Thurgood Marshall Family Handbook

Welcome & School Information

Dear Thurgood Marshall Families,

Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! We are excited to partner with you to support your child’s success. This handbook outlines important school policies, procedures, and expectations to help ensure a successful year for all students and families.

Please take a moment to review the handbook and discuss school expectations with your child.

Together We’re Better!
2401 South Irving Street  •  Seattle, WA 98144
Main Office / Attendance: 206-252-2800

The Thurgood Marshall Way is:
• Take Care of Ourselves
• Take Care of Each Other
• Take Care of Our School

At Thurgood Marshall, we are keeping it REAL! Our students and staff are:
R esilient
E mpathetic
A ccountable
L ifelong Learners!

Office Staff:
Dr. Ebonisha Washington, Principal 206-252-2800
Dr. Dante Rhodes, Assistant Principal, 206-252-2800
Ms. Tana Leybold, Administrative Secretary, 206-252-2800
Ms. Cherese Williams, Attendance Secretary, 206-252-2792
Ms. Veronica Castro, Nurse, 206-252-2807 (Nurse works daily)
Ms. Melissa Matsui, Counselor, 206-252-2764
Ms. Sasha Tyshler, Head Teacher, 206-252-2808

Title I School

Title I Funding

Thurgood Marshall Elementary receives Title I funding, which provides additional federal resources to support student learning and academic success. These funds help schools provide targeted academic interventions, supplemental instructional materials, and additional support for students who need it. Title I funding also supports family engagement and strengthens partnerships between home and school. Our goal is to ensure all students have equitable access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. Please see our school website and click on About—-Title I for more information.

Arrival Times/Procedures

Morning Drop-Off & Arrival

To ensure student safety and reduce hallway crowding, families should remain outside during arrival unless attending a scheduled meeting or volunteering. All visitors must check in at the main office.

• 7:35 a.m.: Playground opens and staff supervision begins. Students should not arrive before this time.
• 7:50 a.m.: Students enter the building with their teachers.
• 7:50 a.m.: School begins and the playground gate closes. Students arriving after this time must enter through the main entrance on S. Irving Street and check in at the office for a tardy slip.

Drop-Off: Students should enter through the playground gate near the flagpole and meet their class on the playground field. There is no parking or student drop-off on S. Irving Street. Please use the designated parking lot drop-off area.

Rainy Days: Students remain outside during typical rain. Indoor arrival will only occur during heavy downpours. Please dress students in appropriate rain gear, including hooded jackets and waterproof footwear.

Dismissal Times/Procedures

Dismissal Times:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 2:25 p.m.

Wednesday: 1:10 p.m

Afternoon Dismissal

Bus Riders: Students will walk to the bus loading area on the west side of the school, where staff will assist with boarding. Please ensure your child knows their bus number.

Walkers: If your child walks home independently, please practice their route with them to ensure they know how to get home safely. 

Family Pick-Up: Families picking up students should meet them at the flagpole near the playground gate. Please remain outside during dismissal to allow students to move safely through the building.

Parking: S. Irving Street is a bus-only zone. No parking or student pick-up is permitted. Families may park  on nearby streets, following posted parking restrictions.

Bus Loading/Unloading

Bus Loading and Unloading

Irving St. in front of the school is reserved for buses and emergency vehicles from 7 a.m.–5 p.m. No parking or student drop-off is permitted. Violators may be ticketed. Families driving students should use the designated drop-off area near the C Building parking lot and follow staff directions to ensure everyone’s safety.

Adult Visitors and Volunteers

Adult Visitors and Volunteers

Visitors are individuals who have not completed volunteer paperwork and may only interact with their own child (e.g., attending a classroom celebration). Interactions with other students require direct teacher supervision.

Volunteers must complete all required paperwork and a background check. Approved volunteers may assist with field trips, classroom activities, school events, lunch, recess, and more. Regular visitors will be asked to complete the volunteer process.

Adult Visitors and Volunteers

Adult Visitors and Volunteers

Visitors are individuals who have not completed volunteer paperwork and may only interact with their own child (e.g., attending a classroom celebration). Interactions with other students require direct teacher supervision.

Volunteers must complete all required paperwork and a background check. Approved volunteers may assist with field trips, classroom activities, school events, lunch, recess, and more. Regular visitors will be asked to complete the volunteer process.

Visitors and Volunteers Expectations

Sign In: Enter through the main entrance on S. Irving St., sign in, and wear a visitor or volunteer badge.

No Weapons: Weapons of any kind are prohibited on school grounds, including pocketknives, mace, and firearms, regardless of permits.

Respect Instructional Time: Allow teachers to focus on students. Schedule separate times to discuss concerns.

Restrooms: Adults must use designated adult restrooms on the first floor, including when accompanying young children.

Cell Phones: Keep phones silenced and avoid using them around students.

Field Trips: All chaperones must complete the required volunteer paperwork.

Student Interactions: Only interact with your own child unless directed by staff. Consult a staff member about any behavior concerns.

Confidentiality: Respect student privacy. Do not share academic, social, or disciplinary information observed at school.

***Parents without computers at home are welcome to come to the office. We will provide you with a computer to do the necessary paperwork. Approved volunteers are now approved for two years upon completion of all paperwork.

Attendance/ Excused Absences

Attendance Policy

Regular, on-time attendance is essential to student success. Washington State law requires school attendance, and families are expected to ensure students attend daily.

Excused Absences Include:

Student illness, injury, or family illness or death.
Medical, dental, or therapy appointments.
Religious observances.
Unsafe weather or transportation conditions.
District transportation delays or failure to pick up.

Attendance/Unexcused Absences

Absences for oversleeping, missing the bus, babysitting, or family vacations are generally considered unexcused.

Tardiness: Students arriving after 7:55 a.m. are marked tardy unless excused.

Extended Absences: Notify Ms. Cherese in advance if your child will miss two or more days.

Family Vacations: Please schedule vacations during school breaks whenever possible. Teachers are not required to provide make-up work for vacations.

Attendance Concerns: Excessive absences or those affecting learning may result in a family conference.

Early Pick-Up

Early Pick-Up

If your child needs to leave school early, please notify their teacher by note or email, or contact our Attendance Office at thurgoodmarshall.attendance@seattleschools.org.

Parents/guardians must come into the main office to sign their child out. Office staff will call the student from class. Students will not be released to adults waiting outside or in vehicles. Only authorized adults listed on the student’s emergency contact form may pick them up.

Early departures will be marked unexcused unless they are for a medical appointment or another reason that qualifies as an excused absence under district policy.

Late Arrivals

Late Arrivals

Students arriving after 7:55 a.m. must check in at the main office and receive a tardy slip before going to class. Late arrivals will be marked unexcused unless they qualify for an excused absence under district policy, such as a medical or dental appointment.

Reporting Absences

If your child is absent, please notify the school by 8 a.m. using one of the following:

Email: Thurgoodmarshall.attendance@seattleschools.org

Phone: 206-252-2800

Include your child’s name, teacher, reason for absence, and your name. If we do not hear from you, the office will follow up.

Why Attendance Matters

Missing just 2 days per month (18 days per year) can lead to chronic absenteeism and impact academic success. Every school day matters!

Need Attendance Support?

We are here to help! Contact Dr. Rhodes, Co-Principal, at 206-252-2800 or dlrhodes@seattleschools.org to discuss attendance concerns or support.

Transportation Changes/Parking

Dismissal Times/Procedures

Dismissal Times:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 2:25 p.m.

Wednesday: 1:10 p.m

Afternoon Dismissal

Bus Riders: Students will walk to the bus loading area on the west side of the school, where staff will assist with boarding. Please ensure your child knows their bus number.

Walkers: If your child walks home independently, please practice their route with them to ensure they know how to get home safely. 

Family Pick-Up: Families picking up students should meet them at the flagpole near the playground gate. Please remain outside during dismissal to allow students to move safely through the building.

Parking: S. Irving Street is a bus-only zone. No parking or student pick-up is permitted. Families may park  on nearby streets, following posted parking restrictions.

Bullying Prevention

Anti-Bullying Policy

At Thurgood Marshall Elementary, we are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and caring environment for all students.

Bullying is repeated, unfair behavior intended to hurt, threaten, intimidate, or exclude someone, often involving an imbalance of power.

Examples of bullying behaviors include:

• Physical aggression, such as hitting, kicking, or pushing.
• Hurtful teasing, insults, or threats.
• Spreading rumors or intentionally excluding others.
• Ganging up on or intimidating someone.
• Stealing or damaging belongings.
• Inappropriate touching or exposure of private body parts.
• Cyberbullying or harassment through technology.

*We encourage students and families to report bullying concerns to school staff so they can be addressed promptly.

Bullying Prevention and Response

Students are expected to:

Treat others with kindness and respect.
Never bully or encourage bullying.
Include others and stand up for peers who are being bullied.
Report bullying to a trusted adult.

Teachers and staff will:

Actively supervise students and address bullying behaviors.
Respond promptly and investigate reported concerns.
Apply appropriate consequences according to district policies.
Address retaliation against students who report bullying.
Support students experiencing bullying and teach strategies to promote safety and positive peer relationships.

FTME/After-School Enrichment

After-School Enrichment

Enrichment programs are offered by private vendors through Friends of Thurgood Marshall (FTME). Questions about fees, behavior, or program details should be directed to the activity provider, not school administration.

Limited scholarships are available. Visit Friends of Thurgood Marshall – FTME After-School Enrichment for program information, registration, and scholarship details.

IF you would like to get involved with FTME, please visit the website above.

Behavior Expectations

Behavior Expectations

We expect students to demonstrate safe, respectful, and responsible behavior. Teachers partner with families to address concerns and support student success.

Sample Classroom Behavior Response:

Reminder: Teacher provides a friendly reminder and redirection.

Reflection: Student reflects on behavior with teacher support.

Family Communication: Teacher documents concerns and contacts family to develop strategies.

Administrative Support: Office referral and family meeting, as appropriate.

Serious safety concerns, including physical aggression or threats, may require immediate administrative support. Responses are individualized, developmentally appropriate, and focused on teaching skills, repairing harm, and maintaining safety.

Behavior Matrices

The Thurgood Marshall Way

Breakfast – Student Expectation

Take care of ourselves

• Go Directly to breakfast
• Eat your breakfast
• Stay seated

Take Care of Each Other

• Enter and exit through breakfast doors
• Voice level 2

Take Care of Our School

• Clean up
• If you arrive late, you need a pass for breakfast

Hallway Learning Zone – Student Expectation

Take Care of Ourselves

• Eyes forward
• Hands & feet to self

Take Care of Each Other

• Voice level 0
• Walk
• If you have a ball, hold it

Take Care of Our School

• Keep right
• Carry a pass

Lunchroom – Student Expectations

Take Care of Ourselves

• Stay seated
• Eat your lunch
• Raise your hand for help

Take Care of Each Other

• Voice level 2
• Voice level 0 when signal is given
• Walk

Take Care of Our School

• Clean up
• Sort your trash, compost & recycle
• Wait until your table is dismissed to line up

Playground – Student Expectations

Take Care of Ourselves

• Hands, feet & objects to self
• Take a break when needed

Take Care of Each Other

• Rock-it-out
• Use school appropriate language
• Include everyone

Take Care of Our School

• Ask for a pass to use the bathroom
• Report BIG problems to an adult
• Follow equipment & game rules

Bathroom – Student Expectations

Take Care of Ourselves

• Wash your hands
• Go directly back to class

Take Care of Each Other

• Voice level 0
• One person per stall

Take Care of Our School

• Carry a pass
• Clean up after yourself
• Report problems to an adult

Bullpup Voice

4 – Outside Voice

3 – Presentation Voice

2 – Buddy Work

1 – Whisper

0 – No Talking

Birthday Celebration

Birthday invitations may only be distributed at school if all classmates are invited. Families may use the FTME directory for mailing invitations.

Please check with your child’s teacher before bringing birthday treats to ensure food allergies are considered. Healthy treats are encouraged.

Bus Expectations

Expectations

Please review bus safety expectations with your child. Safe and respectful behavior is essential for everyone’s safety.

Bus Conduct Notices:

First Notice: Administrator reviews the incident and bus expectations with the student.

Second Notice: Student reviews a bus safety video and completes a reflection.

Third Notice: Student completes a reflection, and a parent/guardian is contacted for a signature.

Fourth Notice: Bus suspension for 1=5 days.

Serious incidents: Fighting or exceptional misconduct may result in immediate bus suspension for 1-5 days. Our goal is to teach safe behaviors and partner with families to prevent future incidents.

Cell Phone Policy

Cell Phones and Electronic Devies

Students may bring cell phones, smartwatches, and other communication devices but may not use them during school hours. Students neding to contact home must get permission to use a school phone.

Devices that disrupt learning may be temporarily confiscated by staff. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen personal devices.

Contacting Your Child During the School Day

To minimize classroom interruptions, office staff will take messages rather than transfer calls to classrooms.

Transportation changes must be communicated to the office before 11:30 a.m. to ensure students receive the message before dismissal. Changes received after 11:30 a.m. cannot be guaranteed.

School-Family Communication

Staff Communication

All staff members have district email addresses and will make every effort to respond within 48 hours. Teachers do not check email during instructional time. For urgent matters, please contact the main office at 206-252-2800

Chain of Communication

For classroom, academic, social-emotional, or behavioral concerns, please contact your child’s teacher first. If concerns remain unresolved, school administration can provide additional support. Immediate safety or health concerns may be directed to administration. Please note that employee-related concerns shared with administration may need to be discussed with the staff member involved.

School-to-Home Communication

Families receive updates through Smores Newsletter, SchoolMessenger emails and calls, classroom newsletters, and TalkingPoints messages.

Please keep your contact information updates with the school office to ensure you receive important communications. Families may also opt to share contact information through the PTA directory.

Message From our Counselor

Counseling Program

As your school counselor, I am here to support students, families, and teachers! I work directly with students through individual counseling, small groups, and classroom lessons on various topics, like self-esteem and advocacy, peer relationships, study habits, and decision-making. I also offer family support, parenting resources and community agency referrals.

Student can self-refer, be connected by a teacher/staff member or parent/guardian. If you have concerns about your child’s academic performance, behaviour, or stress at home, please reach out to me:

Melissa Matsui/Full-Time (Mon-Fri)
Email: mtmatsui@seattlechools.org
Phone: 206-252-2764

Dress Code

Dress Code

Thurgood Marshall follows the Seattle Public Schools (SPS) dress code, which promotes student individuality, equity, and a safe, welcoming learning environment.

Students are expected to wear:

A top (shirt, sweater, sweatshirt, etc.)

A bottom (pants, shorts, skirt, dress, etc.)

Footwear

Clothing must not expose private body parts, create a heath or safety concern, or contribute to a hostile or intimidating environment.

Our Commitment to Equity: Students have the right to express themselves through their clothing and hairstyles without discrimination or body shaming. Dress code expectations will be applied fairly, regardless of race, gender, culture, religion, body type, or economic background.

Students will not be removed from class or disciplined solely because of their attire. Staff will address concerns respectfully and privately, with an emphasis on keeping students in class and engaged in learning.

For additional information, please refer to the Seattle Public Schools dress code policy.

Emergency Drills

Emergency Drills

Thurgood Marshall follows Seattle Public Schools safety procedures to protect students and staff during emergencies.

We regularly practice emergency procedures to help students and staff feel prepared and know what to do in an emergency. Each month, we conduct a fire, earthquake, lockdown, or shelter-in-place drill. Emergency evacuation routes are posted throughout the building.

Lockdown: Used when there is a potential threat inside or near the school. Students and staff move to designated safe areas, remain quiet, and stay out of sight. Interior and exterior doors are locked, and no one may enter or leave until officials determine it is safe.

Shelter-in-Place: Used when there is a potential safety concern in the surrounding area. Exterior doors are secured, but students and staff may continue moving safety within the building. 

Emergency Procedure & School Closures

School closures or schedule changes may occur during emergencies or severe weather. Families will be notified through the Seattle Public Schools website, district communications, and local news outlets.

If school must close unexpectedly during the day, Thurgood Marshall staff will work with families to ensure students have safe transportation and appropriate supervision before being dismissed.

Field Trips

 Field Trips & Chaperones​

Throughout the school year, students may participate in field trips to enhance their learning. Permission forms will be sent home with trip details and any associated fees. Students must have a signed permission form to participate. If they are unable to attend, they will be placed in another classroom with appropriate learning activities until their class returns.​

Payments may be made by check, payable to Thurgood Marshall Elementary, or online using the payment link provided by the teacher.​

Chaperones must complete a background check at least two weeks before the trip, along with the SPS Volunteer Application, Volunteer Agreement, screening form, and Adult Sexual Misconduct Prevention Training.​

Parents and legal guardians are given priority for chaperoning. Other adult family members (18+) may be considered if additional chaperones are needed and must complete all volunteer requirements. Siblings and other children may not attend field trips.​

For more information, visit SPS Volunteer Information.

Creating a Safe & Healthy School Environment

Gender-Neutral Restrooms

Thurgood Marshall has three single-stall, gender-neutral restrooms available for students who need additional privacy. Families may contact their child’s teacher for more information.

Gum, Candy & Soda

Students should not bring gum, candy, or soda to school. A small single-serving candy treat in their lunch is permitted, but we encourage families to send healthy snacks rather than candy.

To protect students with food allergies and dietary restrictions, student may not bring food to share with classmates unless it has been arrange with their classroom teacher.

Lost & Found

Lost and Found

Please label your child’s belongings, including jackets, sweatshirts, and lunch boxes, with their first name and last initial to help us return lost items.

The Lost and Found is located in the hallway between the playground and lunchroom. We encourage families to check regularly for missing belongings. Unclaimed items will be donated at the end of each month.

Nursing/Medications

Medications at School

If your child needs prescription or over-the-counter medication during school hours, written authorization from both a parent/guardian and healthcare provider is required. Medication authorization forms are available in the main office.

All medications must be checked in and stored in the nurse’s office for student safety. Over-the-counter mediations must be provided in their original, sealed containers.

Medications at School

If your child needs prescription or over-the-counter medication during school hours, the SPS Authorization for Medication form must be completed by both a parent/guardian and a licensed healthcare provider with prescriptive authority. Forms are available from the school nurse.

All medications must be checked in and stored in the nurse’s office. Prescription medications must be provided in a separate, labeled container with the student’s name and prescription information. Most pharmacies can provide an additional labeled container upon request. Over-the-counter medications must be in their original, sealed containers.

Please keep your contact and emergency information updated so we can reach you if needed.

Nursing Services & Student Health

Thurgood Marshall has a full-time registered nurse who supports student health and helps manage medical needs that may affect learning.

Families can help keep our school community healthy by ensuring students get adequate rest, eat nutritional meals, dress appropriately for the weather, and stay home when sick.

Please keep your child home if they have:

• A fever of 100 degrees F or higher within the past 24 hour
• More than one episode of vomiting or diarrhea
• A rash accompanied by a fever or sore throat
• Excessive nasal discharge they cannot manage hygienically
• Symptoms of COVID-19 or another contagious illness

Thank  you for helping us maintain a safe and healthy learning environment for everyone!

Homework Policy

Homework reinforces classroom learning, builds independence, and develops strong study habits.

Homework completion does not impact academic grades.

Responsibilities:

Students: Understand assignments, complete their best work, and submit homework on time.

Families: Provide a consistent homework routine, encourage independence, and communicate concerns to teachers.

Recommend Homework Time

Homework is generally assigned four days per week, in addition to nightly reading.

Grade	Daily Homework
Kindergarten	10-15 minutes
1st Grade	15 minutes
2nd Grade	20 minutes
3rd Grade	30 minutes
4th Grade	40 minutes
5th Grade	50 minutes

Nightly Reading: Students are encouraged to read for at least 30 minutes each night, independently or with an adult. Kindergarten and 1st-grade expectations may be adjusted.

Individualized Support: Homework may be modified based on student needs, including IEP accommodations. Families seeking additional enrichment are encouraged to prioritize reading, creative activities, and real-world learning experiences.

If homework consistently takes longer than expected or creates challenges, please contact your child’s teacher to discuss appropriate adjustments.

Family Handbook

Note: If bus privileges are suspended, I must arrange my own transportation to and from school. Additional referrals may result in removal from the bus for the remainder of the school year.

Please print legibly. Signatures indicate that you have discussed, understand, and agree to the above statements. Thank you.
Student Name ___________________________________ Grade __________
Bus Driver _______________________________________
Student’s Signature _______________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature ______________________________________
Date _______________________________