Northshore Schools Foundation Programs
Through our granting program for District Wide Curriculum Grants, Innovative Classroom Grants and National Board Teacher Certification (UW Support group tuition reimbursement), we are using your donations to impact:
Literacy Enhancement
Basic reading proficiency is the foundation to future student success in all subjects. Strong literacy skills are closely linked to academic success and the probability of having a good job, decent earnings and access to training opportunities. Northshore School District is implementing new elementary-level literacy curriculum—the first in 15 years.
Northshore Schools Foundation is supporting classrooms by granting money for classroom libraries for new elementary school teachers.
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM)
The workforce is changing and a student’s proficiency in science, technology, engineering and math is required for a successful career in the 21st century. NSD has adopted a variety of curriculum and expanded program options for students to develop these skills. An example of these program offerings is the Environmental Studies Program at Secondary Academy for Success, created in collaboration with Cascadia Community College.
Northshore Schools Foundation is committed to ensuring students have the programs and equipment necessary to successfully embark on a comprehensive STEM learning experience. The Foundation is purchasing curriculum enhancement materials for students K-12 in this area.
Teacher Excellence
Teacher excellence through quality instruction is a priority for the Northshore School District. National Board Certification is an advanced teaching credential awarded to teachers who successfully complete a “voluntary assessment program designed to recognize effective and accomplished teachers who meet high standards.” To date, 70 NSD teachers have earned this distinction.
The Foundation is committed to supporting the cultivation of exceptional teachers by offering tuition reimbursement for the University of Washington Mentorship Support Program.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
Success
NSD's sustainable engineering and design course is providing opportunities for student centered learning around developing triple bottom line projects. In 2011-12 with the help of Northshore Schools Foundation, the high school students produced a mobile learning lab that teaches elementary students about energy. For more information visit:
https://picasaweb.google.com/teamSEDpics/MobileLab#
Current Need
Northshore Community Schools partners to provide supportive learning opportunities for all students to achieve their full potential and build a strong community. Northshore Community Schools envision all students discover the pathways to their future and share their gifts with the world. Partners of Northshore Community Schools work in collaboration to achieve the following goals:
- Families are engaged to support their child’s full potential.
- Students are on track for graduation and building a plan for college and career.
- Students and families have opportunities to pursue their interests.
- Community and school are interconnected.
This program was established with the help a Seattle Foundation planning grant, funding from the Northshore Schools Foundation, King County Community Organizing Program, Washington Campus Compact, College Access Challenge Grant, King County’s Communities Putting Prevention to Work (CPPW) and partnerships from the Northshore YMCA, University of Washington, Cascadia Community College and several local church communities.
Funding is needed for staff & supplies to continue this program that impacts more than 5,000 students and 2,000 families annually.
Northshore Community Schools Services:
Hang Time: A free afterschool program held at Northshore, Kenmore and Skyview Junior High Schools. Hang-Time is a safe, supportive and welcoming environment where students are encouraged to learn and discover new talents, participate in enrichment and fitness activities, complete homework, and increase their connection to school and community. Hang-Time meets each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 2:30pm to 4:30pm in the cafeteria.
Natural Leaders: A program which multi-cultural, caring and social families of the school community serve as a bridge between families, community and schools. Natural Leaders assist and provide outreach to families where English is a second language and cultural differences may inhibit parental communication and participation at school.
Mentoring Support: College and community mentors support the learning environment in classroom and small group settings during and after-school. Teachers and mentors work together to improve students’ academic skills, sense of belonging, and confidence.
Student Assistance Team: This collaborative team meets regularly to identify and implement solution focused strategies and resources to address needs of students and families. By utilizing the skills and experiences of individual team members, the quality of interventions is enhanced.
Threads and Treads: A community clothing bank located at Canyon Park Junior High to provide Northshore families with free, quality-donated clothing. Clothing items include: school-appropriate clothing, sports wear, shoes, and accessories for youth to adult. Threads and Treads is open each Thursday during the school year, 4-6pm. No referral needed.