The Issaquah Schools Foundation is calling on YOU to help make sure our children receive an exceptional education. This year’s Calling for Kids phone-a-thon runs from 6 to 8 p.m. tonight and tomorrow, May 22 and 23. All you have to do is pick up the phone—it’s easy!

Superintendent Janet Barry looks back at her 10 years of District leadership and ahead to a bright future for our schools under Dr. Steve Rasmussen in her latest and last Superintendent’s Message. Don’t forget to mark your calendars—the community is celebrating Dr. Barry’s retirement at a “Never a Dull Moment” open house from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, June 20, at Pickering Barn, 1730 10^th Ave. N.W.

Are you interested in local education? Are microphones and gavels your favorite accessory? Then run for the School Board! Seats in Director Districts 1, 3, and 5 are up for reelection in November. Former Board members will share advice and perspective during an information meeting tomorrow, May 23, at 6 p.m. for anyone who is considering becoming a candidate. The filing window is the first week in June.

The Issaquah School Board will hold a regular business meeting at 7 p.m. tomorrow, May 23, at the Administration Building, 565 N.W. Holly St. The agenda includes evaluating governance policies and establishing priorities for the 2008 legislative session.

Here’s the math! After an in-depth study period that included teacher evaluation in every elementary school and multiple community meetings, the Elementary Math Adoption Committee has recommended Everyday Math to the District’s Instructional Materials Selection Committee—whose members are now evaluating the materials in anticipation of making a recommendation to the Board by the end May. You can learn more about math achievement in Issaquah and view Everyday Math materials and frequently asked questions online. Throughout the process, teachers, parents, and community members have overwhelmingly showed how strongly they value a math education that will prepare children for the future–thank you for making math a priority!

Two familiar faces will be taking on new administrative roles next year. Jacob Kuper has been named Acting Executive Director of Finance, and he will transition from his current job as Director of Finance into the department’s top position following Dean Mack’s retirement at the end of May. Congratulations also go to Jane Harris, who will move from her current position as Liberty High’s Dean of Student’s to Maywood Middle School’s Assistant Principal next school year.
The community is invited to Cougar Ridge Elementary School’s Cultural Exchange Night from 5:15 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, May 24. Supported by an Issaquah Schools Foundation grant, the event will showcase the rich and diverse cultures of our school community. Visitors can collect stamps on their passports as they enjoy a mini travel experience through the world, touring each country’s booth, participating in arts and crafts, watching artists from different cultures perform, and sampling ethnic food.

Calling all teens who want to have a voice shaping state legislation and policy: The Lieutenant Governor is now accepting applications from 14- to 18-year-olds who are interested in holding a seat on the Legislative Youth Advisory Council. The deadline is July 2. Teens on the Advisory Council give the Legislature advice on issues related to education, health and fitness, test reform, and school safety. Members serve two-year terms and meet up to six times a year. Call Judi Best, 360-786-7451, for more information.

Are my children going to a different school next year? Is my school closing? Why do 7-11 stores have locks on their doors when they are open 24 hours a day? If you have burning questions circulating in your neighborhood that you need answered, please call the District’s Communications Office at 425-837-7004 for the full scoop. For instance, no boundary lines will be changed and no school will ever be closed without a public process. The District does expect to begin a comprehensive boundary review next year for implementation in 2009 when the new fifth middle school will open. Stay tuned for more information this summer …

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