District newsletter
September 25, 2025
Small Absences Add Up
Missing just 2 days a month = 18+ days a year
That’s nearly a full month of missed instruction.
This is chronic absence—and it can start as early as kindergarten. Research shows it makes it harder to:
📖 Learn to read by third grade
📈 Keep up in middle school
🎓 Graduate high school
In 2025–2026, let’s commit to showing up every day—to build strong routines, strong learners, and strong futures.
#AttendanceMatters #EmpoweringDreams #RootedInSW #EveryStudentEveryDay
Upcoming Events
School Events
Here are some important dates and events happening across the Sedro-Woolley School District!
September 30
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Evergreen Elementary – Picture Day
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Samish Elementary – Watchdog Pizza Night, 6–7 p.m.
October 1
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All Schools: One-Hour Late Start (Professional Development)
First Day of Transition to Kindergarten classes (formerly Foundations K)
October 2
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Good Beginnings Preschool – Picture Day
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Mary Purcell Elementary – Hispanic Heritage Night
HIV/Aids & Human Growth & Development Curriculum 5:30 p.m. SWHS Library
October 3
- Cascade Middle School - Picture Day
October 6
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Lyman Elementary – Parent Group Meeting, 6 p.m.
October 7
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Mary Purcell Elementary – Picture Day
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Big Lake Elementary – Fire Safety Day (Big Lake Fire Department)
Good Beginnings Preschool – Open House, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
October 8
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All Schools: One-Hour Late Start (Professional Development)
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Samish Elementary – Picture Day
October 9
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Lyman Elementary – Picture Day
October 11
- SWHS Homecoming: Deck the Den 9 a.m.–5 p.m. SWHS Cafeteria
- SWHS Homecoming: Powder Puff 6:30 p.m. SWHS Stadium
- SWHS Homecoming: Buff Puff 7:30 p.m. SWHS Gymnasium
October 13
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School Board Meeting, 6 p.m. (Samish Elementary, 23953 Prairie Road, Sedro-Woolley)
October 15
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All Schools: One-Hour Late Start (Professional Development)
SWHS Homecoming: Community Chili Feed 5:30–7 p.m. SWHS Cafeteria
SWHS Homecoming: Lip Sync & Queen Coronation 7 p.m. SWHS Gymnasium
October 16
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Lyman Elementary – Family Math & Reading Night, 6–7:30 p.m.
- SWHS Homecoming Parade 5:45 p.m.
- SWHS Homecoming Game vs. Mount Vernon High School 7 p.m. SWHS Stadium
- Homecoming Dance 7:30–10:30 p.m.
- $15 with ASB card (pre-purchased at ASB office); $25 at the door **Guest Registration forms are required for non-registered SWHS students to attend a SWHS dance, and are available for pickup outside the ASB office
October 21
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Clear Lake Elementary – Picture Day
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Big Lake Elementary – Picture Day
October 22
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All Schools: One-Hour Late Start (Professional Development)
October 24
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Samish Elementary – Harvest Bash, 6–8 p.m.
October 24
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Cascade Middle School – School Play, Old Cafeteria, 7 p.m.
October 25
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Cascade Middle School – School Play, Old Cafeteria, 7 p.m.
October 27
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School Board Meeting, 6 p.m. (District Office, 801 Trail Road, Sedro-Woolley)
October 29
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All Schools: One-Hour Late Start (Professional Development)
October 31
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Lyman Elementary – Wildcat Assembly, 10 a.m.
Cascade Middle School - Costume Dance 2:30–4 p.m.
Recognitions & Observances
September 15–October 15
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National Hispanic Heritage Month – Celebrating the rich heritage and contributions of Hispanic Americans. Learn more: www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov
September 27
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Public Lands Day
October 2
- School Custodian Appreciation Day
October 5–11
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Fire Prevention Week
October 13
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Canadian Thanksgiving / Columbus Day / Discoverers’ Day / Indigenous Peoples’ Day
October 13–17
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National School Lunch Week
October 20–24
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National School Bus Safety Week
October 31
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Halloween
Empowering Dreams. Rooted in Community.
Drew Aungst
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 Drew Aungst, those deep roots start with a Sedro-Woolley education. He attended Clear Lake Elementary, Cascade Middle School, and Sedro-Woolley High School before moving on to pursue his career. Some of his favorite memories from his school days include Friday night football games and the sense of unity that came with wearing the Cub blue and white.
Drew remembers many teachers and coaches who left a lasting impact, but one of the most influential was his high school football coach, who taught him not only about the game but about accountability, hard work, and leadership. Those lessons, he says, have served him well in every stage of life.
After time away, Drew returned to Sedro-Woolley for one reason above all: the people.
“The community is so supportive and close-knit. There’s nothing like coming back to a place where people truly care about each other,” he says.
Now working as a teacher in the district, Drew is proud to give back to the town that shaped him.
“I want our students to know that this is a place where they can dream big and where there’s a whole community ready to help them succeed.”
For Drew, Sedro-Woolley’s core hasn’t changed over the years.
“We still rally around our kids, our schools, and each other,” he says. “That’s what makes this community so strong.”
How has Sedro-Woolley shaped you?
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.
Rooms
A New, Easier Way to Log In to Rooms
Starting next week, families will notice a new look when logging in to Rooms, our communication and learning platform. These updates are designed to make things simpler and to clearly show you that you’re in the right place with Sedro-Woolley School District.
What’s Changing:
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Emails from Rooms will look like us. Invitations to join Rooms will now include the Sedro-Woolley School District name and logo.
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Our website will have a direct sign-in button. Staff, students, and families can log in securely right from our district website with one click.
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A familiar look across web and app. Whether you’re on the web or using the app, you’ll see the Sedro-Woolley School District brand throughout your Rooms experience.
When it’s happening:
These updates will roll out in stages, but all families should see the new sign-in button and branded experience by the end of October.
Can I still log in the old way?
Yes! If you’ve bookmarked edurooms or Thrillshare, those links will still work. We recommend using the new sign-in button on our website for the easiest, most seamless experience.
Questions?
If you need help or have questions about these changes, please email swsdcoms@swsd101.org.
Why download the app?
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One place for all school communication (no more multiple apps).
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Automatic translation into your preferred language.
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Safe, secure, and easy to use.
How to get started:
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Download the Sedro-Woolley SD app:
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App Store (iPhone/iPad)
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Google Play (Android)
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On the app, at the bottom, you'll see “Rooms.” Tap the link.
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Sign in using the phone number or email that received the invite. If your invite has expired, email swsdcoms@swsd101.org and we can issue a new invitation. We will also continue sending out invites to those who haven't activated their accounts.
If you are unable to download the app, you can log into Thrillshare as a parent from a browser: http://edurooms.com/
Tip: Once signed in, you can adjust your notification settings in the app under More → Settings.
Step Back in Time at the Historical Association Open House on September 27
Explore local history at the Clear Lake Historical Association’s Open House on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Clear Lake Historical Association Hall (12635 Hwy 9, Clear Lake). Visitors can tour a reconstructed homestead cabin from the late 1800s, learn about its original builder and family, and see what’s been completed—and what’s planned—for this important piece of community history.
Cascade Middle School Presents “Dorothy in Wonderland” - October 24 & 25
What happens when Dorothy doesn’t return to Kansas, but instead lands in Wonderland? Join Cascade Middle School’s drama students as Dorothy, the Tin Man, Lion, and Scarecrow team up with Alice and other beloved characters to outwit the Queen of Hearts and set Wonderland right.
Performances will be held on Friday, October 24, and Saturday, October 25, at 7 p.m. on the stage in the old cafeteria on Township Street (parking available in the bus lanes or Admin Annex lots). Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person.
🎃 Halloween Spooktacular – Free Family Fun! October 18
Bring the whole family to the Halloween Spooktacular on Saturday, October 18, from 5–8 p.m. at 1901 Hoag Rd, Mount Vernon. Hosted by the Skagit Valley Family YMCA, this free event is packed with Halloween-themed fun for kids and parents alike.
Enjoy carnival games like witch hat ring toss, spider catapults, and cornhole; make Halloween-themed arts and crafts; and visit community resource booths. Costumes are encouraged, and no registration is required—just come ready for a spooktacular evening of fun!
Spooktacular Evening in Downtown Sedro-Woolley October 31
The City of Sedro-Woolley and the Sedro-Woolley Chamber of Commerce invite you to a Spooktacular Evening in Downtown Sedro-Woolley on Friday, October 31 at 4:30 p.m.
Enjoy trick-or-treating with local businesses, business decorating and costume contests, and don’t miss the kids’ costume contest at Hammer Heritage Square at 5 p.m.
Bring the whole family for a safe and festive night of Halloween fun in our downtown community!
MP Students Bring the Land of Oz to Life November 14 & 15
Mary Purcell Elementary School’s Booster Club is partnering with Class ACT to present all-new stories from the Land of Oz. Families are invited to enjoy the performances on Friday, November 14 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, November 15 at 2 p.m. in the Sedro-Woolley Auditorium. Admission is free!
Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund — Registration starts November 11
Registration — Will begin on Monday, November 11. There will be no phone registration this year.
Online Registration – See the following links for English or Spanish registration. This may be done on your phone or computer. THESE LINKS WILL NOT BE ACTIVE UNTIL NOVEMBER 11.
English Link: https://form.jotform.com/201646737303150
Spanish Link: https://form.jotform.com/240385421093149
Or fill out a registration form – See below under Forms. Select Register as a Recipient and print out the form. Forms may be dropped off at the Skagit County Fairgrounds, 1410 Virginia Street in Mount Vernon. This is the north entrance to the Fairgrounds.
SPONSOR PROGRAM — There will be a sponsor program this year. Please call the Christmas Fund at 360-419-7261 between November 6-19 to sponsor a family. The deadline to sponsor a family is November 20th.
TOY DONATIONS — New, unwrapped toys for boys and girls ages 0-17 years old may be dropped off at the Skagit County Fairgrounds, 1410 Virginia Street in Mount Vernon. This is the north entrance to the Fairground. Please call 360-419-7261 to make an appointment to drop off your gifts, or email christmasfund@skagitpublishing.com.
Toys may also be dropped off at the following locations between November 4th through December 6th:
Skagit Valley YMCA, 1901 Hoag Road, Mount Vernon. Hours: Monday - Friday 5 am- 9 pm, Saturday 7 am – 4 pm, Sunday 12 pm - 4 pm.
Honda of Burlington, 1615 Goldenrod Road, Burlington. Hours: Monday - Friday 8 am-6 pm, Saturday 9 am – 6 pm.
State Farm Insurance, 2705 Commercial Avenue, Anacortes. Hours: Monday-Friday 9 am-6pm, closed on Saturday & Sunday.
KNIT OR CROCHETED HATS AND SCARVES – May be dropped off at Wildfibers, 706 1st Street, Mt Vernon and Fidalgo Yarns, 711 Commercial Avenue, Anacortes.
DISTRIBUTION – Will be a drive through pick up for gift bags. Enter the Fairgrounds through the NORTH gate, 1410 Virginia Street in Mount Vernon.
Questions — call 360-419-7261 English or 360-419-7263 Spanish
Friends of Clear Lake Annual Christmas Bazaar - December 6
Kick off the holiday season at the Friends of Clear Lake’s Annual Christmas Bazaar! Enjoy a festive day of shopping and community fun with local vendors offering handmade gifts, holiday décor, treats and more. All are welcome.
Where: Clear Lake Elementary School, 23631 Lake Street, Clear Lake, WA 98235
When: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025 • 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
PeaceHealth Wellness Clinic Reopens at SWHS
The PeaceHealth Wellness Clinic at Sedro-Woolley High School reopened on September 16. This school-based health center is available to students at both State Street High School and Sedro-Woolley High School.
Clinic details:
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Location: Main hallway at Sedro-Woolley High School, across from the ASB office
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Expanded hours expected in October: Monday–Friday, 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
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Appointments: Call 360-856-7995 during clinic hours to schedule. Walk-ins may also be available.
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Providers: Two health care providers will be on site.
The clinic is run by PeaceHealth and offers services similar to what you would find at an urgent care clinic—right on campus for your convenience.
To use the clinic, students need to have a signed permission form on file. Families can download the consent form and registration form below and return it to the wellness office.
We are grateful to have this resource available again to support student health and wellness!
New to the District? Need Bus Transportation?
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.
📧 Or email: jzimmerman@swsd101.org
School Supply Lists
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
Important Links
Building Hours
2025-2026 Sedro-Woolley School District Building Hours
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.
Good Beginnings: Early Dismissal Days
Good Beginnings & Early Dismissals or 2-hour Late Starts for Inclement Weather
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.
Inclement Weather
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 & Lunch for ALL Students
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.
School Boundary Maps
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.
Bus Route Information
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 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
Box Tops
Log Your Digital Box Tops
Many of our schools are collecting box tops... digitally! Just scan your receipt and earn money for your school!
Non-District Youth Sports Information
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.
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.
Sedro-Woolley Youth Football and Cheer
Registration Opens April 1st and closes May 31st for fall season.
Practices will start end of July.
Football and Cheer Questions: contact@swyfl.org
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.
Sedro-Woolley SteelClaw Youth Wrestling Club
Folkstyle, Freestyle, and Greco wrestling. The club accepts both male and female wrestlers.
Questions: swsteelclawwrestling@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!
Volunteering in Our Schools
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.
Volunteer Handbook Printable Version (English)
Reporting Harassment, Intimidation or Bullying
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
District Information
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
School Board of Directors
The five school board members are chosen during November elections, or appointed, to serve overlapping terms of four years each.
Lindy Mullen Doyle (District 2)
Becky Taft (District 5)
Michelle Moser (District 3)
Board Meetings
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.