School Bells Ring at
Grand Ridge Elementary School

The principal and teachers at Issaquah Highlands new Grand Ridge Elementary School are welcoming students into the classrooms as school gets underway this year. “I’m very excited about the whole school. I’ve hired an outstanding staff; many come from other Issaquah schools and all are very experienced. We’ve also chartered the PTA and are in the process of meeting with the parents,” reports Barb Walton, the new school’s principal.

A motto and mascot have also been chosen: “The motto we chose is ‘Reach far, Be Grand,’ and the mascot chosen by future students is the Grand Ridge Grizzly Bears.”

Barb came from Endeavour Elementary. Before coming to Issaquah, she was a principal, assistant principal, and teacher in the Highline School District. She received her Bachelor of Education and her Masters of Education Administration from the University of Washington. In 2002, she was the recipient of the Issaquah School District’s Catalyst Award – a recognition given to those whose positive influence and effective leadership is felt district-wide.

Grand Ridge Elementary sits on 9.7 acres and is nearly 70,000 square feet with 28 classrooms, a 3,900-square-foot gymnasium, and two 2,280-square-foot covered play areas. It will also feature a number of environmental enhancements, including classrooms and windows, which capture as much natural light as possible. In addition to the energy savings, research has indicated enhanced daylight boosts student’s learning ability. Furthermore, no galvanized materials will be used in the school, to protect water quality, and all exterior materials will be selected for their durability.

The school will bring together elementary school aged children from across the area. “Our students come from Issaquah Highlands as well as surrounding neighborhoods. I’m looking forward to uniting the entire Issaquah community through school events and activities.”

Parents interested in learning more about how they can get involved at Grand Ridge Elementary School can visit their website at www.e14.issaquah.wednet.edu.