Support for Youth in the Issaquah & Sammamish Areas
Arc of King County: Vulnerable Nervous Systems in the Classroom, A Brain-Body-Sensory Approach with Roots of Inclusion 3- Part Series
Trauma, toxic stress, and learning differences leads to sensitized stress response systems and vulnerability in the nervous system. This leads to an increase in challenging- and baffling!- behaviors. This three-part training will reframe what behavior really is (from the latest in behavioral and relational neuroscience) and explore how to change it. Attendees will leave with a new framework for making sense of baffling behaviors that can also be taught to students of all ages. You will feel equipped with both proactive and responsive strategies, as well as what to do when it feels like nothing is working.
Part 1 - Complete Before October 7 Focus on the Nervous System to Change Behavior On-demand foundational learning through ROI's Online Course - Understanding Behavior & Regulation: A Learning Series with Robyn Gobbel
Part II -Oct 7, 2026 Live Virtual Training with Robyn Gobbel - 4:00 to 6:00PM (PT)
Part III - Oct 14, 2026 Live Virtual Training with Robyn Gobbel - 4:00 to 6:00PM (PT)
YWCA Youth Legislature Open Houses in October
Youth Legislature participants work all year to learn parliamentary procedure and write their own legislation that is later presented to other delegates during a state-wide conference. Teens develop confidence, hone skills in writing, research and public speaking, and better understand their power as citizens in a democratic society. Join us at a free open house to meet current participants, learn about the program, and see how you can get involved in hands-on leadership, debate, and civic engagement! This program is open to students in grades 8-12.
Bellevue Family YMCA | Tuesday, October 6 | 6:30-7:30 pm
Sammamish Community YMCA | Wednesday, October 7 | 5:00-6:00 pm
Dale Turner Family YMCA | Thursday, October 8 | 6:00-7:00 pm
Meredith Mathews East Madison YMCA | Wednesday, October 14 | 6:00-7:30 pm
ParentWiser: What Parents Need to Know About E-Bikes Webinar Oct 20, 2026
Issaquah PTSA Council ParentWiser is partnering with the King County Sheriff’s Office, Issaquah Police Department, and Issaquah School District Safety and Security Department to host an online workshop addressing important e-bike safety concerns for students and families. his workshop will help parents and caregivers better understand e-bikes and the rules surrounding their use. Topics will include the different classes and types of e-bikes, which e-bikes are appropriate and legal for students to ride, and what parents need to know if a minor operates an e-bike illegally.
ISD: Learn About Developmental Disability Resources With The Arc of King County Oct 26, 2026 Online
Join The Arc of King County’s Tracie Warren Lozano, Future Planning Support Program Manager, for a virtual conversation about services and community resources available to students with developmental disabilities and their families in King County and across Washington state. Participants will learn about resources available through The Arc of King County, local community organizations and the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), including waivers, respite care, therapies and behavioral support. This informal conversation will also provide an opportunity for families to ask questions and learn what support may be available.
KCLS: Issaquah Teen Advisory Board (TAB) View all dates Online event
Have you ever wanted to sharpen your claws and hone your innate penchant for mischief into strategic action that benefits the community? Join Issaquah's hybrid Teen Advisory Board (TAB). We believe middle and high schoolers contribute superior insights, enthusiasm, talent and skills to their local library and the community at large. Gain and improve your communication, collaboration, critical thinking, marketing/advertising, sales, project management, analytic and creative software proficiency, leadership and other transferable skills. We will train both in-person (first Wednesday of the month) and online (third Wednesday of the month). There will be treats at every in-person meeting. TAB is an experience, offering creative problem solving with high impact. Requirements include at least a passing interest in art, advocacy, acting, business, event planning, journalism, libraries, literature, music, social media, theater and/or writing. If that’s you, please apply to enter into a legally binding volunteer role with Issaquah Library. **Last online/official meeting is Wednesday, August 19th starting at 4:30 pm.
KCLS: Teens Around the Fire - A Teen Hangout Space NEXT: Thursday, October 08, 2026 3:45pm–5:30pm View all dates
Join us beside the fire! Play games, work on homework, or just hang out in this dedicated teen space. For high school students. Every 2nd and 4th Thursdays in the Meeting Room of the Sammamish Library from 3:45pm - 5:30pm.
KCLS: Renton Libraries
Renton LGBTQ+ Youth Group View all dates RentonThis free support group is open to ages 11 to 22 who identify as LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer, plus other identities like non-binary, gender non-conforming, etc.) and for youth who may be questioning or exploring their gender or sexual identities. In partnership with Lambert House. Parent/guardian permission required for ages 12 and younger. Before attending, please email kcgroups@lamberthouse.org to register and for more information.
The Garage, A Teen Cafe: Mon - Fri 3pm - 7pm, School Break Hours 12pm - 6pm
The Garage, a Teen Cafe is a safe, after-school drop-in place for teens where they can gather with their friends and access programming and services as needed. Open Monday–Friday, 3–7 PM during the school year and 12–6 PM during school breaks and summer. The space is warm, welcoming, and shaped daily by the teens who gather here. • Food • Creative Programming • Community • Access to Mental Health Therapy • and more — all at no cost.
AFK is a Youth Mentoring Program focused upon building supportive, mentoring relationships between high school athletes and children who have disabilities and special needs of all kinds. Athletes For Kids serves children in 1st-12th grades who have disabilities and special needs of all kinds. We carefully match each child with a qualified high school athlete, who commits to mentoring a child for one to three years. Once a mentorship is formed, the pair meets two to four times a month.
The Village: Supporting Under Represented Youth in Issaquah Area
The Village serves children and young people who identify as BIPOC, those from other historically marginalized and excluded groups, and those who would not be able to explore their potential due to financial barriers. Using our bike project as a model, we recruit professional instructors to offer free lessons in the the pursuit of a child's choice, and through fundraising provide all of the equipment the child will need, always at no cost to participating families.
Issaquah School District
Back-to-School Basics: What You Need to Know for the 2026-2027 School Year: We are excited to welcome our students for the new school year soon! The 2026-27 school year begins for students in grades 1-12 on Thursday, August 27; and for new kindergarten students on Tuesday, September 1. While our teachers and staff members are busy preparing to welcome students for the 2026-27 school year, we know that families are getting ready, too. Here are our "Top Things to Know" as the first day approaches. If you have additional questions, please call your student's school or the district office.
New District Regulation Limiting Immigration Enforcement; Resources for Families: We’re pleased to share that our new Immigration & Refugee Resources page is now live on our website, offering information and support for all families in our district. The page outlines key protections and policies, including newly adopted Regulation 4300: Limiting Immigration Enforcement in Schools, which underscores our commitment to creating a safe, welcoming environment where every child — regardless of immigration status — can thrive. Our goal is to equip families with clear knowledge of their rights and assurance that our schools prioritize the dignity and well-being of every student. On this webpage, you’ll find practical guidance on: - Every child’s right to attend school, regardless of immigration status. - Our commitment to protecting student privacy and not sharing immigration-related information. - Steps we take to ensure our schools remain safe and welcoming for all families. - How we prevent unauthorized immigration enforcement on campus. - Resources for immigrant families including legal services, educational opportunities and available benefits.
OSPI Guidance Protections for Immigrant Students in Washington’s K–12 Public Schools: OSPI released guidance on state and federal protections for immigrant students in Washington’s K–12 public schools. The guidance provides schools with a roadmap of requirements related to student privacy, access to educational services, and immigration enforcement on school campuses.
Family Liaisons: Dedicated Staff Assisting Families flyers in 10 languages Many parents have question such as who to contact with student concerns, what the class choices are, what requirements are expected for graduation and classroom expectations. The Family Liaisons help families understand and navigate our school system.
Technology for Students in Need: Computers and internet access are necessary resources for students to access class material and online tools. All students in grades 6 through 12 will receive a laptop for checkout from their school. Families who qualify for Free and Reduced Lunch are eligible for a free surplus computer and/or internet access for the home. Visit website for more informaiton.
Help Available for Homeless Students via McKinney-Vento Act: Through the McKinney-Vento Act, children who are homeless have certain rights and protections to help them to continue with their education while they are without housing. If your family lives in any of the following situations, you may qualify for rights provided by McKinney-Vento: In a shelter, motel, vehicle or campground. * On the street. * In an abandoned building, trailer or other inadequate accommodations. * Doubled up with friends or relatives because you cannot find or afford housing. Do you need assistance? Contact your student’s school counselor. If you are unable to reach your school counselor, contact the Student Interventions and Compliance Department at 425-837-7158. Call the National Center for Homeless Education at the toll-free Help Line number: 1-800-308-2145
is a program of Issaquah Schools Foundation that helps build relationships between families from diverse cultures and languages, their children, the ISD, and the broader Issaquah community through outreach, events, mentoring, translation services and a magazine published in 7 languages.
Family Guide 2026-27 Cultural Bridges created this Family Guide to help families better understand the Issaquah School District and feel more confident navigating the school system. Inside, you will find not only general information about how the school system works, but also specific information and resources for each stage of your child’s education, from preschool through elementary, middle, and high school. The guide also includes school, family, and community resources to support you throughout the year. Available in 8 languages. Expanded Acronyms and Terminology Guide2026-27 — with even more commonly used ISD acronyms and school terms explained in easy-to-understand language. Navigating the Issaquah School District can sometimes feel like learning a new language—full of acronyms, programs, and terms that aren’t always easy to understand. To help families feel informed and confident, we’ve created the Issaquah School District Acronyms and Terminology Guide. This guide is available as a PDF, making it easy for families to download, print, and keep at home for quick reference. It’s also offered in 8 different languages to meet the diverse needs of our community.
City of Issaquah: Scholarship Program
The scholarship process provides discounted registration fees for classes, camps, and programs. Qualifying families can register and pay a reduced fee of 50%, 70% or 90% within the application calendar year. Recreation scholarships are available for:
Children, youth and adults who reside within the city limits of Issaquah AND whose families meet the income eligibility criteria; or
Children and youth (under age 18) whose households reside within the Issaquah School District boundary AND whose families meet the income eligibility criteria
Hopelink Financial Capabilities Program
FAFSA Assistance: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now open to all students and families hoping to get help paying for college in the 2025-26 school year. Students and their families who would like assistance with navigating FAFSA can reach out to financialed@hopelink.org.
King County Library System:
As students return to school, libraries can help them thrive. Get tutoring, homework help , and more. Our free programs build knowledge, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. Whether online or in-person, families can choose the format that works best for them. Find events, Study Zone, Resources and more HERE
K-12 Educator, Parent, and Caregiver Support Resources: Community Resources, Streaming Story Times, Drawing, and Songs, Additional Educational Resources
Student Accounts: Every K-12 student in participating school districts automatically gets a student account. No application needed! Use your Student ID number to access books, online resources, and homework help.
Study Zone Plus: Need help with your homework? Connect to homework help and services for students in grades K-12. Help is available online and in person. Find more information about Tutors, Math Club, Reading Buddies, Brain Fuse, and more.
Affordable Connectivity Program *Ended April 2024*
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a U.S. government program run by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program to help low-income households pay for internet service and connected devices like a laptop or tablet. Due to a lack of additional funding from Congress, the ACP stopped accepting new applications as of February 7, 2024. The last fully funded month of the program is April 2024.
King County Metro’s Youth Program has shared new resources for partners to help promote youth transit access:
Classroom Education Flyer – Available in English for educators interested in Metro’s curriculum and in-class workshops.
Free Youth Transit Pass Materials – Includes printable flyers, social media graphics (English, Spanish, Simplified Chinese), videos, and photos directing families to FreeYouthTransitPass.com to order a free Youth ORCA card.
Access the digital toolkit using password: FreeYouthTransitPass.Additional Materials Available – Folded brochures in 11 languages, English/Spanish rack cards, English bookmarks, printed flyers, and swag items can be mailed upon request.
Language Requests – If you need materials in additional languages, Metro can provide them—just specify which item and which language.
Lifeline is the Federal Communications Commission’s program to make communications services accessible to low-income consumers in Washington State. Lifeline provides subscribers a discount on monthly telephone service, broadband Internet access service, or voice-broadband bundled service purchased from participating providers.
Benefits Hub Welcome to the Benefits Hub! Are you balancing a combination of school, work, and life? Are you working hard, but still having a difficult time keeping up with bills and the rising cost of living? United Way of King County’s Benefits Hub will help you get by, get ahead, and stay ahead so that you can achieve your college and career goals.
Bellevue College’s Basic and Transitional Studies (BATS) offers classes for adults to improve reading, writing, and math skills, GED preparation courses, and the High School+ (HS+) program for adults 18 and older. Financial help may be available for tuition, books, childcare, and transportation. Fall Quarter applications will open in late June.
Washington College Grant (WA Grant) gives eligible people more money for more types of education like certificate programs, job training, apprenticeships, or college.
WA State: Foster Care Services Education and Training Voucher (ETV) Program
The ETV Program is for youth who qualify and are likely to age out of the foster care system. ETV offers money to eligible youth to attend an accredited college or vocational training program. The funds can be used for educational and living costs. Awards are determined by the Cost of Attendance (COA) set by the college or university where the youth is enrolled, and any unmet need they may have. Awards vary and not every student will receive the same amount.
Washington Student Achievement Council
The Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) is a cabinet-level state agency. We are working to raise educational attainment through strategic engagement, program management, and partnerships. We are committed to increasing educational opportunities and attainment in Washington including administering programs that help people access and pay for college.
STEM Flights is a national nonprofit organization that connects Middle and High School students with volunteer Pilot Mentors to learn about Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). We inspire America’s youth to pursue STEM and aviation careers with a unique flight experience. We have Pilot Mentors who provide flights all over the United States and we are growing every day! You can reach out to info@stemflights.org to inquire about your specific geographic location to see if we have pilot mentors nearby. STEM Flights is FREE for students, the only thing we ask in return is to complete a short survey on an annual basis about your experience. Your responses help shape the aviation industry and future aerospace workforce of our country! By signing up for a STEM Flight, you are agreeing to complete the initial survey within 5 days of your flight and then annually thereafter until you graduate from high school.