Welcome Back, Nine Mile Falls Families!
Dear Nine Mile Falls Families,
Welcome to the 2026–27 school year! We are excited to welcome our students and families back and begin another year together.
The past several weeks have reminded us just how strong and caring the Nine Mile Falls community can be. As we prepare to start school, I want to thank you for the incredible support you have shown one another. Whether through volunteering, providing meals, supporting families impacted by the fires, or simply checking on a neighbor, your generosity and compassion have made a difference.
As we get ready for the first day of school, I want to share a few important reminders.
School Start Times
Please make note of the start time for your child's school:
Lakeside High School: 7:30 AM
Lakeside Middle School: 7:45 AM
Lake Spokane Elementary School: 9:00 AM
Nine Mile Falls Elementary School: 9:20 AM
Bus Routes and Transportation
Please check the district website for the most current bus routes, stops, and transportation information before the first day of school. We have made some adjustments to routes and stops this year as we continue working to provide safe and efficient transportation for our students. https://www.9mile.org/o/district/page/student-transportation
We encourage families to review their bus information in advance so students are ready for the first day.
Back-to-School Supplies for Families Impacted by the Fires
We also want to make families aware of an upcoming opportunity for those who have been impacted by the fires in and around the Spokane area.
Back-to-School Supplies & Essentials Distribution
Tuesday, August 25 at 5:00 PM
North Spokane YMCA
10727 N Newport Hwy
Thanks to the generous support and partnership of Walmart, families will be able to receive school and household essentials. No pre-registration is required. Distribution will be first come, first served and available while supplies last. Families are asked not to arrive before 4:45 PM.
Most importantly, we are looking forward to seeing our students! Our staff have been working hard to prepare for their return, and we are excited for the laughter, learning, relationships, and opportunities that a new school year brings.
Thank you for entrusting your children to us. We are honored to partner with you in helping every student learn, grow, and succeed.
Welcome back!
Thank You, Nine Mile Falls Community
Over the past couple of weeks, we have witnessed something truly special in our community.
Thank you to everyone who has stepped up to support one another, our families, and our community during a very difficult time. The generosity, compassion, and willingness to help have been incredible.
It was wonderful to see so many people come together at Lakeside High School for our community dinner. Mercy Chefs served 609 meals to members of our community, with live music provided by Just Plain Darin. The Red Cross was there to provide additional guidance and support, and through Mercy Chefs’ relationship with the Salvation Army, hundreds of Family Meal Boxes were also available for families to take home.
Today also marked the end of the Nine Mile Falls Community Kids Camp. Hundreds of kids participated in the six days of camp, made possible through the incredible support of Project:Camp, Suncrest Worship, Journey Foursquare Church, and nearly 100 volunteers who gave their time, energy, and care to our campers.
These numbers tell only part of the story. What stands out most is the way our community has come together to take care of each other.
Thank you for reminding us what a special community this is. We are grateful for each person who has helped, encouraged, donated, volunteered, cooked, served, listened, or simply shown up.
Nine Mile Falls is stronger because of you!
Always 9 Mile Proud,
Jeff Baerwald
Over the past couple of weeks, we have witnessed something truly special in our community.
Thank you to everyone who has stepped up to support one another, our families, and our community during a very difficult time. The generosity, compassion, and willingness to help have been incredible.
It was wonderful to see so many people come together at Lakeside High School for our community dinner. Mercy Chefs served 609 meals to members of our community, with live music provided by Just Plain Darin. The Red Cross was there to provide additional guidance and support, and through Mercy Chefs’ relationship with the Salvation Army, hundreds of Family Meal Boxes were also available for families to take home.
Today also marked the end of the Nine Mile Falls Community Kids Camp. Hundreds of kids participated in the six days of camp, made possible through the incredible support of Project:Camp, Suncrest Worship, Journey Foursquare Church, and nearly 100 volunteers who gave their time, energy, and care to our campers.
These numbers tell only part of the story. What stands out most is the way our community has come together to take care of each other.
Thank you for reminding us what a special community this is. We are grateful for each person who has helped, encouraged, donated, volunteered, cooked, served, listened, or simply shown up.
Nine Mile Falls is stronger because of you!
Always 9 Mile Proud,
Jeff Baerwald
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2026-2027 School Year - Important Transportation Update for School Families
As we prepare for the start of the school year, I want to make you aware of some changes to our school bus routes. We have consolidated some bus stops and relocated others, so we encourage all families to review their child's bus route before the first day of school. Many routes have changed.
As a school district, we work hard to be responsible stewards of the resources entrusted to us by our community. Over the past three years, our transportation efficiency rating has declined, which also impacts the funding we receive for student transportation.
In partnership with First Student Nine Mile, our student transportation contractor, we have looked closely at our transportation system and identified opportunities to improve efficiency. One of the ways we can do that is by reducing the number of stops through consolidation and, in some cases, relocating stops.
We recognize that a change in a bus stop can affect families differently. If you believe the modification to your child's route creates a safety risk or a significant hardship for your family, please reach out to Terry Perkins (Terry.Perkins@firststudentinc.com or 509-388-0508) and begin that conversation with him. Terry and I will review each safety concern and significant hardship individually and determine whether an adjustment needs to be made.
Our first priority is, and always will be, the safety of our students. Our goal is to make sure every child arrives at school safely and returns home safely each day. At the same time, we have a responsibility to make sure we are using your taxpayer dollars efficiently and effectively.
We appreciate your understanding and partnership as we make these adjustments. Please take a few minutes to review your child's bus route and stop information before school begins, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have a genuine safety concern or significant hardship related to the changes.
Thank you for your continued support of the Nine Mile Falls School District.
Please click the following link for the attachment for the 2026-2027 bus routes (please note the tabs identifying the school the route is associated with at the bottom of the spreadsheet).
Jeff Baerwald
Nine Mile Falls Community Update – August 17
I wanted to take a moment to share a quick update and remind everyone about several opportunities and resources available to our community this week.
Nine Mile Community Kids Camp is going great! It has been wonderful to see so many kids having fun, making new friends, and simply having an opportunity to be together. A huge thank-you to Project Camp, Suncrest Worship, volunteers, and community members who have helped make camp possible.
Wednesday, August 19th, will be the final day of Kids Camp. We are so grateful for everyone who has helped create such a positive experience for our kids during a challenging time for our community.
Fire Recovery Resources
The Washington Emergency Management Division will be at Station 8 in Suncrest from August 17–20, noon–8:00 PM. They will be available to meet directly with individuals and families who were affected by the Autumn Lane Fire.
Representatives from the American Red Cross will also be there to provide additional support and resources.
We appreciate these organizations making themselves available to our community and encourage those who were directly affected by the fire to take advantage of this opportunity to connect with them.
All-Community Dinner — Tuesday, August 18
We also want to remind everyone about the All-Community Dinner at Lakeside High School tomorrow, Tuesday, August 18th, from 4:00–6:00 PM.
Mercy Chefs, in partnership with the Nine Mile Falls School District, Journey Foursquare Church, Nine Mile Falls Community Church, and Suncrest Worship, is providing a free meal for our community.
Everyone is welcome! If you haven't already, please take a moment to complete the quick two-question survey so Mercy Chefs can prepare enough food for everyone. https://forms.gle/5rCGvtAKzME9ATQm6
It has been incredibly encouraging to see our community come together over the past few weeks. Thank you to everyone who has volunteered, donated, provided meals, cared for our kids, supported our families, or simply checked in on a neighbor.
Nine Mile Proud
Jeff Baerwald
Nine Mile Falls Community Update – August 15
We just want to continue to remind all community members about the free meals being provided by Mercy Chefs.
Free Meals
Free dinners are available through Monday, August 17, from 4:00–6:00 PM. Meals are available through a drive-through pick-up at either:
• Nine Mile Falls Elementary School — 10102 W. Charles Rd.
• Lakeside High School — 5909 Hwy 291
This includes Saturday and Sunday.
Free lunches are also available through Tuesday, August 18, from 11:00 AM–1:00 PM at the same two locations.
Please remember that you are welcome to take food for yourself, your family, or your neighbors.
Community Dinner — Tuesday, August 18
On Tuesday, August 18, from 4:00–6:00 PM, Mercy Chefs will host an all-community dinner at Lakeside High School. Please take a moment to complete our quick 2-question survey to let us know if you and your family plan to attend the August 18 dinner.
Mercy Chefs is asking for an approximate headcount so they can prepare enough food for everyone. Please complete only one survey per household, regardless of whether you received the survey through the school district, a church, or social media. You can access the survey here: https://forms.gle/5rCGvtAKzME9ATQm6
Volunteers Still Needed
We also continue to need volunteers to help Mercy Chefs plate and serve meals. If you are able to give some of your time, your help would be greatly appreciated. There are opportunities to serve alongside others in our community and help make sure our neighbors are welcomed and cared for. Link to volunteer: https://vhub.at/Washingtonserve
Thank you for continuing to take care of one another. The support, generosity, and compassion to help has been absolutely amazing.
9 Mile Proud
Jeff Baerwald
Nine Mile Falls Community Update – August 14
As our community continues to recover from the recent fires, we are incredibly grateful for the many organizations, churches, volunteers, and individuals who continue to come together to support our families and neighbors.
Through a partnership between the Nine Mile Falls School District, Journey Foursquare Church, Nine Mile Falls Community Church, Suncrest Worship, and Mercy Chefs, free meals continue to be available to our community.
Free Meals
Free dinners are available through Monday, August 17, from 4:00–6:00 PM. Meals are available through a drive-through pick-up at either:
• Nine Mile Falls Elementary School — 10102 W. Charles Rd.
• Lakeside High School — 5909 Hwy 291
This includes Saturday and Sunday.
Free lunches are also available through Monday, August 17, from 11:00 AM–1:00 PM at the same two locations.
Please remember that you are welcome to take food for yourself, your family, or your neighbors.
Community Dinner — Tuesday, August 18
On Tuesday, August 18, from 4:00–6:00 PM, Mercy Chefs will host an all-community dinner at Lakeside High School.
This will be a dine-in community meal, and everyone is welcome. The goal is to give our community an opportunity to sit down together, share a meal, and spend some time with one another during this challenging time.
Please take a moment to complete our quick 2-question survey to let us know if you and your family plan to attend the August 18 dinner. Mercy Chefs is asking for an approximate headcount so they can prepare enough food for everyone. Please complete only one survey per household, regardless of whether you received the survey through the school district, a church, or social media. Click here to take the survey: https://forms.gle/5rCGvtAKzME9ATQm6
Volunteers Still Needed
We also continue to need volunteers to help Mercy Chefs plate and serve meals. If you are able to give some of your time, your help would be greatly appreciated. There are opportunities to serve alongside others in our community and help make sure our neighbors are welcomed and cared for. To volunteer for Mercy Chefs follow this link: https://vhub.at/Washingtonserve
Thank you to everyone who has stepped up during the fires and continues to support our community. The generosity, compassion, and willingness to help one another has been remarkable.
9 Mile Proud and Strong!
Jeff Baerwald
Community Update – August 13
Our community continues to come together in some pretty incredible ways, and I want to keep everyone informed about the resources and support available.
FREE MEALS
In collaboration with the Nine Mile Falls School District, Journey Foursquare Church, Nine Mile Falls Community Church, and Suncrest Worship, Mercy Chefs is helping provide free meals to our community as we recover from the recent fires.
FREE DRIVE-THROUGH MEALS
Beginning today, Thursday, August 13, through Monday, August 17, free drive-through lunches will be available from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. at both:
📍 Nine Mile Falls Elementary
10102 W. Charles Rd.
📍 Lakeside High School – Student Lot
5909 Hwy 291
Meals are free and available to everyone. Please take food for yourself, your family, or a neighbor who could use some support.
More than 300 drive-through dinners were served last night! That is an incredible response from our community and a wonderful reminder that people are taking care of one another during this difficult time.
Free drive-through dinner will also be available from 4:00–6:00 p.m. at Nine Mile Falls Elementary and Lakeside High School through Monday, August 17, including Saturday and Sunday.
Please join us Tuesday, August 18, the Lakeside High School cafeteria will host an all-community free dinner from 4:00–6:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome. This will be a great opportunity for our community to come together, share a meal, and spend some time with one another during this challenging period.
A huge thank you to Mercy Chefs and all of the churches, volunteers, staff, and community members helping make this possible. The goal is simple: feeding body and soul. If you would like to help serve meals, please sign-up here: https://vhub.at/Washingtonserve
NINE MILE FALLS KIDS CAMP
Our Kids Camp also got underway yesterday, and it was wonderful to see so many children laughing, playing, and simply having an opportunity to be kids together. Thank you to the incredible volunteers who are giving their time and energy to make this possible for our families.
OUR COMMUNITY CONTINUES TO SHOW UP
One of the photos attached to this message is from yesterday, where volunteers were serving meals to members of one of the fire crews working in our area. These are just a couple of examples of the many ways people are stepping up to help.
Thank you to the firefighters, emergency responders, volunteers, churches, businesses, school staff, and neighbors who continue to care for one another.
Collectively we will continue to do everything we can to support our students, families, staff, and community.
Nine Mile Proud
Jeff Baerwald
FREE MEALS FOR OUR COMMUNITY
As our community continues to recover from the recent fires, Mercy Chefs, in partnership with the Nine Mile Falls School District, Journey Foursquare Church, Nine Mile Falls Community Church, and Suncrest Worship, will be providing free meals for our community.
🍽️ FREE DINNER
Wednesday, August 12 – Monday, August 17
4:00–6:00 PM
Drive-through at Nine Mile Falls Elementary or Lakeside High School
Includes Saturday & Sunday
🥪 FREE LUNCH
Saturday, August 15 & Sunday, August 16
11:00 AM–1:00 PM
Drive-through at Nine Mile Falls Elementary or Lakeside High School
All meals are free and open to everyone. Please take food for yourself, your family, or a neighbor who may need it.
❤️ Tuesday, August 18 | 4:00–6:00 PM
We will also gather for an all-community dine-in dinner in the Lakeside High School Cafeteria.
This is a challenging time for our community, but it is also an opportunity to come together and care for one another. We are grateful to Mercy Chefs and all of our community partners for helping make sure our neighbors have access to a warm meal.
If you would like to volunteer to help serve meals with Mercy Chefs, please sign-up here: https://vhub.at/Washingtonserve
All are welcome. We hope to see you there!
Community Update – August 11
As we continue to support one another through the aftermath of the wildfires, I wanted to share some additional information about the Nine Mile Falls Community Kids Camp and several other important community updates.
Nine Mile Falls Community Kids Camp
We are excited to offer a FREE Nine Mile Falls Community Kids Camp for children ages 5–13 at Lake Spokane Elementary School.
📍 Lake Spokane Elementary
📅 Wednesday, August 12 – Friday, August 14
📅 Monday, August 17 – Wednesday, August 19
⏰ 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
In collaboration with Project:Camp, Suncrest Worship, and Journey Four Square Church, we have created a parent registration form for families who would like their children to attend, as well as a volunteer sign-up for community members who are willing to help.
We still need volunteers to make this camp possible. If you have the time and are able to help, please consider volunteering. Your support will make a difference for our kids and families. Here is the link to sign your child up and/or to sign-up to volunteer: https://www.eventcreate.com/e/suncrest-day-camp
Transportation from the Spokane County Side
We are incredibly grateful to First Student, who has graciously offered two buses to provide transportation for students living on the Spokane County side of our district to attend the kids camp.
Bus 1
• Charles Road & West Shore Fire Station: Pick-up at 8:20 a.m., departs at 8:30 a.m.
• Nine Mile Falls Elementary: Pick-up at 8:45 a.m.
• Nine Mile Falls Elementary: Drop-off at 3:20 p.m.
• Charles Road & West Shore Fire Station: Drop-off at 3:35 p.m.
Bus 2
• Johansen & Highway 291: Pick-up at 8:30 a.m., departs at 8:40 a.m.
• Johansen & Highway 291: Drop-off at 3:25 p.m.
Lunch Provided by Mercy Chefs
We are also grateful to Mercy Chefs, who will be providing lunch for our students each day of camp. Mercy Chefs is also looking for volunteers to help serve our students. If you are interested in helping with meal service, please consider volunteering with Mercy Chefs. This link will take you to the Mercy Chefs volunteer page: https://mercychefs.volunteerhub.com/vv2/lp/Washingtonfire/
Community Town Hall
The fire team that responded to the Autumn Lane Fire will be holding a Town Hall Meeting tonight at 6:00 p.m. at Lakeside High School. Additional information about the meeting is available through Watch Duty.
I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who has leaned into loving our community. Thank you to the firefighters who have worked tirelessly to protect our community, Project:Camp for partnering with Suncrest Worship and Journey Four Square Church to make the kids camp possible, and Mercy Chefs for making sure our kids are fed. I know there are countless others who have supported our community…THANK YOU!
I am incredibly proud to live and serve in this community. The way people have rallied around one another, especially during this difficult time, truly demonstrates what it means to be 9 Mile Proud.
Thank you for continuing to take care of one another.
Jeff Baerwald
Community Update – August 10
As we continue to support one another through the aftermath of the wildfires, I am excited to share some important information about the upcoming week.
Nine Mile Falls Community Kids Camp
We are excited to offer a FREE Nine Mile Falls Community Kids Camp for children ages 5–13.
📍 Lake Spokane Elementary
📅 Wednesday, August 12 – Friday, August 14
📅 Monday, August 17 – Wednesday, August 19
⏰ 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
In collaboration with Suncrest Worship and Journey Foursquare Church, we have created a parent registration form for families who would like their children to attend, as well as a volunteer sign-up for community members who are willing to help. Click the link to register your child and/or sign up to volunteer: https://www.eventcreate.com/e/suncrest-day-camp
Lunch will be provided each day of camp through Mercy Chefs. We are incredibly grateful to Mercy Chefs for helping us provide this important support to our students and families.
We need volunteers to make this camp possible. If you have the time and are able to help, please consider volunteering. Whether you can help for a full day, a half day, or on a specific date, your support will make a difference for our kids and families. You can use the link above to sign up to volunteer.
We are also working to arrange two pickup locations on the Spokane County side of our district so students can be transported to Lake Spokane Elementary. We expect to have those locations finalized today or tomorrow and will share that information with families as soon as it is available.
School Open Houses
We also want to remind families of our planned school open house dates:
Lakeside Middle School
Tuesday, August 18
Doors open at 5:15 p.m.
All-family meeting at 5:30 p.m. in the gym
Lake Spokane Elementary
Wednesday, August 19
5:00 p.m.
Nine Mile Falls Elementary
Wednesday, August 19
5:00 p.m.
Lakeside High School
Thursday, August 20
6:00–8:00 p.m.
For freshmen and new students
Preparing Our Schools
We are grateful that Level 3 evacuation orders have been lifted for most of our community.
As we prepare to welcome students and families back into our buildings, the district is taking additional steps to ensure our facilities are safe and ready. We have arranged for an environmental hygienist firm to evaluate the indoor air quality in our school buildings. This assessment will help us ensure we are doing everything possible to provide a safe environment for our students, staff, and families.
Thank you for continuing to support our students, families, and one another. The response from the Nine Mile Falls community has been incredible, and we are excited to provide an opportunity for our kids to reconnect, have some fun, and spend time together during a difficult summer.
Thank you for being 9 Mile Proud.
Jeff Baerwald
Community Update – August 7
As we head into the weekend, I want to provide a few quick updates to our Nine Mile Falls community.
We remain hopeful and are continuing to plan for all school open houses and the start of school to occur as scheduled. We know there are still questions and uncertainty, and we will continue to communicate with local leaders and emergency response partners as we work toward the start of the school year.
For families who continue to need supplies, please remember that resources remain available at the Wagon Wheel Event Center, Tum Tum Food Bank, and The Nine Mile Store. We are grateful to the many people who continue to make these resources available to our community.
We also encourage families impacted by the fires to visit the Fire Resources page on the Nine Mile Falls School District website at 9mile.org. We will continue to add information and resources to this page to help families navigate recovery and find available support.
We are also excited to share more information on Monday about our planned Nine Mile Falls Community Kids Camp. Our tentative plan is to provide a free camp for students ages 5–13 at Lake Spokane Elementary, beginning Wednesday, August 12. The current schedule is:
• Wednesday–Friday, August 12–14 (9am-3pm)
• Monday–Wednesday, August 17–19 (9am-3pm)
We are working with Spokane County Fire District 9 to help ensure students who live on the Spokane County side of our community are able to access the camp.
We will provide more information on Monday, including details about registration, transportation, activities, and opportunities for community members to volunteer and help with the camp. Please be watching for that information.
Thank you, once again, for your continued support of the Nine Mile Falls community. The way our community continues to come together and care for one another is truly something special.
Stay 9 Mile proud and have a safe weekend!
Jeff Baerwald
As we head into the weekend, I want to provide a few quick updates to our Nine Mile Falls community.
We remain hopeful and are continuing to plan for all school open houses and the start of school to occur as scheduled. We know there are still questions and uncertainty, and we will continue to communicate with local leaders and emergency response partners as we work toward the start of the school year.
For families who continue to need supplies, please remember that resources remain available at the Wagon Wheel Event Center, Tum Tum Food Bank, and The Nine Mile Store. We are grateful to the many people who continue to make these resources available to our community.
We also encourage families impacted by the fires to visit the Fire Resources page on the Nine Mile Falls School District website at 9mile.org. We will continue to add information and resources to this page to help families navigate recovery and find available support.
We are also excited to share more information on Monday about our planned Nine Mile Falls Community Kids Camp. Our tentative plan is to provide a free camp for students ages 5–13 at Lake Spokane Elementary, beginning Wednesday, August 12. The current schedule is:
• Wednesday–Friday, August 12–14 (9am-3pm)
• Monday–Wednesday, August 17–19 (9am-3pm)
We are working with Spokane County Fire District 9 to help ensure students who live on the Spokane County side of our community are able to access the camp.
We will provide more information on Monday, including details about registration, transportation, activities, and opportunities for community members to volunteer and help with the camp. Please be watching for that information.
Thank you, once again, for your continued support of the Nine Mile Falls community. The way our community continues to come together and care for one another is truly something special.
Stay 9 Mile proud and have a safe weekend!
Jeff Baerwald
Community Update – August 6
As our community continues to recover from the recent wildfires, I want to begin by expressing my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has stepped forward to help.
Thank you to the many community members who have generously donated food, supplies, and financial resources to support families affected by the fires. Your kindness has been nothing short of remarkable. I also want to extend a special thank you to the volunteers who have dedicated countless hours to organizing, sorting, and staffing the donation and distribution sites. Your willingness to serve others is a true reflection of what makes the Nine Mile Falls community so special.
The organizers of our local donation sites have asked me to share their sincere appreciation for the overwhelming support they have received. Thanks to your generosity, they currently have an ample supply of most needed items. At this time, the primary item they would appreciate continuing to receive is bottled water.
Many families have reached out with questions about the start of the school year. Our intent is to begin school as scheduled on Monday, August 24. Like you, however, we still have many unanswered questions. We remain in regular communication with local emergency responders and other decision-makers as recovery efforts continue. When we know more, we will assuredly pass it along.
We ask for your continued patience and understanding as these conversations unfold. Like you, we want all of our schools to be fully accessible, ready to welcome students and families for open houses, and prepared for a successful start to the 2026–2027 school year.
In addition, the Nine Mile Falls School District is partnering with faith leaders in our community to explore the possibility of offering a children's camp beginning next week. We are still in the early stages of planning and working through logistics, but we are excited about the opportunity to provide additional support and connection for our students and families. More information will be shared as plans are finalized.
I would also like to share that the Wagon Wheel is graciously sponsoring a lunch tomorrow beginning at 11:00 a.m. for firefighters and individuals impacted by the fires. We are grateful for their continued support of our community and those who have been working tirelessly throughout this emergency.
As you plan for the upcoming school year, please refer to the 2026–2027 Nine Mile Falls School District Calendar for important dates, including open houses and the first day of school. You can find our calendar on the home page of https://www.9mile.org/
To make it easier for families to access recovery information, the Nine Mile Falls School District has added a "Fire Resources" link to the homepage of our district website. We encourage families impacted by the fires to visit this page, where we will continue to share information, community resources, and recovery support as it becomes available. https://www.9mile.org/o/district/page/fire-relief-resources
While the recovery process will take time, the strength, generosity, and resilience of this community continue to shine through. Every act of kindness, whether through volunteering, donating, supporting a neighbor, or simply offering encouragement, has made a difference. I could not be more proud of how our community has come together to care for one another.
Thank you for your continued support and patience. We will continue to share updates as new information becomes available.
Please stay safe and 9 Mile Proud.
Jeff Baerwald
Community Update - August 5
As our community continues to navigate the challenges brought on by the wildfires, I want to begin by thanking each of you for the compassion, resilience, and generosity you have shown over the past several days. Once again, the people of Nine Mile Falls have demonstrated what it means to come together in support of one another.
I know many of you are asking important questions, including:
Will school start on time?
When will Highway 291 reopen?
At this time, we simply do not have those answers. Please know that district leadership is in regular communication with local emergency responders, county officials, and our public safety partners. As soon as we have confirmed information regarding school operations, transportation, or access into and out of our community, we will communicate it with our families immediately.
Our community donation efforts also continue to make a tremendous difference. Donation sites remain open and are accepting contributions for families impacted by the fires.
The Wagon Wheel Event Center is currently in need of:
Toilet paper
Paper towels
For families on the Charles Road side of the fire, needed supplies are available for pickup at The Nine Mile Store.
If you are looking for additional ways to support our community, I encourage you to continue donating to our local collection sites. You may also make a financial contribution through the Lakeside Boosters Club, which is accepting donations designated for "Community Support." Every act of kindness, whether it is donating supplies, volunteering your time, or supporting financially, helps our neighbors begin the difficult process of recovery.
Please continue to utilize the resources shared in previous updates, including the Spokane Community Resources website, the Fig Tree Community Resource Directory, and the free emergency childcare being provided by Spokane Public Schools for families impacted by the fires.
While there are still many unanswered questions, one thing remains certain: this community continues to show extraordinary strength, compassion, and resilience. I could not be more proud to serve the Nine Mile Falls School District and to witness the way our community cares for one another. Together, we will get through this, and together, we will help our neighbors recover.
Thank you for continuing to look out for one another. We will keep you informed as new information becomes available.
Please stay safe and 9 Mile Proud!
Jeff Baerwald
As our community continues to recover from the devastating wildfires, I want to thank everyone who has reached out to support our neighbors in need.
Today, I had the opportunity to visit the Wagon Wheel Event Center and witness firsthand the incredible generosity of the Nine Mile Falls community. The outpouring of donations and volunteers was truly inspiring. I am so thankful and proud to live in a community where people consistently lean in to support one another. This is what makes Nine Mile Falls such a special place.
This morning, administrators from the district also attended a regional Community Support Meeting in Spokane with organizations from across our area. It was encouraging to see so many agencies working together to provide resources and assistance for families impacted by the fires.
As a result of that collaboration, a new resource website has been created to help individuals and families connect with available services and support. I encourage anyone affected by the fires to visit the Spokane Community Resources website.
I also want to share the Fig Tree Community Resource Directory, which provides a comprehensive listing of community organizations and services available throughout our region. It is another excellent resource for families seeking assistance with housing, food, financial support, counseling, and many other needs. (Fig Tree)
I also encourage everyone to continue referring to yesterday's update for information about the free emergency childcare being offered by Spokane Public Schools and the local donation locations and needed items. Those resources remain available and continue to support families impacted by the fires.
As we receive additional information, new resources, or updates regarding access in and out of our community, we will continue to share them with you.
Thank you for your continued compassion, generosity, and commitment to one another. It is during times like these that the strength of our community shines brightest.
Please continue to stay safe and 9 Mile Proud!
Jeff Baerwald
As our community continues to respond to the ongoing wildfires, I want to share a few important updates and resources.
We are grateful to Spokane Public Schools for extending their free emergency drop-in childcare through the end of this week for families impacted by the wildfires. The program is available for children ages 4 and older, Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., at Shadle Park High School. It is open to families from the Nine Mile Falls, Mead, and Spokane Public Schools service areas and provides a safe, supervised environment while parents and caregivers attend to immediate needs. Lunch is provided through the federal Summer Meals Program.
We sincerely appreciate Spokane Public Schools for partnering with neighboring districts to ensure families have access to this important resource during this challenging time.
Our community continues to demonstrate incredible generosity in supporting those affected by the fires. Donation sites are currently accepting:
Non-perishable food
Toiletries
Bottled water and sports drinks
Diapers and infant care items
Please do not donate clothing at this time until organizers have a better assessment of those needs.
Donations may be dropped off daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at:
Style House 291
The Wagon Wheel
291 Brewhouse
The Nine Mile Store
North Wild Coffee
Thank you to everyone who has stepped forward to support our neighbors during this challenging time. We will continue to share updates and resources as they become available.
Please continue to stay safe and follow the guidance of local emergency officials.
Jeff Baerwald
Nine Mile,
In conversation with Spokane Public Schools, the following message is intended to be shared with our Nine Mile community as resource to support families.
As wildfires continue to impact families across the Spokane region, Spokane Public Schools is working with community partners to provide immediate support, including a free emergency drop-in camp for children.
The free camp is for children ages 4 and older and will take place on Monday, Aug. 3, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Shadle Park High School. This is intended to give parents and caregivers impacted by wildfires a safe place for their children while they take a break, run errands, or address other immediate needs.
Details:
Who: Children ages 4 and older
When: Monday, Aug. 3, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Shadle Park High School
Cost: Free
Lunch: Provided at noon through the federal free summer meals program
Supervision: Activities will be supervised by SPS staff
This drop-in camp is open to all families in our region who’ve been impacted by wildfires, whether in the Nine Mile, Mead, or Spokane Public Schools service boundaries. We hope to provide a small measure of support for families managing this difficult and evolving situation.
SPS may consider additional camp locations across Spokane based on community need and the response to this initial offering.
We will continue to keep you updated as more information becomes available.
Stay safe!
Jeff Baerwald
Nine Mile,
Our thoughts remain with everyone who has been impacted by the wildfires in our region. We continue to keep the affected families, our first responders, and all those working tirelessly to protect our community in our thoughts.
Today, I was able to check on three of our four school buildings. Lakeside High School, Lakeside Middle School, and Lake Spokane Elementary have not sustained any known damage and currently have power. I was unable to access Nine Mile Falls Elementary due to the proximity of the Autumn Lane Fire. At this time, I have been informed that the building is without power, but we have not received any reports of damage.
The Nine Mile Falls School District remains in communication with local emergency officials and stands ready to assist our community in any way we can. To help meet immediate needs, we have opened the parking area at Lakeside Middle School for anyone who needs a safe place to store vehicles, trailers, or other equipment.
One of the most encouraging things we have witnessed is the incredible way our community has come together to support those affected by these fires. Local collection sites are currently accepting donations of:
Non-perishable food
Toiletries
Bottled water
Sports drinks
Diapers and infant care items
At this time, organizers are asking that clothing not be donated until they have a better assessment of those needs.
Donations may be dropped off between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at the following locations:
Style House 291
The Wagon Wheel
291 Brewhouse
The Nine Mile Store
North Wild Coffee
We will continue to share updates as more information becomes available. Thank you for supporting one another during this challenging time. Our community has always been strongest when we come together, and that spirit is evident once again.
Please continue to stay informed, follow the direction of local emergency officials, and most importantly, stay safe.
Jeff Baerwald
Yesterday, our region experienced multiple wildfires that resulted in evacuations and the heartbreaking loss of homes. Our thoughts are with the families, first responders, and everyone impacted by these events.
Since yesterday, I have been in communication with the Stevens County Fire Chief to determine how the Nine Mile Falls School District can best support our community. At this time, we have not been asked to open any district facilities; however, we stand ready to do so if the need arises.
We will continue to work closely with our local emergency response partners and will share updates with our community if circumstances change. In the meantime, we encourage everyone to follow guidance from local emergency officials and prioritize the safety of your family.
Please keep those affected by these fires in your thoughts as our community comes together to support one another during this difficult time.
Jeff Baerwald
The Nine Mile Falls School District is pleased to announce the selection of Alexis Padgham as the next principal of Nine Mile Falls Elementary School and the 9 Mile Family Partnership Program.
Mrs. Padgham joins us from Spokane Public Schools, where she has served as an assistant principal for the past two years. Prior to her administrative role, she spent more than a decade as an elementary classroom teacher, bringing a strong foundation in instructional leadership and student-centered learning.
Alexis shared the following message with our community:
"I am looking forward to getting to know the Nine Mile community inside and out, partnering with all of you, and working together to grow our kids."
We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the parents and staff members who participated in the interview process. Your thoughtful feedback and commitment to finding the right leader for our school were invaluable.
Please join us in welcoming Alexis to the Nine Mile Falls School District. We are excited for the relationships she will build and the leadership she will provide to our students, staff, and families.
Mrs. Padgham joins us from Spokane Public Schools, where she has served as an assistant principal for the past two years. Prior to her administrative role, she spent more than a decade as an elementary classroom teacher, bringing a strong foundation in instructional leadership and student-centered learning.
Alexis shared the following message with our community:
"I am looking forward to getting to know the Nine Mile community inside and out, partnering with all of you, and working together to grow our kids."
We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the parents and staff members who participated in the interview process. Your thoughtful feedback and commitment to finding the right leader for our school were invaluable.
Please join us in welcoming Alexis to the Nine Mile Falls School District. We are excited for the relationships she will build and the leadership she will provide to our students, staff, and families.
