As the start of a new school year approaches, we want to make sure every student has the support they need for the best possible beginning.
For families and staff impacted by the Spokane Complex Fires, that support may look different from one household to the next. Spokane Public Schools and school principals are working directly with affected individuals to help restore a sense of stability and ensure students can continue fully participating in school.
Students who have been displaced by the fires may qualify for support under the federal McKinney-Vento Act, facilitated by HEART, which helps students remain enrolled in their school of origin when they experience displacement. This includes transportation to their school of origin.
If your family has been displaced or is currently living in temporary housing and would like transportation support, please complete a short survey, even if you are not yet sure what your housing situation will look like when school begins.
District staff will connect to discuss your family’s circumstances, coordinate transportation as needed, and connect your student with other school-related supports. This could include backpacks and school supplies, musical instrument rentals, sports equipment and other items students may need to participate fully in school.
Please also be aware of the following updates related to community resources and information:
Disaster Assistance Center: The Disaster Assistance Center (DAC) at Shadle Park High School will cease in-person operations at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 12. Our website, Spokane Community Resources, will continue to provide a digital hub for support and assistance.
Kids Day Camp: The drop-in camp at Shadle Park will also conclude on Aug. 12. If you are looking for youth activities, please check out the following local resources:
American Red Cross: To connect with case workers for support and assistance, please visit Financial Assistance - Spokane and Stevens County Wildfires.
Insurance Village: The mobile units in the Shadle Park High School parking lot will be open through at least Friday, Aug. 14. Please contact your insurance provider directly for continued support.
NorthTown Mall Donation Site: Spokane County Emergency Management has established a Donation Site at NorthTown Mall (4901-4999 N Lidgerwood St) on the second floor of the former SEARS building. Families can receive donations from 1-8 p.m. daily. Donations are received from 8-11 a.m. daily. Please visit Wildfire Relief Donation for details.
Environmental Testing: Facilities staff are working in partnership with Fulcrum Environmental Consulting and Custom Energy to test, inspect, and clear schools that were in the evacuation zone. We appreciate everyone’s patience as results are collected so we can safely re-enter these buildings for regular operations.
Back to School: Information about the first day of school, immunization and health care plan forms, transportation and more can be found at Back to School.
Find Support Events
with free school supplies, sports physicals, haircuts and more.
Launch Conferences: On Aug. 24 and 25, students and families will have the opportunity to meet with their teacher/advisor in preparation for the new school year. Online sign-ups will open on Monday, Aug. 17 at 5 p.m.
District Support: The best way to connect with us is at SpokaneSchools.org/Contact. We appreciate your patience as we respond to messages in the order they are received.