News and Events

The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) has introduced the SUN Bucks Summer EBT Program to support families with school-age children. Each eligible child will receive a one-time payment of $120 in food benefits on a dedicated SUN Bucks card. This initiative aims to ensure that students have access to nutritious meals throughout the summer months.

How to Access SUN Bucks:

• Eligibility and Enrollment: Families already enrolled in benefits like SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR will automatically enroll their school-age children in SUN Bucks if the program is available in their area. Additionally, children attending schools that offer the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program may also be automatically enrolled if they meet the income requirements for free or reduced-price meals.
• Application Process: If not automatically enrolled, families can apply directly for SUN Bucks by meeting the necessary income limits and other requirements.
• Benefit Distribution: SUN Bucks will be issued from mid-June through the end of August 2024. Once qualified, families will receive an approval notice and a SUN Bucks EBT card within seven to 10 business days via U.S. Mail.
• Expiration: Benefits expire 122 days from issuance, so it's important to use SUN Bucks before they are removed.

For detailed information and additional questions about S-EBT benefits, families can visit the DSHS SUN Bucks webpage at: https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sunbucks or call the S-EBT Contact Center at (833) 543-3230 between 8 am and 5 pm Monday–Friday (except observed holidays). Schools are encouraged to share this information with families through communication channels such as social media, emails, and other outreach methods. By spreading the word, we can ensure that families and communities who qualify for the free lunch program are well-informed and can benefit from this vital support.

Together, let's ensure that our students have a healthy and nutritious summer!

Earlier this month, Thorndyke Elementary School buzzed with excitement as the community gathered for the grand opening of their new playground. The vibrant structure, made possible by a voter-approved bond, replaced a decaying play area that was no longer safe for the Eagles, as the students are fondly known.

Laughter and joy filled the air as students explored the colorful slides and swings. The highlight of the day was a special student who, with a beaming smile, cut the ribbon, officially inaugurating the playground. It was a symbolic moment, marking a commitment to the safety and well-being of the Eagles.

The event showcased the power of community unity, with parents, teachers, and community members celebrating together. The new playground wasn't just a recreational space; it was a testament to the resilience of a community dedicated to providing the best for its students.

In the weeks following, the sounds of laughter echo daily as children enjoyed their new play area. Thorndyke Elementary's playground standa as a symbol of transformation, a beacon of joy, and a testament to the positive impact that can result from collective community efforts.

This Giving Tuesday, Thorndyke Elementary experienced a heartwarming collaboration that brought smiles and warmth to its students. Operation Warm, a nonprofit dedicated to providing winter coats to children in need, partnered with Nordstrom to ensure that each student, including those from the large refugee community, received a brand new coat.

Aside from me organizing Operation Warm at Thorndyke, Nordstrom also donated 50 boxes of brand new children's socks and clothes that our district's own Julie Herdt and Kimberly Goodman were able to link with the Tukwila Children's Clothing Bank. The Tukwila Children's Clothing Bank provides clothing to all of our district families in need.

The Eagles, as the students are affectionately known, eagerly embraced the thoughtful gesture, especially with Seattle experiencing below-freezing temperatures. For many students, including those who have recently arrived in the community, this initiative provided not only physical warmth but also a sense of comfort and inclusion during the holiday season.

Nordstrom's volunteers worked tirelessly alongside Operation Warm to make the day extra special. The collaboration between the nonprofit and the retail giant exemplified the positive impact that corporate social responsibility can have on the lives of students, particularly those from diverse backgrounds. Beyond the practicality of the coats, the initiative fostered a spirit of togetherness, compassion, and a shared sense of belonging for all students.

As the students proudly showcased their new coats, the act of generosity extended far beyond protection from the cold. It symbolized a moment of collective kindness and care that will resonate within the school community, particularly among families who have recently resettled.

This heartening event serves as a shining example of the positive change that can occur when organizations unite for a common cause. Operation Warm and Nordstrom, through their collaboration, not only provided warmth but also shared joy and gratitude with the Thorndyke Elementary community, creating a meaningful impact for students, especially those who may be navigating the challenges of adjusting to a new community.

Please join the Thorndyke PTA on Thursday, August 31 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM for a Welcome Back to School Ice Cream Social event!  PTA members will be onsite, as well as some Thorndyke staff, so stop by for some ice cream and find out who your student's classroom teacher will be for this coming school year! We hope you had a great summer and are looking forward to welcoming you all back to school.

Saturday, August 19 from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at Foster High School (4242 S. 144th Street)