Schools continue improving family and community engagement, outreach efforts Schools throughout the district are continuing to improve their family and community engagement and outreach efforts. Like at Highlands Elementary School (pictured) where they recently kicked-off this year's Renton Parent University program. The course provides Highlands families with English lessons, helps them better understand their education system, gives guidance on how to work with teachers to advocate for their children, and provides strategies on how they can help their children continue learning at home. Helping lead this year's class is Silver Torres, who three years ago spoke very little English, and had no connection to the school his children attend. Silver took the Renton Parent course, and not only strengthened his English skills, but learned so much about the education system that this year he is teaching Renton Parent University courses to other parents. Renton Schools is committed to providing high quality education to every student, and to engage and involve parents in their children's learning.

Seattle Seahawks and Symetra recognize Renton teacher as ‘Hero in the Classroom’ Hazelwood Elementary 2nd-grade Teacher Tracy Dyson (right in photo) has been selected as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” by Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks. Tracy was recently honored during a surprise school assembly. She was nominated by Hazelwood parent Amy Donaldson. Tracy received a $2,000 donation for classroom books and supplies, and tickets to a Seahawks home game, and will be recognized at

the Oct. 29 game when the Seahawks take on the Houston Texans. Nominate a great Renton Schools teacher today for recognition. Winners are selected based on their ability to make a real difference in students' lives; to go above and beyond in their day-to-day responsibilities; and to help students build life skills. Nominate now at Symetra Heroes in the Classroom www.SymetraHeroes.com/ Seahawks.