Hello Halilts Parents & Guardians,

If we haven’t met, my name is Katie Brase and get the privilege of serving as your school counselor. I’m thrilled to work at such a great school and love interacting with your children. During my 6 years working at Hallits (and 8 years here as a parent), I’ve witnessed firsthand what a special culture the staff have carefully cultivated to ensure that every child feels welcomed, included, and supported.

Throughout the year you will hear from me via our newsletter. I will update you on social emotional learning (SEL) topics, school-wide events, and point you toward helpful resources. 

On that note, let me point you toward some helpful fact sheets published by OSPI. Their aim is to provide parents and families with important information, conversation starters, and links to additional resources. This year OSPI published new fact sheets on social media, social wellbeing, and social connectedness. (I especially love the conversation starters.)

If you ever have questions or concerns about your child’s social and emotional well being, please do not hesitate to reach out. I welcome getting to know you and your families in order to best support the children at Halilts.

Warmly,

Katie Brase, M.Ed

Breakfast & Lunch Balances: We know how easy it is with busy schedules for lunch balances to slide into the negative. To help prevent these balances from compounding over time into large, unexpected totals, we are introducing a new monthly invoice process this year.

At the end of each month, any remaining negative lunch balance will be converted into a standard student fee. Families with a balance will receive an email invoice for the amount owed, using the same process currently used for unpaid library fees or textbook replacements. You can pay the invoice directly online or through your school’s main office.

Please remember, if your family could use a little extra support, applications for free or reduced-price meals are always open and completely confidential.

Thank you so much for your partnership as we work to keep our meal programs running smoothly and ensure every student stays fueled and ready to learn. If you have any questions about your account, please don't hesitate to reach out to our Nutrition Services department: adaniels@bisd303.org.

Fee Update: Online payments can be made 24 hours a day, seven days a week for a small transaction fee. If your child’s food service balance is low, it only takes a few minutes to add money using your VISA or Mastercard credit or debit card.

Reminder: Cash or checks are always accepted at your child’s school as an alternative to online payments and have no transaction fee.