Smiles Are Back on Campus!
Smiles were everywhere as we welcomed our students back to campus this week!
Dear Soundview families,
Welcome back from Spring Break! I hope everyone had a restful and joyful week. It’s been wonderful to have our students and community back on campus. It was especially heartwarming to see so many smiling faces during our Spring Picture Day yesterday.
We kicked off the week with a meaningful and impactful Community Project presentation from our Grade 8 student, Hank, introducing Mental Health Week. During Monday morning’s assembly for Grades 1-8, Hank shared the purpose behind the week and outlined the daily themes and activities, including Mindful Monday, Talk It Out Tuesday, Wellness Wednesday, Thankful Thursday, and Feel Good Friday. As part of Mental Health Week, students chose beads to visually represent experiences with mental health themes. This allows people to see that they are not alone. Bravo to Hank for his leadership in bringing this important topic to our community and for creating thoughtful opportunities to build awareness, connection, and positive well-being throughout the week.
It was also another week of field trips filled with exploration and learning. On Tuesday, our Grade 1/2 classes visited Seattle Recology, where they explored the shift from traditional waste management to resource recovery and learned about sustainable practices that help reduce waste on a global scale. On Thursday, our Grade 8 students traveled to Bedrock Industries, gaining insight into responsible environmental practices and how the company uses 100% recycled materials to create tile and glass.
Be sure to check out photos from this week’s activities below!
We held a truly meaningful assembly this week as we came together to recognize Mental Health Awareness Week, creating space for reflection, connection, and support within our community.
Our Grade 1/2 classes ventured out to Seattle Recology where they learned about sustainable practices that help reduce waste on a global scale!
Our grade 8 students traveled to Bedrock Industries, gaining insight into responsible environmental practices and how the company uses 100% recycled materials to create tile and glass.
Tomorrow, from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, Grade 8 student Finn will bring his Community Project to life. I am excited to join him and his fellow middle school volunteers to transform the MYP backyard by adding a bench, picnic table, a surprise for the grade 8 class, and, most ambitiously, planting clover in the shaded area. We look forward to seeing the finished space come together. Congratulations to Finn on this exciting project, and we’ll be sure to share photos in next week’s letter!
NWAIS Survey
If you completed the survey in support of the Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS) accreditation process while on campus for conferences, thank you! If you haven’t yet, we want your feedback. The survey will take about 10 minutes to complete. Your voice is valued and important to this process!
Summer Camps
Registration is open for Soundview Summer Camps (Early Childhood–Kindergarten and Grades 6–8) and Steve & Kate’s Camp (ages 4–12). Please sign up through our website to reserve your spot.
Need a refresher on updates prior to Spring Break? You can find recent announcements on our website.
A few key dates, events, and opportunities for April and early May:
Community Coffee
Join us for Community Coffee on Wednesday, April 22, from 8:40 am - 9:20 am in the Language Lab, just before the Kindergarten-led all-school assembly. We’re excited to welcome Mr. MacCully (Grade 5 teacher), who will share insights into the PYP Exhibition, a meaningful, student-driven culminating experience. Parking will be available in the gravel lot beginning at 8:30 am.
ParentMap ParentEd Talk
We’re excited to invite families to the next ParentEd Talk with bestselling author of Decoding Boys and Pediatrician, Dr. Cara Natterson. Her presentation, Decoding Boys: Supporting Our Sons in a Rapidly Changing World, examines how boys are growing up in a world shaped by constant access to videos, gaming, and technology. Join us on Wednesday, April 22, at 12:00 pm, and plan to continue the conversation at our next Community Coffee.
Families can register for the full ParentEd series using the complimentary ticket password: SOUNDVSCH.
SPGA Book Club
The SPGA will be hosting a Book Club with Mrs. Armstrong on Thursday, April 23 at 4:00 pm in the PAC Loft. This special format invites parents and children to read together and come ready to share in a guided discussion. For Grades 1/2, the selected book is Bog Myrtle by Sid Sharp, and for Grades 3–8, students and families will read New Kid by Jerry Craft. Families with multiple children are welcome as separate groups will be available so you can move between discussions as needed.
Please be sure to RSVP if you plan to attend.
Yearbook Cover Contest Deadline
The deadline for the 13th Annual Yearbook Cover Contest is Friday, April 24. All students are encouraged to participate in this wonderful opportunity to showcase creativity and contribute to a lasting memory of the school year. Please review the submission guidelines for details.
Spring Concert
Our Spring Concert is on Thursday, April 30, from 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm, featuring our orchestra and all grade-level bands. It’s always a highlight of the season and a celebration of our students’ musical growth and dedication. To help the evening run smoothly:
Grade 5–8 band and orchestra students who remain on campus after school will be supervised by Soundview staff.
Students who leave campus should return by 4:15 pm, dressed and ready to perform.
Childcare for siblings will be available from 3:30–4:30 pm. Please complete the RSVP form for childcare by Monday, April 27.
Teacher Appreciation Week: Celebrating the Heart of Soundview
Teacher Appreciation Week is May 4–8, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to recognize and celebrate the dedicated educators who make our community so special. Their passion, care, and commitment to our students truly make a difference every day.
Be on the lookout for more details from the Soundview Parent and Guardian Association (SPGA) on how you can take part in making this week memorable. In the meantime, here’s a preview of what’s in store:
Monday: Coffee and tea to start the week on a high note.
Tuesday: Help us stock the lounge with snacks and treats.
Wednesday: Ways to get involved Wednesday.
Thursday: A special pizza lunch in appreciation of our teachers.
Friday: Gratitude Day! Share a note or card with a teacher who has made an impact.
We look forward to coming together as a community to show our gratitude and celebrate our incredible teachers!
Spirit Week
Soundview’s Spirit Week is May 11–15, and we’re excited to celebrate the energy and creativity of our community. Students are invited to participate in whatever way feels fun and comfortable, whether going all out or keeping it simple. There’s no need to purchase anything new as the focus is on imagination, school spirit, and enjoying the experience together. As always, please ensure outfits are appropriate for all age groups. View the daily Spirit Week themes so your student(s) can prepare.
MYP Spring Fling
The Middle School Spring Fling is on Friday, May 15. Look for details for this event in next week’s Toddle announcement.
Around the world and in different communities, April 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.
Welcome back, everyone, and enjoy the weekend!
Warmly,
Chrissy Sinclair
Interim Head of School
One more thing…
On April 17, 1790, Benjamin Franklin passed away at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential figures in American history. A Founding Father, inventor, diplomat, writer, and scientist, Franklin played a pivotal role in shaping the early United States by helping to draft the Declaration of Independence and securing crucial French support during the American Revolution.
Beyond politics, his curiosity and intellect led to groundbreaking contributions in science. This included experiments with electricity, while his civic leadership helped establish libraries, fire departments, and institutions that strengthened communities. Franklin’s impact endures as a symbol of innovation, public service, and the enduring pursuit of knowledge, securing his place as one of the most respected and versatile figures in history. Read about Benjamin Franklin.
