A Message from Superintendent Greg Baker 

Dear staff, students, families and community members,

We know there are staff, students and families in our community who are impacted by the war in Israel and Gaza. When war and conflict happen in the world, it affects us all in different ways, especially if we are in crisis, have experienced trauma or are feeling depleted or stressed.

In Bellingham, we strive to have a safe and welcoming community with a culture of belonging for all. It is acceptable that we as individuals hold different opinions about the war and complex history of Israel and Palestine, but Antisemitic or Islamophobic speech or acts will never be tolerated in our district.

We encourage anyone who is affected by the war, especially our students, to reach out to a trusted staff member if help is needed. You may also connect with our counselors, and staff can talk with our Employee Assistance Program.

It is important that our students feel loved, seen and heard.

In difficult times like this, it can be helpful to reach out within our community to find ways to connect with each other. Keeping routines and giving extra care and reassurance to the people in our lives are especially important in times like these.

This webpage of resources may be helpful. It includes guidance on how to talk to children about war and traumatic events.

Thank you for taking care of yourself and for supporting our community and our students.

Greg Baker