The Informer
SCHOOL BUS

The Informer - Back to School Edition

Back-to-school season is here with fresh notebooks, earlier alarms, mysteriously missing water bottles, (we hope you remembered to take out snacks from the backpack back in June!) and approximately 67 things to remember before heading out the door.


PEACE NW is here to help make the transition a little less hectic. In this newsletter, you’ll find helpful back-to-school resources, reminders, and supports for families as everyone settles back into the school-year rhythm and the to do-do lists start getting long again.


A few friendly reminders as you get back into the swing of things:


  • Update ParentSquare, Skyword, or your school’s communication apps so you don’t miss announcements, schedule changes, or important updates.
  • Check those emails! We know the inbox can get a little crowded this time of year, but important school information may be hiding in there.
  • Figure out picture day! Some schools now do those before the first day of school particularly middle and high schools.  
  • Ease back into routines like earlier bedtimes, morning schedules, homework time, and packing bags the night before.
  • Answer your call from transportation, so everyone knows where they’re going, when they need to be there, and how they’re getting home.
  • Give yourself some grace. Getting back into a routine takes time for kids and adults, if you have not heard about “Restraint collapse” this article might be useful. https://instituteofchildpsychology.com/navigating-after-school-restraint-collapse-2/


And as always, if you need help finding resources, accessing support, or getting connected to services in your community, give PEACE NW a call. Here’s to a school year filled with learning, growth, connection  and hopefully fewer forgotten lunchboxes!


The PEACE NW team

360-823-3347 info@peacenw.org

PEACE NW Events

Save the Date for our Celebration of Peace

When: Sunday September 20th 2026 2:00pm -4:00pm

Where: LeRoy Haagen Community Park 13412 NE LeRoy Haagen Memorial Dr. Vancouver, WA 98684


Let's be in community and share joy!

Returning this Fall

Cafe con PEACE NW Returns

September 9th 2026

10:30am - 11:30am

Café con PEACE NW 2026-2027 – Fill out form


Senior Parent Legacy Planning Group Returns

September 3rd 2026

2:00pm -4:00pm

www.peacenw.org/events to register

INCLUSIVE ONLINE DUNGEONS & DRAGONS GROUP


Did you know we have a parent volunteer who runs an online Dungeons and Dragons group on Wednesdays from 5-6pm and Fridays 5:30-6:30pm Teens and adults of all abilities are welcome, no experience necessary. Gather your dice, ignite your imagination, and join us on a journey of creativity, teamwork, and epic adventures!


To register, visit https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/fgcscx9



BUILDING INDEPENDENCE END OF SUMMER PICNIC


Building Independence Summer Picnics provide a relaxed opportunity for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to build friendships, strengthen social connections, and enjoy time together in the community. Participants bring their own dinner while enjoying activities, conversation, and a welcoming environment!


Thursday, August 20, 6:00 - 8:00pm

Leroy Haagen Park, 13412 NE LeRoy Haagen Memorial Dr, Vancouver WA

Community Resources

New Life's 3rd Annual Back-to-School Backpack & Coat Drive


August 15th 11am-2pm

27511 2410 Grand Blvd, Vancouver WA 98661


Free backpacks, school supplies, and coats for students and families.


Live Love Outreach presents Back to School Bash


August 15th 12-3pm

27511 NE Andresen Rd. Vancouver WA 98661


School Supplies, Clothing for Kids, Food, Barbers, Games, Inflatables.



Back-2-School Family BBQ & School Supply Giveaway


August 15th 1-4pm, Pacific Community Park

1515 NE 164th Ave, Vancouver WA 98664


BBQ, games, music, and giveaways. Presented by Pacific Islander Community Association of WA.



Changing Hearts Foundation Back to School Backpack Giveaway


August 23rd starting at 2pm, Bagley Community Park

4607 Plomondon St., Vancouver WA 98661


Free backpacks and school supplies for Pre-K to 8th grade, face painting, free haircuts, bounce houses, raffles, BBQ



Connected Dental is a fully licensed, board-certified portable dental clinic bringing high-quality oral healthcare directly to schools, community events, health fairs, workplaces, churches, and other community organizations.


Their services include exams, digital X-rays, cleanings, sealants, fluoride treatments, fillings, simple extractions, and oral health education.


By bringing dental care directly into the community, Connected Dental helps remove barriers and make care more accessible and convenient.


They accept all insurance plans and work with local organizations to help provide services to uninsured individuals and families.


Next clinic Date


August 25th, 2026, 5:00pm-8:00pm


The Foundation Family Resource Center

Bridgeview Resource Center

505 Omaha Way, Vancouver, WA 98661


The new school year is right around the corner! On September 12th, join special education attorneys for an in-depth training workshop on utilizing the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to develop appropriate services for your child or student.


This workshop will provide a comprehensive understanding of your child’s special education program and your rights. The training will be held via Zoom webinar. Learn more and register at https://bit.ly/4x3JK4o

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