First Day of School Is a Smooth One, Reports Edmonds School District

So, how was the first day of school?

"We are pleased to share that students had an overall smooth start as they returned to school today," said Edmonds School District spokeswoman DJ Jakala.

“We welcomed back over 20,000 students today in our 34 schools and programs,” said superintendent Nick Brossoit in a statement. “As I have been out visiting schools, it is wonderful to see the students, parents and staff all coming together and excited about this new school year. Everyone is reporting a smooth start. This was the result of the hard work of our staff to make ready our schools, classrooms, and grounds. We have great employees and sincerely appreciate their caring and competent work.

“I also want to thank our families for sending their students ready to learn, and for each and every student making great choices and doing their best every day in school. Also, we are ever mindful of and so thankful for our community who continues to stand strong in this tough economy, and show great support for our schools and district."

Tuesday's return also marked the opening of the new Meadowdale Middle School, which was funded by a voter-approved 2006 capital construction bond. The two-story building, which has almost 100,000 square feet naturally day-lighted classrooms, features seventh- and eighth-grade students in five personalized learning communities, said Jakala.

The Edmonds School District serves Edmonds, Brier, Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace, Woodway and unincorporated portions of Snohomish County.

“This year we continue to work with our math program that builds strong basic skills and leads students to higher levels of thinking and problem solving,” said Brossoit. “We are also excited to be implementing the second of three planned phases with our literacy adoption, this year bringing in more guided reading books, which teachers welcome as tools to continue our progress in this area.”

Brossoit will have the first of his monthly roundtable conversations Sept. 14 from noon to 1 p.m. Community members are invited to attend and bring questions, as well as lunch.

The first roundtable focuses on identifying what topics parents and caregivers want deeper understanding about, whether it's state assessments, the upcoming replacement technology levy or school meals.

The meeting will be held in the Edmonds School District boardrooms at 20420 68th Ave. W, Lynnwood.