CB30 ENGLISH by Issaquah Schools Foundation

Cultural Bridges – 10th Anniversary

This edition of Cultural Bridges marks the 10th anniversary of the publication! Cultural Bridges started as an idea by Latino parents in the Issaquah School District. They understood that parents who did not grow up in the American school system and did not speak English as a first language had difficulty supporting their children in their education and becoming involved in their school communities. The Latino parents wanted a publication that clearly explained what the kids are doing in school, the vocabulary used in schools, expectations for both parents and children, new things happening in the school district, and community information and resources.

Marisol Visser and Margarita Leas first launched a print magazine called Voz de la Communidad/Voice of the Community to share information about the American school system and the Issaquah School District. This publication was first in Spanish and then also translated into English. In 2015, the Issaquah Schools Foundation (ISF) began funding the project, and the first Cultural Bridges magazine was published! This first official publication was in English, Chinese, and Spanish. The founders of the magazine and ISF always had the goal of translating the magazine into the most common languages spoken by families in Issaquah. They have proudly achieved this goal. They are now publishing Cultural Bridges in eight different languages! These include Arabic, Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, and Vietnamese.

Over the past ten years, many translators, community members writing articles, and dedicated managers have supported Cultural Bridges. After Marisol and Margarita launched Cultural Bridges, Alicia Spinner joined the magazine in 2018 as the editor. In 2020, Laura Ni became the editor. In addition to publishing Cultural Bridges in more languages, over the past ten years, we have added an annual Family Guide to explain to families what to expect during the school year and started publishing the magazine online. The Cultural Bridges magazine continues to evolve. The publication moved to online only in 2023. In the fall, we’ll combine the annual Family Guide with the Fall 2025 edition of Cultural Bridges so that families get all of the “beginning of the year” information in one publication!

We are so excited that the dream of a few parents to help other parents support their children became Cultural Bridges! We remain committed to helping all members of the Issaquah School District community and providing communications in multiple languages. Thank you to all the readers, magazine contributors, and ISF supporter!

Cultural Bridges Team

LAURA NI

Lead Editor/Program Manager

CHRISTIANA SCHUMANN

English Editor

CLAUDIA ROMO

Spanish Editor

DIYORA SADIKOVA

Russian Editor

NANA TSUJINO

Japanese Editor

SEONGEUN YUN

Korean Editor

SHAIMA MANSOUR

Arabic Editor

TU NGUYEN

Vietnamese Editor

VIVIAN KHOANG

Cover Designer

YINGCHEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Cover Photographer

YINGYING CUI

Chinese Editor

JIYOUNG LEE, MENGNA LI & TATYANA TCHIBOVA Proofreading Helpers

KARINA MACEDO Community Volunteer

Cultural Bridges Mission and Goal: Help families new to the Issaquah School District (ISD) or anyone who’s not familiar with ISD schools navigate the ISD school system, connect them with community resources they need, and increase cultural awareness.

Comments from Issaquah School District Parents

Yasuka Claiborne: I am one of the readers who always looks forward to the publication of Cultural Bridge. It is full of very useful information about school districts and schools, and I greatly appreciate being able to read the articles in my native language, Japanese. Also, I was honored to have the opportunity to introduce Japanese culture to the community.

Nana Tsujino: Congratulations on the 30th edition and 10th anniversary of Cultural Bridges magazine! I am happy to be part of this celebration. As a translator and editor, every new article is a fresh and thrilling experience to work on. Being a parent, I gain invaluable insights from the articles on school information and parenting tips. Additionally, learning about other families' cultures and stories through this magazine is incredibly beneficial for those of us living in multicultural communities. Thank you to Cultural Bridges magazine and everyone at ISF for their outstanding contribution to our community.

Christiana Schumann: In 2016, I was a PTA member at Apollo Elementary. Marisol & Margarita were going to all the schools to drop off copies of the new Cultural Bridges magazine and make connections with staff and parents at the schools. They showed me the magazine, explained it, and asked the PTA to help distribute it to families. They were so excited, dedicated, and passionate. They wanted to help people, and they knew there was a need to share information in different ways to reach people. Years later, I'm helping to edit the magazine, and I always remember their excitement and enthusiasm. For each issue, I get the pleasure of reading the stories written by our community members. Just like our readers, I have learned so much about the people in our school district and the opportunities that exist!

Jiyoung Lee: Congratulations on the 10th anniversary of Cultural Bridges! When my child was in first grade, I discovered Cultural Bridges at his school's newsstand and found it incredibly helpful. Thank you for supporting diverse families with valuable information and multiple language editions -wishing you continued success!

Claudia Romo: Cultural Bridges has been a guide in navigating a school system very different from the one I knew in my home country. It has provided valuable information, helping me access opportunities for my children and connect with individuals committed to the education and well-being of Issaquah’s youth.

Seongeun Yun: Wow! 10 years already! What an incredible milestone! I first learned about Cultural Bridges through a fellow school parent and was grateful for the valuable resource it provided to non-English speaking families. My journey started as a reader, then a proofreader, and now I’m honored to serve as the Korean editor. Even though I’ve lived in Issaquah for a long time, I’m always amazed by the new and helpful information in each issue. I’ve also been deeply moved by the stories where parents and students from diverse cultures share their culture and experiences. Huge thanks to the Cultural Bridges team for their dedication to keeping this magazine going for a decade! I hope it continues to support families for many, many more years!

Shaima Mansour: It’s an amazing experience! I love how I learned so much from others in the group, and Laura is always very helpful and understanding. Thank you for sharing our thoughts.

Vivian Khoang: When I first transferred my daughter to ISD, navigating the education system felt overwhelming. The Cultural Bridges magazine Family Guide was a tremendous help, providing clear insights into the education pathways and essential resources that equipped me with our transition. Now, as the cover page designer, I feel honored to contribute to a magazine that supports so many families. I am motivated to make each issue visually appealing and engaging to our readers. As Cultural Bridges celebrates its 10th anniversary, I’m grateful for the impact it has made and look forward to seeing it continue to connect and empower our diverse community for years to come!

Diyora Sadikova: When I first received an issue of Cultural Bridge in Russian, I was both surprised and excited. Reading in one's native language always offers a unique experience that no other language can match, even if you're highly proficient in them. Although the magazine is currently available only online, I eagerly await each new issue—it’s packed with interesting and essential information. I enjoy reading stories about real people in our community, and I always look for upcoming events in the area, among other things. I’m especially excited when I meet people at community events that I read about in the magazine. Now, with the improved interface, navigating the magazine’s pages is much easier.

Greetings to our Issaquah School District families and community!

As I sit looking out the window at the sunshine and people enjoying this peek into spring, I’m filled with optimism and am reminded that, even, and perhaps especially, in times of difficulty, this community comes together. Nowhere is this truer than in the ways we come together to serve our students, our teachers, and our schools.

This year marks 38 years since the founding of the Issaquah Schools Foundation, and over $30 million raised on behalf of our students. From the beginning, we have put students at the center of all we do, and today, we proudly say that we provide funding for students in ALL 27 Issaquah School District schools to have access to opportunities that help build strong academic foundations, expand student thinking and experience, and help successfully launch them into whatever their next steps may be. From preschool through graduation, the Issaquah Schools Foundation and its donors are here for students.

Being here for students also means being here for teachers. From the start, the Foundation was dedicated to meeting teacher and classroom needs and advancing innovative ideas. That tradition continues, and we’re excited to award 20 grants at nearly $60,000 to teachers across district schools this spring. These awards recognize the passion and creativity of so many of our teachers and allow them to address critical classroom needs and bring innovative tools and methods of engagement to students. Be on the lookout for pictures and stories about the teachers being honored!

Spring also brings us to our largest fundraising event of the year, our Nourish Every Mind Student Showcase and Luncheon. Each year for over 25 years, we’ve brought our community together with a focus on one mission –making sure our students have access to opportunities to thrive. Nourish Every Mind is a chance to hear directly from students and educators whose lives have been changed thanks to the opportunities made possible by Issaquah Schools Foundation donors. Their stories are inspirational, as is the passion and dedication shown by those attending. Please visit our website for more information and for ways to be involved in Nourish Every Mind. Even if you can’t attend, you can support our students. Whether you have ideas, time to donate, or money to give, your participation matters, and we want to hear from you.

Sincerely,

Trisha Marshall Executive Director Issaquah

Schools Foundation T.Marshall@isfdn.org

2024-25 Academic Enrichment Grants

School Grant Recipients

Grant Type

Beaver Lake Karen Harmon Arts/Music

Grant Title

Fire it up! Ceramic Kiln, Installation & Storage Cart

Creekside Trevor Peden Student Well-being Pedaling through Learning

Echo Glen Jacob Crawford Playground/Athletics

Gibson Ek Oliver Jones STEM

Issaquah High Jessica Turner Arts/Music

Issaquah High Julie Irwin STEM

Issaquah High Leah Karpenko & Jen Cerasoli Multilingual Learning

Recognizing Student Achievement in Physical Education

Environmental Science equipment for Citizen Science Work with Local Nonprofit Conservation Groups

Gardening Equipment with STEM for the Issaquah Food Bank

AP Music Theory Textbooks for New Course Offering

Drive to Thrive: Enhancing Robotics Education with Swerve Drive Innovation

The Language of Inclusion: Translated Texts for Multilingual Learners

Issaquah High Tim Baynes Student Well-being Growing Leaders with CharacterStrong

ISD High Schools Dr. Dana Bailey Future-focused

ISD Middle Schools Julia Bamba Inter-disciplinary Project Based Learning

Issaquah Middle Boyd Cottom Literacy

Expanding Equity in Access to College in High School

Microschools in ISD Middle Schools

Scholastic Magazine Subscription for Engaging Non-fiction texts

Maple Hills Amber Bryant Student Well-being Attendance Incentive Campaign

Maple Hills Darcie Kardong STEM

Maple Hills Hannah Dusenberry STEM

Maywood Stephanie Tolonen Humanities

Skyline Zoe Jiang Technology

Reimagining Purposeful PlayMaximizing Purposeful Play by Enhancing our Kindergarten Science and Math Curriculum

Mathematical Thinking & ReasoningFostering a Love of Math Through Games in the Classroom

Living Voices Performance: Bringing History to Life for Humanities Students

AI-Driven Innovation in Curriculum to Support SEL and UDL Practices

Special Services Kristi Wakabayashi Student Well-being Inclusive Behavior Support Program

Sunset Martin Merrill STEM

High School Seniors as Leaders for 5th grade Outdoor Overnight Camp

Fueling Learning: How Issaquah’s

Food

Service Supports Student Success

Sometimes, as a student moves through the line in the cafeteria at Clark Elementary School, they pause to talk to Kitchen Manager Judith Woods. Often, they say something like, “Ms. Woods, I love your cooking!” Those comments are among the most rewarding moments in her day, she says.

“I truly believe that feeding children is one of the three most important accomplishments I achieve each day, and I enjoy it,” Woods shared. “In Food Service, we help to set the students up for learning and educational success. Hungry students have difficulty learning.”

The Food Service Department provides an invaluable foundation for each student's education, she added. “The variety of fruits and vegetables available to students every day is impressive. As a department, we are focused on offering meals that are nutritionally balanced as well as being a treat for the eyes and taste buds.”

One of the most important changes in recent years has been the implementation of the Breakfast Program, Woods said, noting that students look forward to having breakfast at school and leave for class ready to learn. “Each day, hundreds of students in the Issaquah School District get to begin their school day with breakfast and friends. We get to be a part of this important beginning.”

The Food Service team piloted the Breakfast Program in March of 2023 and has added new locations regularly. Breakfast is currently offered at 10 schools across the district, including Apollo, Briarwood, Cedar Trails, Challenger, Clark, Issaquah Valley, and Sunset elementary schools; Issaquah and Maywood middle schools; and Issaquah High School. More than 300 reimbursable breakfasts are served each day; 67% of those are served to students whose families qualify for meal assistance.

At midday, ISD staff serve about 5,000 reimbursable lunches per day at schools throughout the district; 27% of lunches are served to students whose families qualify for meal assistance.

“Research shows that students who eat a well-balanced diet receive the energy and nutrients needed to succeed academically and physically throughout the day,” said Brian Olson, Director of Food Service. “Every student, regardless of their background, deserves access to nutritious meals that support their learning and well-being. Our meals are carefully planned to provide students with the proper nutrition they need. In many cases, these meals are the most balanced ones they eat during the day.”

Olson says that members of each Food Service team excel at providing nutritious, safe meals to students. “They work tirelessly to accommodate diverse dietary needs, maintain high standards of food safety, and create a positive, welcoming environment during lunch. Their dedication to supporting food security and adapting to challenges is essential in helping students thrive both academically and personally.”

Interesting facts about the Food Service Department include:

• Families may apply at any time during the school year for meal assistance on the district website or via a paper application that is available in multiple languages at any school office.

• The department operates the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs –federally reimbursed meals plus some state funding to cover the co-pay for students who qualify to receive reducedprice meals ($0.40 for lunch, $0.30 for breakfast).

» All menus are carefully planned to meet USDA’s ranges by grade level for calories, fat, saturated fat, zero transfat, and sodium.

• Each reimbursable meal must be planned to contain five components (portion size range varies by grade level). Team members encourage students to take all five components for a well-balanced meal, but students are required to select a minimum of three of the five components, one of which must be a fruit or vegetable serving. The

Issaquah High School Kitchen Staff

components include: meat or meat alternative, whole grain, milk, fruit, and vegetables.

» In addition to the meals provided, each kitchen provides a salad bar with additional fruit, vegetable, protein, and condiment options, and is included with the purchase of every meal.

» Our school Food Service teams have bakers who make bread rolls, breadsticks, desserts, pizza crust, and cornbread from scratch.

• At middle and high schools, Food Service also offers a la carte items such as bottled beverages, hot entrée items, and a variety of snacks. Our schools serve about 3,200 “equivalent meals” per day (to determine equivalent meals, the total a la carte revenue is calculated, then divided by the cost of a meal, which is $4.25 at the secondary level).

» The a la carte items offered must comply with “Smart Snacks Standards,” which limit calories, sodium, total fat, saturated fat, zero trans-fat, and sugar. Most of the items sold are specially formulated by manufacturers to comply with these requirements and are not available in the grocery store. For example, Doritos are not the Doritos on grocery store shelves, and the Pizza Hut pizza at the secondary level cannot be ordered from Pizza Hut.

Like Woods and Olson, Cedar Trails Elementary Principal Tera Coyle said that meals are a crucial part of the services offered by schools because they directly impact students’ health, learning, and overall well-being.

“The Food Service teams have big jobs!” Coyle said, noting that the teams plan menus, order food that follows nutrition guidelines, and prepare meals that students look forward to eating. They work quickly and efficiently to get students through the breakfast and lunch lines, and they make the lunchrooms fun and welcoming, she added. Cedar Trails Elementary students have unanimously shared that the breakfast pizza is a fan favorite during the first meal of the day. At schools across the district, it’s clear that the fresh-baked dessert options at lunch are also dearly loved by the students.

“Schools provide a well-rounded meal, which students might not always get at home. These meals allow our students to focus better during their schoolwork day to maximize their academic outcomes,” Coyle said. “School Food Service teams play a vital role in ensuring students are well-fed, healthy, and ready to learn.”

Lunch Time at School

Supporting Student Health and Well-Being in the Issaquah School District

In the Issaquah School District, our school nurses play a vital role in ensuring every student has the opportunity to learn and thrive by addressing their health and basic needs. We recognize that students cannot focus on their education if they are struggling with health concerns, lack access to medical care, or face food insecurity. Our dedicated team of nurses provides compassionate support to students and families, helping them navigate healthcare resources and access essential services.

“One of the key ways our school nurses support families is by assisting with access to health care. We help families connect with state insurance programs, ensuring that students can receive medical care when they need it. Additionally, we connect families with local health care providers for preventive care, vaccinations, and specialized medical services,” said Laura Carmichael, Director of Health Services. “Whether a student needs a primary care doctor, vision screening, or help managing a chronic condition, our nurses serve as critical health care providers in keeping students safe at school. Our school nurses are also able to assist families in bridging the gap to other essential health care resources when needed.”

Beyond medical needs, school nurses also assist families in meeting basic necessities that can impact a student’s ability to succeed in school. Many families may be unaware of the community resources available to them, and school nurses facilitate connections with local food banks, vaccine access, and other essential services. By addressing these fundamental needs, we help ensure that students come to school ready to learn and socialize with their peers.

School nurses also utilize and manage the Nurse’s Fund, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that is supported entirely by donations to provide emergency support for families in crisis. This fund has been in existence for more than 40 years and helps cover essential needs such as purchasing eyeglasses for students, medications, and even supplying shoes or jackets for those with an immediate need. With zero overhead costs, 100% of donated funds go directly to supporting students in our district, ensuring that they have access to the critical resources they require.

In addition to working one-on-one with families, school nurses often collaborate with community partners and organizations to expand support services available to students and families. “We work closely with local clinics, social service agencies, and nonprofits to create a network of care that extends beyond the school walls,” Carmichael said. “By fostering these partnerships, we strengthen the ability of families to access the care and resources they need to thrive.”

“At the heart of our work is the belief that every student deserves to be healthy, safe, and ready to learn. Our school nurses are dedicated advocates who provide guidance, support, and connections to vital services, ensuring that no student falls through the cracks,” she continued. “We are proud to work alongside families and the community to create an environment where every child has the opportunity to succeed.”

If you or someone you know needs assistance with health care, basic needs, or community resources, please reach out to your school nurse. Our District nurses are available to help and are committed to supporting the well-being of every student and family in the Issaquah School District.

If you are considering supporting and donating to the nurse fund, please contact Laura Carmichael, the ISD Director of Health Services, at 425-837-7049 or check with your school nurse. Thank you.

Investing in Our Youngest Learners: The Heart Behind Holly Street Early Learning Center

In August 2022, Holly Street Early Learning Center officially opened its doors, marking a significant milestone made possible by the Issaquah community and funding from the 2022 Capital Levy. Young students were at the center of the celebration, helping with the land acknowledgement, singing for the audience, and showing all the grown-ups how important play is to learning.

“In a remarkable transformation between 2019 and 2022, what was once the Issaquah School District Administrative Center evolved into a vibrant, welcoming space dedicated entirely to our youngest learners,” said Dr. Luisa SanchezNilsen, Early Childhood Education District Coordinator and On-site Administrator. “Through thoughtful renovation, offices and conference rooms were reimagined into bright, engaging classrooms filled with opportunities for discovery and growth. Shared play areas and sensory spaces were carefully designed to support all children — creating an environment where every child can thrive, explore, and build the essential skills they need for future success.”

Holly Street isn’t just a school, say Sanchez-Nilsen and team members at the early learning center. “It’s a community promise. A promise that every child deserves a strong start, a nurturing environment, and a place where their potential is valued and celebrated. Thanks to the support of families, educators, and the Issaquah community, we now have a space where lifelong learning truly begins,” SanchezNilsen adds.

The early childhood years are a critical time for learning, growth, and development. Research shows that children’s brains are rapidly developing during these formative years, shaping the foundation for their future success in school and life. For children facing developmental challenges, the first five years are particularly vital in setting the stage for longterm learning and well-being.

In Noel Kropf’s special education preschool class, students work in small groups with teachers and staff. But, because it’s preschool, their schoolwork looks like play. In this case, several students are building towers with Kropf, counting aloud as they add more blocks. “I have 10. If I add one more, how many do I have?” she asks the students. “Eleven,” they respond together. “Let’s see how tall we can make these towers!” Kropf exclaims. The game continues.

“Holly Street Early Learning Center was designed with ALL children in mind — creating an inclusive, nurturing environment where every child can thrive,” SanchezNilsen said. “Our mission is to ensure that every child becomes an active and successful participant in their home, school, and community, whether they are exploring the playground, engaging in classroom activities, or navigating everyday challenges.”

Through access to high-quality early childhood programs, the teachers and staff members at Holly Street help children

build the essential skills they need to confidently step into kindergarten and beyond. The team’s commitment focuses on supporting children's growth in three key areas:

• Building Positive Social-Emotional Skills – forming friendships, expressing emotions, and solving problems. Social-emotional learning is central to much of what the early learners work on with teachers and staff, even if it’s not the obvious subject of the lesson. Choice time is a prime example of this: Students rotate between stations such as painting, building with blocks, playing at a sand table, and practicing writing the letter “k.” Sharing and taking turns come up naturally throughout choice time.

• Acquiring Knowledge and Skills – including early literacy, math, and language development. In one class, students were recently learning about patience and counting while their teacher helped them warm up a snack for their Valentine’s celebration. Led by their teacher, students counted backward from 10 to 1 while waiting for the microwave to finish cooking.

• Taking Action to Meet Their Needs – promoting independence, self-advocacy, and confidence. Students have the chance to practice washing their hands, eating together, and brushing their own teeth.

By focusing on these outcomes, Holly Street students are set up for success — not just in kindergarten but throughout their entire educational journey and into adulthood.

"At the Holly Street Early Learning Center, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. By investing in early learning, we are not just preparing children for kindergarten—we are building the foundation for a lifetime of success. Together, as families, educators, and community members, we can empower our youngest learners to thrive today and lead tomorrow," SanchezNilsen said.

One of the students’ favorite spaces at Holly Street is the accessible playground, completed in the fall of 2023. Funded by the 2022 Capital Levy, the playground was initially

estimated to cost $2.5 million but came in under budget at $1.8 million — saving valuable resources while creating an incredible space for students. On sunny days, the sounds of young students playing resounds across the open space. Students are climbing on the colorful equipment, playing “house,” “school,” or other imagination-based games, using the sensory panel and riding tricycles or other foot-powered vehicles around the smooth track. Rain doesn’t stop their fun, either, with a covered area and garage-style access doors that can roll up to connect the indoor and outdoor play areas.

A Classroom for Every Learner

Holly Street Early Learning Center currently offers children and families a continuum of three early learning program services, each designed to meet the unique needs of the district’s youngest learners ages 3-5:

• Issaquah Preschool Academy: A tuition-based program focused on early literacy, math, and social skills. All classes focus on fostering learning through play, hands-on activities, group lessons, and individualized instruction. Through a play-based approach, children develop knowledge, confidence, and the skills needed to actively engage in their communities.

• Early Childhood Education Special Education Services (ECE): Supports children and families with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) by helping them reach key developmental milestones while building kindergarten readiness, early literacy, early numeracy, and socialemotional skills in a nurturing, inclusive environment.

• Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP): A Washington state-funded program for 3and 4-year-olds, focusing on kindergarten readiness, family support, and overall wellness. “It’s a preschool experience, but really centered on family connection,” said Shannon Inton, ECEAP Family Support Specialist.

In addition to Holly Street, early learning classrooms are located across the district to ensure that families have access to high-quality early learning programs. Additional information about Issaquah School District Early Learning Programs can be found at: https://www.isd411.org/programsservices/preschool

Meet Our Early Learning Team

In Holly Street’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) program, dedicated teachers and staff members are at the heart of our program, providing personalized support to help children with IEPs reach their full potential. Our passionate educators create nurturing, inclusive classrooms at Holly Street Early Learning Center, Briarwood, and Discovery Elementary — ensuring every child has the tools and encouragement they need to succeed, building on the child’s strengths.

Our ECEAP program also shines thanks to incredible teachers such as Lead Teacher Ronda Green, who has been guiding young learners for five years. In her classroom, children dive into early literacy, math, and thinking skills — all while having fun! On any given day in Green’s class, you might see her helping students explore letters, sounds, and rhyming through playful activities.

Curriculum Built for Growth

ISD Early Learning programs follow the “Creative Curriculum,” a research-based, play-centered approach that fosters thinking skills, early literacy, numeracy, and social development. Thanks to a generous grant from the Issaquah Schools Foundation, the district has been able to enhance classrooms with new materials that extend Creative Curriculum learning and provide even more handson activities for students. From colorful, bumpy sticks that are great for counting to just-right books that students can explore on their own or enjoy as an adult reads to them to painting stations and sand tables, theme-based learning materials help students practice everything from fine motor skills to language acquisition.

Supporting Families from the Very Start

Holly Street is not just for preschoolers — it offers early learning services that support families even before their child turns 3.

• Birth-to-Three Transition Team: Helps families smoothly navigate the transition from community-based early intervention programs to the Issaquah school district’s early learning services. The team works closely with families and providers to understand each child's needs and ensure a seamless start to preschool.

• Child Find Team: Conducts developmental screenings and special education evaluations for children ages 3–5. Through play-based activities, parent/caregiver interviews, and professional observations, our team identifies children who may benefit from additional support and guides families on the next steps. “We’re warm, welcoming, and kind,” said Kristin Berwald, School Psychologist at Holly Street. “We’re here to help, and it’s a supportive experience.” If you’d like to connect with the Child Find Team, please reach out by phone at 425-837-7197.

A Community Built on Care and Opportunity

Holly Street Early Learning Center has grown into a hub of learning, connection, and support for early-learning children and families across Issaquah. From the moment children and families walk through our doors, they are met with care, encouragement, and endless possibilities for growth.

Together, with the continued support of the Issaquah community, we are building a strong foundation where every child is valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential — today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

Students on AI: How It’s Transforming Our Learning

BY Leo Chen Skyline High School Student & Web and AI Club Chair

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an important part of modern education, enhancing learning efficiency and enabling personalized learning experiences. Students are increasingly using AI as a valuable academic tool, particularly for learning new subjects, self-study, exam preparation, improving writing skills, and enhancing language learning.

AI tools help enhance learning by simplifying complex concepts and providing quick feedback. In exam preparation, AI can generate sample questions alongside clear explanations, enabling students to grasp key concepts more efficiently. Writing assistants refine grammar, structure, and overall flow while also improving pronunciation through speech recognition. Automated evaluation tools offer timely feedback, helping students identify areas for improvement and refine their work in real-time.

The experiences of Skyline Web and AI club members highlight both the benefits and limitations of AI in education. Kent Guo, for instance, finds AI helpful when trying to understand complex computer science concepts: “Sometimes I get confused with computer science topics, and AI helps clarify them. Most of the time, the explanations are clear.” Similarly, William Zhang uses AI in STEM subjects: “When I struggle with math or physics problems, I use the latest GPT model to walk me through the steps or explain formula derivations.” AI does not only provide solutions but also provides a deeper understanding of problem-solving methods. However, Jacky Wei recognizes its limitations in academic writing: “I use AI to generate an outline for my essays, but I don’t rely on it for research or writing because it sometimes makes up sources and quotes.” His cautious attitude towards AI highlights the importance of academic integrity.

These firsthand experiences from Skyline Web and AI club members provide valuable feedback regarding AI’s influence on student learning. As AI continues to evolve, its role extends beyond just individual academic assistance but to a broader educational aspect. From personalized tutoring to classroom automation, AI is reshaping traditional education, making learning more adaptive and efficient.

In the classroom, AI can serve as a powerful teaching assistant, optimize teaching methods, and increase engagement. For example, personalized AI learning systems can provide real-time explanations and adjust

content based on an individual’s background knowledge. By analyzing students’ mistakes, AI can also offer personalized recommendations that simplify complex concepts. Automated classroom management can enhance teacher productivity by assisting with tasks such as lesson planning, research, and organization, allowing educators to dedicate more time to core teaching and student engagement. Language tools with speech recognition and real-time translation help students learn new languages more effectively and foster better crosscultural communication.

As AI continues to drive educational innovation, it does not only enhance classroom learning but also introduces new opportunities and challenges. While AI-powered tools improve accessibility, efficiency, and personalization, their growing presence also raises concerns about over-reliance, accuracy, and the development of critical thinking skills. Understanding both the benefits and limitations of AI in education is essential to ensuring that students use it as a tool for growth rather than a crutch.

One of AI’s greatest strengths is its ability to adapt to individual learning needs. By analyzing students’ mistakes and habits, AI can generate personalized exercises that reinforce key concepts more effectively than traditional assignments. Instant feedback mechanisms for students can enhance learning efficiency by quickly identifying errors and providing timely corrections, helping them grasp concepts more effectively and build confidence in their understanding. Additionally, AI-driven study planners can help students manage their workload by generating customized review schedules based on exam dates and priorities.

However, reliance on AI poses challenges, particularly regarding critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Some students may develop a habit of relying on AIgenerated answers rather than thinking independently and analyzing problems. The accuracy and depth of AIgenerated content also raise concerns, as AI responses can sometimes be fragmented and lack logical coherence. Youxuan Wu encountered this limitation firsthand: “I tried to have AI generate a speech for my PowerPoint presentation to save time, but when I was double-checking the flow of the content, I figured out that the speech did not fully have all the information and insights I wanted to give based on the PowerPoint.” His experience highlights that while AI provides structural support, it cannot fully replace human reasoning and content refinement.

The accuracy of AI in STEM subjects is another issue. While AI assists in solving mathematical and scientific problems, it is prone to errors when handling complex calculations. Jason Hou notes: “When I use AI for STEM purposes, especially for math, when the problem gets overcomplicated, the solution could be incorrect.” This highlights the need for students’ to critically evaluate AI-generated solutions rather than accept them at face value.

While current AI applications in education offer both advantages and challenges, technology’s potential extends far beyond its current capabilities. As AI continues to evolve, it has become more than just a tool for assistance; it could also reshape the way students think, learn, and interact with knowledge. For example, rather than simply delivering solutions, AI could guide students through the thought processes using techniques such as Socratic questioning, encouraging deeper analysis and independent reasoning. Personalized AI tutors may further redefine learning experiences by adapting to the way the student tries to solve the problem, adjusting question difficulty dynamically instead of offering fixed type of questions. In classrooms, AI-powered tools could enhance real-time interaction, providing instant translations, AI-assisted note-taking, and intelligent Q&A systems to help students better absorb content.

As AI continues to shape education, its integration into formal curricula remains a work in progress, with many students currently exploring AI tools on their own. From a student’s perspective, incorporating AI into classroom learning offers exciting possibilities, not only by teaching how to use AI effectively but also by introducing the fundamental principles behind its functionality. Integrating AI into subjects

like mathematics, programming, and science could help deepen students’ conceptual understanding and problemsolving skills.

Additionally, providing guidance on AI ethics and responsible usage can empower students to critically evaluate AI-generated content and make informed decisions about its application. Schools may also consider supporting educators by offering resources and professional development on AI-assisted teaching methods, such as lesson planning and student progress analysis. By thoughtfully incorporating AI, schools can enhance both student learning and support educators in their teaching practices, ensuring that technology serves as a valuable complement to traditional instruction rather than a replacement.

The future of AI in education lies in developing subjectspecific AI assistants tailored to different academic disciplines and age groups. More than just a tool, AI has the potential to foster collaboration between students and teachers, enhancing classroom engagement and personalizing learning experiences. As we embrace this evolving technology, it is essential to ensure its ethical use by establishing clear guidelines and responsible practices. Maintaining a thoughtful balance between embracing AI for learning and preserving academic integrity will be essential to unlocking its full potential.

As we step into this new era of learning, I encourage everyone to approach AI with an open mind and a spirit of exploration. As I always remind myself: Be passionately curious. It is curiosity that drives innovation, deepens understanding, and transforms the way we learn.

CALENDAR

To check school schedules or PTA/PTSA schedules, please click your school website or PTA/PTSA website for the most recent calendar information.

Issaquah School District Calendar: https://www.isd411.org/calendar

ALL SCHOOLS

May 26: Memorial Day, No school for students or staff

June 19: Juneteenth, No school for students or staff

June 25: Last day of school, early dismissal

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

May 14: Algebra 1 Placement Test for Incoming 6th Grade Student, 2:30PM – 4:30PM

May 19 & 27: Algebra 1 Placement Test for Incoming 6th Grade Student, 5PM – 7PM

Jun 23: Second Semester Ends

Jun 23: Elementary: Report Cards available in Family Access

Apollo School: https://apollo.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: http://apollopta.org

Briarwood School: https://briarwood.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://briarwoodelementarypta.org

Cascade Ridge School: https://cascaderidge.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://cascaderidge.ourschoolpages.com/

Cedar Trails School: https://cedartrails.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://cedartrailsptsa.ourschoolpages.com

Challenger School: https://challenger.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://issaquahchallengerelementarypta.givebacks.com/

Clark School: https://clark.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://clarkpta.org

Cougar Ridge School: https://cougarridge.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://cougarridgeptsa.org

Creekside School: https://creekside.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://creeksideotters.givebacks.com/

Discovery School: https://discovery.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://discoveryptsa.givebacks.com/

Endeavour School: https://endeavour.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://endeavourptsa.org

Grand Ridge School: https://grandridge.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://grandridgeptsa.membershiptoolkit.com/

Issaquah Valley School: https://issaquahvalley.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events

PTA/PTSA: https://www.ivepta.org/

Maple Hills School: https://maplehills.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events PTA/PTSA: https://maplehillspta.ourschoolpages.com/

Newcastle School: https://newcastle.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://newcastleptsa.org/

Sunny Hills School: https://sunnyhills.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://sunnyhillspta.org/

Sunset School: https://sunset.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://sunsetsockeyepta.org

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Jun 24: Half Day for Grading at Middle School

Jun 24: Trimester Report Card Writing – Early Release @ 10:55AM

Beaver Lake School: https://beaverlake.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://blmsptsa.ourschoolpages.com/

Cougar Mountain School: https://cougarmountain.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://cougarmountainptsa.org/

Issaquah School: https://issaquahmiddle.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://issaquahmiddleptsa.org

Maywood School: https://maywood.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://maywoodptsa.org/

Pacific Cascade School: https://pacificcascade.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://pacificcascadeptsa.org/

Pine Lake School: https://pinelake.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://pinelakeptsa.org/

HIGH SCHOOLS

Jun 20 & 23 & 24: Half Day for High School

Gibson Ek School: https://gibsonek.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://my.cheddarup.com/c/gibsonekptsa

Issaquah School: https://issaquahhigh.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://issaquahhighptsa.org

Liberty School: https://liberty.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://libertyhighptsa.com

Skyline School: https://skyline.isd411.org/our-school/upcoming-events/calendar PTA/PTSA: https://skylineptsa.ourschoolpages.com

Cultural Events

Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration

May 3, 2025 at Seattle Center

[305 Harrison St, Seattle WA]

This festival recognizes Seattle's strong ties with Asia and the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in our region through culturallyinfluenced music and dance and a celebrity hum bow eating contest.

The Circle Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Celebration

May 10, 2025, 4PM – 6PM at Issaquah Community Center

[301 Rainier Blvd S, Issaquah, WA 98027]

This event is to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islanders’ cultures and recognize their contribution. There will be culturally-influenced performances and stations.