Bellevue School District Launches “First Day, Every Day” Campaign To Help Students Start The 2026-27 School Year Strong - Welcome Center Plays Key Role In Helping Families Prepare - 06/25/26
BELLEVUE, Wash. – Today, [June 25, 2026], the Bellevue School District announces the launch of its “First Day, Every Day” attendance campaign, encouraging families to plan ahead and ensure students are present on the first day of school.
The campaign centers on a simple but impactful message: when students show up on day one, they start strong, and so does the entire community.
“Preparing for the next school year begins long before the first bell rings,” said Janine Thorn, Chief Communications Officer. “We want every student to feel welcomed, connected, and ready to learn from the very first day. Families play a vital role in making that happen.”
Why the First Day Matters
Attending school on the first day helps students build routines, meet their teachers and classmates, and feel a sense of belonging from the start. It also plays an important role in ensuring schools have the resources needed to support students throughout the year. In Washington state, school funding is based on student enrollment (FTE), not daily attendance, and is determined across 10 monthly count days. The September count is especially important because it establishes the baseline for the entire school year.
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Students counted in September contribute to the annual average enrollment that drives most state funding
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If a student is not enrolled or present before the September count day, the district cannot claim them for funding until they attend
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For districts experiencing enrollment declines, missing students at the start of the year can lock in lower funding for the entire year
Because Washington uses an enrollment-driven funding model, each student counted in September generates a full year of funding that supports teachers, student services, materials, and programs. Students who arrive later generate only partial-year funding.
Even small changes in enrollment can impact:
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Classroom staffing
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Academic and support programs
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Student services such as counseling, mental health, and specialized supports
Welcome Center Supports Families
A key component of the campaign is the district’s Welcome Center, which provides support to families throughout the summer months. The Welcome Center offers:
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Enrollment assistance for new and returning students
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Multilingual support for families
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Guidance on immunizations, transportation, and school assignments
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“New to BSD” orientation sessions
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Drop-in hours and personalized appointments
“Our Welcome Center team is here to help every family navigate the steps to be ready for the first day,” said Dr. Ricardo Macias. “Whether you’re new to the district or returning, we are ready to support you every step of the way.”
A Community Effort to Start Strong
Throughout the summer, BSD will share reminders, resources, and behind-the-scenes stories highlighting how schools and district teams are preparing to welcome students. Community partners will also help amplify key messages to families across Bellevue.
Families can take a few simple steps now to prepare:
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Mark the first day of school on their calendar
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Complete enrollment and verify student information
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Confirm transportation plans
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Visit the Welcome Center for support
Looking Ahead
The first day of school for the 2026–27 year is:
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Grades 1–12: September 2, 2026
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Kindergarten and Evergreen Transitions Program: September 8, 2026
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Preschool: September 9, 2026
Key dates for families and Summer tips to Be Ready for the First Day of School in September can be found on BSD’s website.
“When families plan ahead, students start strong—and so does BSD,” said Thorn.