District newsletter

Mark your calendars for one of the most entertaining events of the year! The annual Chickenfest contest will take place on Friday, January 31, at Burlington-Edison High School during halftime of both the girls' and boys' varsity basketball games.

Watch as teams from both schools compete to shoot rubber chickens into the basketball hoop—a hilarious and spirited tradition you won’t want to miss!

The girls' game tips off at 6 p.m., followed by the boys' game at 7:30 p.m. Come cheer on your team and enjoy the fun! 🏀🐔

This year, Clear Lake Elementary School's Visions Program is embracing the theme Journey to Time.

Recently, fourth-grade students, led by teacher Jenny Goss, embarked on an exciting local adventure.

The journey began at the historic 101-year-old Concrete Theater, where students watched The Wild Robot.

The day continued at the Sedro-Woolley Museum, where they explored the rich history of their hometown. From learning how Sedro-Woolley got its name to hearing fascinating tales like Tusko the elephant's escape and a dramatic bank robbery, the students were captivated!

Students also enjoyed hands-on exploration of exhibits showcasing the town's logging history, a vintage schoolhouse, and even the old jail. It was an unforgettable step back in time!

Our Sedro-Woolley High School Unified Basketball team faced off against Mount Vernon High School on Wednesday in an exciting game full of teamwork, sportsmanship, and smiles! Thank you to everyone who came out to cheer on these incredible athletes. Your support means the world!

Unified Sports promotes inclusion, friendship, and a sense of belonging both on and off the court. It’s all about breaking down barriers and showing the power of teamwork and kindness.

Sedro-Woolley is scheduled to play Burlington-Edison at home at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 28.

If you’ve attended an event at the Sedro-Woolley High School auditorium, chances are you’ve been welcomed by a member of the school’s Usher Club. This small team of four students ensures events run smoothly, from drama productions and concerts to special district ceremonies like Community Night and Retirement Night.

Led by club president Miracle Mahle, the group includes vice president Anthony Bowling and first-year members Clayton Hall and Mehkylee “Mack” Marcoff. Together, they greet guests, assist with seating, and ask guests to follow house rules to preserve the auditorium’s condition.

“What I enjoy most about the Usher Club is realizing the difference we make simply by greeting people and making them feel welcomed,” said Mahle. “Welcoming people and seeing their excitement is why we do it,” added Marcoff and Hall. It’s rewarding to see how much people enjoy the performances.

Bowling said for him, the best part of Usher Club was interacting with the guests.

"Getting to see the smiles on people's faces while greeting them, but mostly making people laugh when they look down," he said.

Behind the Vest

Each usher is outfitted in a crisp white shirt, vest, and bow tie, paired with their own black slacks, socks, and shoes. The dress code reflects the professionalism expected of the role. Beyond appearances, members are trained to accommodate wheelchair users, direct guests, and safely evacuate the building in emergencies.

The commitment pays off: students who volunteer 100 hours earn a varsity letter and an honor cord to wear at graduation. While perks like watching shows are appreciated, the job comes with challenges.

“We have to politely remind folks about rules like no food in the auditorium,” said Hall.

He said this isn't always easy, but it’s important.

Protecting the House

Advisor Nita Hodgins and the school's custodial team work tirelessly to maintain the auditorium, also known as "the House," which was last remodeled in the mid-1990s. Keeping the space clean and welcoming is a priority, which is why food and drinks are prohibited.

When spills happen, it’s a lot of work to clean the seats and carpet. The rules help preserve the space for everyone.

Despite the challenges, ushers say the best part of the role is interacting with the community. Mahle recalled a memory that stood out from her time as an usher:

"We got recognized after the school’s production last year, and someone’s parents got the ushers little gifts for helping usher the whole week," she said.

Bowling said a standout moment from his time in the club was when the group ushered for the school production and got a compliment from the superintendent.

Looking to the Future

With three of the club's four members being seniors, Mahle is hopeful the club will grow next year.

“I definitely hope more people join the Usher Club next year to keep it going,” she said. “If you enjoy helping others, this is a great opportunity to gain experience interacting with people, especially if you are a little shy. It also looks great on a resume.”

Bowling echoed Mahle's thoughts and said he hopes more students will join the club next year.

For those looking for a unique way to get involved and give back, the Usher Club may be the perfect fit.

Students can contact Miss Nita at the ASB cashier's window at the high school or email nhodgins@swsd101.org for more information.

House Rules to Know

Each year, students in English learner programs take the ACCESS for ELLs test. This test helps measure how much English students know and their skills in using it. It focuses on academic English language skills for students learning English in our school and across the state.

Teachers use these test results to:

• Plan lessons and activities for your child.
• Check your child’s progress toward learning English.

Testing Dates
The testing window is from January 27 to March 21.

If you have questions, please contact your school’s Multilingual Teacher for more information.

Central Elementary School's kindergarten through third-grade students hosted a special musical informance (aka an in-class performance) this past Tuesday, showcasing their developing musical skills and creativity. The event offered a delightful glimpse into their progress, as students demonstrated what they've been learning in music class. It was a proud moment for the students and the Central community! 🎶✨

United General District 304 is hosting two Incredible Years Parenting Series programs to support parents in building strong relationships with their children.

For Parents of Kids 1-3 (Toddler)
When: Mondays, 6:00 PM - 7:45 PM
Dates: February 24 - May 19
Where: Virtual, via Zoom

For Parents of Kids 3-6 (Preschool)
When: Thursdays, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Dates: February 27 - May 29
Where: In person at 2136 SR 20, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284

Childcare and refreshments provided!

Register now: Incredible Years Parenting Series Registration

⚠️ Disclaimer:

Please note: The district does not sponsor this event and the district assumes no responsibility for it. In consideration of the privilege to distribute materials, the Sedro-Woolley School District shall be held harmless from any cause of action filed in any court or administrative tribunal arising out of the distribution of these materials, including costs, attorney’s fees and judgments or awards.

Math Nation-Washington is now available at no cost to all Washington public schools and districts, thanks to a partnership between Accelerate Learning, Inc., and the state of Washington. The online learning resources, which fully cover Washington's Mathematics K–12 Learning Standards, are funded by OSPI.

New language options enhance WIC access for families across Washington state

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is pleased to announce that WICShopper, the free smartphone application for families in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program, is now available in 22 language options for Washington state participants. This expansion provides a better shopping experience for non-English speaking families enrolled in the program by offering real-time translations of WIC benefits, along with other resources like recipes, lists of participating retailers, and more. It is estimated that 90% of WIC participants in Washington use the WICShopper app.

“Washington state’s WIC program serves a diverse population who speak a variety of languages,” said Michele Roberts, Assistant Secretary for Prevention and Community Health, DOH. “Supporting WIC participants in their preferred language is a crucial way we can work towards eliminating accessibility barriers. Our hope is that this expansion makes it easier for participants to access vital nutrition benefits and support healthy choices for themselves and their families.”

Since its 2018 launch in Washington, the WICShopper app has been a valuable tool for WIC participants, offering a range of benefits including:

• Shopping Assistance: The app helps participants identify WIC-eligible foods and locate nearby stores, farmers markets, and farm stores that accept WIC.

• Convenient Access to Benefits: Participants can easily check their WIC benefits and balance at any time.

• Educational Resources: The app provides nutrition education and healthy recipes using WIC foods.

The languages selected for the Washington WICShopper app expansion were based on the state’s population demographics, and include Amharic, Arabic, Burmese, Chinese (traditional), Chinese (Simplified), Dari, English, French, Haitian Creole, Kiswahili, Korean, Lingala, Nepalese, Oromo, Pashto, Portuguese, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Tigrinya (Eritrean dialect), Ukranian, and Vietnamese.

The WIC program improves the health and nutrition of pregnant people, new parents, infants, and children under five by providing access to healthy foods like milk, fruits, and vegetables. WIC also offers health screenings, nutrition education, breast and chest feeding support, and referrals to other health and social services. Today, there are more than 200 WIC clinics in Washington state serving approximately 200,000 people. This includes nearly half of all babies born, 33% of pregnant people, and almost 25% of children under the age of 5 in the state.

To apply for WIC, Washington families can contact their local WIC clinic, submit a WIC interest form, and learn more about eligibility online.

This spring, we’re shining the spotlight on our graduating seniors in two special ways:

1️⃣ Senior Spotlights: Share your senior’s future plans, favorite memories, and dreams! These will be featured on district social media and in the weekly District Update leading up to graduation.

2️⃣ Senior Wills: Encourage your senior to leave their legacy in the June issue of the Concrete Herald! This fun tradition allows seniors to share advice, favorite memories, or words of wisdom with classmates and underclassmen.

✨ How to Participate
Submit your senior’s information and “will” using this form: [https://forms.gle/eR86oKdekHLPcP11A]

Deadline: Friday, May 23, at 5 p.m.

Let’s celebrate the incredible Class of 2025 together! 🌟

United General District 304 is offering a FREE Strengthening Families Program in Sedro-Woolley!

📅 When: Wednesdays, February 5 - March 19, 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM (7 weeks)
📍 Where: Cascade Middle School

This program is designed for parents/caregivers and youth ages 10-14, focusing on improving communication, encouraging healthy habits, and providing tools for parenting teens—all while having fun!

🌟 Program highlights:

• Dinner provided each week!
• Childcare available for kids under 10!

Registration is open now. Click here to sign up!

The Sedro-Woolley High School Cheerleader Booster Club is hosting a Winter Cheer Clinic for kids!

🗓 When: February 7, 6:00–7:30 p.m.

📍 Where: Sedro-Woolley High School Cafeteria

💰 Cost: $35 per child

👟 What to bring: Comfy clothes to move in, tennis shoes, and a water bottle.

🔗 Register Now:

Scan the QR code on the form or click here.

⏰ Drop-off begins at 5:45 p.m. | Pick-up is promptly at 7:30 p.m.

🎉 Performance:

Kids will showcase their new skills on February 8 at 12:30 p.m. – more details provided at the clinic.

📧 Questions? Email: swcubscheerbooster@gmail.com

⚠️ Disclaimer:

Please note: The district does not sponsor this event and the district assumes no responsibility for it. In consideration of the privilege to distribute materials, the Sedro-Woolley School District shall be held harmless from any cause of action filed in any court or administrative tribunal arising out of the distribution of these materials, including costs, attorney’s fees and judgments or awards.

Monday, January 27, is a non-student day for all students.

Tuesday, January 28, is the first day of the second semester. Sedro-Woolley High School students will follow a Blue Block Day schedule with periods 1–4.

🗓 Date: Tuesday, January 28, 2025

⏰ Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 Location: Sedro-Woolley High School Auditorium

Learn all about the upcoming Camp Orkila trip! This information session will cover trip details, what to expect, packing tips, and provide an opportunity to ask questions. Sixth grade parents, guardians, and caregivers are encouraged to attend.

Cascade Middle School's Parent Group will hold a meeting on January 28 from 6:30 to 7:30 in the school's library.

Join us for an evening of fun and celebration at Good Beginnings Preschool! Bring the whole family to enjoy guided games and activities in each classroom.

📅 When: Thursday, January 30th, 4:30–5:15 p.m.
📍 Where: Good Beginnings Preschool

Lyman Elementary School will host a Wildcat Assembly on Friday, January 31, at 9:35 a.m.

Mark your calendars! The Sedro-Woolley High School Parent Group meets on Monday, February 3, at 6 p.m. in the SWHS Library. Connect with other parents and stay informed about what’s happening at the high school!

Help us celebrate the incredible work of our school counselors who help students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.

Evergreen Elementary School's Parent Group will meet on Tuesday, February 4, at 6:30 p.m. in the school library.

Mary Purcell Elementary's Parent Group will meet on Thursday, February 6, at 6:30 p.m. in the school library.

Lyman Elementary School's Parent Group will meet on Tuesday, February 11 at 6 p.m. in the school's library.

Samish Elementary School's Parent Group will meet on Tuesday, February 11 at 6:30 p.m. in the school’s library.

Central Elementary School's Parent Group will meet on Wednesday, February 19, at 6 p.m. in the school library.

Sedro-Woolley High School will host Woolley Idol on Saturday, February 22, at 7:00 p.m. in the high school auditorium.

Cascade Middle School’s Parent Group will meet on Monday, February 24, at 6:30 p.m. in the CMS Library.

Mark your calendars! Samish Elementary's Parent Group is hosting a Spring Market March 29–30 at the school (23953 Prairie Road). This event is a special fundraiser to support playground equipment, classroom needs, field trips, school events, and other activities throughout the year.

Interested in becoming a vendor? Click the links below to apply and submit payment:

• Vendor Application
• Vendor Payment

Don't miss this opportunity to support Samish Elementary and shop for great finds!

All elementary schools start at 9:25 a.m. Doors typically open between 9:10 a.m. and 9:15 a.m. Students are released at 3:30 p.m. See below for the early dismissal schedule.

Cascade Middle School starts at 7:40 a.m. Doors open at 7:20 a.m. Students are released at 2:15 p.m. and need to leave campus by 2:20 p.m. unless in a staff supervised activity. See below for the early dismissal schedule.

Sedro-Woolley High School starts at 7:55 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Students are released at 2:30 p.m. See below for the early dismissal schedule.

State Street High School starts at 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:15 a.m. Students are released at 2:30 p.m. See below for the early dismissal schedule.

All schools in the district start one hour late on Wednesdays so that staff can receive professional development. The exceptions will be November 6, 2024, November 27, 2024 and June 11, 2025. These are all early release days, while June 11 is the last Wednesday of the year with no professional development time alloted for staff members.

Early Dismissal Times:
Cascade Middle School 10:45 a.m.
State Street High School 10:50 a.m.
Sedro-Woolley High School 11:00 a.m.
All Elementary Schools 12:30 p.m.

Early Dismissal Days for All Schools
November 7 & 8
November 27
March 6 & 7
June 13 (School in session – 2 hours - see schedule below)

Early Dismissal for P-6 Only
November 5 & 6

Early Dismissal for 7-12 Only
None

Good Beginnings Preschool Non-School Days
Every Friday
November 5, 6 & 7
November 27 & 28
March 6

June 13 Two-Hour Early Dismissal Times:
Cascade Middle School 9:45 a.m.
State Street High School 9:55 a.m.
Sedro-Woolley High School 10 a.m.
All Elementary Schools 11:30 a.m.

Possible Inclement Weather Make-Up Days:
Friday, February 14
Friday, May 23
*If there are more than two days of school canceled because of inclement, more school days will be added in June, possibly extending the days to the week of June 16, 2025.

Please note, during any early dismissal days, both AM and PM sessions at Good Beginnings Preschool are canceled. These include Wednesdays with early dismissals and conference weeks, such as Thursday, March 6. Good Beginnings runs Monday to Thursday.

If a 2-hour late start is called due to inclement weather:

• No morning preschool (Good Beginnings, Samish Cooperative, Cub Club, and Y at Good Beginnings Preschool).
• Afternoon preschool classes will operate as normal.
• Head Start and Early Head Start (located next to Evergreen Elementary School) will continue as scheduled. On Wednesdays, the program will start at the same time as the regular Tuesday schedule.

When adverse weather conditions are in the forecast, we would ask that you refer to the Inclement Weather and Emergency Bulletin page for specific directions and methods of communication that will be used in a weather emergency. If you live on a potential snow route, please contact the district's transportation department at 360-855-3504 for specific bus stop information.

School supply lists below may also be available in a printable format from your school building secretary. Some schools also have the printed lists offered in Spanish. On the website, please choose "Translate" and then select your primary language to see the automated translations of the supply lists. You can also call 360-855-3772 for language assistance.

Both State Street High School and Sedro-Woolley High School students will receive specific supply lists from teachers during the first week of school. General supplies include:

Large 3-ring binder

Dividers for 3-ring notebook

1 - Box of Pencils

1 - Box of pens, blue/black

2+ - Highlighter pens

4+ - Composition books

Lined notebook paper with 3 holes – 8-1/2 X 11

Free breakfast and lunch meals for ALL students will continue for the 2024-2025 school year. The continuation of free meals is possible through implementation of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Community Eligibility Provision (CEP).

Please note that CEP allows the service of one free breakfast and one free lunch meal daily. If students wish to have more than one meal per day, they will need to have money added to their food service account online or in the school office and will be charged accordingly. In addition, milk is an a la carte item. When taken by itself, the charge is $0.60. Students can get milk for free by ensuring they select a reimbursable meal, which can include a milk, fruit and vegetable. Students are not required to get the daily entrée.

Any questions about CEP or the Food Service Program can be directed to the Food Service office at 360-855-3515.

Elementary School Boundary Map

In-Town Elementary School Boundary Map

You can also email swsdcoms@swsd101.org for help reading the boundary maps or call 360-855-3504 or 360-855-3500.

My Ride K-12, can be downloaded in the Apple and Android app stores. You will need to download the new app to access updated transportation information for your student(s).

Downloads:

• My Ride K-12 – Apple App Store (iOS)
• My Ride K-12 – Google Play Store (Android)

My Ride K-12 provides secure access to student bus schedule/routing information, which can include the bus stop, route, and bus number. This is accessible on mobile devices, and is confidential and secure.

Parents/guardians will need to use their student ID# and current grade level to add their student to the app.

Grade levels

Kindergarten = K1

First = 01

Second = 02

Third = 03

Fourth = 04

Fifth = 05

Sixth = 06

Seventh = 07

Eighth = 08

Ninth = 09

Tenth = 10

Eleventh = 11

Twelfth= 12

Preschool families - call or email transportation.

If you see an issue with your child’s transportation information, parent transportation assistance is available by emailing jzimmerman@swsd101.org.

More Information

• My Ride K-12 User Guide Parent Flyer (English)
• My Ride K-12 User Guide Parent Flyer (Spanish)

Many of our schools are collecting box tops... digitally! Just scan your receipt and earn money for your school!

Gateway to Golf

Attention: Gateway to Golf starts its 5 week spring league on April 27. This is a 5-week session that meets on Sundays from 4-5 p.m. at Avalon Golf Course.

Gateway to Golf is a golf league for students ages 1st-8th grade. To request information or to sign up for the spring league, email gateway2golf@gmail.com.

Skagit Valley Rugby Club

Skagit Valley Rugby Club is excited to welcome new players of all skill levels! Whether you’re in elementary, middle, or high school, now is the perfect time to join their growing team. Registration is officially open, and the club is looking for athletes eager to learn the game, improve their skills, and be part of a fun, supportive community. Don’t miss out—sign up today and be part of the action this season!

Every Kid Sports Pass

Apply today for the youth sports grant to help cover registration fees.

https://everykidsports.org/every-kid-sports-pass/

Sedro-Woolley Youth Soccer Association

Registration for fall season is typically open each spring until May 31.

www.swyouthsoccer.com

Questions: swysa@hotmail.com

Phone : 360-969-2269

P.O. Box 22

Sedro-Woolley, Washington 98284

Northwest United Soccer

The club offers year round soccer for ages U9-U19 for both boys and girls, with all levels from recreational, select and premier teams and leagues.

https://www.nwunited.org

NW United Facebook

Sedro-Woolley Youth Football and Cheer

Registration for fall season typically closes in June.

Practices start in August.

www.swyfl.org

Cheer Questions: cheerrep@swyfl.org

Cheer Facebook

Football Questions: contact@swyfl.org

Football Facebook

SWISH

For the Girls SWISH Basketball League (4th-8th Grades), contact Autumn Trannum: (autumnetrannum@gmail.com).

For the Boys SWISH Basketball League (3rd-8th Grades) contact: (woolleyclubhoop@gmail.com).

Sedro-Woolley Little League

Registration for spring typically closes in early February. Baseball/softball.

www.sedrowoolleylittleleague.com

Questions: sedrowoolleylittleleague@gmail.com

Skagit Valley Flyers Lacrosse

This program offers grades K-12 an opportunity to be introduced to and taught about the amazing sport of lacrosse. The Flyers offer boys, girls and coed programs.

For more information, email svflyers2009@gmail.com.

Flyer Facebook Group

Sedro-Woolley SteelClaw Youth Wrestling Club

Folkstyle, Freestyle, and Greco wrestling. The club accepts both male and female wrestlers.

Questions: swsteelclawwrestling@gmail.com

Steelclaw Facebook

Club Hoop

Club Hoop is now taking registrations online https://leagues.bluesombrero.com/sedrowooleyclubhoops. In-person registration is October 20 and 27 from 2-4 p.m.

Ages: Kindergarten-3rd grade

Contact: clubhoopk3@gmail.com

**Please note that most youth sports are run by volunteer boards of directors. Coaches are most often fellow parents and there is a significant referee shortage amongst almost every sport. Volunteering to coach or training to become a referee is one of the best opportunities a parent or guardian has to stay involved in their child's life through various stages of development!

Have an update on youth sports contact information? Email swsdcoms@swsd101.org with the updated information!

The Sedro-Woolley School District appreciates your interest in volunteering. Please read the SWSD Volunteer Handbook before you complete the background form.

Please complete the volunteer application and submit all information requested.

You are required to complete a new application every two years. Please allow up to two weeks for processing. All volunteers must provide a photo ID each time they visit a Sedro-Woolley School District school.

Background Form

Volunteer Handbook Printable Version (English)

The district uses a reporting system for harassment, intimidation and bullying (HIB) through SafeSchools Alert. Students, parents and community members can report HIB and other unsafe behaviors anonymously through phone, text, email or web. Students, parents and community members should utilize SafeSchools Alert as it creates a record of the report, and each incident must be investigated. Visit https://swsd-wa.safeschoolsalert.com/ to report an incident or use the alternative methods below.

App: Search for “SafeSchools Alert” in the App Store to download for free.

Phone or text to: 1-855-764-8877

Email: 1376@alert1.us

District ID Code: 1376

The Sedro-Woolley School District has a preschool, seven elementary schools, one middle school and two high schools, averaging more than 4,100 students during the 2023-2024 school year. We proudly serve Sedro-Woolley and its smaller surrounding communities.

Email: swsdcoms@swsd101.org
Website: https://www.swsd.k12.wa.us/
Location: 801 Trail Road, Sedro-Woolley, WA, USA
Phone: 360-855-3500
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SedroWoolleySchoolDistrict/

Superintendent — Dr. Miriam Miralles Mickelson

Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning — Brian Isakson

Exec. Director, Educational Support Services — Anthony Smith

Exec. Director, Human Resources & Student Support — Daniel Lee

Director, Student Support — Michael Schweigert

IT Director — Byron Haner (360) 855-3587

Public Information Officer – Ruth Richardson

Transportation Director – Tracy Gugel (360) 855-3504

Food Service Director – Allison Johnston (360) 855-3515

Facilities & Maintenance Director – Michael Stephens (360) 855-3505

The five school board members are chosen during November elections, or appointed, to serve overlapping terms of four years each.

Monthly Board Meeting Dates: Second & Fourth Mondays at 6 p.m. or as publicized.

Location: Support Services Building, 317 Yellow Lane or as announced via the website.

For more information, please call: 360-855-3500, check local newspapers or the district website for meeting locations.