Learning Journeys Await, Class is Almost in Session!
Only 12 days remain until our Soundview family reunites on campus for another inspiring school year filled with discovery, growth and connection!
Welcome back, Soundview community!
A new school year is upon us, and with it comes the energy, curiosity, and possibilities that make Soundview such a special place. Whether you’re returning for another year or joining us for the first time, we are so glad you’re here. The faculty, staff, and I have been hard at work preparing our classrooms, outdoor spaces, and curriculum so that each student is ready to learn, grow, and thrive.
This year, we’re especially excited about the quintessential Soundview experiences ahead, including outdoor school adventures, student-led assemblies, the Fall Ball, new inquiry-based units, and countless moments of learning that will spark joy, creativity, and discovery.
The start of the year is a time of change for children, parents, and teachers alike. Transitions can bring excitement, jitters, and everything in between. Here are a few ways to make the shift into the school routine smoother for every member of your family:
Expect a full range of emotions. Big feelings are a natural part of starting something new. They don’t always need fixing; sometimes they just need space to be felt and understood.
Ease into routines. Begin practicing your evening and morning rituals now. A simple checklist can be a big help, and bonus points if your child helps create it!
Revisit screentime habits. Consider creating a year-long agreement with clear boundaries to support a healthy balance.
Welcome curiosity. You don’t need to have all the answers to “What will school be like?” Jot down questions to bring to Dolphin Day, or use them as a springboard for conversations about feelings and expectations.
The Soundview Board of Trustees has been working for the last several years on Soundview’s current strategic priorities. Look for regular communication and opportunities to engage with our board about the strategic priorities. From 2023 through 2028, Soundview’s priorities are:
Deepening our community’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
Defining our school’s future growth, including a campus and facilities plan.
Becoming an accredited school with the Northwest Association of Independent Schools. (This is the highest standard for operation of non-profit independent schools. Parents, students, faculty, staff, and trustees will all be involved in this process. Look for further communication.)
We’re excited to share some wonderful updates about our community! The Soundview Board of Trustees is welcoming four new members this year:
Chris Sweeney – A proud parent of Luci (Grade 4) and Finn (Grade 2), Chris brings his passion for Soundview and commitment to supporting our mission.
Emily Hallowell – An engaged mom to Teddy (Grade 1), Emily is eager to contribute her energy and perspective to the Board.
Bri Dwyer – Dedicated mom to Blakely in our Early Childhood program, Bri is excited to help shape Soundview’s future.
Preat Kansal – An enthusiastic parent of Amitha (Grade 3), Preat looks forward to supporting the school and community through his Board service.
Get to know all the inspiring leaders on our Board of Trustees by reading their bios HERE.
Here are the September reminders and opportunities to look forward to:
Dolphin Day – Tuesday, September 2
Our annual welcome and orientation for all students and families is a chance to explore campus, meet teachers, and ease first-day jitters. Attendance is recommended but not required. If you missed our August 8 update with times and details, you can view it HERE.
Be sure to get ready for the school year in style and check out our new Soundview gear by visiting the store HERE!
First Day of School – Wednesday, September 3
As a reminder, we have a rolling drop-off and pick-up. Please enter through the west driveway and follow staff directions. You can find the schedule and campus map HERE (same link as above).
Curriculum Nights
Parents are invited to spend an informative hour with their child’s teacher, gaining insights into the curriculum, assessment methods, and class activities for the year. Parking will be available starting at 3:45 pm each night, and childcare will be provided for all students. Please mark your calendars for the following grade-level Curriculum Nights:
Grades 3–8: Thursday, September 11, 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Early Childhood–Grade 2: Thursday, September 18, 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Community Coffees
Join us for informal conversations with parents, staff, and me, starting Friday, October 24, from 8:40 am - 9:20 am in the art room. These morning sessions are scheduled throughout the year just before our monthly assemblies. You can find the dates on our Community Calendar HERE, and on a printable version HERE.
ParentMap ParentEd Talk Series
We’re once again partnering with ParentMap to bring engaging topics like mental health, screen time, and more. Attend live or watch later. This year, Soundview will host follow-up conversations from the ParentEd Talk sessions during the monthly Community Coffees. Explore this year’s lineup of inspiring speakers and topics by visiting HERE.
Register for all eight ParentEd Talk sessions at once by visiting HERE.
Password for complimentary tickets: SOUNDVSCH
Around the world and in different communities, August is a month of recognition and awareness:
Curious about this week’s recognition and awareness days? You can explore the full list by visiting HERE.
Together, we’ll make this year one of growth, laughter, and meaningful connections for our students and our community.
Warmly,
Chrissy Sinclair
Interim Head of School
One more thing…
On August 22, 1950, Althea Gibson made history as the first African American to compete in a national tennis competition, breaking racial barriers in a sport that had long excluded Black athletes. Her courage and talent not only paved the way for greater inclusion in tennis but also marked a pivotal moment in the broader fight for civil rights and equality in sports. Learn more about this event and her career HERE.
