Last Day of School – Early Dismissal Reminder

Tomorrow marks the last day of school for the 2025–26 school year in the Kent School District. As we close out another successful year, we want to thank our students, staff, families, and community for their continued partnership and support. Together as OneKSD, we have celebrated growth, achievement, and connection across all schools.

Please note that tomorrow is a 3-hour early dismissal for all students.

We wish all of our families a safe, restful, and enjoyable summer break. We look forward to welcoming students back for the first day of school on August 26, 2026, for the start of the 2026–27 school year.

🎉 Celebrating Our National Board Certified Teachers 🎉

We are proud to recognize ten exceptional educators who have earned National Board Certification, one of the highest professional credentials available to teachers. This accomplishment reflects their commitment to excellence, continuous professional growth, and student achievement.

Congratulations to:

• Emily Abrams — Generalist/Middle Childhood

• Alyxandria Crosier — Reading-Language Arts/Early and Middle Childhood

• Sarah Gonzales — Science/Early Adolescence

• Kristin Mazder — Exceptional Needs Specialist/Early Childhood Through Young Adulthood

• Taylor Sarmiento — Generalist/Middle Childhood

• Ruth Smith — Science/Adolescence and Young Adulthood

• Emily Stentz — Generalist/Middle Childhood

• Jessica Swanson — Literacy: Reading-Language Arts/Early and Middle Childhood

• Katherine Walsh — Literacy: Reading-Language Arts/Early and Middle Childhood

• Lynn Wells — Literacy: Reading-Language Arts/Early and Middle Childhood

National Board Certification is a voluntary, rigorous process that recognizes accomplished teaching practices and a deep commitment to student learning. We are grateful for the impact these educators make every day in our classrooms and school communities.

Please join us in congratulating these outstanding teachers on this remarkable achievement!

Kent School District proudly congratulates Brian J. Smith, Director of Athletics and Activities, on being recognized by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) as a Certified Master Athletic Administrator. 👏🏆

This prestigious distinction recognizes Brian’s exemplary leadership, professional contributions, and commitment to ongoing growth in the field of interscholastic athletic administration. The certification process includes a comprehensive evaluation of educational background, experience, leadership, professional involvement, and completion of a practical written project.

Brian joins an elite group of athletic administrators nationwide who have achieved this highest level of certification.

We are grateful for Brian’s dedication to supporting student-athletes, activities programs, and educational excellence across Kent School District. Congratulations on this outstanding achievement!

📚 Kindergarten Registration Reminder 📚

Kindergarten registration for the 2026-27 school year is open!

If your child will be 5 years old by August 31, 2026, now is the time to enroll and begin preparing for an exciting year of learning, growth, and new experiences.

At OneKSD, we look forward to welcoming our newest students and partnering with families as they begin their educational journey.

Families can complete the online enrollment process by visiting the Kindergarten Registration page on the district website.

We can't wait to meet the Class of 2039! 💙

Kent School District has received clean Accountability, Finance, and Federal Grant Program audits from the Washington State Auditor’s Office for the period of Sept. 1, 2024, through Aug. 31, 2025. These mark seven consecutive clean audits the district has received. 

According to the Washington State Auditor’s Office, “District operations complied, in all material respects, with applicable state laws, regulations, and its own policies, and provided adequate controls over the safeguarding of public resources.”

The independent accountability audit reviewed multiple operational and financial areas identified as having the highest potential risk for fraud, loss, abuse, or noncompliance. Areas examined included payroll procedures, procurement practices, budget compliance, Associated Student Body activities, information technology security controls, open public meetings compliance, and oversight of restricted funds and enrichment activities.

“We appreciate the professionalism and dedication of our staff in maintaining strong financial practices and accountability systems that support student success and public trust,” said Kent School District leadership.

The full audit report from the Washington State Auditor’s Office is available online.

🚍👏 Big news for Kent School District!

The Kent School District has been recognized by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) and the Washington State Patrol (WSP) with a Letter of Achievement for outstanding school bus safety—for the second year in a row!

This honor reflects the hard work and dedication of our transportation team, who ensure students travel safely to and from school and activities every day.

Thank you to our incredible staff for your commitment to keeping students safe. 💛🚌

Teacher Appreciation Week Spotlight: High School Educators

As we continue Teacher Appreciation Week, we are proud to recognize the exceptional high school teachers across our district.

High school educators play a vital role in preparing students for life beyond graduation. Through rigorous instruction, mentorship, and support, they help students develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed for success in college, careers, and beyond.

This work reflects the core of OneKSD—a unified commitment to ensuring every student is prepared for a bright and successful future.

We thank our high school teachers for their dedication, expertise, and the meaningful impact they make in the lives of our students every day.

Follow along as we continue to celebrate educators across our district throughout the week.

Teacher Appreciation Week Spotlight: Middle School Educators

As Teacher Appreciation Week continues, we are proud to recognize the dedicated middle school teachers across our district.

Middle school is a critical time of growth and change, and our educators play an essential role in supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. Through their guidance, students build independence, strengthen their skills, and begin to discover their unique strengths and interests.

This important work reflects the spirit of OneKSD—a shared commitment to fostering connection, belonging, and opportunity for every student.

We thank our middle school teachers for their dedication, care, and the meaningful impact they make each day.

Continue following along as we celebrate educators across our district throughout the week.

Teacher Appreciation Week Kickoff: Celebrating Our Elementary Educators

We’re proud to kick off Teacher Appreciation Week by recognizing the outstanding elementary teachers across our district.

Our elementary educators play a vital role in shaping each student’s journey—building strong foundations in learning while fostering curiosity, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Their classrooms are places where students feel supported, valued, and inspired to grow.

This work reflects the heart of OneKSD—a shared commitment to connection, collaboration, and ensuring every student has access to meaningful, high-quality learning experiences.

Thank you to our elementary teachers for your dedication, care, and the lasting impact you make in the lives of our students every day.

Be sure to follow along throughout the week as we continue to celebrate educators across our district.

Kent School District Seeking Candidates for School Board Director District 1

At the April 22, 2026, regular board meeting, the Kent School District Board of Directors accepted Mr. Andy Song’s resignation from his position as a Kent School Board director effective April 22, 2026. Mr. Song was elected to represent Director District 1 in November 2023.

We sincerely thank him for his service and commitment to successfully preparing all students for their futures.

The Kent School Board is seeking candidates for the vacant board position representing Director District 1. This is not a paid position. The opportunity to submit an application is open on Friday, April 24, 2026, until May 15, 2026, 5:00 p.m.

To meet the requirements for board members, an applicant must:

• Be a United States citizen.

• Be at least 18 years of age.

• Have a permanent residence within the boundaries of Director District 1.

• Be a registered voter and provide a copy of their voter registration card prior to the application deadline.

• Not hold another incompatible public office position.

Interested parties should apply and all applications are due no later than 5:00 p.m., Friday, May 15, 2026. Applications will be reviewed and candidates selected on Wednesday, May 20 in an executive session/special meeting. Interviews will be held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in the KSD Boardroom located at the KSD Administrative Center.

Access the online application form to complete an application.  

Applications are accepted online only.

For information about the school board and its duties and responsibilities, visit the Kent School District School Board webpage.

SCHEDULE (subject to change)

• Board Announces Vacancy: Wednesday, April 22, 2026

• Application Opens: Friday, April 24, 2026

• Application Closes: Friday, May 15, 2026, 5:00 p.m.

• Applications Reviewed: Wednesday, May 20, 2026 

• Public Interviews/Selection: Tuesday, June 9, 2026

• Regular Board Meeting: Wednesday, June 10, 2026 (candidate not sworn in, but attendance recommended)

• Prospective Director/Director Elect Paperwork: June 10-23, 2026

• Candidate Sworn In: Wednesday, June 24, 2026, 6:30 p.m.

APPLICATION QUESTIONS

If you have any questions regarding the application, email KSDBoardVacancy@kent.k12.wa.us.

VOTER CARD AND/OR DIRECTOR DISTRICT BOUNDARY QUESTIONS

If you need to obtain a copy of your voter card and/or need to verify that your address falls within the boundaries for Director District 1, contact King County Elections office at (206) 296-8683.

DIRECTOR DISTRICT 1 APPOINTMENT TERM

The appointment term for Director District 1 candidate begins on June 24, 2026, and ends at the beginning of the December 8, 2027, regular board meeting. 

DIRECTOR DISTRICT 1 ELECTION TERM

It is important to note 2027 is the election year for Director District 1.  Any qualifying persons interested in holding the seat for a four-year term, including the appointed board director, must submit their Declaration of Candidacy during Candidate Filing Week with the King County Elections office. Candidate Filing Week opens in May 2027. The Candidate Filing Week dates are not posted yet for 2027. If three or more candidates file for this position during Candidate Filing Week, the race will appear in the August 2027 Primary Election. If there are two candidates or less, the race will skip the Primary, and candidates will automatically advance to the General Election in November 2027.

RCW 28A.343.370 is the statutory provision related to the filling of board vacancies. 

Consistent with Washington State law (RCW 28A.343.370) and the State Board of Education regulations, the selection and appointment for the vacant board position will be made by the incumbent Board members.

RCW 28A.343.370 is the statutory provision related to the filling of board vacancies.  The relevant provisions require that:

a)     A majority of the legally established number of board members shall fill such vacancy by appointment;

b)     Should the Board fail to fill the vacancy within ninety (90) days from “the creation of such vacancy,” the members of the Puget Sound ESD Board shall fill the vacancy by majority vote;      

c)     All appointees to fill vacancies shall meet the legal requirements for school directors;

d)     The appointee shall serve until the next regular school district election, at which time a successor shall be elected for the unexpired term; and

e)     The board member who has submitted a resignation may not vote on the selection of his or her replacement.

Lake Youngs Elementary recently held its annual Grizzly Challenge, bringing together students, families, and staff in support of their school community.

Facilitated by the Lake Youngs PTSA, students gathered sponsors and tracked time spent reading and exercising—raising more than $37,000. After surpassing their schoolwide goal, students celebrated with the opportunity to slime the principal.

This event reflects the OneKSD commitment to building strong partnerships and supporting student success through engaging and meaningful experiences.

On April 3, River Ridge Elementary hosted a Tunnel of HOPE to celebrate scholars and the bright futures ahead.

As a Kids at HOPE school, River Ridge Elementary is grounded in the belief that every child can succeed—no exceptions. During the event, students walked through a tunnel of cheering staff, families, and community members, experiencing encouragement and support from those who believe in their potential.

This meaningful moment reflects the OneKSD commitment to ensuring every student feels known, supported, and inspired to succeed.

Reminder: No School on Friday, April 17

Friday, April 17 is now a scheduled day off for all students. This date was originally set aside as a potential make-up day for weather-related closures, but since no snow days were needed this year, school will not be in session.

We hope our students and families enjoy the long weekend. Thank you for being part of OneKSD!

April is Occupational Therapy Month, and we’re proud to recognize our dedicated Occupational Therapists across OneKSD.

Our OTs support students in developing essential skills for learning and independence, helping them fully participate in school each day. Through collaboration and individualized support, they make a meaningful difference in student success.

Thank you to our Occupational Therapists for the care, expertise, and commitment you bring to our schools.

Spring Break April 6–10

Kent School District schools will be closed for Spring Break from April 6–10. There will be no school for students during this time.

At OneKSD, we hope families enjoy a safe and restful break and look forward to welcoming students back ready to learn and grow.

Music in Our Schools Month – March

March is Music in Our Schools Month, and Kent School District is proud to celebrate the important role music plays in the lives of our students. Join us this month in recognizing the value of music and celebrating the talented students who bring it to life across OneKSD. 🎶💙

Thank you, Mayor Dana Ralph, for your continued partnership and for inspiring our students through the joy of reading! 💙📚#OneKSD

Due to deteriorating weather conditions and increasingly unsafe travel throughout the area, the Kent School District is closing for the remainder of the day. This closure includes all school buildings as well as the Administration Center.

As a result, Teacher Workshop Day is cancelled, and all afternoon and evening sports, activities, and events across the Kent School District are cancelled for Friday, March 13.

We encourage everyone to stay safe, avoid unnecessary travel, and take care of yourselves and your loved ones as conditions continue to worsen.

Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and understanding.

5th Annual Black Lives Matter Art Contest – 2026 Theme: Black Excellence

Kent School District invites student artists to participate in the 5th Annual Black Lives Matter Art Contest. This year’s theme, Black Excellence, celebrates the brilliance, resilience, and achievements of Black communities throughout time.

Students are encouraged to express what Black Lives Matter means to them through their creativity. Winning artwork will be featured on visual media across the district.

Submission Deadline: March 20, 2026

Submit digitally: https://forms.office.com/r/6Ubu1WWAzC

Mail original artwork to: KEA attn. KEoCN, 10427 SE 244th St, Kent, WA 98030

We look forward to seeing our students’ powerful voices and artistic talents on display. 🎨