Every fall, students of all ages prepare for the return to the classroom. From those beginning kindergarten to those starting the last year of high school, many things need to happen in order to ensure the first day of school is a success for every student. Whether it is immunization programs, providing assistance for people who wish to return and complete their education, or offering tips to make the walk to school safer, King County is there to make sure that all students have a safe, happy, and memorable school experience.

Be cool (and safe) on the walk to school. As the summer draws to a close, everyone begins to think about the return to school. This includes the King County Road Services Division (Roads). Roads has undertaken a number of school projects to help make the roads, paths, and walkways around schools safer for the children of King County. Click here to learn more about the Roads projects finished for the start of the 2004 school year.

Are your child's immunizations up to date? Do you know what vaccines are required before they start the school year? Public Health - Seattle & King County can help answer these important questions. Visit the Back to School Immunizations for Fall 2004 Web page for help and information.

The number of young people who are considered overweight or obese is on the rise. Regular physical activity is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle for children, one that will benefit them today and for a lifetime. Walking to school is one great way to promote physical activity in kids. Click here for resources to help parents make is easier for kids to walk to school, and other information about promoting physical activity.

Youth Health Services collaborates with seven community health agencies to administer 14 school-based health centers in Seattle and two school-linked health centers in south King County. These centers provide health and preventative services to young people in King County, advancing their readiness to learn. Find out more by visiting their Web page .

Through the Child Care Health Program, Public Health - Seattle & King County helps child care facilities throughout the region provide onsite consultation about health policies, immunizations, communicable disease control, nutrition, child development and child behavioral issues. Visit the Child Care Health Program Web site to learn more about specific program, events, and resources.

King County also offers services for people who wish to return and complete their education. The King County Work Training through its learning centers and our partners at YouthSource , WorkSource Renton, New Start in White Center, Learning Center North at WorkSource North, Shoreline Community College Career Education Opportunity Program, Bellevue Community College Career Education Opportunity Program, Renton Technical College, Kent Learning Center and West Auburn High, offers assistance such as GED and high school completion training programs, technology education, English as a second language education, and other job training opportunities.

The Youth and Family Services Program is composed of 15 community based agencies which provide services within the boundaries of the 19 school districts of King County. These agencies provide a unique blend of programs and services which comprise the backbone of support to children, youth and families. The services offered include: outreach, youth and family counseling, case management, gang intervention, drug prevention and parenting classes, drug and alcohol treatment and support groups, employment and education programs, tutoring, youth development, family support and many others. Click here to visit the Youth and Family Program Web site to find the agency closest to you.

Education news

• Back-to-School Month Recognition

Related agencies

• Public Health - Seattle & King County
• Department of Community and Human Services
• Department of Transportation

Previously In Focus

• Human services
• Transportation
• Health

Did you know