District updates records in case of flooding

If problems at Howard Hanson Dam bring flooding to the Green River Valley, leaders in the Enumclaw School District want to make sure they have accurate contact information and a course of action for students whose families may be affected.

Superintendent Mike Nelson said the district has not been contacted by officials, and the district and its student population are not part of the flood zone, but he still would like to be prepared.

“I just got worried about parents not being able to get their kids,” Nelson said.

The Howard Hanson Dam, which sits northeast of Enumclaw, has been in the news for its potential to flood the Green River Valley this winter.

Nelson said district leaders are aware that this could affect many of the district’s families who work in the areas of impact, particularly in driving from work back to home in Enumclaw or Black Diamond if the flooding were to occur during school hours.

On its Web site, district leaders noted they wanted to be proactive about the issue.

“Should flooding or any emergency situation occur, we want to have very accurate data on file regarding your child/children,” it said. “It is important that this information include current emergency contacts (those to whom your child/children can be released). It is also imperative that we have accurate telephone numbers for guardians as well as the emergency contacts.”

The district posts that information on its Family Access system, and parents and guardians are encouraged to check it, and if necessary, make changes. Those without Family Access can contact their school.