It is hard to believe that January is winding down and a packed February is around the corner! As many of you have heard or tuned in to the Board Meetings, our district is considering school consolidations in response to anticipated enrollment declining in the next few years. While our school is not one of the schools being considered for consolidation, such decisions will nevertheless impact all members within the Bellevue School District community. We are mindful that each member of the community may be impacted differently, and our thoughts are with our neighbors, colleagues, students and their families during this tumultuous time.

With these challenges also come renewed hope with the recent announcement of our incoming Superintendent, Dr. Kelly Aramaki. We have had the privilege of working with Dr. Aramaki the past few years in his role as Executive Director of Elementary Schools and Assistant Superintendent. We are inspired by his dedication to students, staff, and families and look forward to serving under his leadership. Please check here for the announcement details: https://bsd405.org/2023/01/bellevue-school-district-announces-dr-kelly-aramaki-as-incoming-superintendent/.

As we head into February with World Culture Night, Black History Month, and planned field trips, we thank you for your continued partnership. If there is anything we can do to support you and our students, please let us know.

Warmly,

Kati & Betty

Getting enough sleep is important for a student’s overall health and well-being. It is also important for academic readiness and performance. A good nights sleep can help students stay focused, improve concentration, and improve academic performance. Children and teens who do not get enough sleep are more likely to have attention and behavior problems, which can contribute to poor academic performance at school.

How much sleep do students need? The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has made the following recommendations based on age:

Some steps you can take to help your student get enough sleep include:

· Model and encourage habits that promote good sleep, such as having a regular bedtime and rise time. Setting a regular sleep schedule is recommended for everyone (children, teens and adults)

· Dim the lights in the evening. Exposure to more light in the evening (room lighting or electronics) can make it more difficult to fall asleep and get enough sleep throughout the night

· Make sure bedrooms are quiet, dark, and a comfortable temperature

· Limit electronic use or set a media curfew. Technology use can contribute to late bedtimes. Students may stay up later on their phones or computers. Blue light from screens can also make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep

· Avoid large meals and caffeine before bedtime

· Exercise. Being physically active during the day can make it easier to fall asleep at night

Learn more about healthy sleep in children here.

Seasonal flu activity continues but is declining in most areas. Influenza-like illness activity in Washington is currently considered “low”. Cases of RSV have also been declining since their peak in the fall. While this is good news, it’s important to remember lots of people are still catching both flu and RSV and it is not uncommon to have multiple waves of flu throughout the season. Please remember to stay home when sick and continue practicing good hand hygiene!

In COVID related news, you may have heard talk of a new Omicron subvariant, XBB.1.5. While it is likely more transmissible than previous strains, there is no evidence so far that it causes more severe disease. Cases are increasing in parts of the country, particularly in the Northeast. At this time, the COVID-19 community level in King County is considered “low”. Tools to combat COVID-19 (tests, vaccines, masks, etc.) remain readily available. Please continue to assess your family’s risk and take any necessary precautions.

Stay up to date on public health news in King County with Public Health Insider Blog.