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Community Newsletter
Denny International Middle School | Jan. 31, 2025
LETTER FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Dolphin Families,
Welcome to February, a month of care and new beginnings as we start a fresh semester. As we move into this exciting time, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for the continuous love and support this community offers. It was truly evident during our Open House, where our panel of scholars, parents, teachers, community partners, and staff shared their experiences at Denny. The rising fifth-grade scholars and their families were deeply inspired, expressing how welcomed they already feel and the sense of belonging they’ve found within our amazing community.
It is an honor to serve as your principal and be a part of this wonderful journey with all of you.
Warmly,
Principal Ingraham
IMPORTANT DATES
- 2-1 Varsity Boys Basketball at Cleveland 2 at 1:00 against Eckstein
- 2-1 JV Boys Basketball at Eckstein at 11:30 against Eckstein
- 2-1 JVC Boys Basketball at Madison at 1:00 against Madison
- 2-1 Varsity Girls Basketball at Roosevelt 1 at 8:30 against Whitman
- 2-1 JV Girls Basketball at South Shore K-8 at 2:30 against Whitman
- 2-12 PTSA meeting at 7:00 on Zoom
- 2-13 PTSA Dine Out Fundraiser--see details below
- 2-17 to 2-21 Midwinter Break, No School
Request for Donating Books for our Global Reading Challenge
If you have any of the books listed on the table below that you would like to donate to Denny for our Global Reading Challenge we would greatly appreciate it. All books can be dropped off in the main office or the library. If you choose, you can also purchase books on the Amazon List here: Global Reading Challenge 2025 and the books will be directly sent to Denny. Thank you so much for your help and getting more books in our scholars' hands.
Denny Basketball Teams
Basketball Practice Schedule:
- Mondays: All Girls
- Tuesday: All Boys
- Thursday: All JV
- Friday: All Varsity
This Saturday's Games:
- 2-1 Varsity Boys Basketball at Cleveland 2 at 1:00 against Eckstein
- 2-1 JV Boys Basketball at Eckstein at 11:30 against Eckstein
- 2-1 JVC Boys Basketball at Madison at 1:00 against Madison
- 2-1 Varsity Girls Basketball at Roosevelt 1 at 8:30 against Whitman
- 2-1 JV Girls Basketball at South Shore K-8 at 2:30 against Whitman
Denny Counseling & Scheduling FAQs
Who is my counselor?
If you are in 6th Grade your counselor is Ms. Tyau. Her email is notyau@seattleschools.org. Her office is 112C. She can also be reached by phone at 206-252-9027.
If you are in 7th Grade, your counselor is Ms. Wright. Her email is smwright@seattleschools.org. Her office is 212-C. She can also be reached by phone at 206-252-9010.
If you are in 8th Grade your counselor is Ms. Danielle. Their email is dnblechert@seattleschools.org. Her office is 312C. They can also be reached by phone at 206-252-9011.
What is my schedule supposed to look like?
All Denny students take 7 classes each day. You should have 5 core classes; math, Language Arts, Reading, History, and Science. You should also have 2 elective classes.
What if I look at my schedule and don’t like my classes?
There will be no schedule changes for the first three days of the new semester unless there is an error (you are missing a class, have the wrong lunch, etc.). We want you to try your new classes and see how they feel first.
What if, after those 3 days, I still don’t like my classes?
You can request a schedule change. Email your counselor or fill out an appointment request form to speak with them. There will be schedule change request forms in the main office and outside each of the counseling offices
Can I change my class to be with my friend(s)?
Unfortunately, no classes will be changed to be with friends. We understand this can be scary, especially if you don’t know anyone in your classes. The good news is that we will be focusing a lot on get-to-know-you activities the first few weeks of the semester, so you’ll get to know the people in your classes.
Special OST Opportunity
Join PTSA
We have gotten our link so that all can officially join the PTSA. Please use the following link to become a Denny PTSA member: https://wspta-00030863.givebacks.com/store
PTSA General Meeting February 12th
The PTSA will hold their next general meeting on Wednesday, February 12th from 7:00 to 8:00 by Zoom. Please find the link to join below. The general meetings will be held on the 2nd Wednesday of each months.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/95559484589?pwd=MlZCdTNSYzd4c0Y4d005SWpidmk0Zz09
Meeting ID: 955 5948 4589
Passcode: 363034
Sexual Health Education in Science Classes
Our science classes will be teaching Sexual Health Education (SHE) during the month of January and February. The 7th grade science classes will be beginning these lessons on January 7th and concluding them on January 17th. Our 8th grade science classes will begin the lessons on February 3rd and complete them by February 14th. The 6th grade science classes will begin the lessons on January 7th and complete them on January 17th. The teachers will be sending a family letter home with your student with information for you to reach out with questions, preview the materials, and opt out of part or all of the lessons. I have included the link to Seattle Public School's Sexual Health Education website for your reference.
Seattle Public School’s Sexual Health Education website: https://www.seattleschools.org/departments/health-education/sexual-health-education/
Upcoming School Levy Vote on Feb. 11
Why do schools need levies? State, local, and federal dollars fund school districts. There continues to be a disparity between what the state funds for education and what it costs Seattle Public Schools (SPS) to serve our students. So, every three years, the district asks voters to consider renewing expiring levies.
The district is asking voters to consider renewing two levies in the Feb. 11 election.
- Proposition 1 - The Educational Programs & Operations (EP&O) Levy continues funding for areas like student transportation, support staff, meals, special education, and student opportunities like athletics, music and art.
- Proposition 2 - The Building Excellence VI (BEX VI) Levy focuses on maintaining and improving school facilities. It funds renovation, repair and replacement of schools, as well as repairs to roofs, HVAC systems, and playgrounds. The capital levy also funds 90 percent of the district’s technology budget.
Ballots for the levy renewals will be mailed around Jan. 22 and are due to King County Elections by 8 p.m. on Tuesday, February 11. Visit the SPS website to learn more about what the levies fund https://www.seattleschools.org/about/levy/
Reaffirming Our Commitment to SPS Students, Staff and Families
Dear SPS Families and Staff,
Seattle Public Schools (SPS) remains steadfast in our commitment to providing safe, welcoming, and inclusive learning environments for every student, regardless of race, religion, national origin, immigration status, gender identity, or sexual orientation. We have a constitutional obligation to educate all students. No matter where you’re from, you are welcome here.
We are keeping watch for new policies that may affect our district. As new orders are introduced, we will work to provide as much clarity, calm, and stability as we can.
Some of our students and families are facing hardships on their path to educational justice and living freely. The recent announcement regarding the removal of protected areas and the possibility of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) entering schools to deport students is deeply troubling to our district and community.
School districts educate school-age residents regardless of the immigration status of the students or their families. To that end, state law directs school districts to limit immigration enforcement to the fullest extent possible consistent with federal and state law.
SPS has adopted a procedure based on the Washington State Attorney General’s Office model policy and procedure to apply to district interactions with federal immigration authorities.
Read the Superintendent's Procedure on Limiting Immigration Enforcement
In SPS, we respect every student's right to a safe school experience. We reaffirm that our schools are places of safety and belonging. We will not tolerate any action that disrupts our students’ sense of security or their right to an equitable education.
Furthermore, we stand firm in our commitment to protecting the rights of LGBTQIA+ students and staff, including non-binary individuals. The district remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
Superintendent Procedure 3211 guides our district’s unwavering support for gender-diverse students. We will continue to uphold these practices to ensure every student has access to the resources, support, and respect they deserve.
We are currently reviewing our relevant policies and procedures with our legal team to ensure these policies continue to provide clear information for students, their families, and SPS staff.
We will work alongside families, educators, and community partners to advocate for policies that protect our students and strengthen our commitment to their academic, social, and emotional well-being.
SPS is a district that will continue to stand with every student and family, ensuring their rights are upheld and their voices are heard.
In solidarity,
Dr. Brent Jones
Superintendent
Seattle Public Schools
SBIRT Newsletter
The SBIRT newsletter is focused on how you as parents and caregivers can support a child with symptoms of depression. Last year, 18% of SPS 6-9th graders experienced symptoms of depression. The newsletter is attached, but you can also view it on our website at https://www.seattleschools.org/departments/prevention-and-intervention/sbirt-check-yourself/sbirt-newsletters/. You can also find more resources about depression on our website: https://www.seattleschools.org/departments/prevention-and-intervention/sbirt-check-yourself/parent-resources/mental-health-resources/. If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to Drea Jones, dmjones3@seattleschools.org
Upcoming Know Your Right’s Trainings with Washington Immigrant Support Network
Know Your Rights / Conozca sus Derechos
⦿ Saturday/Sábado January 25th/Enero 25, 2025, 12pm–2pm
⦿ Zoom Registration/Registración de Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAqc-iorDkrG9CA7ypBOt3duhzSJK1WNPuQ
Know Your Rights / Conozca sus Derechos
⦿ Febrary/Febrero 22 2025, 12pm–2pm
⦿ Zoom Registration/Registración de Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAqc-iorDkrG9CA7ypBOt3duhzSJK1WNPuQ
Know Your Rights/Conozca sus Derechos con ICE
⦿ Wednesday/Miércoles March/Marzo 5, 2025, 6pm–8pm
⦿ Zoom Registration/Registración de Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZctcOqrqDoiE9RV8fb6uU6r8_m2WHUuCkLH
Community Resources
Food:
- Byrd Barr Place | https://byrdbarrplace.org/ 722 18th Ave (206) 812-4940
- Open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Market (Food Bank) Open Tuesday 11:00am - 4:00pm ; Wednesday 12:00pm - 4:00pm ; Thursday 10:00 am - 2:00 p.m.
- Call (206) 812-4940 for weekly home delivery service - Serves the 98102, 98112 or 98122 ZIP codes.
- Food Pantry (King County) | https://www.foodpantries.org
- Non-profit, charitable organization that distributes food to those who have difficulty purchasing
- Seattle Community Kitchen Collective | 2822 Martin Luther King Way S. Seattle, WA 98144
- http://www.thatbrowngirl.com/everybodygottaeat
- Chef Kristi & The That Brown Girl Cooks team will be operating as a Community Kitchen. Serving free meals to the community every Thursday & Saturday 2pm - 6pm.
- Sound Generations
- Community Dining Locations - https://soundgenerations.org/our-programs/food-security/community-dining/locations/
Rent/Housing Supports:
- Byrd Barr Place | 206-812-4940, housingassistance@byrdbarr.place
- Offers financial support for apartment and home renters in the Seattle area who have an active eviction notice or who have had a loss of income and owe past-due rent. We currently have a waiting list for rental assistance.
- Online form at https://westseattlefoodbank.org/apply/assistance/
- Catholic Community Services | (206) 328-5724 South: (253) 850-2523 East: (245) 213-1963
- https://ccsww.org/get-help/shelter-homeless-services/emergency-assistance/
- This program offers King County residents emergency assistance and move-in cost assistance.
- Housing and essential needs (HEN) (206) 328-5755
- Emergency Assistance Program – (253) 850-2523: Call First and Third Thursdays of each month from 2:00 - 3:00 pm
- El Centro De La Raza | (206) 329-0786 | 2524 16th Ave S, Seattle | www.elcentrodelaraza.org
- Provides assistance for various types of housing emergencies, affordable housing, transitional housing, and rental assistance
- Neighborhood House Helpline | (206) 767-7124
- Low-income residents of South King County, including White Center/Burien residents, can get assistance with eviction prevention funds and grants
- Washington 2-1-1
- Help line number to connect with services that can help with rental assistance, shelter, legal referrals, housing assistance, transportation, food, and other needs. Larger organizations may not accept clients unless they’ve gone through 211
- Search for available resource at https://search.wa211.org/
- YWCA Project Self-Sufficiency | (206) 209-5677| 211 referral needed
- The agency provides several services to women, their children, and their families. This service is for families or individuals who are on the edge of homelessness and need help maintaining their current rental or find alternative home
- https://www.ywcaworks.org/programs/housing-stability-project-king-county211
- Salvation Army | (206) 442-8365 | (206) 447-9944 |811 Maynard Ave S, Seattle |
- Resources can help with housing needs, with a focus on preventing homelessness in the King County area.
- Eviction prevention, move-in and security deposit assistance, limited rent help, and utility bill assistance.
- Salvation Army's Social Services Department in White Center | (206) 767-3150
- http://seattlewhitecenter.salvationarmy.org/
- 9050 16th Ave SW Seattle WA, 98106 Hours: Monday, starting 8:30am until all appointments are filled.
- Jewish Family Services | (206) 861-8796 | 1601 16th Ave, Seattle
- https://www.jfsseattle.org/get-help/community-stabilization-services/financial-assistance-request/
- JFS provides services to people of all backgrounds as well as Jewish individuals and families. They accept financial aid requests on Mondays, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Visit during those times to fill out the online request form. All financial assistance requests must be submitted using the online form.
- Saint Vincent de Paul Financial Assistance | (206) 767-6449 | 5950 4th Ave S
- https://fs20.formsite.com/svdpseattle/form20/index.html?1500502963998
- The Society of St. Vincent de Paul parish is a non-profit that serves people of all backgrounds and religions. They offer personal assistance with food, clothing, gasoline, medicine, rent, utilities, and transportation to people facing economic or emotional crises.
- Families can call the helpline center or complete a request form at https://svdpseattle.org/get-help/online-help-request-form/
- UNEA Community Outreach/Rent Assistance | markseattl3@aol.com
- Provides limited assistance with rent to qualifying King County families. If you are interested, please email. Due to funding limitations, this program is only able to serve Seattle families, with youth and/or Elders in the household.
RESOURCES & INFORMATION
New School-based Health Center Service Provider: Neighborcare Health
To learn more about Neighborcare Health and school-based health center services for the 2023-2024 school year, or to pre-register your student for services, view the Denny International Middle School page on the Neighborcare Health website.