MOSES LAKE — As summer draws to a close, school districts across the Columbia Basin are making final preparations for the upcoming academic year, with many families eagerly anticipating the first day of school. With schedules set and orientations underway, administrators highlight an atmosphere of excitement and readiness. 

Superintendent Angela Rolfe of the Soap Lake School District expressed enthusiasm about their back-to-school preparations, emphasizing the district's focus on community involvement.  

“We are excited to welcome our students back with a community hot dog dinner on Aug. 21 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.,” Rolfe said. “This event will provide an excellent opportunity for students and families to meet their new teachers and tour the school buildings. An open house structure allows parents to ask questions and familiarize themselves with the learning environment their children will enter.” 

In addition to the community dinner, the Soap Lake School District will host orientation conferences Aug. 20 and 21 for all students, ensuring that every child, from elementary to middle and high school, receives personalized guidance from their respective teachers.  

“It's vital for students, especially those starting for the first time, to feel comfortable and confident as they embark on this new journey,” Rolfe said. 

Meanwhile, the Moses Lake School District is also gearing up for the new school year with a focus on academic readiness and safety. Director of Public Relations Ryan Shannon underscored the importance of clear communication with families regarding registration and school supplies.  

“The first day of school for grades one through six will be Aug. 27, followed by kindergarten orientations on Sept. 2 and 3,” Shannon said. “We encourage parents to check our 'Back to School Hub' on the district website, where all essential information can be found clearly outlined.” 

All of the districts within the Columbia Basin have posted updated school supply lists, which can be found on each district’s website.  

As schools gear up for the return of students, safety remains a significant concern, especially considering recent discussions regarding school security measures.  

"Our teaching and learning department has been working diligently on our curriculum, ensuring we’re up to date," Shannon said. “We are also collaborating with staff on safety preparations to ensure that our schools remain secure environments for our students.” 

Across the board, school districts are eager for the influx of students and the return to more traditional learning environments following gaps caused by the pandemic. Many administrators reflect upon the commitment made to fostering a nurturing and inclusive atmosphere.  

"Every new school year represents a fresh start for our students and staff alike," said Rolfe, whose sentiments echo those felt by educators across the region.  

Parents are encouraged to prepare their children for the upcoming school year by familiarizing themselves with school schedules, attending orientation events, and ensuring that children have the necessary supplies. These crucial steps will help ensure that students embark on their academic journey with confidence and readiness, both Rolfe and Shannon said.  

As the countdown to the first bell continues, communities throughout the Columbia Basin look forward to embracing a new year of learning, growth and connection.  

School's back in session: 

Almira-Coulee/Hartline School District 
Aug. 25 from 4 to 6 p.m.
Open House for Elementary and Middle School 

Aug. 27
First Day of School 

Ephrata School District 

Aug. 25-26 

Family Orientation Days 

Aug. 28 

Grades 1-12 first day of school 

Sept. 2 

Kindergarten first day of school 

Sept. 22 

Preschool first day of school 

Moses Lake School District 

Aug. 27 

First day of school for grades 1-5, 6, 9 and all CBTech 

Aug. 28 

First day of school for grades 7, 8, 10, 11 and 12 

Sept 2-3 

First day of school for kindergarten  

Othello School District 

Aug. 28 

First day of school 

Sept. 2-3 

First day of kindergarten 

Sept. 9 

First day of preschool 

Quincy School District 

Aug. 27 

First day of school 

Lind-Ritzville/Sprague School District 

Aug. 25 

First day of school, grades 1-12  

Aug. 28 

First day of school, kindergarten  

Royal City School District 

Aug. 26 

First day of school  

Soap Lake School District 

Aug. 21, 4-7 p.m. 

Back to School Barbeque  

Aug. 21-22, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. 

Open House K-12 

Aug. 27 

First day of school, grades 1-12  

Kindergarten and transition-to-kindergarten half days start 

Sept. 2 

Kindergarten full days begin  

Sept. 8 

Transition-to-kindergarten full days begin  

Wahluke School District 

Aug. 25 

First day of school, open house 

Warden School District 

Aug. 27 

First day of school