Handbook
Family and Student Handbook
- School Overview
- Hazelwood History
- Hazelwood Elementary PTSA General Information
- School Schedule
- Arrival/Dismissal Guidelines and Transportation
- Communication
- Health Information
- Nutrition Services
- Safety Concerns
- Recess Guidance
- Personal Items
- Dress Code
- Homework
- Celebrations & Class Parties
- Visitors and Volunteers
- Student Classroom Placement
- District Information
- Our School is Gender-Inclusive
- Our School Protect Students from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB)
- Our School Stands Against Discrimination
School Overview
Our Vision
We inspire a love of learning and help every student grow as a creative and critical thinker.
We want every child to feel seen, valued, safe, and connected to a caring and inclusive community that honors diversity and perseverance. At Hazelwood, students are encouraged to try new things, take thoughtful risks, solve problems with confidence, and discover their individual strengths and passions.
To help bring this vision to life, we will encourage our students—and ourselves—to INSPIRE each day:
I – Inquire: Ask questions and remain curious.
N – Notice: Pay attention and make observations.
S – Set Goals: Identify what you want to accomplish and take steps toward achieving it.
P – Prepare: Develop the knowledge, tools, and habits needed to reach your goals.
I – Investigate: Explore ideas, gather information, and consider different possibilities.
R – Request Feedback: Seek guidance and use feedback to improve.
E – Explain: Share your thinking, communicate your ideas, and reflect on your learning.
Hazelwood History
Hazelwood School could have been Hazel Woods School. It was named for the bountiful hazel nut orchards that covered the hillsides surrounding the old site as well as the present school location and was called “Garden of Eden.”
The tiny in-home school gave way to a two room school which became part of the Kennydale School District. When the number of students decreased, the old school was closed and the children were transported to Kennydale by a horse and wagon bus. Kennydale School District was organized on September 12, 1904. Several smaller districts consolidated to become the Renton School District #403 on January 31, 1942.
Renton School District purchased sites for future schools in the 1950’s because enrollment of scholars in the district was increasing faster than new buildings could be constructed.
Hazelwood Elementary School was constructed in 1963 and was ready in the fall for students in the northeastern section of the school district. During the first years after Hazelwood opened, more than 900 students crowded into the bulging school and 9 portable buildings. Four classrooms were added to the original building. Population during the school year (2018 2019) is projected at approximately 620.
The first principal was Bob Box. The first secretary was Mary Daly, who remained in charge of the office under successive principals Bob Munson, George McPherson, and Bill Gladsjo. When Mary retired and Bill moved to the Highlands School, Vera Risdon took over as principal for six years with Pat Lamborn as her secretary. Marsha Hallett became principal in 1992, and Sandra Kendall became her secretary. In 1996, Cathie Rondeau took over as principal, and Maria Sams as secretary. In 1999 as we prepared for the new millennium, we welcomed Mary Ford as our new principal. Carolyn Thieme became secretary in August of 2001.
In the fall of 2005, we moved into our current beautiful facility, one block south of the old Hazelwood School. In June 2006, Mary Ford retired and Cindy Farnsworth took over as principal. Carolyn Thieme retired in 2011. Kris Jaramillo is the current Office Manager. Cindy Farnsworth moved to Meadow Crest Early Childhood Center in 2014. Tracey Tymczyszyn became the principal in January of 2015. Brenda Gasaway became the principal in July 2023.
The highlight of the 55 years at Hazelwood has been the Blue Ribbon Award earned in 1992. Vera Risdon, Marsha Hallett, Diane Rogers, and Linda DeCample represented the school community in Washington, D.C. in May of 1993 to receive the award at a special presentation for all schools from around the United States that earned the coveted award.
Parents of the community have contributed greatly to the excellence and success of Hazelwood School. The school remains the “center of the community.” Several hundred parents volunteer in the classrooms, and in PTSA activities during the year.
Principal, staff members, students, and parents are proud of Hazelwood Elementary School!!!!
Hazelwood Elementary PTSA General Information
HAZELWOOD ELEMENTARY PTSA
At Hazelwood Elementary, it’s the PTSA’s mission to make an impact in the lives of every student. We do that by engaging and empowering families through advocacy, community building, and enriching the education of our students.
Visit hazelwoodptsa.org to learn more.
ADVOCACY: MEMBERSHIP, VOLUNTEERISM, & DONATIONS
Join
PTSA membership is one of many ways to advocate for our students. The more members we have, the more power we have to inspire policy changes to improve education. Your membership alone makes a huge impact, and nothing is required of you as a member. Become a member at https://hazelwoodptsa.givebacks.com/store.
Volunteer
Our PTSA is run entirely by volunteers and are always in need of more helping hands. Volunteering is a great way to be involved in your child’s educational experience and build community. See volunteer opportunities at hazelwoodptsa.org/volunteer.
Donate
Hazelwood relies on generous donations to support our students with an enriching school experience. Donate directly to classrooms, to the PTSA, or by participating in numerous fundraising events. Donate today at hazelwoodptsa.org/donate.
COMMUNITY BUILDING: EVENTS & CARE CLOSET
Events
At Hazelwood, events are more than just fun gatherings—they’re an important way the PTSA helps bring our school community together and create a welcoming place for all. From seasonal celebrations like the Harvest Carnival, to family traditions like the Hazelwood Hearts Dance, to creative showcases like the Mustang Mashup, these events create opportunities for students, families, and staff to connect outside the classroom. Stay up-to-date on what’s happening by visiting hazelwoodptsa.org/events.
Care Closet
At Hazelwood, we believe in taking care of each other. The Care Closet provides essential items—like food, clothing, hygiene products, and gift cards—for Hazelwood students and families in need. It’s one way our community comes together to ensure every Mustang feels supported, valued, and ready to thrive.
See what drives we have in store to support Care Closet at hazelwoodptsa.org/events.
ENRICHING EDUCATION: ART & GARDEN PROGRAMS
Hazelwood’s programs go beyond the classroom to spark creativity, curiosity, and connection. Our PTSA-sponsored programs help students explore new skills, express themselves, and experience hands-on learning, all while fostering a love of learning.
Mustang Makers
Mustang Makers is Hazelwood’s art enrichment program designed to spark creativity and self-expression in every student. With the support of parent volunteers, students explore a wide range of artistic mediums and techniques, gaining hands-on experiences that go beyond the regular curriculum.
Volunteer for Mustang Makers (no artistic ability required) at hazelwoodptsa.org/volunteer.
Garden
Hazelwood’s Garden Program brings learning to life outside the classroom. In the school garden, students dig in the soil, plant seeds, and watch their work grow—gaining hands-on lessons in science, sustainability, and teamwork. The program helps children connect with nature, understand where food comes from, and take pride in caring for their environment.
Volunteer for Garden (no experience required) at hazelwoodptsa.org/volunteer.
Reflections
The National PTA Reflections Program invites students to explore their creativity and share their voice through the arts. Each year, students submit original works in categories like visual art, music, literature, photography, dance, and film, inspired by a national theme. By participating, students not only develop their artistic skills but also gain confidence and recognition for their unique perspectives and talents.
FUNDRAISING
Everything we do at Hazelwood—from community events to enrichment programs—is only possible because of fundraising and the generosity of our families. Your donations directly fuel the experiences, opportunities, and support that enrich every student’s journey at Hazelwood. As you think about how to be involved this year, we invite you to consider supporting the PTSA by making monetary donations. And don’t forget—many employers offer corporate matching, which can instantly double (or even triple) your impact.
Donate today at hazelwoodptsa.org/donate.
School Schedule
School Schedule
Monday-Thursday
8:30am-3:10pm (Doors open at 8:10am)
Breakfast is served from 8:10am-8:30 am
Late Start Fridays
10:00am-3:10pm (Doors open at 9:40am)
Breakfast is served from 9:40am -10:00am
Hazelwood is not responsible for students who are dropped off before the identified time at which supervision begins. Parent/guardians are expected to wait with their children until the doors are opened, as the children will be unsupervised at this time.
Arrival/Dismissal Guidelines and Transportation
Arrival:
Monday to Thursday 8:10-8:30 AM and Fridays 9:40-10:00 AM
- Breakfast Students: Students eating breakfast may go directly to the café.
- Kindergarten: Enter through the Mustang Entrance and proceed to their assigned line (Adult guides them to their line)
- Grades 1–5: Enter through the Mustang Entrance and go to their designated line on the playground.
- Supervision: Students are supervised until teachers meet their classes at 8:30 a.m.
- Bus Arrival: Buses typically arrive between 8:10–8:30 a.m.
Important Notes:
- Please use your assigned bus service whenever possible. Parking is extremely limited and the lot is congested every morning at drop off.
- Parent drop-off/pick-up is available in the Parent & Visitor parking area (front of building) after 8:10 a.m.
- Students arriving by car, walking, or biking should not arrive before 8:10 a.m. (or 9:40 a.m. on Fridays), unless serving on safety patrol.
Dismissal
- School Dismissal: 3:10 p.m.
- Parent Pick-Up: Parents should arrive promptly at 3:10 p.m.
- Bus Departure: Buses begin to depart at 3:15 p.m.
Please Note:
- Students may not wait in the office before or after school except in cases of an emergency.
Early Dismissal
- If your child needs to leave early, please call or send a note to the office and they will inform your child’s teacher.
- Students will be called from class once you arrive in the office to sign them out.
- Early dismissals after 2:45 p.m. are discouraged because they disrupt important end-of-day routines.
Late Pick-Up Policy
Student safety is our top priority. Supervision is provided only during school hours and dismissal up to approximately 3:25 pm.
- If a student is not picked up within 15 minutes of dismissal, or is returned because no one met the bus, parents will be called to attain their estimated arrival.
- After 3 incidents of late pick up, parents will be asked to meet with the principal and explore options to support on time pick up of their child.
- After 3 incidents of late pick up, parents will be asked to meet with the principal and explore options to support on time pick up of their child.
- The school cannot provide extended supervision. If needed, we can provide a list of local day care providers. Families may also consider the Right At School Program found on the district website. Please contact the office at 425-204-4550.
Bus Riders
- Bus service is available to students living one mile or more from school. Routes are set by the district.
- Bus riders exit via the bus drop-off and walk northeast to the playground.
- Bus Rules: Pets, balloons, glass containers, and oversized objects are not allowed.
For questions or lost-and-found: 425-204-4455 (District Transportation).
Parent Drop-Off and Pick-Up
- Speed Limit: 5 mph in the parking lot.
- Parking: Use designated stalls if you plan to stay.
- Independence: Beginning the second week of school, students enter the building independently through the north doors (Mustang Entrance). Parents may not walk children to classrooms.
- Traffic Lanes: Two lanes are available; the right lane is for active drop-off/pick-up only.
- Safety: Students must exit/enter vehicles on the curbside only. Parents may not get out of their car to assist their child. If parents/guardians need to assist a child, then they should proceed to the lot to park and walk their child to the front.
- Entry: Students dropped off proceed through the north doors by the Commons and out the breezeway to the playground.
- Designated Drop-Off Zone Only: Do not drop off or pick up at the main office doors.
Parent Pick-Up (Afternoon):
- The car line begins forming around 2:45 p.m.
- Parent pick-up takes place at the front doors near the Commons.
- Students wait in line until their ride comes to a full stop. Please pull forward and follow staff directions. A drive up attendant will direct students to their cars.
🚫 The Staff and Bus Parking Lot is for buses and staff only.
Biking to School
- Only students in grades 4–5 may bike to school (with parent permission).
- Helmets and bike locks are required.
- Bikes must be walked on campus and are not to be used during the school day.
- Riders must follow all traffic safety rules.
- The district is not responsible for lost or damaged bikes.
Transportation Changes
- Changes to a child’s usual transportation must be communicated to the office by phone or written note (425-204-4550). Please email your teacher 24 hours in advance, for same day changes contact the main office, as teachers may not see it during instruction.
- If a child needs to ride a different bus or get off at another stop, a signed parent note must be brought to the office. The office will then issue a bus pass.
Communication
Emergency Information (Skyward)
It is essential that emergency information on Skyward be on file at the school and that it be kept current. Please contact the office promptly with changes in home addresses, home and work phone, or names and phone numbers of emergency contact persons. This information is vital in the event of an accident, illness, early school closure or other emergency while the child is at school.
ParentSquare Communication Tool
ParentSquare is a district communication system used by teachers, staff, principals, and the district to notify families of school events, news, closures and other important information. ParentSquare is available for families to use by creating an account or downloading the app.
Inclement Weather Information
At times, school operating hours or school bus transportation services may be adjusted or canceled due to bad weather. If inclement weather—like snow or ice—makes a school schedule change necessary, the decision will be made by the Superintendent and communicated to families and staff by:
- Phone call/text/email to all parents and staff.
- Renton School District website and all school websites.
- Automated phone calls and email messages from the district to families
- The district's official social media sites: Facebook | Instagram | X
- Local media TV stations
Full-day school cancellation/closing
If inclement weather causes school closure, no students or staff are expected at schools (some essential personnel will report to work). All school, after-school, and community activities held in school buildings will be cancelled, including all home and away athletic events.
Delayed school opening/late start
If schools are delayed due to bad weather, all schools will open 2-hours late, unless the closure is on a Friday, then schools will run on a regular Friday 90-minute delayed-start schedule. The preschool program at Meadow Crest will be cancelled. There will be no out-of-district transportation. Depending on the severity of the weather, school buses may operate on Limited Transportation Routes and use only Emergency Bus Stops.
School Phones and Student Cell Phones/Electronic Devices
Cell phones and smart watches should not be at school. However, some families prefer their child to have one for safety reasons. In that case, cell phones/smart watches are to stay off and in their backpacks during the school day. Students assume all responsibility for their devices.
Health Information
School Nurse
A registered nurse is available at Hazelwood two days per week. The nurse is responsible for conducting health screenings, assisting with individual medical concerns, and helping coordinate services between home and other health agencies. In an emergency, staff will call 911.
Illnesses
In general, your child should stay home from school when these symptoms are present: vomiting, diarrhea, elevated temperature, ear ache, sore throat (especially associated with fever), head lice, inflamed or draining eyes, sores or rash (not associated with an allergic reaction).
If your child's temperature is 100 degrees or higher OR they are vomiting, they may not remain at school.
Before sending your scholar to school, be sure your child is feeling well enough to participate in the full school program, including recess and physical education (unless we have a physician's note stating otherwise). When returning after an illness they should be free of a fever, without the use of fever reducing medication for at least 24 hours before returning.
Common Communicable Diseases
Please notify the school nurse/office if your child contracts any communicable disease (e.g. chicken pox, scabies, lice, ringworm, impetigo, hepatitis, measles, etc.). Confidentiality will be respected and we appreciate the opportunity to be able to control any further spread of the disease in the classroom.
Immunizations
Washington State law requires that all scholars, kindergarten through grade twelve, must be fully immunized before they can attend school. Current requirements can be found on the Renton School District website under Immunization Information. For a complete list of vaccine requirements and recommended immunization schedules, please visit the Washington Department of Health. The law states that parents must complete and sign a Certificate of Immunization Status giving the month, day and year of each dose of vaccine. When a scholar lacks full immunization, we require evidence of initiation of the immunization schedule or a properly completed Certificate of Exemption. Failure to provide this documentation could result in exclusion from school.
Medicine at School
Prescription and over-the-counter drugs are allowed at school only when they are in the original container in which they were purchased. All medication, even over the counter such as Tylenol and cough drops, must be registered with the school nurse and kept in the clinic. There must be a written and signed request from the parent/guardian and instructions from the physician or dentist for any medication to be taken at school.
Headlice Management in the Renton School District
https://www.rentonschools.us/learning-and-teaching/health-services/head-lice
Head lice are an occasional annoyance for children in schools. Please check your child’s head every few weeks for signs of lice. It is easier to tackle the issue when lice are found early.
Inspect your child’s head and hair, particularly around the ears and at the nape of the neck. Look for:
• Intense itching, red marks on the scalp
• Tiny oval whitish eggs (nits). Nits are tightly attached to the hair and will not flake off like dandruff or hair product.
To prevent lice, instruct your children not to use anyone else’s combs, brushes, or clothing. Lice do not jump from one person to another and are transmitted only by close contact with persons or articles such as hats, brushes, combs, pillows, coats, etc. which contain the lice or nits on them.
If you find nits or lice on your child’s head, several steps need to be taken to get rid of them including special hair treatment and washing all articles in hot water.
Please inform the office staff at school and request further instructions from the school or your health care provider. It is required that you bring your child to the school office to be checked prior to returning to the classroom. It is also helpful to inform the adults in charge of other children with whom your child has close contact, such as close friends, daycare, and sports teams or youth groups.
For more information, visit:
http://www.kingcounty.gov/healthservices/health/communicable/diseases/headlice/facts.aspx http://www.doh.wa.gov/CommunityandEnvironment/Pests/Lice.aspx
Hearing, Vision, and Dental Screening
Hearing screening, vision screening for distance viewing problems and dental screening are done annually. If your child is in need of a medical referral, the school nurse will contact you and provided assistance if needed.
Nutrition Services
School breakfast and lunch meals free to students at Hazelwood.
Thanks to new state and federal funding, Renton School District will provide breakfast and lunch meals free to most students this school year. All students can eat school breakfast and lunches free except at Risdon Middle School, Hazen High School, and the H.O.M.E. program. Unfortunately, the federal Community Eligibility Provision grant formula left our district unable to include students those schools. Families at these schools can complete the Free/Reduced Meal applicationpdf document and email it to RSD.mealform@rentonschools.us or drop off your school cafeteria to receive free meals.
While not required for free school meals, families are strongly encouraged to complete this Family Income Surveypdf document. It takes less than 10 minutes and can help students receive important school resources like: before and after school academic and enrichment programs; resources for classrooms; guidance and college counselors; health and wellness services; and more. Submit your completed form to RSD.mealform@rentonschools.us or drop off at your school cafeteria.
Lunches from Home
Students are welcome to bring a lunch from home. Please avoid sending soda or glass containers, and remember that microwaves are not available for warming food. Packing lunches in containers that your child can easily open helps them enjoy a smooth and independent lunchtime.
If a student forgets their lunch or is unable to eat a hot lunch, parents may drop off a lunch at the office. To ensure timely delivery, every effort should be made to drop off lunches at least 30 minutes before the student’s scheduled lunchtime.
Parents/guardians are also welcome to join their child for lunch on their birthday, if they wish, to help make the day extra special.
Delivery Services
For safety and efficiency, outside meal or item deliveries (such as DoorDash, UberEats, etc.) are not permitted for students during the school day.
Safety Concerns
Emergency Notification Information
It is essential that emergency notification be on file at the school and that it be kept current. Be sure to designate other individuals who can be contacted in case of emergencies. Although staff are trained to provide first aid, 911 will be called and parents will be notified in case of serious injury or medical emergency. Please note: Scholars will NOT be released to anyone other than individuals listed as primary caregivers or emergency contacts. Any temporary change in transportation should be confirmed with the main office.
Earthquake, Lockdown, and Fire Drills
Drills for earthquake, fire, and lockdown are held periodically in order to assure a continued state of readiness. We have a strong partnership with local law enforcement personnel along with a well-supported Renton School District security team. In the event of severe disaster, we have a plan to ensure that all scholars are released to an authorized adult. Scholars will not be allowed to walk home due to the unknown impact on the surroundings. An adult listed on the emergency sheet will need to pick up your child. The emergency information sheet you fill out at the beginning of the year will be used to release your child. Please make sure this information is kept up to date and contact the main office with any changes.
In the event of an emergency, there will be a designated checkout center through which scholars must be released. Please follow all directions outlined by staff or safety personnel. It is imperative that we have the cooperation of the community to ensure that we know the whereabouts of all our scholars.
Strangers
Please review with your child the importance of not talking to strangers or accepting rides with anyone other than a person approved by you.
Help Us Protect Our School
If you see or suspect vandalism or any potential threat to the school, please call the Renton School District TIP Line: Renton School District Security (425) 204-2468
Renton School District Safety and Security Team
John Holbrook
Director of Safety & Security
425.204.3725
Solicitation on Campus
Students with off campus activities such as boy scouts, sports, or girl scouts, should refrain from solicitation of goods, or events during school hours.
Directory Information
Federal law and school district regulations allow schools to release directory-type information (scholar name, address, phone, date/place of birth, dates of attendance, awards received and previous schools) to such agencies as schools or PTSA unless parents notify the school of their wishes to the contrary. Information other than Directory Information is considered
Recess Guidance
At Hazelwood, we believe recess is an important part of every student’s school day. Our policy is that if a student is well enough to attend school, they are also considered well enough to participate in recess.
If parents are concerned about their child’s level of activity, please note that benches are available on the playground for students who may need a rest or limited activity during recess.
We encourage families to send a change of clothes in their child’s backpack or cubby in case of weather-related issues, spills, or other accidents. While the school maintains a very limited supply of extra clothing, we ask that any borrowed items be washed and returned promptly so they are available for another student in need.
Personal Items
Money, Valuables, and Classroom Sharing
Students come to school to learn, so personal items that may distract from learning should be left at home. This includes toys, trading cards, electronics, stuffed animals, money, and other valuable or sentimental belongings. These items are easily misplaced, lost, or broken and can interfere with learning.
If a student wishes to bring a special item to share with the class, they must first receive permission from their teacher.
Lost and Found
Articles of clothing and personal items left on the playground or around the school are placed in the Lost and Found, located near the cafeteria. At the end of each month, any unclaimed items will be donated to Goodwill.
To help ensure items can be returned promptly, please label all coats, lunch boxes, water bottles, and other belongings with your child’s name.
Dress Code
Cold Weather Dress
We have a covered play area for students so they may be outside even if it is raining. Be sure your child has warm outer clothing for recess time when the weather begins to cool. If at all possible, we like the children to be outside in the fresh air for recess.
Unsafe Clothing
As per School District Policy #3224 Prohibited apparel includes that which features drug, tobacco, or alcohol-related messages, gang-related messages, or lewd, sexual messages.
Please Label Belongings
Please take time to label coats, hats, lunch boxes and other belongings. Many costly items are left and cause unnecessary expenses for your family. A "Lost and Found" area is maintained in the building in the event your child has misplaced an item.
Homework
Homework
Homework is not required nor regularly assigned at Hazelwood. Students may bring home any classwork they did not finish during the school day, though teachers provide ample time for completion at school.
Teachers may also share optional home learning activities to help students extend their learning, practice important skills, or engage in family learning experiences. Families who would like additional resources are encouraged to contact their child’s teacher.
Celebrations & Class Parties
To ensure the safety and health of all students, our school restricts outside food items that are not part of an approved classroom snack list. With the growing number of food sensitivities and allergies in our community, we must continue implementing measures that prioritize student well-being.
Birthday Celebrations
We kindly request that families do not send outside food items (e.g., cake, cupcakes, desserts) to celebrate birthdays or other occasions. Teachers will limit outside foods during class parties to pre-approved, safe snacks (for example, popcorn at a harvest party).
While food-based celebrations are restricted, there are many fun alternatives for making birthdays special:
- Parents/guardians may join their child for lunch on their birthday.
- Families may send in a special game for the student to play with classmates.
- Parents may come to facilitate a favorite game and sing happy birthday.
- Families may send goodie bags (with pre-approved snacks only).
- Families may provide materials for a simple craft activity.
- Teachers are happy to collaborate on additional fun and safe celebration ideas!
Note: Party invitations should not be distributed at school unless the entire class is invited.
Guidelines for Shared Classroom Snacks
To keep all students safe, shared classroom snacks must meet the following guidelines:
- Foods must be individually prepackaged and commercially wrapped with a visible ingredient label.
- Ingredient lists may not contain peanuts or tree nuts.
Foods may not be processed in a facility or on equipment that also processes peanuts or tree nuts.
Visitors and Volunteers
Visiting The School/Classroom
Parents and guardians are always welcome at Hazelwood. To minimize classroom disruptions, please contact your child’s teacher at least 24 hours in advance to schedule a visit. (See District Policy #4200 on pages 30–31).
Individual conferences with teachers must also be prearranged to allow for a meaningful conversation without taking away from classroom instructional time. Conferences should be scheduled before or after the school day.
For the safety of our students, all visitors and volunteers must:
- Sign in at the school office upon arrival and sign out before leaving.
- Wear a visitor badge at all times while on campus.
- Remain in the designated area of their visit
Volunteers
We deeply value and appreciate our volunteers! Parents and community members play an important role in supporting the educational programs at Hazelwood. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact your child’s teacher, the PTSA coordinator, or the school office.
Volunteer Requirements:
- All volunteers must complete a Washington State Patrol background check, valid for two years.
All volunteers are asked to review the Hazelwood Volunteer Guidelines and submit an online form comfirming that they have read the expectations and agree to follow them while volunteering.
Volunteer expectations:
- Sign in and out at the office and wear a nametag while on campus.
- Be prompt, dependable, and consistent in attendance.
- Remain in the designated volunteer area.
- Honor confidentiality at all times.
- Communicate concerns directly with the teacher or principal.
- Be familiar with emergency procedures and classroom/school rules
Student Classroom Placement
One of the most important responsibilities of our staff each year is working together in teams to assign students to balanced classrooms for the upcoming school year. In making these decisions, many factors are thoughtfully considered, including each student’s academic strengths and needs, social-emotional development, and parental input.
If a parent believes their child’s placement is not appropriate, a written request may be submitted to the principal for review. Please note that class changes will not be made to accommodate friend requests or to request a specific teacher, unless there are extenuating circumstances to be discussed with the principal. If you would like to discuss any extenuating circumstances, contact the main office at 425-204-4550 to schedule an appointment with the principal.
Teachers strive to establish positive learning environments for all students. However, from time to time, adjustments may be necessary if class imbalances arise after the school year begins. In such cases, families will be notified, and students will be provided at least 48 hours to transition into their new classroom.
District Information
District information
Kohlwes Education Center
300 S.W. 7th Street, Renton 98055
Dr. Damien Pattenaude, Superintendent
(425) 204-4455
Renton School District
Transportation Department
(425) 204-4455
District Policies and Procedures
Renton School District Policies and Procedures can be located on the district's website http://www.rentonschools.us/Page/129
School Board Meetings
Meetings are usually held the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 7:00 p.m. These meetings are usually held in the Board Room at the Renton School District Administration Building, 300 SW 7th Street, Renton. Visit the RSD website at http://www.rentonschools.us/ for more details.
Our School is Gender-Inclusive
In Washington, all students have the right to be treated consistent with their gender identity at school. Our school will:
- Address students by their requested name and pronouns, with or without a legal name change
- Change a student’s gender designation and have their gender accurately reflected in school records
- Allow students to use restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity
- Allow students to participate in sports, physical education courses, field trips, and overnight trips in accordance with their gender identity
- Keep health and education information confidential and private
- Allow students to wear clothing that reflects their gender identity and apply dress codes without regard to a student’s gender or perceived gender
- Protect students from teasing, bullying, or harassment based on their gender or gender identity
Read our full commitment to Gender-Inclusive Schools.
Our School Protect Students from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB)
Schools are meant to be safe and inclusive environments where all students are protected from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB), including in the classroom, on the school bus, in school sports, and during other school activities. Our District Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) webpage defines HIB, explains what to do if you see or experience it, and our school and district process for responding to it.
Our School Stands Against Discrimination
Discrimination can happen when someone is treated differently or unfairly because they are part of a protected class, including their race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, creed, disability, use of a service animal, or veteran or military status. Renton School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of any of these protected groups and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.
Read more about Non-discrimination, including what it is and how to report it.
