International Baccalaureate Programme
Schools of Choice Application Timeline for 2026-27
The application window for the 2026-27 school year opens December 8, 2025- January 31, 2026.
Timeline
- Application Opens: December 8, 2025 (We anticipate the application to open the application at 5:00 p.m.)
- Application Closes: January 31, 2026
- Lottery and Notification: March 4, 2026
- Applications reopen for schools and programs not at capacity: April 13, 2026
Some schools and programs of Choice timelines vary. Please check your school's website for more information.
High School Transitions Event
At Highline, we're dedicated to making every student future-ready. High school is a time where dreams take flight, and futures are forged. We offer a variety of secondary pathways, from maritime studies and aerospace exploration to virtual learning and neighborhood schools. We’re here to help you explore your options so that you’re prepared for the challenges and possibilities of tomorrow.
Join Us at our High School Transitions Event
- When: December 18, 2025 at 5:30 p.m.
- Location: Puget Sound Skills Center
Representatives from your neighborhood high school and Schools and Programs of Choice will share about their schools, programs and admission process. Get a clear overview of all your high school options. If something sparks your interest, you can learn more by attending a school specific information session in the month of January.
Application support will be available for students and families via breakout rooms—staff will be available to answer questions and guide you through the process step-by-step.
IB Information Night
Join us at our Information Night!
- Monday, January 12, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. (Via Zoom)
- Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. (In-person)
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to incoming 9th -11th grade students.
Up to 15 seats per graduating year will be reserved for each of the high school service areas (Highline, Tyee and Evergreen). If more than 15 students apply from each service area, a lottery system will be implemented.
Application Information
Applications for the 2026-27 School Year (Next Year)
We’re making a change to how families and students apply to Highline’s Schools and Programs of Choice for the 2026-2027 School Year. SchoolMint will no longer be used. Families will submit applications through ParentVUE.
Apply Existing / Re-enrolling Students
Apply Out of District / New to Highline Students
If you have not set up ParentVUE, please visit our webpage for more information on how to set up your account. For a step-by-step guide, please find printable instructions on our Help Guides webpage.
Applications for the 2025-26 School Year (Current Year)
Applications for the current year are open for schools with a rolling waitlist. To apply, create an account in SchoolMint using an email address. For a step-by-step guide, please find printable instructions here.
General Lottery & Waitlist Process
Space is limited. A lottery process is used when applications exceed capacity. If there are more applications than space at any particular grade level, Highline will hold a lottery including all students with completed applications.
About the IB Program
IB Info Night Power point
Click here to see the power point
Mission Statement
The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.
Learner Profile
The International Baccalaureate® (IB) learner profile describes a broad range of human capacities and responsibilities that go beyond academic success. They imply a commitment to help all members of the school community learn to respect themselves, others and the world around them. Each of the IB's programmes is committed to the development of students according to the IB learner profile.
The profile aims to develop learners who are:
- Inquirers
- Knowledgeable
- Thinkers
- Communicators
- Principled
- Open-minded
- Caring
- Risk-takers
- Balanced
- Reflective
To learn more about the IB Learner Profile and view a video please click here: Learner Profile detail and video
History in Highline Public Schools
- Mount Rainier High School has offered the IB Diploma Programme since 1987.
- Mount Rainier High School has offered the IB Middle Years Programme since 2017.
Visit International Baccalaureate Organization's website for more information.
Contact
Veronica Fairchild
DP Coordinator
425-954-5015
James Dyer
MYP Coordinator
425-954-7307