News and Events
The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) has introduced the SUN Bucks Summer EBT Program to support families with school-age children. Each eligible child will receive a one-time payment of $120 in food benefits on a dedicated SUN Bucks card. This initiative aims to ensure that students have access to nutritious meals throughout the summer months.
How to Access SUN Bucks:
- Eligibility and Enrollment: Families already enrolled in benefits like SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR will automatically enroll their school-age children in SUN Bucks if the program is available in their area. Additionally, children attending schools that offer the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program may also be automatically enrolled if they meet the income requirements for free or reduced-price meals.
- Application Process: If not automatically enrolled, families can apply directly for SUN Bucks by meeting the necessary income limits and other requirements.
- Benefit Distribution: SUN Bucks will be issued from mid-June through the end of August 2024. Once qualified, families will receive an approval notice and a SUN Bucks EBT card within seven to 10 business days via U.S. Mail.
- Expiration: Benefits expire 122 days from issuance, so it's important to use SUN Bucks before they are removed.
For detailed information and additional questions about S-EBT benefits, families can visit the DSHS SUN Bucks webpage at: https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sunbucks or call the S-EBT Contact Center at (833) 543-3230 between 8 am and 5 pm Monday–Friday (except observed holidays). Schools are encouraged to share this information with families through communication channels such as social media, emails, and other outreach methods. By spreading the word, we can ensure that families and communities who qualify for the free lunch program are well-informed and can benefit from this vital support.
Together, let's ensure that our students have a healthy and nutritious summer!
We are delighted to share the resounding success of our recent Parent Education Series event, where families had the opportunity to explore the intricacies of navigating the Skyward Technology platform with expert guidance. This event was a testament to our commitment to supporting families in their educational journey and empowering them with the tools and resources they need to thrive.
The Parent Education Series event was designed to provide families with comprehensive insights into the Skyward Technology platform, a vital tool for staying connected and engaged with their child's academic progress. From accessing grades and assignments to communicating with teachers, Skyward plays a crucial role in facilitating parent-school collaboration and enhancing student success.
At the heart of this event were our dedicated Community Liaisons, whose tireless efforts ensured a fantastic turnout and provided invaluable assistance to numerous families. Their passion for serving our community and commitment to fostering strong parent-school partnerships were evident throughout the event.
Through informative presentations, hands-on demonstrations, and interactive Q&A sessions, families gained a deeper understanding of the Skyward platform's features and functionalities. They learned how to navigate the system with ease, leverage its resources effectively, and make the most of its capabilities to support their child's academic journey.
The event also served as a platform for families to connect with one another, share experiences, and build a supportive network within our school community. By coming together to learn and collaborate, families reaffirmed their commitment to their child's education and demonstrated the power of collective engagement.
As we reflect on the success of the Parent Education Series event, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to our Community Liaisons for their unwavering dedication and exemplary service. Their leadership and guidance were instrumental in making this event a meaningful and impactful experience for all involved.
Moving forward, we remain committed to providing ongoing support and resources to empower families in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of education technology. Together, we will continue to strengthen our partnership between home and school, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
In a stirring tribute to Black History Month, students from Showalter Middle School and Rainier Beach High School embarked on a poignant journey through the Northwest African American Museum (NAAM), accompanied by Seattle Seahawks player, Matt Gotel. This meaningful field trip not only celebrated the rich tapestry of African American heritage but also provided a profound opportunity for reflection, education, and cultural exchange.
The museum's exhibits offered a window into the diverse experiences and contributions of African Americans throughout history. In the words of the museum:
"In 'Freedom of Expression,' the Northwest African American Museum features a variety of rotating talented artists. This exhibit showcases the strength and range of visual artistic expression produced by artists of African descent residing in the Pacific Northwest."
"In 'Positive Frequencies,' artists delve deeper into the profound impact of music on our lives. Through these intricate mixed media pieces, they aim to capture the essence of different musical genres, representing the diverse array of emotions and experiences they evoke."
"Making a Way: The Jacob Lawrence and the Northwest Black Experience" offers a compelling journey through pivotal moments in Black history, as reflected in the classic work of Jacob Lawrence.
Accompanied by Matt Gotel, students engaged in meaningful dialogue and reflection, drawing inspiration from his personal journey and experiences.
As the field trip coincided with the start of Black History Month, it served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing quest for justice, equality, and inclusion. Through education, dialogue, and shared experiences, students were empowered to become agents of change in their communities and beyond.
As we continue to honor Black History Month beyond the month of February, let us reaffirm our commitment to celebrating the richness and diversity of African American culture. May this catalyze meaningful conversations, transformative learning experiences, and a renewed dedication to building a more equitable and inclusive society.
In the spirit of fostering unity and celebrating diversity, Showalter Middle School commenced the new year with a powerful event - the Week of Solidarity in January. This impactful celebration not only ignited inspiring visions for a just world but also seamlessly transitioned into a heartfelt observance of Black History Month.
Showalter Middle School recognizes the invaluable contributions of our students, who serve as architects of positive change. Their diverse perspectives weave a rich tapestry that defines the essence of our community. The Week of Solidarity stood as a poignant reminder of our steadfast commitment to nurturing inclusivity and acknowledging the strength inherent in our differences.
As we delve into Black History Month, we take a moment to pay homage to the past, acknowledging the remarkable contributions of Black leaders who paved the way for positive change. Our students, with their distinct visions and voices, embody the spirit of future leaders poised to shape a world marked by equality, understanding, and unity.
Join us in celebrating the spirit of solidarity at Showalter Middle School. As we honor Black History Month, let's collectively champion a future where every voice is heard, every perspective is valued, and positive change becomes our shared legacy.
Our recent Newcomer Family Night at Showalter Middle School was an unforgettable evening filled with warm welcomes, connections, and support. Newcomer families were introduced to our community with open arms, delicious food, and a chance to meet fellow students, parents, and staff. We provided books and clothing to meet essential needs, and families received guidance on our district's systems, processes, and software, ensuring a smooth transition into their educational journey. A special shoutout to our Multilingual Learners (MLL) team for their dedication. This night was a celebration of new beginnings, unity, and the strength of diversity in our community. We look forward to witnessing our newcomer families thrive and become an integral part of our vibrant district. Thank you to everyone who made this night truly special. Your presence and enthusiasm were a testament to the strength of our inclusive community. Together, we are creating a brighter future for our newcomer families, ensuring they have all the support and resources they need to succeed. Our commitment to fostering an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and welcomed is unwavering. We're excited about the bright future ahead, and we're here to help our newcomers embrace it with open arms.