Parents Urge Snoqualmie Valley School Board to Rezone for Proximity and Safety

In a heartfelt gathering at the Snoqualmie Valley School District Board of Directors meeting, families voiced their urgent concerns about school zoning issues that have left them feeling isolated and anxious. The meeting, held on July 10, 2025, became a platform for parents and children alike to share their struggles with long commutes and the emotional toll it takes on their families.

Saurabh Shrivastava, a father from North Sammamish, opened the discussion with a poignant account of the challenges his family faces due to their assigned schools being miles away. He described the daunting logistics of a one-hour bus ride for his young daughter, who currently attends a private school out of necessity. “Expecting a young child to endure such a long commute without access to a restroom feels unreasonable,” he stated, emphasizing the impact on their daily lives and the need for a more accessible educational option.

Echoing similar sentiments, Sonal Kumar expressed her worries about the safety and well-being of her child. She highlighted the stark contrast between her situation and that of neighbors whose children attend schools just minutes away. “In case of an emergency, it could take me nearly an hour to reach my daughter,” she lamented, underscoring the emotional strain that comes with such distances. Kumar's concerns extended beyond logistics; she spoke of the disruption to her work life and the emotional toll on her child, who would be alone on a bus for miles.

The voices of the children were also heard, with eight-year-old Ariadhi Shrivastava sharing her longing to connect with peers who live nearby but attend different schools. “I feel sad that every time I make friends, they move out,” she said, capturing the essence of childhood friendships that are stifled by zoning policies. Her desire to join the same school as her neighborhood friends resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the social implications of school assignments.

As the meeting progressed, the board members listened intently, acknowledging the complexities of the zoning system that affects families across the district. The discussions raised critical questions about the balance between logistical considerations and the emotional well-being of students. The families’ petitions for a transfer to a more accessible school district reflect a growing need for the board to reconsider zoning policies that may not serve the best interests of all students.

The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency and hope, as families await a response to their petitions. The stories shared that evening serve as a reminder of the profound impact that school zoning decisions can have on the lives of children and their families, urging the board to take action that prioritizes community connection and student well-being.