COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

When will programming begin again?

In partnership with Seattle Parks and Recreation we have started offering a limited number of in person programs that require registration for contact tracing. All programs are following COVID protocols according to King County Public Health. Programming will slowly increase when it is safe to do so.

What we know now is:

• Summer Camp registration will open on April 19, 2022
• Before and After School-Age Care programs are running at limited capacity
• Recreation Preschool is running at Magnolia Community Center
• Five community center locations are offering licensed Preschool:
  • Alki Community Center
  • Ballard Community Center
  • Bitter Lake Community Center
  • Meadowbrook Community Center
  • Queen Anne Community Center

When does registration for the 22-23 school year open?

Registration for Fall 2022 preschool will open February 8, 2022. Registration for Fall before and after school programs will open May 10, 2022.

Are summer day camps running this year?

Licensed summer day camps will run and follow social distancing guidelines. Activity camps will also run at various sites around the city. Registration open April 19, 2022.

How do I get a refund for a cancelled program or class?

For questions or information on refunds, please contact your local recreation facility. 

How do I apply for a recreation scholarship?

Go here for more information on how to apply for recreations scholarships.

How are ARC staff and instructors impacted by the closures?

We recognize that our recreation instructors and program staff are some of the most talented, dedicated, and devoted professionals in the field, so the actions forced by this pandemic have been extremely difficult. Our staffing model is primarily dependent on revenue produced by programs and services delivered by staff and instructors to the community.

As a result, all instructors and many of our other employees working in recreation-based programming were laid off.  All employees who have been laid off can apply for unemployment benefits through the Washington State Employment Security Department.

The Washington State Employment Security Department is responsible for determining who is eligible for unemployment benefits. Traditionally, Independent Contractors are not eligible for unemployment benefits, however some provisions were made during this crisis and more information can be found here. 

We are slowly increasing our programming while following King County Public Health guidelines. If you are interested in joining our team, please send your resume to [email protected].

How do I contact ARC?

Please email Sonia Flores at [email protected] and she will put you in contact with the department that best fits your needs.

Where can I find the most updated information about community center programs?

Here is the best place to find up to date information on COVID-19 impacts on Seattle Parks & Recreation.