Literacy is one of Highline’s four big priorities this year—because reading is the foundation for success in every subject and every grade. Our approach to reading is grounded in decades of research, known as the science of reading, a large body of research on how children learn to read and write.

School and district leaders visited Seahurst Elementary to see young readers in action! From kindergartners sounding out words to second graders reading books, students are building strong literacy skills every day. These classroom visits help us learn what’s working, hear directly from students, and find new ways to support teachers and learners. By listening and learning, we’re strengthening literacy instruction

We’re making changes in our middle and high schools to help students feel more connected to their learning and better prepared for life after graduation. This work is called Secondary Redesign, and it supports our Highline Promise to know every student by name, strength and need, and graduates prepared for the future they choose. This update shares how that work is taking shape as the 2024–25 school year comes to a close.

We are redesigning our middle and high schools to better support every student. Through listening sessions and pilot programs, we are focusing on real-world relevance and instructional rigor. Learn how each high school is taking steps to make learning more meaningful and engaging.