Ensuring every student receives the support they need to succeed is a top priority for our district. However, the ongoing lack of adequate state funding for Special Education has placed a significant strain on our resources, impacting students, staff, and families. Recently, I had the opportunity to testify alongside education leaders from neighboring districts in support of House Bill (HB) 1310,
Kent School District
which seeks to address this critical funding gap. Below is an excerpt from my testimony, highlighting the urgency of this issue and our collective call for increased state support.
"Lack of state funding for Special Education has had a negative impact on our district’s General Fund. Over the last five years, our special education program has been underfunded by over $85M dollars. For 2024, the gap left to fill was nearly $25M dollars – this is equivalent to approximately 179 teachers.
I ask that you [Legislators] focus on significantly increasing the special education state funding in all the ways that you can. One strategy is increasing the tiered multipliers. Adequate funding of our special education programs will provide opportunities for all students in all the Washington State School Districts. Without adequate funding, our community has been left to fill the gap to meet the state’s obligations. With your partnership and leadership, we can ensure that each and every student in Washington State, specifically those with disabilities, have the resources they need to thrive today and in the future.”
Together, as a community, we can push for the necessary funding to provide equitable opportunities for all students, especially those with disabilities. As we continue building a strong foundation for student success, I am focused on three key priorities:
Position Control: Ensuring we have the right staff in the right places to serve our students best, maintaining financial stability while prioritizing student learning.
Family Engagement: Building strong partnerships between our schools and families to ensure every family feels connected to their child’s education.
Early Learning: Expanding and strengthening early learning programs to prepare our youngest learners for success.
These priorities reflect our unwavering commitment to students, families, and the future of KSD. We are dedicated to continuous systems improvement and providing every student with the opportunity to thrive.
We are OneClass, OneTeam, OneCommunity—united as OneKSD. Our district takes pride in celebrating the rich diversity that defines us, fostering a culture of collaboration, inclusion, and belonging. By working together with our community, we create an environment where every student, staff member, and family is valued and supported. Our schools and programs reflect not only the strength of our differences but also our shared commitment to empowering and uplifting one another.
In partnership,
Israel Vela, Superintendent
The Kent School District Board of Directors appointed Teresa Gregory as the new Board Director for District 4. Ms. Gregory was selected during a special board meeting in February to fill the vacant seat and officially took the Oath of Office on February 12. She will serve in this role until the board meeting on December 10, 2025.
As a newly appointed board director, Ms. Gregory will collaborate with fellow board members, district leadership, and the greater KSD community to support students, families, and schools. We welcome Director Gregory and look forward to her contributions in shaping the future of the Kent School District.
OneClass
KSD Students Exploring KSD Careers
Alison Landry, Nutrition Services Dietitian, had the exciting opportunity to inspire future professionals at Pine Tree Elementary’s Career Fair! As a Kids at Hope school, Pine Tree encourages students to "time travel" into their futures—imagining themselves thriving in their dream careers. Ms. Landry shared her journey in nutrition, helping students see the many possibilities ahead.
Park Orchard Elementary Earns Waste Reduction Badge for Sustainability Leadership
Park Orchard Elementary has been recognized with the Waste Reduction Badge for their outstanding commitment to sustainability. Their student team meets monthly to lead sustainability projects and educate peers during school assemblies. The school also celebrates “Students of the Week” who go above and beyond in keeping recycling clean, while student mentors help younger classmates learn proper composting, recycling, and waste disposal.
Sawyer Woods Green Team Explores Behind-the-Scenes Sustainability with Custodial Crew
Sawyer Woods Elementary’s Green Team took their curiosity to new heights—literally! When they noticed Head Custodian Ken Hoyle preparing HVAC filters, they asked to learn more. Mr. Hoyle and Buildings Operations Lead Leslie Kramer gave the students an exclusive tour of the school’s mechanical space in the "attic," sparking excitement about careers in environmental services. Their curiosity, enthusiasm, and engagement embody the spirit of lifelong learning. Thank you to the Environmental Services team for taking time to foster student interest and making sustainability a hands-on experience!
Celebrating Creativity: Kent Area PTA Reflections Shine
Last week, the Kentwood High School auditorium buzzed with excitement as the Kent Area Council PTSA hosted its annual Reflections cultural arts competition reception. This year's theme, "Accepting Imperfection," inspired students to explore and express their creativity across various categories, including Visual Arts, Photography, Literature, Music Composition, Dance Choreography, and Film Production.
The theme resonated deeply, encouraging young artists to embrace their unique perspectives and celebrate the beauty in imperfection. With over 70 entries from 18 schools—double the number of participating schools compared to last year—the competition showcased an impressive array of talent.
A heartfelt thank you to Kim Wells and Jennifer Ritchie for their unwavering dedication to making this event possible. Their efforts have undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the students and the community, inspiring future generations to continue exploring and expressing their creativity.
OneTeam
Cultivating Educators: KSD’s “Grow Your Own” Program Thrives
Kent School District’s (KSD) innovative “Grow Your Own” program continues to pave the way for staff to achieve their teaching certificates through alternative routes. The seventh cohort of aspiring teachers is currently immersed in their student teaching, with 21 KSD employees expected to graduate with their teaching certification by the end of May.
Since 2018, the program has successfully graduated 100 teachers, particularly in hard-to-fill areas, addressing critical needs within the district. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the program’s effectiveness and the dedication of those involved.
A special shoutout to our Professional Development staff for their efforts in building strong partnerships with colleges and universities. These collaborations have been instrumental in providing staff with the opportunities to grow and succeed in their educational careers.
The “Grow Your Own” program not only empowers KSD employees but also strengthens the district’s commitment to fostering a supportive and dynamic learning environment.
Celebrating Excellence: Marisabel Curtis Named Kent School District Teacher of the Year
We are thrilled to announce that Marisabel “Sabella” Curtis, a proud graduate of our “Grow Your Own” program, has been named the Kent School District Teacher of the Year! Ms. Curtis embodies the mission, vision, values, and goals of the Kent School District. She began her journey with us in 2021 as an paraeducator at Park Orchard Elementary School. In 2022, she transitioned to Scenic Hill, where she now serves as a kindergarten dual language teacher.
Ms. Curtis is dedicated to fostering language development, cultural awareness, and a love for learning in the early formative years. She immerses her students in a bilingual world, instilling an appreciation for language and culture. Her commitment to building strong relationships with students and families is evident in her daily interactions.
Beyond her classroom, Ms. Curtis collaborates with colleagues to share best practices and align instruction. She also promotes a culture of health and community within the school. A heartfelt thank you to Director Clark for joining members of our HR staff, KEA leaders, and the Scenic Hill leadership team and staff in celebrating this remarkable achievement. Congratulations, Ms. Curtis, on this well-deserved honor!
OneCommunity
Communities in Schools Partnership to Support Students
Communities in Schools (CIS) is a community-based organization dedicated to working alongside schools, students, and families. Their mission aligns with KSD's priority initiatives, focusing on providing comprehensive support to students who are most at risk of dropping out. This collaboration is not just about academic success; it's about nurturing the whole child and removing barriers to learning.
CIS coordinates interventions tailored to the unique needs of each student. These interventions include mentoring programs that connect students with positive role models who provide guidance, support, and encouragement. They also partner with community service agencies to provide students with essential resources, from basic needs to mental health support.
The partnership between CIS and Kent School District extends beyond the classroom. It involves the entire community, including parents, teachers, and local organizations, all working together to create a nurturing environment for our students. This collective effort ensures that every student has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.
To celebrate and learn more about this impactful partnership, we invite you to the Communities in Schools South King County Breakfast for the Kids. This event will be held on March 14 at Canyon Ridge Middle School. Come see how we are working together to support our students and how you can get involved in this meaningful cause.
Join us for a Community Connect: Chat with the Superintendent next Tuesday, March 11. We look forward to connecting with members of our community. #OneCommunity #OneKSD
When: Tuesday, March 11
Time: 5:00-6:00 p.m.
Where: River Ridge Elementary Multipurpose Room, 22420 Military Rd S, SeaTac
