Legislative News Legislative Update: Significant events in Olympia lately have included the release of Governor Gregoire’s proposed budget, which would restore many programs that would have been reduced or eliminated under the initial “all cuts” budget proposed in December. To fund those programs that she would restore (which include some but not all of the cuts to k-12 education in the “all cuts” budget) the Governor has proposed a series of tax increases and/or closing of loopholes (depending on one’s perspective). To facilitate the proposed revenue legislation, the House this week joined the Senate in suspending the procedural requirements of I-960, and action that WSPTA reluctantly supported because two much more popular initiatives—I-728 and I-732—had already been suspended. Both the Senate and House are expected to release their proposed budgets and possible revenue proposals early next week. The other big news for this weekend is the series of Town Hall meetings that are being held in legislative districts around the state. The focus of these meetings will be on the budget and potential revenue legislation, but there will also be an opportunity to remind legislators about the importance of following through on HB 2261 and on the Race to the Top legislation. Remember to stay involved! Contact your legislators and let them know your thoughts. They want to hear from you. You can make a difference! To find out who your legislators are visit: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/DistrictFinder/ http://www.wastatepta.org/advocacy/session_2010/Grassroots/grassroots_1_23_10.pdf
For an update on Washington State’s 2010 Legislative Session and what the WSPTA is keeping an eye on visit:
Nourish Every Mind—What’s All the Fuss About?
Curious about the Nourish Every Mind Luncheon? Find out why the Foundation’s Luncheon is one of the most popular and well-attended social events of the year. Join us at Nourish Every Mind 2010, Thursday, May 13 from
Want to become more involved? Become a Nourish Every Mind Table Captain. Our first-ever Table Captain Kick-Off Party is Thursday, March 18 at the District Office, so hurry and add your name to the list. Contact Michelle Weldon at mweldon@issaquahschoolsfoundation.org.
Overwhelming Response to Call for Grant Submissions
The dedication and commitment of ISD teachers and staff was evident by the number of Academic Enrichment Grant applications submitted this year. Sixty-one grant applications were received by the Foundation—divided almost equally between Kateri Brow (up to $10,000 ) and Classroom Enrichment ($1,000 or less) requests. Winners will be announced in March. Check the Foundation website, www.issaquahschoolsfoundation.org/grants for more information.
Can You Give One Hour a Week to Change a Life?
Then the VOICE Mentor Program needs you. VOICE, a mentoring/tutoring program funded by the Foundation and the District, matches students in need with caring adults or high school students who can provide one-to-one academic and social support. Please contact Susie Gierke, VOICE Director at 425-837-7139 or voice@issaquah.wednet.edu to apply.
After-School Homework Labs and Clubs are Here to Assist Your Student
Remind your student to use the Foundation’s FREE After-School Homework Clubs and Labs at middle and high schools. Both offer teacher assisted tutoring in the core areas of math and science. Contact your school for its After-School Homework Club/Lab schedule.
Visit the ISF website for more information
http://www.issaquahschoolsfoundation.org/
Thank you to all the voters who said YES, YES, YES for all three of our levies!
Thank you to all of the community members, parents, staff, and students who worked on the VIS campaign! This levy passed because of all of their hard work and dedication to our students and our schools.
VIS is an organization that exists even during non-levy and bond years and is always seeking volunteers and donations to prepare for the next campaign.
To continue to help, please go to www.visvote.org to donate and/or sign up to volunteer.