Columbia School District #400

Welcome back, Columbia families and community! We are so thankful for the energy and support you’ve brought into the start of this school year. From filling our gyms and fields at fall sporting events to joining us at Open House, you’ve reminded us once again how powerful it is when our community comes together for kids. Your presence makes a difference every single day, and we are grateful.

As we move further into the year, our next big opportunity to come together will be during Fall Conferences - a time for students, parents, and staff to connect in meaningful ways. For the very first time, thanks to a recently approved waiver from the State Board of Education, Columbia School District will now host K-12 Parent-Teacher Conferences in both the fall and spring. While elementary and middle school families are already familiar with this tradition, we are thrilled to share that high school conferences are now being added beginning this fall on Monday, Nov. 24th and Tuesday, Nov. 25th.

This addition is a big step forward in preparing our students for graduation and beyond. Conferences at the high school level create more opportunities for conversations that matter – discussions about academic progress, graduation requirements, college and career planning, and future goals. These connections between students, families, and teachers will help ensure every student has the tools, confidence, and support they need to thrive. Conferences also tie directly into the High School and Beyond Plan (HSBP), which is a graduation requirement for all Washington students. Beginning as early as 7th grade, students will start exploring career interests, reflecting on strengths, and building an online portfolio that helps them map out their unique journey – whether that path includes college, career, military, trades, or other opportunities. Families will play a key role in these conversations, starting this year.

During Fall Conferences, elementary school parents can expect the traditional format, meeting with teachers to review growth in academics, behavior, and other areas of progress. Middle and high school families will meet with a designated teacher to review academic progress, graduation readiness, and future planning, with the opportunity to connect with other teachers as needed. Scheduling will be simple and convenient through our new ParentSquare app, where families can quickly choose conference times that fit their schedules.

Our goal is to connect with 100% of our students and families this fall. We know how important these conversations are, and if a family is unable to attend their scheduled time, we will work with them to set up an alternate conference. Every student deserves to have their progress and future discussed in partnership with their parents and teachers, and we are committed to making that happen.

Thank you for the love and support you continue to pour into Columbia School District. Together, we are building brighter futures for our kids.