School Beat: October 1, 2025

Students, staff, and families at John Rogers Elementary, Montlake Elementary, and Mercer International Middle School celebrated the start of the school year with the grand opening of their newly built campuses.

Three SPS students were sworn in as the 2025–26 Student School Board Members on Aug. 27. Representing West Seattle, Roosevelt, and Ballard high schools, these student leaders bring a powerful blend of experience, advocacy, and vision to the board.

We’re thrilled to recognize National Merit Scholar semifinalists and school staff who received local and national recognitions. And that’s just the beginning—there’s so much more to celebrate! Check out this month's SPS Shout Outs!

We’re excited to kick off this year’s search for SPS All-Stars—district staff who go above and beyond their call of duty and exemplify our core values of excellence, teamwork, and commitment.

This month, we’re spotlighting our Super Support Staff—those who may not be in the classroom but play a vital role in building a positive culture across our schools.

Submit nominations by Friday, Oct. 17, and help us celebrate the incredible individuals who make SPS shine!

Seattle Public Schools proudly recognizes Disability History, Acceptance, and Pride Month throughout October. This annual observance increases awareness, respect, and acceptance for people with disabilities and fosters a greater sense of pride and belonging in our school communities. Let’s work together to create inclusive environments where students of all abilities feel valued, respected, and empowered.

Additionally, October is also Filipino American History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month (through Oct. 15), National Bullying Prevention Month, and National Principals Month.

Other key dates and observances

Oct. 1: Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Opens

Oct. 2: National Custodial Worker’s Day

Oct. 6: National Coaches Day

Oct. 10: State In-Service Day / TRI Day for Educators (No school for students)

Oct. 11: National Coming Out Day

Oct. 13: Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Oct. 13–17: National School Lunch Week

Oct. 17: The Great Washington ShakeOut

Oct. 20–24: National School Bus Safety Week

Join us for SPS Highly Capable engagement sessions this fall! We need your help to shape the future of SPS Highly Capable services. Find a full list of session dates and more details are on the SPS website. We hope to see you there!

SPS will offer a free, digital school-day SAT for 12th graders and PSAT/NMSQT for 11th graders throughout the month of October. Check with your school for its specific testing schedule.

People across the state can participate in earthquake preparedness drills at work, school or home during The Great Washington ShakeOut on Thursday, Oct. 16.

Now that school is underway, it's even more important to pay attention on the road. Public Health – Seattle & King County wants to help everyone travel safely. Whether you're driving, walking, biking, or riding the bus, learn some key tips to keep in mind.

Are you part of an LGBTQ+ family within Seattle Public Schools? The SPS Health Education Office would love to connect with you! Learn about opportunities for support, connection, and celebration. Join the Rainbow Families Mailing List!

Seattle Public Schools has released a new report detailing how resources—people, time, and funding—are used across the district. Developed with Education Resource Strategies, the analysis looks at current patterns and identifies opportunities to improve equity and student outcomes. The findings will inform the draft 2025–2030 Strategic Plan. We encourage you to dive in and read the full report.

Join us for our 8th Annual Seattle Black College Expo Saturday, Nov. 15, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Rainier Beach High School. Seniors and juniors and college transfer students meet one-on-one with Historically Black Colleges and Universities, other colleges, universities, and educational programs. Everyone is welcome; the event is for students of all ages. RSVP for free tickets!

Did you know that Seattle youth ages 13-24 have access to free virtual mental health care? The City of Seattle has partnered with eight provider organizations to help students start the school year strong! Multilingual care is available. Insurance is not required. All providers are licensed and HIPPA compliant.

Seattle Public Schools middle and high school students can also access free behavioral health care in school with licensed providers at 21 on-site school-based health centers.

SPS has teamed up with the Seattle Visiting Nurse Association to bring vaccine clinics to our community this fall! Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available. These clinics require insurance (most insurance accepted) or payment. Let’s keep our schools and community healthy!

Learn more about the School Board and its work, public meetings, and upcoming policy initiatives.