Guiding Principles for Growth Boundaries

The Seattle School Board adopted Guiding Principles for boundary changes in 2013. They were for use during the Growth Boundaries project that made changes between 2014 and 2020. These guiding principles are purposely not ranked. At times they are in conflict with each other and decisions must be made which is most important for the situation. Decisions are also guided by the district’s Strategic Plan, Seattle Excellence.

• Ground decisions in data.
• Create boundaries that reflect equitable access to services and programs.
• Maximize walkability.
• Enable cost-effective transportation standards.
• Maintain key features of the New Student Assignment Plan (for example, opportunities for creating diversity within boundaries, choice, option schools, feeder patterns).
• Minimize disruptions by aligning new boundaries with current attendance areas when feasible.
• Be mindful of fiscal impact (costs and savings).
• Be responsive to family input to the extent feasible.