Edmonds: School district giving new state tests a run

The Edmonds School District will be among those field-testing a new state testing system, called the Smarter Balanced Assessment, in spring 2014. Scores won’t be reported. Instead, the results will be used to help determine what it will mean for students to “meet standard” on the new tests when they debut statewide in spring 2015.

An informational meeting for district parents is set for 6:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 15 in the library at Cedar Valley Community School, 19200 56th Ave. W, Lynnwood. Child care will be available. To request accommodations or an interpreter in a language other than Spanish, call 425-431-7112 and leave a voice message. For questions about the test, contact district testing staff at testing@edmonds.wednet.edu or 425-431-7139.

The new tests are based on the Common Core state standards, which Washington adopted in 2011.

More info: go to www.k12.wa.us/smarter.

Marysville: Three school board members sworn in

The Marysville School Board has sworn in three members. Mariana Maksimos was appointed to replace Cindy Erickson, who moved out of the area. Maksimos’ term will expire in 2015. She won unanimous approval at the Dec. 9 board meeting. In addition, newly elected board member Bruce Larson and re-elected board member Chris Nation were sworn in for full terms.

Mountlake Terrace: City administrator search narrows

The city of Mountlake Terrace has received 50 applications for the city manager’s job, officials said this week.

A recruitment firm shared an update on the search at the Dec. 12 City Council meeting. The firm is aiming to narrow the list to eight names.

A meeting is planned for the public to meet the finalists from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 24 at the Mickey Corso Community Clubhouse, 23000 Lakeview Drive. City officials hope to announce a hire by late January.

More info: 425-744-6208.

Sultan: Sky Valley aims to increase local shopping

The Sky Valley Chamber of Commerce is promoting shopping at local businesses through its chamber bucks program.

The gift certificates can be used at any chamber business.

Chamber bucks may be purchased in any denomination from $5 up. Each certificate comes with a list of business members.

People can purchase chamber bucks at 320 Main St. in Sultan year round. More info: 360-793-0983.