Panther Passage FAQ's
Q: I am validating for the first time, is there any information you can provide to me so that I am well prepared?
A: You can find detailed validator instructions on the Panther Passage web site under the documents section.
Q: I have never been to Issaquah Middle School. How do I get there, where do I park and then where do I go?
A: Issaquah Middle School is located at 400 1st Avenue SE, directly across the parking lot from Boehm Pool and just west of the Issaquah Community Center. Please park in a Visitor parking spot at the school, pool parking or Community Center. Please come into the front door and Panther Passage signs will direct you to the library.
Q: What if I know one of the students scheduled to present to me?
A: You will be handed a sheet of paper with the names of the students scheduled to present in your room. Please alert one of the hostesses/hosts if you know one of the students. They will arrange to make a change to avoid any possible discomfort for you or the student.
Q: Do my comments get edited and combined with the other validator comments?
A: No, your unedited comments are returned to the students after Panther Passage concludes. This is why it is important that all comments are positive and supportive.
Q: Why are the presentations so different?
A: The students are given general guidelines for the presentations - not hard and fast rules. Therefore, the presentations will be as unique as the individual 8th grade students. In fact, some students will not have a presentation at all and will instead answer questions that we will provide for you to ask.
Q: Are the presentations required for 8th grade graduation?
A: Although the presentations are not graded, there is an expectation that all 8th graders - even if they are new at IMS will participate in Panther Passage. Students must participate in order to attend the 8th grade graduation ceremony at the end of the school year.
Q: What do I do if I have a conflict that prevents me from coming?
A: We have over 300 volunteers participating in Panther Passage each year and we understand that sometimes things come up that prevent you from coming. If you know you have a conflict a few days in advance, please go to www.ims.issaquah.wednet.edu and click on the Panther Passage link. Please e-mail us and we will find a substitute. If you have a last minute conflict, please contact Debbie Shiozaki at 425-557-1484 or dshiozak@gmail.com.
Updated January 28, 2010