Columbia Citizens

Hello neighbors,

Many concerned Hawthorne Elementary school parents and teachers are organizing against proposed changes to school assignment areas:
http://www.seattleschools.org/modules/cms/pages.phtml?pageid=294923

Our understanding is that the proposed changes would shrink Hawthorne's neighborhood student attendance, break apart an effective teaching team, and undermine much of the successful work in recent years to elevate the school's educational impact in the community.

To read the letter sent to the school board, visit www.friendsofhawthorne.org.

We recognize that this proposal impacts different families in different ways, and we are most concerned that it is being fast-tracked without careful consideration of community, family and school staff input. Despite a wait list and kindergarten classes bursting at the seams, in June the district decreased Hawthorne from three to two K classes - the "proposed" policy to shrink the school is already in motion. Please make your voice and the needs of SE Seattle families heard.

To express your thoughts or to show support for our neighborhood schools
- attend the meeting Monday at Mercer Middle school (6:30 - 8pm)
- email gro.sloohcselttaes|seiradnuobhtworg#gro.sloohcselttaes|seiradnuobhtworg (put HAWTHORNE in the subject line)
- call 206-252-0200

Thank you in advance for contributing to the discussion and for letting the school board know that we care about our neighborhood schools!

Best wishes,
Katie