Buckle Down & Hit The Books

It's that time of year again, and for many back-to-schoolers, it's time to buckle down and get back into the school routine.  Many people can relate to my feeling that although this is an exciting time of year, it is also a hectic time of year.  Be it shopping for school supplies, a fresh fall wardrobe - finding that perfect first day wear, new school shoes, school open houses, teacher meetings, sports preparations, bus schedules, stocking up on lunch sack-sized treats, the list goes on -  I'm quite sure you understand what I mean - it can get busy.

Despite all the running around, there is more to think about this time of year than a new pair of Nikes or those funny erasable pens, and for all you Moms out there, you may already know where I am going with this.  Washington State Public Schools have done a wonderful job making a "report card" readily available and accessible online.  With toggles directing between all schools in our state, you can compare how your child's school stacks up against any (public school, that is). Although some data reads a bit vague, it is a step toward learning more about how your school dollars are being spent.  

School testing scores are scheduled to be released August 31st by the Office of Superintendent of Public Schools.  Our community report cards are just as important as our children's, and as residents and parents, we have every right to know the grade.

Curious on the rest of the country?  Here is an article published by U.S. News titled - "America's Best High Schools 2010." The Gold Medal Winners? Bellevue's International School ranks 10th on their Top 100 in the nation, Kirkland's International Community School pulls in at 29th place, and Bellevue makes the list again with Newport High School coming in at number 72. 

Similarly, Newsweek Magazine published "America's Best High Schools: The List" where they name around 40 Washington State schools.  

Keep your eyes peeled for more information to break and please share - 'tis the school season!

Here's hoping for a great start to a new school year!