Weekly Update from the Superintendent

Dear students, staff, families and community,

School meals are free to all students which is wonderful.  The downside is that because free and reduced applications no longer have to be completed to qualify for this resource, we lose important data regarding the income status of residents in our District.  This data helps us qualify for grants and other opportunities that provide resources for classrooms, teachers, and children.  Therefore, we need families to complete a Family Income Survey that should take no more than ten minutes of your time.  Every form counts, so please complete it even if you know you would not qualify for free and reduced meals.  For more information see Family Income Survey templates and tips and this graphic.

A significant component of our Strategic Plan is to actively foster a culture of care in which all students are supported, respected, and provided resources necessary for success.  Student voice is encouraged and valued as a means to achieve a positive culture in Baker.  Last year I initiated Superintendent Advisories with fifth and sixth graders at all three elementaries as well both the Junior High and High School.  I am currently working on building up the membership for these groups of students.  Any student in grades 5 through 12 qualifies.  Our purpose is to make all schools in Mount Baker safe and positive places of belonging for all students.  Interested students can email me directly at msewright@mtbaker.wednet.edu. Another group that values and encourages student voice is One Baker Voice.  The mission of this group is to educate and advocate with our peers about the harms associated with substance misuse, such as its impacts on mental health. We share about the risks of use while reducing stigma and promoting mental health through community connection. Check them out on our website.

We hope to see a big crowd at the Mt. Baker FFA Salmon BBQ.  It is this Friday, September 23rd right before the football game from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. The cost is $20 per adult and $15 for children under 12 years old. 

Go Baker!

Sincerely,

Mary Sewright, Superintendent
msewright@mtbaker.wednet.edu
(360) 617-4600