City of Bellevue and Bellevue School District announce partnership to bring cross-cultural programming to BSD Welcome Center

Published March 26 2026

The City of Bellevue and the Bellevue School District today announced a first-of-its-kind partnership that will bring the city's Cross-Cultural Center Without Walls programming directly into the BSD Welcome Center. Beginning this year, organizations funded through the city's cross-cultural program will have dedicated space in the Welcome Center to connect with Bellevue families, share resources and host intercultural experiences.

This collaboration strengthens a shared commitment to building a more connected, inclusive Bellevue, one where people from all cultures and backgrounds can learn from one another, build relationships and feel a deep sense of belonging.

Expanding access to cross-cultural experiences

For several years, the city has explored ways to create a facility that supports cross-cultural learning and relationship-building. While a new, stand-alone center remains a long-term vision, the city launched Cross-Cultural Center Without Walls to bring programming to community spaces across Bellevue. The program funds local organizations to host events, workshops, and shared experiences designed to foster active intercultural engagement and exchange.

By housing this work at the BSD Welcome Center, the city and district are creating a direct bridge between funded organizations and the children and families who will benefit most from these programs and services.

A shared space for community connection

The BSD Welcome Center serves as a hub for new and returning families, multilingual communities and students navigating transitions into the district. With the addition of cross-cultural programming, the Welcome Center will become an even more vibrant gathering place-one where families can access resources, participate in cultural learning opportunities and build meaningful connections with community partners.

Leadership Reflections

Bellevue Mayor Mo Malakoutian: "Belonging starts when a family walks into the Welcome Center and feels seen. By bringing cross-cultural programming into the school district's Welcome Center, we're meeting families where they are - connecting them to resources and each other. I'm grateful to the Bellevue School District for partnering with us to help families build relationships and feel at home in Bellevue."

Superintendent of Bellevue School District Kelly Aramaki: "When families feel welcomed and connected, students thrive. This partnership deepens our commitment to belonging and ensures families can access resources and experiences that honor who they are."

Director of the BSD Welcome Center Ricardo Macias: "When the Bellevue School District and the City of Bellevue come together in true partnership, standing alongside those who serve our community every day, we don't just coordinate efforts, we demonstrate the transformative power of collaboration."

Looking Ahead to 2026 Programming

In fall 2025, the city issued a request for proposals from organizations for the 2026 Cross-Cultural Center Without Walls program. Funded programs will run throughout this year at locations across Bellevue-including the BSD Welcome Center. A full calendar of events will be published once recipients are selected,and programming is finalized.

About the Cross-Cultural Center Without Walls and the Bellevue School District

The Cross-Cultural Center Without Walls is a city initiative designed to bring intercultural experiences directly into community spaces. Through partnerships with local organizations, the program supports events and workshops that foster cross-cultural learning, connection and belonging.

The Bellevue School District, with over 20,000 students and 28 schools, is a diverse and dynamic district in East King County, Washington. Its mission is "To serve each and every student academically, socially and emotionally through a rigorous and relevant education that is innovative and individualized. As a learning community that values one another's humanity, we provide courageous support for an equitable and exceptional education for all students."