and attendance is taken.

At Skyline, students also can connect with teachers and couselors in Flex time on Tuesdays following 1st period (45 minutes) and Wednesdays following 6th period (50 minutes).

What should you do if your student is struggling in class?

1. Please ask your student to get help from his/her teacher directly, during class or agreed upon time.

You can also reach your teacher by email or by Canvas message. Now, if your student does not want to ask for help, let them know that teachers really appreciate when students ask for help. And when a student asks for help, it only means that they care

mulanixs@issaquah.wednet.edu waitea@issaquah.wednet.edu combellicke@issaquah.wednet.edu mckonec@issaquah.wednet.edu MartinsonJ@issaquah.wednet.edu claussena@issaquah.wednet.edu schwarzj@issaquah.wednet.edu varsak@issaquah.wednet.edu caffeyt@issaquah.wednet.edu laedtkem@issaquah.wednet.edu andersons2@issaquah.wednet.edu waltersd2@issaquah.wednet.edu flemerk@issaquah.wednet.edu SchillerC@issaquah.wednet.edu kenneyv@issaquah.wednet.edu floresa@issaquah.wednet.edu klymr@issaquah.wednet.edu

ISSAQUAH SCHOOL DISTRICT

about their studies, and it doesn’t mean that they are not smart.

2. Student can use their NEST Time to meet with a teacher.

3. Student can form a study group with peers.

4. The Issaquah Schools Foundation funds tutoring sessions for students.

Currently, these services are offered at Issaquah, Liberty, and Skyline. Ask your child’s teachers for information on how to access this service.

5. Look for a tutoring service; there are a few free options in our community. Mission InspirED is one of them: www.missioninspired.org 6. Apply for a Student Academic Grant. The Foundation is offering grants for students who need help to pay for tutoring and other academic assistance programs: https:// isfdn.org/our-purpose/advancingacademic-achievement5/studentacademic-grants/ 7. Credit recovery: to make up a credit, your student can consider Summer School or Guided Studies if multiple credits need to be recovered (ask your counselor about these two options)

How to check your student’s grades or progress?

• Canvas Canvas is Issaquah School District's Learning Management System for students in grades 6 - 12. Through Canvas, students can access all coursework, turn in assignments, and connect with their teacher and classmates. You can review your student’s progress by logging into Canvas through a Parent account.

For more information on how to access Canvas to view your student courses: https://www.issaquah. wednet.edu/district/departments/ Technology/canvas • Family Access You can see Attendance, Grades for the end of terms, Mid-Terms, Quarters, and Semesters, and Credits and Milestones earned.

For more information on how to log into Family access visit: https:// www.issaquah.wednet.edu/family/ FamilyAccess

17

RESOURCES

Great Careers Conference 2022

Connecting Students to Their Future!

For the past decade, the Issaquah Schools Foundation has partnered with the Issaquah Chamber of Commerce Education Committee and the Issaquah School District to provide a chance for high school students to learn about the opportunities available to them in addition to a four-year college. The goal of the conference is to educate high school students about careers they can pursue through on-the-job training, certification, apprenticeship, or two-year degree programs.

A/V Technology: What does it take to provide

entertainment to the end user? Discover what professional opportunities involve the presentation of sound, video, and data.

Business Management & Finance: Support business operations through a variety of office duties; use financial, human, and material resources; or protect One of the Issaquah School District’s goals for its graduates individuals and businesses from losses by providing is stated in the E-2 Academics and Foundation standard – insurance.

Upon graduation, students will be academically prepared Education & Training: If you want to have a and confident to pursue higher education or specialized lifelong impact on others, then you will want to look career training. closely at the Education and Training Career Cluster.

The Foundation and the Issaquah Chamber of Commerce Education Committee agree with the District that every student must pursue schooling beyond high school to earn a living wage. We believe that our community typically defines success as achieving a four-year degree. Unfortunately, a four-year degree may be out of financial reach for many students and may not align with their interests or aptitude.

To this end, the Issaquah Schools Foundation, the Issaquah Chamber Education Committee, the Issaquah School District Career & Technical Education, Lake Washington Institute of Technology, Bellevue College, Renton Technical College, City of Issaquah, and the Port of Seattle, and the local business community have come together to rethink this definition of success.

Entrepreneurship: Learn about the various requirements to become successful as an entrepreneur, including conducting opportunity analysis, developing a business plan, starting a small business, acquiring financing to start the company, and scaling the business.

Health Sciences: Prepare for a career that promotes health, wellness, diagnosis, and/or treats injuries and diseases.

Hospitality, Food & Beverage Services: If you are intrigued by the idea of helping others explore the beauty and culture of cuisine in the world around As a result, the Great Careers Conference provides a forum them, you will want to join this session. Discover the to inform students (and their parents) of other opportunities variety of tasks required to maintain operations and available to them. These may provide a greater return on their investment or simply allow them to make a more promote guest services. informed decision about their future course of study.

Information Technology Information: The Great Careers Conference 2022 will be held Technology careers are available in every sector of the on Tuesday, March 15, 2022, at the Gibson Ek High economy. Careers in IT involve designing, developing, and managing hardware, software, School located at 379 – 1st Place SE, Issaquah. supporting, High school students that are interested will need multimedia, and systems integration services. to pre-register. To learn more, visit https://www. isdstemandcte.com/great-careers or isfdn.org.

This opportunity will be open to all Issaquah School District 9th-12th grade high school students. Transportation is provided to and from the conference venue. Permission slips are required and need to be submitted as part of the registration process. All Covid-19 mitigation and protocols will be adhered to as required by King County and the Washington State Department of Health.

This year, the conference format will be in-person and expo style. Students will be free to meet directly with representatives from various schools or specific industries of interest. The day is filled with speakers in student-selected career pathways, soft skills integration, and exhibitors representing apprenticeship programs, military, certificated programs, and colleges with 2-year degrees. Here are some of the areas to explore:

18

Public Safety: Guard the public and enforce the law as a police officer, security guard, or more. Come to the rescue and provide fire protection and emergency response services as a firefighter!

Marketing: Be part of the marketing process that seeks to establish and satisfy the needs and wants of individuals who buy goods, services, and ideas.

Transportation & Maritime: Learn about careers and businesses involved in the planning, management and movement of people, materials, and products by road, air, rail, and water. Demand for these jobs is high—even in a pandemic!

The Issaquah Schools Foundation is proud to support programs like this to connect students to their future!

RESOURCES

Teen Link

Confidential helpline answered by young people every afternoon from 6pm-10pm.

Young volunteers are trained to listen to the concerns of teens and speak with them about whatever is on their mind.No problem is too big or too small.

The service is free. https://www.teenlink.org/ (866) 833 6546

Crisis Text Line

In Crisis? Text HELLO to 741741 A trained counselor will respond.

What are School District Levies?

BY DAWN PESCHEK Volunteers for Issaquah Schools President

6

A levy is an amount of money (or a tax) that you have to pay to the government.

A school district levy is a local property tax only paid by people living in that school district. It is a short-term tax. Voters living in the school district must vote to continue the tax. The money collected goes to the local school district for the benefit of students in that district. It is used for programs and services that the state does not fund. Washington State pays for “basic education” but does not cover all the actual costs of operating a school district. School districts often use the money collected through the levy to hire additional staff or pay for programs and services not funded by the state.

Levy dollars are used directly to support student education. The money is used to enhance programs and supplement the state’s minimum basic education funding. The current Issaquah School District levies expire on December 31, 2022. To continue to fund the programs we now have in our schools the renewal levies will need to be approved by voters sometime in 2022. Levies require a 50% + 1 majority vote to pass. This will not be a new tax.

There are three separate levies that residents in the Issaquah School District will need to vote on: - The Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy pays for educational programs and supports.

These include mental health counselors, nurses, security staff, social emotional learning supports, academic programs, classroom supports, activities, athletics, clubs, substitute teachers, coaches, career & technical education, early childhood learning, modified high school schedules, and more.

- The Transportation Levy replaces old buses with new, more efficient models.

The District makes sure the buses follow the state’s safety standards and replacement cycle. Fuel savings and lower maintenance costs mean more money can be used directly for education.

- The Technology & Critical Repairs Capital Levy provides funding for educational technology and critical repairs for infrastructure not fully funded by the state. For technology, the levy money will fund the replacement of older computers, printers, and servers.

The money will also pay for upgrades to district websites, emergency alert systems, and other e-communications.

For critical repairs, the capital levy will fund the maintenance of heating and cooling systems and upgrades to safety and security systems. It will also pay for additional portable classroom space when needed.

What is the “Levy Rate”?

A levy rate is the amount of property tax that voters approve to be assessed for every $1,000 of property value. A levy rate of $1.00 means that for every $1,000 of property value, the property owner

will pay $1.00 in taxes. For example, suppose a house is valued at $800,000, and the voters pass a levy at a $1.00 levy rate. In that case, the homeowner will pay $800 each year in property taxes.

Why is it important to approve district school levies?

Since the state does not provide funding to pay for all programs, local school districts must propose levies to ensure that all programs will be funded. If the levy does not pass, then programs paid for by levies will need to be cut. Since a part of staff salaries are funded by the EP&O levy, staffing will have to be reduced if the levy fails.

How can you help?

If you can register to vote, please do so. Every vote counts! Please share levy facts and information with your families, friends, and others who have questions.

If you would like to be involved with campaigns to help pass levy measures, please contact Volunteers for Issaquah Schools (VIS). VIS is a non-profit 501(c) (4) citizen committee. It organizes the campaign to reach voters and educate the community about what levies fund in our district. They share why it is so important to our school district to pass these levies.

Questions or need more information?

Contact Volunteers for Issaquah Schools at www.visvote.org

19

OUR CULTURES

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Martin Luther King Memorial Walk January 12-23, 2022

Lunar New Year Sammamish Lunar New Year Celebration Saturday, February 20th, 1-4pm.

Sammamish Commons

Beginning Jan. 12, you can be inspired by the words of Martin Luther King Jr. as you take a winter walk at Lake Sammamish State Park. The walk pays tribute to his life and leadership while America celebrates MLK Day on January 17, 2022.

The walk will begin at Tibbetts Beach and takes you along the lakeshore to the Sunset Beach bathhouse.

Learn about his life and his dreams with quotes along the pathway. Many of his quotes are as relevant today as they were in the 1960s when he initiated change while speaking out for civil rights.

MLK's most famous speech— "I have a dream..." — is captured in its entirety at the end of the walk.

Saturday, February 5, 2022 1:00 PM — 3:00 PM Sammamish Commons Plaza

OUTDOOR EVENT Free Admission Dragon and Lion Dance Performances by Local Ar�st Mar�al Arts Demonstra�ons Educa�onal Booths Raffles Asian Food Trucks

Each color has its own meaning. Red is the color of love and fertility. Yellow is the color of turmeric, an Indian spice that is used as a natural remedy. Blue is the color of the Hindu God Krishna, and green is the color of new beginnings.

This festival is a joyful day to reflect on and correct previous mistakes, resolve issues by meeting new people, forget, and forgive. Debts are paid or forgiven, and people begin over with others in their life.

We celebrate Holi in our communities, and it’s one of my favorite holidays to celebrate with my family.

We like to go to a Holi event with friends and throw colored powder and water balloons at each other. We get soaked as the colors wash away with the water. It’s so much fun!

Holi

BY JAYA SHATI Pacific Cascade Middle School student

Holi is the festival of colors celebrated by millions of Indians and other South Asians who live all over the world. The legend says that Holi originated when one of the principal deities of Hinduism, Lord Vishnu, defeated evil. To honor him, people threw colored powder on each other to represent good over evil.

20

We also have amazing food. One example is pakora, which is just delicious! Pakora is a fried snack typically featuring cauliflower or potato coated in a light batter.

Another delicious food we have is samosa, a small triangular pastry filled with spiced meat or vegetables and fried in ghee or oil.

Holi is about spending time with the people you care about and celebrating with them. It’s not only for the Indian community. I believe that Holi is a great occasion to bring people together from all different cultures and backgrounds. I invite you to come to Lake Sammamish State Park on March 18th to be a part of this incredible event. See you there!

THANK YOU THANK YOUTO TOOUR OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS! COMMUNITY THANK YOUPARTNERS! TO OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS!

6

Cultural Bridges serves Issaquah School District families to increase Cultural Bridges serves and Issaquah District families to increase parent engagement leadSchool to greater student success.

parent engagement and lead to greater student success.

We provide navigation support, host parent/student events and We provide navigation support, host parent/student events and Cultural Bridges serves Issaquah School District families to increase publish quarterly magazines translated in seven languages. publish quarterly magazines translated in seven languages. parent engagement and lead to greater student success.

We provide navigation support, host parent/student events and publish quarterly magazines translated in seven languages.

Cultural Bridges INFORMATION TO HELP FAMILIES NAVIGATE THE ISSAQUAH SCHOOL DISTRICT

Cultural Bridges

ENGLISH

帮助家长了解Issaquah学区的相关信息

Cultural Bridges THÔNG TIN ĐỂ GIÚP CÁC GIA ĐÌNH TÌM HIỂU VỀ KHU TRƯỜNG HỌC ISSAQUAH

CHINESE

Cultural Bridges

VIETNAMESE

학부모들이 이사콰학군에 관련된 정보를 찾는데 도움을 주는 정보

KOREAN

National Junior Honor Society

Pg 9

What kind of children will we leave this world?

乘坐大黄校车 第4页

Embrace your culture!

Trang 7

Khung Nhận Dạng của Quý Vị là gì?

第11页

Holi庆祝活动

Pg 21

Trang 18

Tín Ngưỡng Hồi Giáo và Hijab Trang 23

첫 번째 달 6 페이지 제 14호 | 2019년 10월 / 11월 / 12월

SỐ 13 | THÁNG 4 / THÁNG 5 / THÁNG 6 NĂM 2019

第23页

第十二期 2019年 1月/ 2月/ 3月

NUMBER 11 | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2018

10 Tin Đồn về Trường Cấp 2

为什么警官会出 现在学校里呢？

Pg 11

청소년 지도자 되기 9 페이지

라틴계 학생으로 산다는 것은 어떻습니까?

21 페이지

OUR CULTURES

A Water Tiger Year

Lunar New Year festivities are always filled with happiness and are celebrated with families and friends.

The Lunar New Year begins with the first new moon of the lunar calendar.

The dates of the holiday change each year based on the moon cycle. In Mainland China, the entire celebration typically starts one day before the actual New Year’s Day. It lasts until the 15th day of the first month in the lunar calendar. Other areas in Asia that celebrate this important holiday are

22

Brunei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Suriname, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. Lunar New Year’s Day in 2022 is on Tuesday, February 1.

Issaquah School District families with ties to these cultures have carried this beautiful tradition to our communities.

Some of our students have shared with us how they celebrate at home and why this is an important holiday to them.

China

Sophie Wang: 8th-grade student at Pine Lake Middle School “The Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival or Chinese New Year in Mainland China, is the most important holiday in Chinese tradition.

On the eve of the Spring Festival, almost every single family in China gathers and eats a feast together.

Different families will have their different traditional foods; ours are dumplings and babao (8-treasure) rice.

One important tradition of the Spring Festival is fireworks. My first memory of fireworks is when I was really young, maybe 4 or 5, at my grandparents in Yunnan in southwest China. I used a firework in the shape of a stick. If you light the end, it would sizzle, and bright sparks would jump around it. This kind of firework is really fun because you could wave it around in the air and draw shapes with it. Afterward, the smoke it emits would stay in the same shape for quite a while against the dark night.

The bigger fireworks are terribly loud.

But once they explode, there is no other sight like it: colorful light exploding in circles. Even though I always cover my ears, my heart still thuds with every explosion. The Spring Festival is a time of joy when families come together, and celebrations are thrown.”

Alex Cao: 12th-grade student at Liberty High School “The Lunar New Year is one of the most important festivals for Chinese families. We usually clean up the entire household. The meaning of this is to start a brand-new year without bad things. We also hang up Chinese characters and couplets that have good meanings around the house and on the door. Families get together for a big dinner. The adults chat while the children spend time with their cousins and play. Following New Year’s Day, families visit their relatives' houses.

Kids usually receive red envelopes with money inside and good wishes from the elders in their families. My favorite part of the Lunar New Year is when all the family gets together because we have some really good food that we only have a chance to eat on that night. There is also one tradition in Canton area where families go to Flower Street. There are many flower shops and flower accessory shops. The reason they do this is to cleanse off the negative things and the worries from last year; and wish for a better incoming year.”

Lunar New Year festivities are inside the envelopes to buy things food. I decorate always filled with happiness and are Korean OUR we want and things to eat like snacks, my house with celebrated with families and friends.

Irene Oh: 6th-grade student at ice cream, and drinks. Our favorite red and gold The Lunar New Year begins with the CULTURES Beaver Lake Middle School treat to eat during Chinese New Year colors. I receive first new moon theYear, lunarorcalendar.

“Korean Lunar of New Seollal in is milk candy, which is puffy, chewy, red envelopes The dates of of the Korean, is one theholiday biggestchange holidays, and sticky. The milk candy is white filled with money from Mom and Dad. each year based on the moon as well as a very important holiday cycle.

In Mainland China,the theworld. entire It and sometimes red and orange color. I also watch the Lion Dance. At night, for Koreans all around Our favorite shows are the Dragon I pop red balloons to make sounds celebration typically starts one family day is a traditional holiday where Dance and the Lion Dance. During like fireworks. But what I like best is before the actual Day. It and friends meetNew upYear’s to celebrate the dragon dance, the dragon sways spending time with my friends and lasts until the 15th day of the first while wearing traditional clothes and side-to-side and moves quickly with family. Happy Chinese New Year!” month in the lunar calendar.

Other sharing delicious Korean foods. An people holding giant sticks to move areas in of Asia that celebrate this example a traditional game played and balance it. The Lion Dance is also Vietnamese important holiday are Brunei, Hong on Seollal is called YutNori. It is played fantastic because it shows two people Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia, using a playing board where we move in a large lion costume showing tricks Jenny Le: 10th-grade student at Philippines, South circular pieces Singapore, around and use long and dances. During the Lion Dance, Liberty High School Korea, Suriname, Taiwan, Thailand, wooden sticks as dice. The game’s one person even can hold another “Vietnamese Lunar New Year, also and Vietnam.

New Year’s Day known as Tet, is the most important main objectiveLunar is to be the first to get Chris person up 4th-grade inside the lion costume Taiwan Yang: student at to Dance.

At night, I pop red balloons in 2022 is on Tuesday, February 1. holiday in Vietnamese culture. Tet to the end space on the board. Our Cougar show Ridges that the lion is standing like to a make Elementary sounds like fireworks.

But falls on the first day of the first family especially enjoys this game Issaquah School District families “There human.are We also like to hearYear Chinese Phoebe Hsu: 2-nd grade student many New what I like best is spending time month in a new year, according to because it to is fun and cultures easily played by folk tales like ‘Legend of Nian’ because with ties these have and Patty Hsu: 5th-grade student at traditions in Taiwan, which are very with my friends and family.

Happy the Lunar Calendar.

For as long as I kids of this all ages like my little sister. carried beautiful tradition to ourAn interesting the story isand exciting and unbelievable!

Apollo Elementary meaningful.

On Chinese New Year!” can remember, my family has always example of typical food The story tells that an old woman, communities.

Some oftraditional our students “We like celebrate New day before Chinese New Year, celebrated Tet. Before the holiday, eaten ontoSeollal tteokguk. have shared withis called usChinese how they the whohelp turned out to beclean a god, we do household preparations, such Year because we can eat a lot of I will my parents updefeated the Vietnamese This food at consists of thinly sliced rice the monster celebrate home and why this is an Nian by usingFestival red sheets as cleaning and decorating our house unique foods and drink juice.

We can house, hang up the Spring cakes inside a delicious beef broth. It and the sound of chopping meat.” important holiday to them. with Then,student on Lunar also weargarnished traditionalwith clothes, Le: flowers.

10th-grade at New is usually egg, which meat, or Couplet on the door, and paste the Jenny Year’s Eve, my parents set up altars have unique structures andOur stripes.

Chinese character“福” (Fu) on the at Liberty High School Chris Yang: 4th-grade student slender strips of seaweed. family China with a variety of foods and Vietnamese My favoriterice part of Chinese bucket inside the house. This “Vietnamese Lunar New Year, also Cougar Ridges Elementary purchases cakes from theNew store rice dishes.

We pray to our ancestors for “The Lunar New Year, also known “There arerice many Newwill Yearalways traditions Year is getting red but envelopes from means our bucket known as Tet, is the most important to make tteokguk, some families a bright, healthy, and peaceful as Spring Chinese Taiwan, are year. very interesting mythe uncles and Festival aunties, family, and beinfull in thewhich coming In the holiday in Vietnamese culture.

Tet New make rice cakes at homeor from scratch.

New Year in of Mainland the evening, and meaningful.

On thewill day before Examples traditional clothes grandmothers.

We likeChina, it the is most my whole family have falls Year. on the first day of the first most important in Chinese Chinese New Year, I will help my are called hanbok. girl’s hanbok dinner because we canholiday useA the money together.

Mother will cook month new year,ofaccording On in thea morning Tet, my family tradition.

On the eve of the Spring parents clean up One the house, consists of aenvelopes loose, wrapped and a delicious inside the to buydress things dinner. of the hang fish up to the Lunar Calendar. as long typically visits a For temple to pray.

Festival, almost everyAsingle the Spring Festival on the awe topwant called jeogori. boy’s hanbok and things to eatfamily like dishes can’t be eatenCouplet too much as I can remember, my family has Lion There is also usually a traditional in Chinaice feast door, and Chinese consists ofgathers baggy pants anda jeogori. snacks, cream,and andeats drinks.

Our because it paste meansthethat may character you always celebrated Tet. with Before Dance performance fireworks. together.

Different families will have “福” (Fu) on the rice bucket inside There are also pretty ornamental is something I have always favorite treat to eat during Chinese have abundance year after year (年年 the the This holiday, we do that household their different traditional foods; house.

Thishave means our dumplings rice bucket will accessories be hung on is the 有余). looked forward since I was New Year isthat milkcan candy, which We also to eat preparations, such astocleaning andyoung. ours are dumplings and babao always be full in the coming year. In tops.

Another unique thing on Seollal Then inour thehouse evening, weflowers. gather at my puffy, chewy, and sticky.

The milk (Yuan Bao), which means money. decorating with (8-treasure) rice.eatOne important the evening, my whole will have is that when you tteokguk, you house toEve, celebrate candy is white andSpring sometimes redare Almost all the food we eatfamily that night Then,grandparents’ on Lunar New Year’s my with tradition ofone the Festival dinner together. Mother will cook a all of my relatives. We wish each other considered year older, no matter and orange color.

Our favorite shows has different good meanings for the parents set up altars with a variety is fireworks. birthday My first is. memory of delicious dinner. One of the fish dishes a new year filled with good health when So Korean are theyour Dragon Dance and the Lion next year. After dinner, my parents of foods and Vietnamese dishes. We fireworks is when I was really young, kids who live in America have ‘Korean can’t be eaten too much because it and prosperity. The kids will receive Dance.

During the dragon dance, give me that a redmay envelope, is pray to our ancestors for a bright, maybe 4 orregular 5, at myages. grandparents you havewhich abundance ages’ and Last year,inwe means giftsand of red envelopes the dragon sways side-to-side and called red pocket money.

I put healthy, peaceful Newfilled Year. with lucky Yunnan in southwest China.

I used were unable to gather with friends year after year (年年有余). Weit also money from the elders.

Afterward, we moves quickly with people so that bad(Yuan peopleBao), aand firework indue the shape of aholding stick. havemy topillow eat dumplings family to COVID19.

ButIfas under feast on delicious Vietnamese giant sticks to friends move and balance not approach me and Almost I will grow On the morning of Tet, my family food you light the end, it would and dowhich means money. all the our family and aresizzle, vaccinated prepared the pastto fewpray. days. With it. The Lion Dance isjump also fantastic safely.

New typically visitsover a temple bright sparks would around we On eat Chinese that night hasYear’s different now, we are all looking forward to it. this upfood filled stomachs, my family stays up because itofshows two ispeople a Eve, we stay up pastfor 12 o’clock.

Theyear.

There is to also usually aour traditional This kind firework really infun good meanings the next year’s Seollal!” late determine new year’s luck because could wave it around large lionyou costume showing tricks fireworks and firecrackers will be set Lion Dance performance with After dinner, my parents give me a red with scratch cards and Vietnamese in the air and draw shapes with it. and dances.

During the Lion Dance, off to welcome the New Year when fireworks.

This is something that I envelope, which is called red pocket Taiwan gambling games.

Afterward, the smoke ithold emits would it turns one person even can another 12 o’clock.

It also means that have always looked forward to since money.

I put it under my pillow so that Phoebe Hsu: 2nd grade student stay in the same shape forcostume quite a parents Tet Then Festival hasevening, been a significant bad people dolong not approach me andI was I The person up Hsu: inside the lion can live lives.” young. in the we and Patty 5th-grade student while against the dark night.

The partat my of grandparents’ my childhoodhouse memories, will grow up safely.

On Chinese New to show that the lion is standing gather at Apollo Elementary bigger fireworks as I willwith never the nights I Year’s Eve, we stay up past 12 o’clock. like alike human.

Weare alsoterribly like to loud. hear Malaysia to celebrate all offorget my relatives.

“We to celebrate Chinese New But once they explode, there is spend celebrating with my family.

The fireworks and firecrackers will be Chinese folk tales like ‘Legend We wish each other a new year filled Year because we can eat a light lotofof no other sight the like story it: colorful The holiday’s importance is not just set off to welcome the New Year when Nian’ because is exciting Elise Low: 2nd-grade student at with good health and prosperity. unique foods and drink juice.

We exploding in circles.

Even though because ofreceive its spiritual reasons it turns 12 o’clock.

It also means that and unbelievable!

The story tells Apollo Elementary The kids will gifts of red but it’s alsocover wearmy traditional clothes, Ican always ears, my heart also a way to bring a family together. parents can live long lives. ” that an have old woman, who turned out filled with lucky money which unique structures and “I wear nice clothes and eat good envelopes still thuds with every explosion.

I cannot wait for this upcoming Tet to be a god, defeatedpart theof monster food. I decorate my house with from the elders. Afterward, we stripes.

My Festival favorite Chinese The Spring is a time of joy celebration! With that, I wish everyone Malaysia Nian Year by using red sheets and and the red and gold colors. I receive red feastaon delicious foodwe say New is getting red envelopes when families come together, Happy NewVietnamese Year, or how Elise Low: 2nd-grade student at sound of chopping meat. ” envelopes filled with money from prepared over the past few days. from my uncles and aunties, family, celebrations are thrown.” it in Vietnamese, “Chúc Mừng Năm Apollo Elementary and grandmothers. We like it the Mom and Dad. I also watch the Lion WithMới!”. filled ” stomachs, my family most because we can use the money “I wear nice clothes and eat good

23

Fueling Success for Every Student, Every School.

Proud supporter of the 11th Annual Great Careers Conference.

IN-PERSON THIS YEAR! REGISTRATION OPENS JANUARY 12 We want to see YOU attend the Great Careers Conference! There are limited spots available so register now to secure your spot.

Registration closes March 1, 2022. Visit here for the latest information on industry representatives, schools, and employers that will be there: https://www.isdstemandcte.com/great-careers The conference will be held at the Gibson Ek High School! Join us for Fun, Friends, Raffle & Prizes! Transportation will be provided to/from the conference. Registered students with completed permission slips will attend at their assigned time: • Issaquah HS & Gibson Ek HS - 8:45am - 10:15am • Liberty HS & Gibson Ek HS - 10:30am-12:00pm • Skyline HS & Gibson Ek HS - 12:45pm - 2:15pm Organized by The Greater Issaquah Chamber of Commerce Education Committee, the goal of the event is to educate high school students about careers they can pursue through on-the-job training, certification, apprenticeship, or two-year degree programs.

For more information, or to register, scan this QR code:

To learn more information about Issaquah Schools Foundation, visit our website, or contact us at 425.391.8557

isfdn.org