Why the Census is important

May 31, 2019 By kittitasleague in education, Government Leave a comment

Counties and cities already are gearing up to ensure that no one goes uncounted in the April 2020 Census, Lisa McLean told a crowd of about 30 at Hal Holmes Center on March 29.

McLean, coordinator of the state Complete Count Committee at the Office of Financial Management, said the federal government hopes to collect 60 percent of census responses electronically, either by computer, tablet or smart phone.

Washington received over $16 billion in 2016 based on census figures, so an accurate count is essential to the state’s ability to get a fair share of federal and state funding, McLean said.

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League celebrates 50 years

April 28, 2019 By kittitasleague in education, Event Leave a comment

Kittitas Valley League of Women Voters celebrated its 50th Anniversary April 27 at Hal Holmes Center, with about 60 in attendance.

A panel of accomplished women discussed subjects ranging from their first election to the strides women have made over the years. Speakers included Ann Murphy, president of the League of Women Voters of Washington; Laura Osiadacz, county commissioner; Nancy Lillquist, Ellensburg city council; Candace Hooper, Kittitas County superior court judge; and Katherine Murphy, secretary of the LWVWA board. KVLWV President Kathy Matlin welcomed the guests, and Gayl Curtiss moderated the discussion.

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Pain and confusion for kids with behavior problems

April 15, 2019 By kittitasleague in education, Mental/behavioral health Leave a comment

Mel Blair, special ed director at Thorp and Easton school districts

Updated on 4/18/19.

Children described their pain and confusion at the punitive methods used by teachers, caregivers and law enforcement to control their behavioral challenges in the documentary “The Kids We Lose.“

About 80 people attended the 90-minute screening at Morgan Middle School on Saturday, followed by a discussion session led by Mel Blair, special education director at Thorp and Easton school districts.

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Please watch ‘The Kids We Lose’

April 3, 2019 By kittitasleague in education, Event Leave a comment

The Kids We Lose is a 90-minute documentary about the human side of being and having a child or student with behavioral challenges, and the struggles faced by parents, educators, staff in facilities, and law enforcement professionals in trying to ensure that these kids receive the help they need.

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