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Blakely Newsletter - September 8, 2025

Posted Date: 9/08/25 (10:41 AM)

Blakely Elementary School

September 8, 2025

Inside this Newsletter
  • Message from the Principal
  • From the Counselor
  • Parent/Guardian Information Night
  • PTO News
  • 25-26 Family Handbook
  • Blakely Calendar
 
Sam Cameron
Hi Bulldogs,

We had a fantastic first week at Blakely! Thank you for helping us get off to such a strong start. It has been a joy watching students settle in, reconnect with friends, and begin building their new classroom communities. I am continually amazed at our students' resilience and how they are adapting to the change in routine. Additionally, I find myself inspired daily by how our teachers and staff are so intentional in making sure students feel supported and safe as we practice routines and expectations together.

This week, we’re beginning to layer in more academics and structure while still focusing on relationships and consistency. As we establish these new routines at school; keeping morning, after-school, and bedtime routines steady helps to support them at home. Our kids thrive when the rhythms at home and school work hand in hand.

I'd also like to share a huge thank you for smooth drop-offs and pick-ups last week. I haven't heard much regarding traffic and road closure impacts, but I know this is still forefront on our minds. Your cooperation and patience helped everything run so much more smoothly for our students.

One quick reminder: we’ll begin officially marking tardies starting Monday, September 15. Arriving on time each day makes such a difference in setting students up for success.

Here’s to an amazing start to the year—thank you, Bulldogs! 

Sam Cameron
SCameron@bisd303.org
(206) 780-2050
 
Heart

From the Counselor

Starting the School Year Strong!
Welcome back to a brand new school year! I hope everyone had a fun, restful summer! 
As we dive into the excitement of a new school year, it’s important to set the stage for smooth mornings that leave everyone feeling ready for the day. Here are a few tips to help your child (and you) start each day on the right foot:
Establish a Consistent Morning Routine
Predictable mornings help children feel safe and confident. Here are some ideas to help keep mornings predictable, consistent, and smooth:
  • Create a visual schedule with pictures of the steps to take each morning.
  • Prepare the night before by packing backpacks, laying out clothes, and making lunch ahead of time to reduce morning stress.
  • Give gentle time warnings, such as "Five more minutes until we leave.” This can ease transitions and support time awareness.
Easing Morning Goodbyes
Separation nerves are normal, especially during the first few weeks of school. You can help your child feel more secure by:
  • Staying positive: A calm, confident goodbye helps your child feel more secure.
  • Keeping it short and sweet: Lingering can increase nervousness. A consistent “goodbye routine” (like a hug, high-five, secret handshake) can help.
  • Reassuring them: Let your child know when you’ll be back and that you’re excited to hear about their day.
Starting the year with structure, rest, and loving support goes a long way toward helping your little ones feel safe, confident, and ready to learn. If you ever have questions or concerns about your child’s transition into the school year, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re all in this together!
Always Here, 
Amanda Keller (she/her), M.Ed.
School Counselor
Blakely Elementary School
206-780-2076
akeller@bisd303.org
 
Information Night

Parent/Guardian Information Night

Please join us for Parent/Guardian Information Night on September 18th. We will start in the Commons for 15 minutes and then head to your student's classroom.
  • 1st & 4th at 5:15pm
  • 2nd & 3rd at 6:30pm
 
Jog a thon

PTO News

Save the date: Blakely’s 3rd annual Jog-A-Thon will be held Friday, October 17th!

Do you own or work for a company interested in supporting Blakely while also getting great visibility in our community? Sponsorship opportunities are available! Contact Elli Koskella for more information: ellikoskella@gmail.com

Lunch Volunteers Needed: Sign Up here for a one hour slot https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F044EA9AF29AAFA7-58279092-lunch

It's time to sign up for Coach Henry's After School Sports @ Blakely (3rd-4th graders).Mondays 9/15-10/27 12:50-2:20 $125 Sign up here:: https://www.leaguelineup.com/welcome.asp?url=hoopsandmore
 
Family Handbook

Family Handbook 2025-2026

This is a one-stop resource for all the information you need about Bainbridge Island School District:


This information is also available in the Family Handbook section on our website, where it can be translated into the language of your choice.
 
Calendar

Blakely Calendar


SEPTEMBER
9: First Day Preschool
18: Back to School Night 1st & 4th at 5:15pm
18: Back to School Night 2nd & 3rd at 6:30pm
26: Picture Day!
 
Helpful LInks

Helpful LInks

Helpful Links
SCHOOL INFORMATION

K-4 School Hours
  • Monday: 7:50-12:50
  • Tuesday-Friday: 7:50-2:20
Preschool Hours:
Tuesday-Friday
  • AM: 7:45-10:15
  • PM: 11:45-2:20
Phone Numbers
  • Main office: 206-842-4752
  • Attendance: 206-780-2046 or blattend@bisd303.org
  • After-school Transportation: blabus@bisd303.org
Helpful Links
 

Non-Discrimination Statement

Bainbridge Island School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, homelessness, immigration or citizenship status, the presence of any sensory mental, or physical disability, neurodivergence or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. The BISD provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. 

The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination:

Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator & Title IX Coordinator:
Kristen Haizlip, Associate Superintendent
206-780-1058

Section 504/ADA Coordinators:
Annalisa Sanchez, Director of Student Services
206-780-1069

Maria Kuffel
206-780-1088

8489 Madison Avenue North Bainbridge Island, WA 98110