Local families explore alternatives

Point Roberts families gathered May 27 at the community center on Gulf Road to learn about a new educational option that could keep local children from daily bus rides to Blaine.

Tennessee Briand and Holly Parsons hosted the meeting to introduce the Parent Partnership Program (PPP), a state-funded public school program that blends at-home and in-school learning. About 20 people attended in person and online.

Briand, a Point Roberts native who was bused to Blaine for school, said she wanted a different option for her two sets of twins. With children just 14 months apart, homeschooling wasn’t realistic.

“I didn’t want my kids on a bus every day,” she said. “I was looking for something different – something local, with social connection.”

PPP students are officially public school enrollees with access to curriculum, facilities and certified teachers. Students typically receive 15 hours of structured instruction weekly, either in person or virtually, with the rest of the schedule built around family needs.

“There’s always a certified teacher present – even if it’s virtual. The program looks like whatever parents decide it should look like,” Briand said.

Successful PPP programs already operate across Washington, including in Bellingham.

Briand, who previously ran an education center in Vancouver focused on learning differences, hopes to bring the program to Point Roberts using the existing school building. The local school currently serves only five children. “I went to the school – it’s immaculate. It’s every educator’s dream. It’s just missing the kids,” she said.

The timing is critical. Superintendent Dr. Granger, who has received the proposal, is leaving his position soon.

“We need to gather as many people and as much information as possible,” Briand said. “The district will only act based on the numbers.”

Families can register interest through the Blaine School District website at blainesd.org. PPP is open to all Washington families with K-12 students seeking alternatives to traditional school.

“Our goal is to create a hub where all these children can come together and have access to each other and socialization,” Briand said.

For information, contact Briand at tennesseebriand@yahoo.com.