On Monday, March 16, Mayor Katie Wilson and the Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL) Director Dr. Dwane Chappelle announced that the Seattle Preschool Program (SPP) is set to expand its capacity to serve up to 2,600 children in the 2026-2027 school year, marking the program's tenth year of implementation. (Read more here) whereweconverge.com/post/sea…

#TheDayWithTrae - Dr. Dwane Chappelle, Director of Education and Early Learning for the City of Seattle (@SeattleDEEL), recently appeared on "The Day with Trae" to discuss a phenomenal new program centered on youth mental wellness. Dr. Chappelle, a former principal at Rainier Beach High School, highlighted the city's commitment to youth and community, stressing that Seattle schools cannot address these needs alone. The program emphasizes culturally relevant services, a key aspect given the diverse needs of young people. The initiative offers free virtual and in-person therapy services for youth and young adults aged 13 to 24. These resources are provided through partnerships with eight community-based organizations, ensuring accessibility in multiple languages and maintaining confidentiality. Dr. Chappelle noted that the program directly responds to community feedback, stating, "we heard young people share that there is a need for more mental health resources and options and support out there." In addition to direct therapy, the program also includes mental health first aid certifications for caregivers at seven community centers offering art therapy and safe spaces for virtual sessions. With school starting next week, Dr. Chappelle announced that approximately 40 mental health support specialists will be placed in 21 middle and high schools. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure robust mental health support is readily available for all young people. To learn more about FREE therapy for Seattle teens and young adults ages 13 to 24, visit: seattle.gov/youthmentalhealt… If you have questions, you can email youthmentalhealth@seattle.gov You can follow DEEL on social media for more information: @SeattleDEEL on Instagram, Facebook, and X/Twitter. Read the DEEL blog at education.seattle.gov, and find timely updates on linktr.ee/SeattleDEEL. #TDWT #WWConverge #BlackMediaMatters #YouthMentalHealth #SeattleEducation #MentalHealthSupport #MentalHealthAwareness

Eligible Seattle Preschool Program families to receive free ORCA cards this school year, in partnership with Seattle's Department of Transportation - What's the DEEL? education.seattle.gov/eligib…

DEEL Celebrates Nearly 1,300 Seattle Preschool Program Graduates  - What's the DEEL? education.seattle.gov/deel-c…

The #SeattlePreschoolProgram prepares children for school and support students as they develop socially and emotionally. Registration is open now for the 2025-2026 school year! Learn more and apply at seattle.gov/applyspp.

Come to Othello Park in the Rainier Valley on Saturday, June 21 from 1-6 pm for the 9th annual Juneteenth Celebration! All afternoon, enjoy free food, free resources, and free giveaways including a home composting system! 4351 S Othello St, Seattle, WA 98118.

As the days get hotter heading into summer— -Never leave children or pets in a parked car -Check if you're at higher risk from heat and stock up on medications -Drink water, take breaks, find shade, and visit places with AC on hot days More tips & info: publichealthinsider.com/2023…

Child care workers are the foundation of strong families and thriving communities. Through our Every Child Ready initiative, we’re expanding access to affordable childcare and ensuring providers receive the respect and fair pay they deserve. harrell.seattle.gov/2025/05/…

Applications for the #SeattlePreschoolProgram are open now! @SeattleDEEL SPP classrooms operate on a full-day schedule of six hours, Monday - Friday, with extended child care available at some locations. Enroll your child for the 2025-2026 school year at seattle.gov/applyspp.

🖍📚The #SeattlePreschoolProgram helps Seattle’s 3- and 4-year-olds build strong early learning skills with high-quality instruction. SPP is still enrolling for Fall classes. Save your seat today! Seattle.gov/applySPP

The #SeattlePreschoolProgram (SPP) prepares children for school and supports students as they develop socially and emotionally. Registration is open now for programs that begin in September 2025! Learn more and apply at seattle.gov/applyspp or call (206) 3860-1050. #SPP2025

Earlier today @MayorofSeattle joined @SeattleDEEL to announce new Every Child Ready initiative and propose a levy renewal that would expand affordable childcare, student mental health services, and more: youtu.be/iryb00Ctpuc?feature… @SeattleCouncil

Today, I’m proud to announce the Every Child Ready initiative, a bold proposal to renew Seattle’s education levy. This investment will expand affordable childcare, boost school safety and mental health, and equip students for college and career success.

The #SeattlePreschoolProgram helps Seattle’s 3- and 4-year-olds build strong early learning skills with high-quality instruction. SPP partners with community organizations, Family Child Care providers, and SPS to give kids a great start. Apply now at seattle.gov/applySPP.

Is your child #kindergartenready? @SeattleDEEL’s #SeattlePreschoolProgram (SPP) can help! SPP providers offer nationally recognized programming, including dual-language programs at some sites. Learn more and #applySPP today at seattle.gov/applyspp

#SeattlePreschoolProgram prepares children, regardless of income, to enter #kindergartenready with the skills they need to succeed. Apply now through April 15 to secure your child’s spot at seattle.gov/applyspp. Need help? Contact us (206) 386-1050 for in-language assistance.

Seattle announces 2025 Technology Matching Fund (TMF) grants to community organizations addressing digital inequalities: techtalk.seattle.gov/2025/03…. #RSJIFridays

“...Seattle’s future is investing in opportunities for our youth." -@MayorofSeattle Since its debut in 2015, the Seattle Preschool Program has grown from serving about 283 children to an expected 2,500 in upcoming school year. Learn more: youtu.be/C7JfzAkp3Z8?feature… @SeattleDEEL