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🌱 Patch AM: How are Spokane teachers actually using AI with your kids’ homework?

Also, don't miss Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer on the Spokane Patch calendar

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Hi there, Spokane! We've got your morning read ready! Read on to stay connected. ☕️️

In today's newsletter:

  • How are Spokane teachers actually using AI with your kids’ homework?
  • Why Spokane’s beloved Chaos Arcade is shutting its doors for good
  • How Ferris survived LC’s furious comeback in Spokane’s Rubber Chicken clash

Also on today's calendar: Clutter class - learn how to Let Go for a Less Stressful Life and 9 more events.

Find out what's happening in Spokanefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today's riddle: What did one astronaut stranded on the moon say to another? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

Find out what's happening in Spokanefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Friday: Breezy in the morning, with a high of 41 and low of 34 degrees.
  • Saturday: Mostly cloudy with a flurry, temps: high: 42, low: 33.
  • Sunday: A bit of snow and rain, with a high of 42 and low of 36 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. AI transforms classrooms as teachers and students learn safe practices (kxly.com) — Spokane-area schools are rapidly weaving AI into everyday classroom life, from Mead and Mt. Spokane High to Gonzaga University’s new AI institute. Local teachers are using tools like Claude to personalize learning while Gonzaga prepares a statewide AI bootcamp, all with a strong emphasis on safe, responsible use for students and parents.
   

2. Chaos Arcade in Spokane to close after 8 years (khq.com) — A longtime favorite for local gamers, Chaos Arcade in Spokane is closing after eight years, with the owner citing family needs, health challenges, and rising costs. The arcade, repeatedly voted a top local spot and known for community events like blood drives, was created as a politics-free space where residents could relax and connect. The owner thanked Spokane patrons for their years of support.
   

3. Rubber Chicken: Full-strength Ferris girls withstand late charge, hold off Lewis and Clark 66-64 (spokesman.com) — Ferris and Lewis and Clark girls basketball teams delivered a nail-biter at Spokane Arena, with Ferris edging LC 66-64 in the Rubber Chicken rivalry. Ferris got a big boost from the return of injured point guard Juju Lewis and strong scoring from seniors Brooke Chisholm and Mateia Eschenbacher. The teams meet again Feb. 3 in a league matchup that could shape 4A district hopes.
   

4. Inland Journal: Budget and taxes top the 2026 Washington legislative agenda (spokanepublicradio.org) — Spokane’s business community, through Greater Spokane, just hosted key state legislative leaders to probe how they’ll tackle Washington’s 2026 budget shortfall and possible tax changes. Although no Spokane lawmakers were on the panel, the discussion in Olympia’s shadow centered on balancing falling revenues, limiting new taxes, and trimming spending during the fast-approaching 60‑day session starting January 12.
   

5. New Hires & Promotions: Dec. 18, 2025 (spokanejournal.com) — Several Spokane-area professionals and organizations are in the spotlight this week, from promotions at Spokane Valley’s Victory Media to new banking and real estate hires serving local clients. Spokane-based Designology Luxury Interiors earned a statewide design honor, while local leaders including Gonzaga’s former president received University District awards. Spokane County groups also secured significant state grants for child care and climate resilience work.
   

📸 Around Spokane

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • HI everyone I just wanted to let you know that thanks to the help of our fine neighbors both of my dogs are back home safe and sound!
    Thank you so much everyone for your help have a wonderful day and happy holidays to all of you (Nextdoor Logan)
  • Indian trail and Janice.
    Careful people. Trees in the road way so keep your eyes open (Nextdoor South Indian Trail)
  • G2 Secure Staff posted a job opening for Ramp Agent in Spokane. Apply here.
  • Pro Motion Pix LLC posted a job opening for Automotive Photographer & Videographer in Spokane. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Spokane here.

Ok Spokane! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I don’t think you know the gravity of this situation.
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Send it to us!

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