My name is Samantha, and I am in the eighth grade at Leota Junior High. I wish to write about the Northshore School District’s decision to bus the half day kindergarteners from their homes near Kokanee to Maywood Hills Elementary.

This change to the kindergarten program will have a significant effect on me and my family. When we were discussing these adjustments as a family, I immediately recognized the impact on me. If my sister is assigned to afternoon kindergarten, the timing of the bus will make it impossible for my mom to pick me up after school if I participate in after-school activities. As we all know, about half of what colleges look for is how many and what activities you participate in during your ninth through 12th grade years. My goal in life is to go to a competitive college. It is important to me that I will be able to put in my college application that I have participated in sports. But how will this be possible if my mom can’t pick me up?  Not only will this affect my goal for college, but it will take away the joy I have at school. The district’s decision to bus kindergartener’s so far away may impact my opportunities for college education.

The district’s motto is, “Strengthening Our Community Through Excellence in Education.” How does limiting my educational opportunities support this motto?

Samantha Green, Bothell student