Principal’s Message

IRE Families,

Thank you for taking the time to meet with your child’s teacher during conferences this week. We know schedules are busy, and your presence matters more than you know. If you have not had your conference, please take time to meet with your child’s teacher. Our goal is 95% of families meeting with teachers each and every conference season.

Family–school partnership is one of the strongest indicators of student success. When we work together through sharing feedback, celebrating growth, and aligning on next step, students thrive academically and socially.

We are grateful for all that you do in supporting your child’s learning at home.

Best,
Tyler Dockins, Principal
Nate Beede, Assistant Principal
Rebecca Kratzig, Dean of Instruction

Register for Kindergarten

Kindergarten registration for the 2026-27 school year begins Tuesday, February 17. Children must be 5-years-old before September 1, 2026 to be eligible.
Research shows that high-quality early learning programs increase graduation rates, reduce disparities in early literacy and language development, and support long-term emotional well-being. Students who begin kindergarten ready to learn are more likely to stay on track academically.
Daily learning for our youngest students includes morning meetings for social development, two recesses, structured play, and enrichment classes. IRE uses Creative Curriculum, a research-based program that blends literacy and math into hands-on, interest-driven units of study.
Questions about registration? Contact Irene Reither Elementary School at 360-398-2111.
Early Childhood Programs at Irene Reither Elementary
Pre-Kindergarten Programs (PK)
In addition to kindergarten, IRE offers a full-day preschool experience for eligible three and four-year-olds. The Pre-Kindergarten (PK) Program, brings together Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Early Childhood Education Assistance Program (ECEAP, pronounced e-cap). Each program is designed to help children build a strong foundation for school and life.
This blended model creates an inclusive setting where children learn through play, exploration, and connection with peers. Teachers emphasize early literacy, math concepts, problem-solving, language development, social-emotional skills, and kindergarten readiness. Families also receive support through strong collaboration between school staff and community partners. Eligibility is based on age, need and family circumstances following TK and ECEAP guidelines.
Developmental Preschool
Developmental Preschool serves children ages three to five whose families have concerns about their child’s development or learning. Students may experience speech or language delays, motor or adaptive skill challenges, social-emotional or behavioral needs, or may have a diagnosed disability or chronic health condition. Through specialized instruction and individualized support, the program centers each child’s strengths. Children qualify through a free evaluation which families can request throughout the school year.
Learn more about our early childhood programs.

Comprehensive sexual health education lessons begin March 25

Students in fourth and fifth grade will be taking part in comprehensive sexual health education lessons beginning March 25.
Families may review materials on the Puberty: The Wonder Years website, which includes the following information for grades 4 and 5:
Parents and guardians may remove their children from these lessons with a written request. (RCW 28A.300.475). Families who wish to opt their children out of these lessons must turn in an opt-out form before the first day of lessons. Opt-out forms are available in the school office or on our website. Students who opt-out of the lessons will spend time on classroom projects and/or work on their i-Ready goals in the library.
Curriculum materials are available for families to review at the District Office, 214 W. Laurel Road, Bellingham, WA , during business hours 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. If families are unable to review materials during business hours, please call 360-318-2170 to schedule an appointment.
We appreciate your continued partnership in your student’s learning. If you have any questions please contact your teacher.

We want to hear from you!

We are always working to strengthen our schools and ensure every student thrives. Your input helps guide that work! Please share your thoughts on school communication, learning expectations, and your experiences with our teachers and administrators. Please take a few minutes to complete our annual survey by March 6.

Daughter Banquet at MHS February 26

The Daughter Banquet is back at Meridian High School, brought to you by the class of 2027! Dress in your best Oscars attire, and enjoy a night of dancing, games and dinner! The banquet is February 26, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 per couple and must be purchased in advance by February 16, using the QR code or going to https://wa-meridian.intouchreceipting.com/.