Woodside Elementary School

Welcome Woodside Families!

Whether you are new to Woodside — WELCOME! — or returning — WELCOME BACK! — we are so glad you’re here. We’re excited to kick off another fantastic school year together!

🎯 Our Goals for 2025–2026

At Woodside, we are committed to continuous growth and improvement. This year, we’re focused on:

• Reducing chronic absenteeism by 10% or more
• Increasing student growth in grade-level reading and math by 10% or more

We’ll reach these goals through:

• Student attendance buddy systems
• Robust collaboration in professional learning communities
• Maintaining high expectations
• Teamwork and family partnership

🦜 Woodside SOARs Above!

We’ve refreshed our SOAR expectations to make them simpler and easier to remember. Our Toucans are expected to demonstrate SOAR in all areas of the school:

• S – Safety
• O – On Task
• A – Academic Attitude
• R – Respect & Responsibility

🤝 Visitors & Volunteers

We love volunteers! If you're interested, please coordinate with your child's teacher to explore opportunities.

➡️ Note: All volunteers must complete a district background check, which can be done by clicking HERE to begin the application process on the Everett School District website.

🚗 Arrival & Dismissal Procedures

Morning Drop-Off

• Use the drop-off line whenever possible to avoid walking through the parking lot.
• Valet students will assist — please stay in your car.
• Students may arrive after 8:05am, when supervision begins.
• First bell: 8:30am | Final bell: 8:35am
• If walking your child, please say goodbye at the family drop-off sign.

Afternoon Pick-Up

• Dismissal is at 2:50pm (Fridays at 1:35pm)
• Meet your child behind the signs in the courtyard or use the car pickup line.
• We appreciate your patience and courtesy during busy times

📅 Why Attendance Matters

We miss our students when they’re not here! Regular attendance is key to success at every grade level. Here’s how families can help:

Make School Attendance a Priority

• Talk about the importance of being at school every day
• Schedule appointments outside of school hours
• Promote healthy habits (sleep, nutrition, handwashing, immunizations)
• Keep children home only if they’re truly sick (headaches/stomachaches may signal anxiety)

Set Up Consistent Routines

• Stick to regular bedtimes and morning routines
• Prepare clothes and backpacks the night before
• Have a backup plan for getting to school (family, neighbors, etc.)

Did You Know?

• All absences can impact academic success
• 10% of the school year (18 days) = chronically absent
• By 6th grade, absenteeism is a leading predictor of dropping out
• By 9th grade, attendance is a better graduation predictor than test scores
• It takes 3 days to catch up for every 1 day missed
• Missing 3+ days per month can set a student back 2 full years over time

🙌 Let’s SOAR Together!

I am honored to continue my leadership journey with the wonderful Woodside community. Let’s make this year incredible and ensure all our Toucans SOAR in 2025–2026!

In partnership,
Danielle DeJong
Woodside Principal