…our Site Council is specific to the needs of Cascade Ridge School and is comprised of a broad group of people that includes community/parent, school, and PTSA representatives? It’s true!! Many people don’t understand the purpose of the Site Council, and the best thing about it is that is has this broad perspective so issues that are important to us all can be addressed. Some current items of focus for the Site Council during this year have included update and communication of the school colors and logo, modification of class party and teacher gift policies, and Cascade Ridge’s CIP and professional development as well as district initiatives.

The Site Council’s purpose includes the following:

• Provide input to help create and maintain an optimal learning environment,
• Blend the values and perspectives of community, parents, staff, and students for effective school-wide results,
• Foster effective communication on key issues among all stakeholders in our school,
• Contribute to creative school-wide planning and problem solving,
• Provide school input for the principal and superintendent on matters of district-wide interest.

While there are specific committee members who usually serve two-year terms, community attendance and input are invited. Any community or staff member may attend a Site Council meeting. Those who are visiting and have specific items to be addressed may have input in the meeting by filling out a site council action request.

The Site Council often invites guests to speak at the meetings about current items of interest in the community. Each monthly meeting runs from 6:00 until 7:30 pm and is at Cascade Ridge in the library. Everyone is invited to join and the following meeting dates and guest speakers are planned for the rest of the school year.

March 7 – Issaquah School District Guest: Emilie Hard, Executive Director of Teaching and Learning
April 11
May 2 – Issaquah School District Guest: Jake Kuper, Chief of Finance and Operations
June 6 (tentative)

We invite attendance, especially when we have invited guests, so if it works in your schedule and you’re interested in knowing more, mark your calendar!

In the next school year, we will also be seeking two new parents to replace current members who will be ending their term. For more information, visit: http://www.cascaderidge.issaquah.wednet.edu/council.asp