As we begin the new year, we know that getting to school isn’t always easy for every 7th and 8th grader. Changes in routines, academic pressure, social challenges, or anxiety can make attendance feel overwhelming at times—and many families experience this.

When students are able to attend school regularly, it helps them stay connected to caring adults and peers, keep up with coursework, and build confidence and routines that support a smoother transition to high school. Even small steps toward consistent attendance can help reduce stress from missed work over time.

Regular attendance also helps school staff recognize early when a student may need extra support, so families and schools can work together to address concerns before they grow. If your child is having a hard time getting to school, please reach out. You’re not alone, and we’re here to partner with you in finding supportive and manageable solutions.

Together, let’s make this a year of growth, reassurance, and progress for our students. 

@ Bainbridge High School

@ Bainbridge High School

Join Bainbridge Schools Foundation for our annual Gala event on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Kiana Lodge. This fun and impactful evening includes dinner, an inspiring program featuring student speakers, a live auction, raffles, and more!

Funds raised during the event directly support all BISD schools and help build strong, connected learning communities for students and educators. Registration closes January 22; gather your friends and register today at bsfgala.org.

Woodward’s Seminar is one of Woodward’s social/emotional learning platforms where students participate in a 35 minute class and discussion every Monday.  Seminar covers various topics that are connected to student’s social emotional health and well being. 

On January 5th, students used their Seminar time to learn about Student Led Conferences which take place January 21st, 22nd & 23rd and how they need to prepare.

The January 12th Seminar lesson was in honor of Martin Luther King and his legacy.  

The 2026–27 school year will be here before we know it! We look forward to welcoming families to a series of information nights and transition events this winter and spring. Please save the dates below—February & March events will include additional details and times in our upcoming Community Newsletters.

Tuesday, January 27 | 6:30 p.m.

@ Commodore Options School

@ Commodore Options School

@ Woodward Middle School

@ Eagle Harbor High School

@ Bainbridge High School

@ Bainbridge High School

@ Sakai Intermediate School

Additional details, reminders, and links will be shared in district publications as we get closer to each event. We look forward to connecting with you and supporting your student’s transition into the 2026–27 school year!

Kindergarten registration is open! Go to www.bisd303.org/kindergarten to enroll your new student!

Families with a rising kindergartener are invited to learn more about kindergarten options in Bainbridge Island School District. Join us for our general kindergarten information night and program-specific events to explore both neighborhood schools and choice programs.

4704 Blakely Ave NE, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

Learn about kindergarten from representatives of all BISD elementary schools and get answers to your questions. More information at www.bisd303.org/kindergarten. Let us know about your rising kindergarten student by completing this form.

Along with traditional kindergartens at BISD neighborhood schools, BISD offers choice programs (meaning families choose to enter them through a lottery). Attend these program-specific information nights to learn more!

Commodore Options | 9530 High School Road

Kindergarten Information Night

Kindergarten Information Night

* Lottery note: Applications for Odyssey and El Velero are due Thursday, February 12 at 9:00 a.m.

The Young People’s March for Peace and Kindness, an opportunity to practice service in the spirit of MLK and Day will happen this year on Monday, January 19th. Children of all ages, their families, and community members, are invited to gather for letter writing between 10:30-11:15 at the Bainbridge Island Library. At 11:15, we will march together to the Winslow post office to mail our letters. Bring signs, banners, friends, and your own stamp. Addresses and inspiration provided. Dress appropriately for the weather. We will joyfully be walking rain or shine!

This event is held with thanks to Bainbridge Island School District, Kitsap Regional Library, the BISD Multicultural Advisory Council and with support from our sponsor, Charter Real Estate.

The middle and intermediate school Bainbridge Wrestling program (Affiliated with USA wrestling) is a free after school program held at the Bainbridge High School wrestling room for 5th through 8th grade students.

We are excited to use the great sport of wrestling as a way to build and grow more athletic and tougher athletes on Bainbridge Island. Wrestling is a fun and competitive sport that provides opportunities for growth of the mind and the body. Anyone interested should be committed to at least 2 practices a week for the entirety of the season.

To sign up, please contact Dan Pippinger (danpippinger@gmail.com) or pick-up a form in the WMS Office.

Be sure to follow the PTO Instagram for fun images and friendly reminders.

Check out the Community Events Page for fun and engaging activities around the island!