Digital Accessibility (ADA) Training now available in NEOGOV
KCIT is pleased to offer Digital Accessibility (ADA) Training in NEOGOV. These 55 on-demand learning modules were developed by Deque University, an industry leader for technical accessibility training. Courses discuss how to use accessibility tools in a wide range of common King County software applications such as Outlook, Teams, PowerPoint, Excel, and more. These courses are available to all King County employees in NEOGOV through March 2026; content can be accessed for a one-time fee of $14 (usually $300). Contact KCIT’s EIB Manager, Jennifer Broadus, for details. Digital accessibility is crucial to… Read More
Hiking safety with Emery the Emergency Penguin
It’s a beautiful summer here in King County! But before you hit the trail, watch this brand-new hiking safety video featuring Emery the Emergency Penguin (KCIT’s 911 mascot) and King County Search and Rescue teams. Learn the three rules of hiking, and how to contact 911 if you’re stranded or lost in the wilderness. Have fun, and stay safe out there! “That was exciting! Emery is a smart penguin – I’m glad he knew how to help his friend.” Norah Bjore, age 9
Monitoring in action: Behind the numbers, how Best Starts for Kids uses data to build community impact
Priscilla de Andrade, with the King County Office of Performance, Strategy, and Budget, recently spoke with Anne McNair and Kelly Lovett, co-leads of the Best Starts for Kids evaluation team, to explore how data, collaboration, and continuous learning are supporting over 400 community-based organizations and advancing equitable outcomes for children, youth, and families across King County. Their conversation, in this blog post, highlights how Best Starts is using Results-Based Accountability and community-centered evaluation practices to ensure programs are meaningful, effective, and grounded in partnership. Read the full story here, and explore past blog posts… Read More
DAJD’s first-ever K-9 team hits the ground sniffing
By Noah Haglund, Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention Corrections Officer Raymond Gentz and his K-9 partner Koda smiled for the cameras on a bright, summery morning in early June. The newly minted duo from King County was one of a half-dozen handler-dog teams celebrating the completion of a rigorous course in drug detection. They trained for six weeks with the State Department of Corrections, mostly in Spokane. Graduation took place at the DOC headquarters in Tumwater. Now, Gentz and Koda form the first-ever K-9 team at the Department of Adult and… Read More
KCSO participates in Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run
Crossposted from the King County Sheriff’s Office employee newsletter Recently, the King County Sheriff’s Office teamed up with Seattle Police to take part in the Special Olympics Washington Law Enforcement Torch Run, carrying the Flame of Hope along the Seattle waterfront. This annual tradition brings law enforcement agencies together across the country to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics programs, supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities. This annual event is more than just a run—it’s a show of unity, inclusion, and the kind of community support that goes far beyond public safety…. Read More
Onsite dental clinic for Metro employees
Jet Dental onsite clinics are coming to Metro! Metro is thrilled to partner with Jet Dental to bring professional dental care directly to Metro employees! Whether you’re due for a cleaning or want a brighter smile, this is your chance. A professional dental team will be onsite offering dental exams, cleanings, x-rays, and optional teeth whitening. The costs include: Dental Exam, Cleaning & X-rays: Billed to your dental insurance (or $150 without insurance) Teeth Whitening: $299 (not covered by insurance) Walk-ins welcome, but pre-registration is encouraged! Make sure to have your insurance info handy… Read More
The Get Movin’ summer schedule is here
Stay active and boost your mental health this summer with free, virtual fitness classes you can join from anywhere! Regular movement is proven to support well-being, and our Get Movin’ with Balanced You summer series makes it easy to stay on track. Enjoy live weekly sessions led by certified trainers, featuring yoga, stretching, cardio, core workouts, mat-based Pilates, tai chi, and strength training; a great opportunity for keeping your body moving and your mind refreshed all season long. Check out the new summer schedule here. Supervisors: Here is a printer-friendly PDF with the Get Movin’… Read More
King County announces applications are now open for Executive’s Small Business Awards
On July 3, King County Executive Shannon Braddock announced that applications for the Executive’s Small Business Awards are now open. There are eight Small Business of the Year award categories: Overall Small Business, Minority-Owned, Woman-Owned, Exporting, Green/Sustainable, Workforce Development, Rural, and Creative Economy. “Small businesses are the backbone of our neighborhoods, providing jobs, driving innovation, and reflecting the rich diversity of our region,” said Executive Braddock. “It’s an honor to celebrate the entrepreneurs whose vision and determination power King County’s economy and strengthen our communities.” To be eligible, businesses must be located within King… Read More
Executive Braddock announces winners of the 2025 Green Globe Awards, King County’s highest honor for environmental stewardship
King County Executive Shannon Braddock today announced the winners of the 2025 Green Globe Awards, King County’s highest honor for environmental stewardship. The Environmental Catalyst award went to Seattle Times environmental reporter and award-winning author Lynda Mapes. Other winners included an effective hunger relief program that was launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, a regional bicycle donation hub, an organization that is advancing equitable access to outdoor experiences, and a nonprofit that is developing transit-friendly, sustainable homes that will be permanently affordable. Read more.
Honoring our Honor Guard
Crossposted from the King County Sheriff’s Office Employee newsletter Last May, members of the King County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard traveled to Washington, D.C., to represent both our agency and the state of Washington during National Police Week. While in our nation’s capital, our team took part in several moving ceremonies, including standing watch at the National Candlelight Vigil for Fallen Officers, and joining agencies from around the world on stage at the U.S. Capitol to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. These moments are more than symbolic—they’re a reminder of… Read More
Employee News 