News from the Nest
Summary : Arbor Heights Monthly Family Newsletter
Arbor Heights Monthly Family Newsletter
September 18, 2025
From the Principal’s Perch
September 15–October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of people whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. At Arbor Heights, we are excited to honor this month together as a community.
One way we’re celebrating is through a school-wide art project. Every student has contributed to the creation of papel picado, a traditional Mexican folk art made by cutting intricate designs into colorful paper. These vibrant banners symbolize unity and celebration—and when you walk our halls at Open House, you’ll see each student’s work woven together into something beautiful that represents our whole school community.
We’re also thrilled to welcome you to our Open House on Thursday, September 25 from 4:45–6:15 PM! This year, Open House will be an informal drop-in format. Families are welcome to come at any time during the event to visit classrooms, meet teachers and staff, and see student learning spaces. Please note that teachers will not be giving formal presentations.
At 5:30 PM in the cafeteria, I will share a short school update and introduce our specialists and other staff members. We look to seeing you and your family at Open House!
Key Dates
- Every Monday: Junior Seahawk Pride, Wear your AHE Gear 💚💙
- Every Friday: Fan Friday 🙌(no costumes)
- Every Wednesday: Early dismissal, 1:10pm
- September 17: PTSA Ice Cream Social, 5:30 – 7:00
- September 25: AHE Open House, 4:45 – 6:15
- September 27: PTSA Apple Cider Press & Garden Work Party
- October 3: Picture Day (see Announcements for details)
- October 8: International Walk and Bike to School Day
Announcements
SPS has adopted a new system for volunteering. We will send updates on the new process soon!
LGBTQ+ Family Resources
Inclusion and belonging are core values at Arbor Heights, and we want every student and family to feel supported. Seattle Public Schools offers resources to help families celebrate and uplift LGBTQ+ students. On the district website you’ll find community organizations, parent networks, and support services for students and families. Explore more here: SPS LGBTQ+ Resources for Students and Families.
October 8 International Walk or Bike to School Day
We’re excited to celebrate International Walk & Bike to School Day! Families are invited to meet at a designated location and walk together to school as a community. Once we arrive at the school gates, students will say goodbye to their families and join classmates in walking the field before the first bell rings. Stay tuned—more details coming soon!
Picture Day
Yuen Lui Studio will photograph individual portraits at Arbor Heights Elementary on Friday, October 3. Families can preorder portraits here: 2025-26 Arbor Heights Elementary Picture Day 10/3. Print orders will be delivered to the school in 3-4 weeks after picture day; digital orders will be sent via email from no-reply@imagequix.com.
Contact Yuen Lui Studio with any questions.
BRIDGES Program
From cooking classes to internships at local businesses to providing a pathway to college, students between the ages of 18 and 22 are given the opportunity to become productive and engaged adults through the BRIDGES program.
BRIDGES stands for Building Real-life Independent Daily Living and Gainful Employment Skills. It’s a transition program that supports those who continue to need special education services once they have completed high school.
The students in BRIDGES are growing into strong, independent, hardworking members of society. SPS appreciates the program leaders and staff for not only providing help and hope to students, but their families as well.
BRIDGES is located on several campuses around the district and hospitals in the Seattle area. The award was accepted by Devin Gurley, executive director of Special Education and Inclusion, and Rob Vander Stoep, BRIDGES Supervisor.
Arbor Heights will once again host several Bridges students and their supervisors for two hours on Tuesdays. Bridges students will assist in the cafeteria and will help shelve library books.
Ms. Burr’s Newsletter
Please see the attachment for news from Art Class using News From The Nest link.
Arbor Heights Breakfast and Lunch
Breakfast and Lunch are available for purchase every day.
Information about Free or Reduced Student meals
Please note that SPS Culinary Services does their best to follow the planned menu, but last-minute changes may occur.
PTSA Updates
Classroom Communications
- Please opt-in to receive emails from your child’s classroom Hawkeye.
- Hawkeyes are still needed for Ms. Coghill and Mr. Ben. Contact Rikki.
Apple Cider Press & Garden Work Party
- Saturday, September 27 from 1 – 4pm
- Arbor Heights garden
- Join us for a cup of hot apple cider! Bring apples and containers if you can, and help plant our vegetable garden. To volunteer or contribute, please contact Rachel.
After-School Enrichment
Volunteers are needed. If you can be an on-site volunteer or an assistant for the soccer skills class, please contact Bonny. Volunteers receive a scholarship and priority registration for other classes!
Class information is on our website! Registration begins Sept. 30 at 9pm.