District newsletter

This school year, Sedro-Woolley School District is embracing the theme “Empowering Dreams. Rooted in Community.” It’s about honoring the people, places, and traditions that have shaped our community for generations—and recognizing how those deep roots continue to strengthen our schools today. Just as importantly, it’s a reminder of our responsibility to help students not only discover their dreams, but also find the pathways to achieve them.

For Joni McSpadden, those roots run four generations deep. A proud Cub through and through, Joni attended Evergreen Elementary, Cascade Middle School, and Sedro-Woolley High School. Her daughter followed in her footsteps, becoming a fifth-generation Cub. And about 15 years ago, her family was recognized as one of Sedro-Woolley’s founding families—a reminder of just how deeply her story is woven into the community.

Some memories stand out clearly from her school days—like the morning in Mrs. Ambrose’s third-grade class when students watched the Challenger space shuttle launch live, only to witness the tragedy that unfolded. Other memories are tied to the people who shaped her journey. Teachers like Mrs. Ambrose, Mr. Heuterman, and Jim Johnson left lasting marks, not only through what they taught but through the care and encouragement they gave.

When it came time to begin her teaching career, Joni never considered leaving.

“Both my husband and I grew up here. I couldn’t imagine teaching elsewhere—it never crossed my mind,” she says.

That sense of commitment is rooted in gratitude for the way her hometown shaped her.

“This community had such an impact on me that I really never wanted to live anywhere else. I raised my daughter here because I wanted her to have the same experience.”

Some things in town have changed—“there are a lot more stoplights now,” Joni laughs—but others remain reassuringly constant.

Driving down Metcalf Street still feels the same, aside from the cars. Traditions like Loggerodeo, Cub pride on the soccer and football fields, and even the unspoken truth that “you’ll have a lot of students absent during hunting season” all remind her of Sedro-Woolley’s unique identity.

Those experiences guide the way Joni shows up for students today. She remembers her own mother taking her to see flood damage in the valley and teaching her that helping others was part of being in this community—whether that meant donating clothes or pitching in after a storm.

“It is easier to serve families that you understand,” Joni says. “This community is traditional, proud, and strong. We have big hearts for this town, and it’s important to us.”

Her advice to today’s students is simple: “Look around. Not many places are this beautiful, and you should really enjoy the fact that we get to see it every day.”

For Joni, Sedro-Woolley is more than a hometown. It’s a legacy, a responsibility, and a joy—one she carries proudly into her work with the next generation of Cubs.

This year, the Sedro-Woolley School District is embracing the theme “Empowering Dreams. Rooted in Community.” As part of that, we're highlighting the people who have shaped—and been shaped by—our schools and community over the years. If you’ve lived in the Sedro-Woolley area for a long time, we’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re an alum, a parent, a grandparent, or someone who’s just always cheered from the sidelines, your perspective matters.

QUESTIONS

When Nia Katwyk graduated from Sedro-Woolley High School in 2024 as a valedictorian and McIntyre Scholarship recipient, she didn’t expect that her path would bring her back home so soon. Now a sophomore at the University of Washington studying civil engineering, Katwyk is spending her summer interning with the City of Sedro-Woolley’s Engineering and Planning Department.

Katwyk said she was drawn to civil engineering because of the field’s daily impact on people’s lives and the opportunities to connect with others.

“From talking to my co-workers, contractors or the people working on site, I can make connections and build community in such a meaningful way,” she said.

This summer, Katwyk has been involved in projects with direct ties to her own school years. She contributed to the pedestrian and vehicle detour routes for the State Route 9 roundabout project, which will guide Cascade Middle School and Evergreen Elementary students during construction. She has also surveyed stormwater catch basins throughout the city to support the creation of a 3D stormwater system map and worked on daily site visits with city engineers.

“The most rewarding part of the internship has been all the knowledge I’ve gained in these past couple of months, along with seeing the impact the city government has on the infrastructure around town,” she said. “My internship here at the city has brought me so much joy and fulfillment. I hope to be back again next year.”

Assistant City Engineer Kyle Anderson said Katwyk has made an important contribution to the department during a busy construction season.

“Nia has been able to provide valuable engineering support to our team,” Anderson said. “She is currently 3D modeling our stormwater utility network, which will give us invaluable data for future civil engineering project design and help us enhance local water quality.”

Anderson added that local internships provide lasting benefits for students and the community.

“There’s a difference between taking classes and applying that knowledge in real time,” he said. “Students who were previously part of this community want to see Sedro-Woolley succeed. They want to show up to work. They want to help. It’s a win-win for the students and the community.”

Katwyk hopes other students will take advantage of opportunities close to home.

“Do not be afraid to apply for or interview for things you’re not sure if you’re qualified for,” she said. “You never know what will happen, and any interview experience is good experience.”

Reflecting on her time back in her hometown, Katwyk said the internship has been especially meaningful.

“I’ve been telling people this is my dream job,” she said. “It has been an amazing opportunity to have an impact in my hometown and to be involved in the local government here.”

The Sedro-Woolley School District uses the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) to help keep students and staff safe during emergencies. The SRP provides consistent language and clear actions for responding to a wide range of situations, from severe weather to intruders.

The SRP outlines five key actions:

• Hold: “In Your Room or Area” — used when hallways must stay clear.

• Lockout: “Secure the Perimeter” — used when a threat is outside the building. Classes continue as normal inside.

• Lockdown: “Locks, Lights, Out of Sight” — used when a threat is inside the building. Doors are locked, lights are turned off, and students stay quiet and out of sight.

• Evacuate: Always followed by a location — used to move students and staff to a safer place.

• Shelter: Always followed by a type and method — used for protection from events such as severe weather.

By using the same vocabulary and procedures, students, staff, first responders and families can respond more effectively and calmly during an incident.

What Families Should Know During a Lockdown
If a lockdown occurs, it may be initiated by law enforcement or school administrators. The district follows a step-by-step process that includes securing the building, working with law enforcement, and notifying families. Updates are sent first by email and text via our district communication system (be sure your contact information is up to date) and then posted to district social media for the general community. Please know that communication can be delayed and that if your child is on scene with access to a cell phone, they could be relaying information faster than we're able to communicate as it's being relayed to us via law enforcement.

During a lockdown, parents will not be able to enter the school until the all-clear is given. While it can be stressful to wait, these measures help ensure all students are accounted for and safe.

Reunification
In some emergencies, students may need to be picked up at a reunification site. Parents and guardians will be notified through official district communication. Students will only be released to authorized adults with identification. Families are encouraged to keep emergency contacts current and to be patient if reunification is required.

How Families Can Help

• Do not call or go to the school during an emergency — this can block emergency response efforts.

• Stay tuned to official district communication channels.

• Remind your student that staff are trained and prepared to keep them safe.

• If you see or hear something concerning, report it right away.

For more information, families can review the SRP webpage or contact their school principal with questions.

Together, we can keep our schools safe and ready for learning.

Meet teachers, tour buildings, complete paperwork, and get connected!

• SWHS Open House, 5–6:30 p.m.

September 11
• State Street High School Open House, 3–5 p.m.

September 18
• Lyman Back-to-School Parade, 6–6:15 p.m.
• Lyman Open House, 6:15–7 p.m.

October 7
• Good Beginnings Preschool Open House, 5:30–6 p.m.

*Road construction is underway at Township and McGarigle Roads. Please use Fruitdale Road and enter from the east.

It’s not too late to register your child for sixth grade band, choir, or orchestra for the 2025–26 school year!

➡️ Register here: www.tinyurl.com/swsdmusic25

These programs give students a head start in their middle school music education while building teamwork, discipline, and a lifelong love of music.

Class details:

• Classes meet at Cascade Middle School before elementary school starts from 7:38–8:34 a.m. (or 8:40–9:24 a.m. on late-start Wednesdays).

• Students may ride a middle school bus from their neighborhood or be dropped off by families at Cascade.

• After class, students are transported by bus to their elementary schools in time for the regular school day.

Important note: Participation is a year-long commitment because of concerts, fundraising, uniforms, instruments, and end-of-year festivals.

For questions about specific programs, please contact:

• Band: Kyler Brumbaugh — kbrumbaugh@swsd101.org

• Choir: Stephanie Cates — scates@swsd101.org

• Orchestra: Poul Brask — pbrask@swsd101.org

We encourage all interested students to join—there’s still time to sign up!

• Good Beginnings Preschool: September 15
• Transition to K: October 1

Make sure your middle or high school student is signed up for sports through Final Forms.

Unfortunately, the high school is unable to offer reduced-cost sports physicals this year. Please make sure you make an appointment with your student's doctor as soon as possible or visit the PeaceHealth Walk-In Clinic at United General. Please note, Sports Physicals are not typically covered by insurance.

• September 5 – State Street High School

• September 23 – Central
• September 30 – Evergreen
• October 2 – Good Beginnings Preschool

• October 3 - Cascade Middle School
• October 7 – Mary Purcell
• October 8 – Samish
• October 9 – Lyman
• October 21 – Big Lake & Clear Lake

If your student is new or if your address has changed, please complete the Transportation Form below so we can plan your bus route.

👉 Click here to fill out the Transportation Form

📞 Questions? Call 360-855-3504 after August 4

📧 jzimmerman@swsd101.org

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

Looking for a place to practice, perform, or learn? Join Sedro-Woolley Arts & Music Performance (The SWAMP)—a music community sponsored by the Sedro-Woolley Y.M.C.A. Teen Center. Whether you're a beginner or ready to take the stage, The SWAMP offers a space to grow and connect with fellow musicians.

📧 Email theswampWA@gmail.com for more info!

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 7:20 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 remaining exceptions is June 10, 2026, which 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 4–5 Transition to K to Sixth Grade at ALL Elementary Schools

November 6–7 Transition to K to 12th Grade at ALL Schools

November 26 Transition to K to 12th Grade at ALL Schools

March 12–13 Transition to K to 12th Grade at ALL Schools

Good Beginnings Preschool Non-School Days
Every Friday

June 12, 2026 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:
February 13 and May 22 are possible make-up days for inclement weather. 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 15, 2026.

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.

Free breakfast and lunch meals for ALL students will continue for the 2025-2026 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!

Club Hoop

Registration now open

Ages: Kindergarten-3rd grade (now accepting limited 4th grade)

Contact: clubhoopk3@gmail.com

Gateway to Golf – Junior League

In Honor of Rudy Franolovich & Gene Murray

For Boys & Girls | Grades K–8

Join us for a fun and supportive introduction to golf! Build skills, confidence, and friendships — no experience needed.

When: Sundays, September 14 – October 12

Time: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Where: Avalon Golf Course – Driving Range & Practice Facilities

Cost: $60 per player (Includes 5 weekly sessions)

Volunteer Facilitators: Gabe Wilson & Jenny Swanson

Questions? Email: gateway2golf@gmail.com

Also Coming Soon: Gateway to Golf – Junior Spring League!

*Dates to be announced. Stay tuned!*

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 Opens April 1st and closes May 31st for fall season.

Practices will start end of July.

www.swyfl.org

Football and Cheer Questions: contact@swyfl.org

SWYF&C Facebook Page

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

**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/

Interim Superintendent — Brian Isakson

Assistant Superintendent of Business & Operations - Brett Greenwood

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: District Office (801 Trail Road, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284) or as announced via the website.

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