As it prepares for the start of the 180-day, 2008-09 school year next Tuesday, the Kent School District:

• Is the fourth largest in the state, with an enrollment (as of last October) of more than 26,000.

• Has 1,745 teachers, about half of its total workforce.

• Serves an area of approximately 72 square miles, which includes Covington and some of the Black Diamond and Maple Valley areas.

• Has 40 schools – four high schools, six middle schools, 28 elementary schools and two specialized academies.

• Averages 22 to 29 students per class.

• Is in the process of picking a new superintendent to replace Barbara Grohe, who will retire at the end of the school year.

• Can be contacted online at www.kent.k12.wa.us