Seattle Public Schools

Today (June 19), we honor Juneteenth, a day that marks the end of slavery in the United States and recognizes Black freedom, resilience, and joy.

On June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their freedom. This day stands as both a milestone in history and a reminder of the ongoing work toward justice and equity.

At Seattle Public Schools, we recognize Juneteenth as a time to reflect, learn, and celebrate the contributions of Black communities. We remain committed to advancing racial equity and ensuring every student feels seen, supported, and empowered.

We are so proud of our SPS students for showing up and representing at Amazon’s Global Finance Day.

Students from Rainier Beach, Garfield, and Roosevelt spent the day learning what finance looks like inside a global company.

They heard directly from Amazon leaders, asked thoughtful questions, tackled a finance challenge, and even connected with the Chief Financial Officer.

They showed up focused, engaged, and ready to learn every step of the way.

Opportunities like this help students see what’s possible, and they absolutely rose to the moment.

Read more: https://www.seattleschools.org/news/regional-school-news-roundup-june/

🎓 Today marks the final day of school, and the final graduations across Seattle Public Schools.

In his latest message, Superintendent Dr. Ben Shuldiner reflects on the joy of celebrating our graduates and the powerful moments that come with crossing the stage.

Behind every diploma is a community, staff, families, and supporters, who helped make it possible. As we celebrate the Class of 2026, we also recommit to supporting even more students on their path to graduation in the years ahead.

You’ll also find highlights from across SPS celebrating student achievements, educator excellence, and the moments that made this year unforgettable.

Take a moment to read this week’s newsletter: https://app.smore.com/n/f2u1p

Join us in celebrating the educators who make science come alive!

Congratulations to our SPS recipients of the Alliance for Education Adrienne Weaver Science Teaching Award; educators who bring curiosity, hands-on learning, and a love of discovery into their classrooms every day:

🔬 Andy Darring (Pathfinder K-8)
🔬 Emily Elasky (Mercer International Middle School)
🔬 Lara Megard (Catharine Blaine K-8).

Thank you for inspiring students to explore, question, and imagine what’s possible. We’re proud to have you leading the way.

Read more: https://www.seattleschools.org/news/alliance-for-education-teaching-awards/

Big congratulations to our outstanding SPS educators!👏

This year’s Alliance for Education Philip B. Swain Excellence in Education Award honors staff working with students furthest from educational justice, showing up every day with care, belief, and commitment.

Shoutout to this year’s honorees:
⭐ Joanne Davis (Interagency)
⭐ Herman García (Denny International)
⭐ Noelle Tyau (Denny International)
⭐ Kevin Hiller (Rainier Beach)
⭐ Lyndsey Johnson (Meany & Nathan Hale)
⭐ Ariana Nuñez (Chief Sealth)
⭐ Melissa Park (Nova)
⭐ Crystal Visperas (Jane Addams)

Your work makes a lasting difference in students’ lives, and our entire district is stronger because of you. We’re so proud to celebrate you.

Read more: https://buff.ly/Cf2c28W

🚨 LAST DAY OF SCHOOL REMINDER 🚨

The last day of school is this WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, and DISMISSAL will be ONE HOUR EARLY for all students.

*IMPORTANT*
While the last day of school is on Wednesday, IT IS NOT THE USUAL WEDNESDAY EARLY RELEASE SCHEDULE. Instead, schools will dismiss ONE HOUR EARLIER THAN THEIR REGULAR DAILY SCHEDULE.

This means:
✅ If your school normally ends at 2:25 p.m., students will be dismissed at 1:25 p.m. on June 17.
✅ If your school normally ends at 3:25 p.m., students will be dismissed at 2:25 p.m. on June 17.
✅ If your school normally ends at 3:40 p.m., students will be dismissed at 2:40 p.m. on June 17.
✅ If your school normally ends at 3:45 p.m., students will be dismissed at 2:45 p.m. on June 17.

⏰ Dismissal times vary by school, so please check your school’s regular schedule:
https://www.seattleschools.org/resources/bell-schedules/

Thanks for helping us end the school year smoothly, and have a great summer!

Almost there! All SPS devices should be returned by the last day of school to avoid fees and keep tech ready for future students.

Thanks for helping take care of district technology. We appreciate you!

Need help? Student Techline is here for you!
📧 [email protected]
📞 206‑252‑0100

More info online at: https://www.seattleschools.org/news/sps-student-devices/

A trip around the world happened over at Rainier View Elementary! 🌍

The school came alive with color, music, and celebration during its annual Multicultural Night. The event brought students, families, and staff together for an unforgettable evening of connection and culture.

With handmade “passports” in hand, families traveled across all seven continents, exploring cultures through food, games, performances, stories, and traditional dress.

Read more about these exciting travels at: https://www.seattleschools.org/news/regional-school-news-roundup/