Kent School District students to get free supplies next year

All Kent School District students will receive free core school supplies for the 2025-2026 school year, which starts Aug. 27.

“This effort is about removing barriers and ensuring every child, in every classroom, has what they need to learn,” said Superintendent Israel Vela said in a May 30 district press release. “It sends a strong message to students: You are valued, and your education matters.”

Each student will receive a standard set of grade-level school supplies, distributed at the start of the school year. These supplies will be consistent across the district and designed to meet basic classroom needs.

While the district will provide core supplies, families are welcome to send personal items such as backpacks, lunch boxes and reusable water bottles.

Each school’s website will be updated by mid-summer with grade-level supply lists, outlining what is included in the district-provided kits.

“Providing essential supplies to every student is an investment in their learning, confidence and success,” Vela said. “We’re thankful to our community partners for joining us in making this vision a reality. By working together to support all students, we embody the OneKSD spirit—OneClass, OneTeam, OneCommunity.”

Donations cover supplies

District community partners including local PTA groups, faith-based organizations and community members, are paying for the supplies in addition to district funds, according to the district. The groups include Communities in Schools of South King County, Kent Youth and Family Services, Steamboat Studios, Unleash the Brilliance, Varsity Tutors and World Vision.

Editor’s note: This story has been updated that supplies are paid for by the district and community partners.