IB Trait of the Month: Principled
Martin Luther King, Jr. was a transformative leader who championed civil rights, equality, and nonviolent resistance, inspiring a nation to confront racial injustice. His vision of unity and justice continues to guide movements for social change and human dignity worldwide.
Dear Soundview family,
While I have been home this week managing an unexpected back challenge, our students, faculty, and staff have been settling back into routines and reconnecting with each other as we begin the new year. I miss being on campus and experiencing the smiles, laughter, and learning!
And I will have to wait a little longer to see those smiling faces. Please note the upcoming non-school days for students next week:
Monday, January 19: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Tuesday, January 20: Faculty & Staff Work Day / Report Card Writing
This morning, Erin Armstrong led our monthly Community Coffee, followed by a lively all-school assembly led by our Grade 5 students. They brought energy, creativity, and thoughtfulness to the program while highlighting January’s International Baccalaureate learner profile trait, “Principled.” The assembly featured a poem from Mr. Travis, humor, musical performances, and a skit that truly reflected student voice and collaboration. You can learn more about the IB learner profile, and view photos from the assembly below.
Please be sure to save the date for Soundview’s Spring Benefit on Saturday, March 28, at the Edmonds Waterfront Center. This signature event is both a joyful celebration of our community and a critical fundraiser for the school. Proceeds directly support the programs, resources, and initiatives that sustain Soundview’s ethical, rigorous, and compassionate learning environment. Registration and additional details will be shared soon. If you missed the message outlining sponsorship opportunities, you can review it HERE or connect directly with our Director of Advancement, Ryan Wasserman, as we are also actively seeking event sponsors who share our vision and would like to support this important evening.
A heartfelt thank-you to the Soundview Parent and Guardian Association (SPGA) for leading our recent clothing drive in partnership with Clothes for Kids. Thanks to your generosity, the response was outstanding and will make a meaningful difference for families in our wider community.
Health & Safety Update
Our partners at the Snohomish County Health Department let us know there are reported cases of measles in our area. Measles is a highly contagious illness that spreads through coughing and sneezing and can remain in the air for several hours after an infected person has left an area. We encourage families to stay informed, review their child’s immunization records, and keep students home if they are feeling unwell or experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, or rash. If you have concerns about symptoms or exposure, please contact your healthcare provider for guidance. Soundview continues to follow public health guidance to help keep our community safe and healthy. Thank you for your partnership and care in supporting the well-being of all students, staff, and families.
Admissions Reminder
The admissions deadline for the 2026–2027 school year is quickly approaching. Applications for prospective new families are due Friday, January 30. If you know a family who may be a good fit for Soundview’s ethical, rigorous, and compassionate education, please encourage them to connect with our Director of Admissions, Jill Schaller.
Before & After School Care and Clubs
Winter Care & Clubs began this week, and limited spaces are still available. These programs offer engaging opportunities for students beyond the school day.
Register for Before and After Care
Register for Clubs
Once registration and payment are complete, Christine Taylor, our Auxiliary Programs Coordinator, will follow up with the final forms needed to complete enrollment.
A few key dates, events, and opportunities to keep in mind this month and early February:
ParentMap ParentEd Talk
Our next ParentEd session features board-certified psychiatrist and ADHD specialist Dr. Sasha Hamdani, presenting Inside the ADHD Mind: Tools to Help Your Child Thrive on Wednesday, January 21, at 12:00 pm. We’ll continue the conversation at the next Community Coffee.
Register for the full ParentEd series
Complimentary ticket password: SOUNDVSCH
Transition Preview – New Event!
Families of students transitioning to a new classroom or division next year are invited to our Transition Preview on Thursday, January 22, from 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm. This is an opportunity to meet teachers, explore the curriculum, and ask questions about the year ahead.
Please RSVP by Monday, January 19
Orchestra Concerts
We’re excited for our upcoming afternoon concerts in the Performing Arts Center; limited standing room will be available upstairs in the PAC for families.
January 23: 1:30–2:00 pm: Orchestra (Grades 7 & 8)
February 27: 1:30–2:00 pm: Orchestra (Grades 5 & 6)
March 27: 1:30–2:00 pm: Orchestra & Concert Band (MYP)
Chili Cook-Off & BINGO
Join us for SPGA’s beloved Chili Cook-Off & BINGO on Saturday, January 31, from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm in the Performing Arts Center (please note the updated time). This all-ages community event features friendly cook-off competitions for chili, mac and cheese, and kids’ cornbread, followed by BINGO from 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Entry spots are limited this year, so be sure to sign up early. To enter a dish or volunteer, please RSVP by Monday, January 26.
High School Preview Night
The High School Preview for grade 7 students will take place on Thursday, February 5, from 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm in the humanities room. This event highlights Soundview’s personalized high school planning process, designed to help each student find the best fit for their individual strengths, goals, and aspirations. Families will learn what to expect throughout the process, explore local International Baccalaureate (IB) high schools, and discover the wide range of paths our alumni pursue after graduation. Grade 7 students may remain on campus after school and join their families at the start of the event. Parking will be available beginning at 3:45 pm. RSVPs will be accepted through Friday, January 30. Please sign up to attend and secure childcare for siblings.
Around the world and in different communities, January is a month of recognition and awareness:
Curious about this week’s recognition and awareness days? You can explore the full list on our website.
Thank you for all you do to make Soundview such a connected and vibrant community. We look forward to the weeks ahead and seeing many of you at these upcoming events.
Warmly,
Chrissy Sinclair
Interim Head of School
One more thing…
On January 16, 2006, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf made history when she was sworn in as President of Liberia, becoming the first woman elected as head of state of an African nation. Her election marked a powerful milestone for democracy and gender equality across the continent, signaling new possibilities for women in political leadership. Leading Liberia in the aftermath of civil war, Sirleaf’s presidency became a symbol of resilience, reform, and hope for her country and for future generations of women leaders worldwide. Read about Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
