District News

A lot of thought and sweat went into this mural designed and painted by Raisbeck Aviation High School’s Class of 2020. It all stemmed from the question, “What is Raisbeck Aviation High School really about?” The answer begins with memories, dreams and opportunities. 

Back to school since November, small groups of K-12 students are thriving in our Integrated Learning Classrooms and Community Based Services (CBS) program for ages 18-21. These photos and stories showcase the joy, learning and challenges of students and special education staff in our ILC classrooms. 

Please read this family message from Superintendent Susan Enfield about our plan to move to in-person hybrid learning. 

We continue to monitor COVID activity data published by Public Health - Seattle & King County. As of the time of this posting, King County continues to experience a resurgence in COVID-19 cases. 

The Highline Schools Foundation has a new leader. Anne Gillingham has been named the new Executive Director of the Foundation.

November 2016 Highline school bond projects are wrapping up within budget and on time, despite unusual challenges. A committee of Highline residents meets quarterly to review the district’s progress on the school bond and how capital funds are being spent. Read the status report.

We want to share an update on athletics. Unfortunately, all middle school sports are canceled for the remainder of the 2020-21 school year. High school sports will resume. We are following health guidelines to ensure our students and coaches are safe. 

This week we announced our plans to bring elementary and more students with special needs back into school buildings, beginning March 1. Why now and why March 1? Superintendent Susan Enfield answers that question. 

Yes, that is the original terracotta! The new school continues on track to open in September. Check out the latest interior and exterior photos and a drone video from teacher Jeb Binns! Read the January update on construction progress.

Do you know a child who will be five years old on or before August 31? Maybe it's your neighbor, family friend or even your own child. Help us spread the word: families can enroll their incoming kindergarten student starting February 1 for the 2021-22 school year. 

We are aware that widespread power outages are affecting student learning today. Please refer to our guide on power and internet outages for information on how to continue learning

Based on public health recommendations, we intend to continue phasing in students to in-person learning on March 1.

Superintendent Enfield urges us to make this an opportunity to engage students in conversations about how we can disagree with out divisiveness. Watch her video message and find resources to support this work. 

The events unfolding in our nation’s capital are leaving us all reeling. As educators, we must not only make sense of this for ourselves, but also for them. 

Get information on how to nominate someone for a Gold Star Award from the Highline Schools Foundation, and how to register for free, virtual after-school art classes.

Here are some important dates regarding our free meal program during Distance Learning. Please note, weekly meal kit pickup days have moved from Mondays to Wednesdays.

Students have a lot of options when it comes to secondary schools. We encourage students and families to find the best fit. The application window for secondary schools of choice is now open. It will close January 31, 2021 at 11:00 p.m

Join us for one of our family information sessions on January 14 to learn details on elementary students returning to in-person learning. Both sessions will contain the same information.

High school students across Highline found connection and inspiration around a virtual campfire on a December weekend in 2020. It was a powerful and moving end of a not-so-normal fall at Camp Waskowitz. Starting Spring 2021, WELS has enrollment openings in its innovative, project-based program for students currently in grades 10-11. Ninth grade students also are invited to learn about WELS and to enroll for the 2021-22 school year.

To avoid crowding our clinics and hospitals with people experiencing COVID-like symptoms, public health officials are recommending that people get vaccinated for influenza as early as possible. Sign up today for a free flu vaccination clinic at Evergreen High School on Tuesday, December 29.

Students have a lot of options when it comes to secondary schools. We encourage students and families to find the best fit. The application window for secondary schools of choice is January 1 - 31, 2021. Applications close at 11:00 p.m. 

This fall, we announced our seventh straight year of rising graduation rates. The Class of 2020 graduated at 83.8 percent, the highest rate in recent Highline Public Schools history. This is especially notable since seniors spent their final three months of high school in distance learning. 

It's report card time for Highline Public Schools, and this year our interactive annual report includes more data than ever. We have expanded our online district report card to include metrics that show how we are doing in becoming a more equitable school system.

Please take a moment to read through an update about planning for in-person learning and take a short survey if you have an elementary student.

The holiday season and the dark winter months that follow can be a difficult time for many people. This year, isolation due to the pandemic may intensify the depression or sadness people may already be feeling. 

We want to make sure we have the correct information on file for you and your child. Having up to date information is important.

Do you work with or for a person who has made a significant contribution in Highline? The Highline Schools Foundation would like to recognize their work. Take this opportunity to give recognition to the outstanding staff and volunteers in Highline

Maritime High School is a new small high school opening in September 2021 with its first 9th-grade class. Maritime is a collaborative project of Highline Public Schools, Northwest Maritime Center, Port of Seattle, and the Duwamish River Cleanup Coalition, with many community and industry partners engaged to support our students. The new school will connect students to project-based learning centered on the environment, marine science and maritime careers.

While we cannot yet predict a firm date when we will be able to return students and staff to school buildings, we are developing a plan now. We want to be ready as early as February if public health conditions allow a safe reopening. Please look for a survey here or in your email next week.

Here are some important dates regarding our free meal program during Distance Learning. Please note, weekly meal kit pickup days will be moving from Mondays to Wednesdays in January 2021.  

Please use this Power or Internet Outage plan to continue distance learning during these unexpected events. Student attendance during these unexpected events will be determined based on evidence of participation in independent or offline learning activities. 

The national education publication K-12 Dive has named us its District of the Year in the K-12 Dive Awards for 2020.

Do you have a friend or relative who is looking for part-time work and wants to make an impact in our community? As we prepare for hybrid learning, we are hiring for all school bus driver positions, including new trainees, part-time guest/substitutes and experienced school bus drivers.

Find out the new transfer and renewal timelines for enrollment in the 2021-22 school year.

Explore Highline's community partnerships on our new Community Partner Dashboard! The new Dashboard shows specific services provided by community partners at each school. The Community Partner Dashboard ensures that school communities – staff, families, partners and community members – are aware of the resources available.

Please check out the family update for November 30 that includes information about free flu clinics and Covid testing.

Here are resources from our Native Education Program to add deeper context to the Thanksgiving holiday.

There’s money for college—let us help you find it. Attend a weekly Financial Aid completion workshops or watch step-by-step YouTube tutorial.

Here are the anticipated June 2021 graduation dates. Please be mindful that these are the dates currently scheduled for in-person graduations. If this is not possible, dates and times may need to be adjusted.

What is your ideal version of an online school? Come shape the vision of the Highline Virtual Academy. 

We are hosting three opportunities for students and staff to join focus groups.

Highline Public Schools plans to adopt new materials for language arts--and we want your input! Your voice is important as we select new Language Arts instructional materials for kindergarten through 12th grade. 

Highline Public Schools is proud to celebrate National Family Involvement Day on November 19. On this day we honor the powerful contributions made by families to support student success.

Read the Family Update for November 17. See interactive meals delivery map, remember to pre-order meals, share your opinion in our meal survey, plus learn what to expect with grading & report cards.

This weekend, Governor Inslee issued new restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19.  While K12 is exempt from these restrictions, we want to honor them to the extent possible while still serving our students.

Interested in attending Raisbeck Aviation High School next year? Raisbeck Aviation is one of Highline’s schools of choice. Staff and students are hosting two information nights for you to learn if Raisbeck Aviation is right for you. The first info night is tomorrow. 

Please read the family update for November 12 that includes information on free flu shot clinics, family zoom expectations, our recent newsletter and pre-ordering meals.

Contractors swung sections of building into place in October at Hilltop Elementary School. By early 2021, Hilltop will have an additional four new classrooms with a set of bathrooms in its new additional classroom building at the northwest corner of the school site. 

Enjoy this performance piece compliments of Glacier Middle School's Wind Ensemble! These 7th- and 8th-grade students had fun collaborating during Distance Learning to produce this piece of music titled “Alien Invasion” by David Gorham. They are led by Band and Orchestra Director Stephanie Kuborssy. 

You came through for our students with our highest approval rate in decades. Enjoy this thank you “card” with a message from one of our students! And don't miss Superintendent Susan Enfield's thank you to voters and Yes for Highline campaign volunteers.

Superintendent Enfield celebrates the passage of Highline's Tech Levy, Prop. 1, and thanks voters and the Yes for Highline campaign volunteers for their work.  

We are thrilled to share with our Highline community that the technology levy was approved by voters! Thank you to all for your continued support of our students, staff and schools. 

We are forming an Advisory Council. Members will serve as co-authors and help recommend elements from the Social Justice Standards that are most important to families. Apply Today.

Computers and home internet connections allow teachers like Tyee High School’s Nancy Pappas to connect with and teach students in her Trades Academy class.

We shared information about seven topics in this family update.

The graduation rate for Highline Public Schools increased for the seventh straight year. The overall graduation rate for the Class of 2020 is 83.8 percent. The greatest increase came for Black/African American students, who graduated at the highest rate ever in Highline, at 88.7 percent. That is an increase of 12 percentage points over the previous year. 

During distance learning, every student has an adult at school who is asked to check in with them once a week.

We know that school disruptions can lead to learning loss. We have been working hard to prevent learning loss and ensure all students have the opportunity to be engaged and supported in grade-level learning, using research-based strategies.

P.E. continues--just differently for now. Hilltop student Dionne Johnson demonstrates! During good days and bad days, mom Jessica is thankful for the device, hotspot, whiteboard, etc. If they go somewhere, they can bring the hotspot. Read their Distance Learning story.

Hamza (grade 4), Salman (grade 2) and Samiya (K) attend school online this fall thanks to devices loaned out by Beverly Park Elementary School and internet assistance. Read their Distance Learning story.

Issac Mota is a 6th grade student at Chinook Middle School. When we visited Issac and his mother Tiffany Scott, to find out how Distance Learning is going, Isaac was in art class via Zoom, using a laptop issued by the school. 

We want to know more about your experience with Distance Learning during the pandemic. Please help us better support you and other students and families by completing the survey linked below. The survey will take about 5-10 minutes to complete and your answers will be anonymous. 

Our family update for October 26 includes a replay of the family webinar, results from our last Thoughtexchange, a reminder to vote by Nov. 3 and info on the immigrant relief fund.

Election day is Tuesday, November 3. You can read about all the important issues in the voter pamphlet or online, including Highline's proposed technology levy. 

School meals are a convenient and healthy option for all families during Distance Learning. We have FREE meals available for ALL children 18 and younger. Check out a message from Superintendent Enfield about the importance of sharing this information with families.

Sylvester was recognized as a Green Medalist by Washington Green Schools. See the video spotlighting Sylvester students and teachers.

We invite 3rd-, 7th-, and 9th-grade students to give input on student experiences, including relationships, relevance and ownership of learning. 

“The technology levy is critical for everyone in our community. If approved, it will benefit students, families and educators,” says Jairo Garcia, teacher at Hazel Valley Elementary School. Learn more about his thoughts and experience during Distance Learning.

Read our family message sent via email and text on October 22. It includes information on flu vaccine clinics and a news media report on the Highline tech levy.

Teaching preschool students with special needs requires training, talent and heart in the classroom, let alone remotely. It also requires technology. Mount View paraeducator Christi Dickerhofe let us photograph her at work in her home office and shared her thoughts!

Cedarhurst Elementary student Rebecca Romero relies on a tablet loaned from her school to attend first grade online. "We really appreciate having access to the tablet [from school]. Without access to a computer or tablet, Rebecca wouldn’t be able to study at home," says mom Alejandra Romero.

Listen to or read KNKX Public Radio's report by Youth & Education Reporter Ashley Gross, spotlighting our Tech Levy Town Hall last week.

Highline teachers and staff are working harder than ever. Our students are connected and learning from home. In spite of all the challenges the coronavirus has thrown our way, we are determined to keep on teaching and learning. 

Sometimes unsung heroes get a song written about them—or at least an award that is a perfect fit. Highline School Board Director Aaron Garcia received an award for his volunteer work and support of the White Center community.

 Check out the family update for October 14.
 

See a message from Superintendent Susan Enfield about distance learning.

Remember the Tech Levy Town Hall is October 12, and the Family Webinar Update on Learning is October 15. Zoom links included.

Two additional classroom buildings opened at North Hill Elementary and White Center Heights Elementary schools last year. A third building is being installed at Hilltop Elementary School this fall, as planned. Learn more and see progress photos.

Enjoy this aerial view of the new Des Moines Elementary School while dreaming about our students all returning in person. We have never been more proud of our Highline community than this year. Thanks for your continued support of Highline Public Schools students and staff!

Highline High School is on track to open next fall, thanks to early progress and despite changes to work practices to respond to COVID-19. See October photos and links to the photos we posted on social media this summer of the beam-signing and the topping-off ceremonies, and  a walk-through with the architects in August.

Superintendent Susan Enfield gives an update on Distance Learning. "After much careful deliberation, the board and I have made the decision that Highline will remain in full distance learning for the first semester of this year." 

Wondering why sometimes a teacher gets moved from one school to another after the first few weeks of school? Though we try to minimize teacher reassignments, it typically happens in one or more schools each year.

For National Principals Month we'd like to give a big thank you to our school leaders for your adaptability and perseverance. They make it their life's work to connect with family and students and support our staff so our schools are places where adults and students thrive.

Learn what our Nov. 3 technology levy on election ballots will fund, if approved, and remember to submit communications feedback by Friday, October 9.

Mount Rainier High School’s Bontu Balda, class of 2020, tells her story (and our story) about why we are running Prop. 1--a technology levy--in the November election. 

We invite families, staff and community members to log in for a virtual Tech Levy Town Hall on Monday, October 12, from 5:00 to 5:30 p.m. Get informed about Prop. 1, our Highline technology levy on fall election ballots and ask questions.

Check out today’s family message that includes information on upcoming webinars, a tech levy town hall and Instruction on Race and Identity.

Check out the family update for October 2 that includes information on attendance, student insurance and a scholarship for technology camp.

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. You can help us keep our student, staff and district information systems safe from increasing and sophisticated attacks using these resources. Be informed about the tech levy and how it would fund a critical upgrade to district cybersecurity, if approved in November.

Check out the family update for October 1 that includes information on expanded meal kits, a new testing site and a two-minute communications survey. 

This family update includes a report back on our latest Thoughtexchange and information on our tech levy.

High school athletics registration for WIAA high school fall out-of-season coaching is now open. Virtual coaching will begin on Monday, September 28.

Superintendent Susan Enfield gives families an update on Distance Learning and a future transition into Hybrid Learning.

Check out the family update for September 22 that includes virtual preschool, registering to vote and our Language Arts Committee.
 

We have multiple communication platforms teachers are able to use to reach out to you. Your student’s teacher will let you know how they will be communicating with you. Please see the tools below and watch this short video on where to find this information on our website

Students from Highline and Mount Rainier High Schools have joined a national campaign calling on school districts to "encourage a productive dialogue on race and identity among our student bodies."

Teacher-librarian Karen Smith of Des Moines Elementary School needs to continue working from her home, rather than her classroom for her parent's sake. She shared some thoughts with us about Distance Learning this fall and the need for technology. Read her story here.

Check out the update for September 16 that includes information about the learning materials distribution and the Census.

Check out today’s family update that includes information on free COVID testing, enrollment support and a reminder to fill out our Thoughtexchange.

You have less than a month to make sure your family is counted in the U.S. Census. Our community is undercounted. In some neighborhoods, only 61% of Highline residents have completed the census--far below the King County average. That means we could lose out on critical funding for schools and other social services. 

The City of Burien is partnering with Highline Public Schools and Comcast to connect up to 1,500 eligible Highline students in Burien with free internet for 12 months.

Check out the family update for September 14 that includes an update on the school calendar and another video from our family learning series.

Check out the family message for September 11 which includes an opportunity for you to share how the first week went, a new video in the family learning series and information on fresh produce giveaway in Burien.

Late yesterday we learned that Sprint internet hotspots are experiencing difficulty with Zoom calls. This is a nationwide issue. Sprint is working to fix the problem. Find out what to do until it is resolved.

Watch our first-day-of-school video, full of eager faces determined to make this a great year. Thank you for choosing to be a part of #OurHighlineStory. We are in this together!

Check out the family update for September 9. It includes information about school meals and technology support.

Need help navigating the website? We've put together these short how-to videos that walk you through where to find information on our website

Check out today’s family update that includes a link to our latest family webinar, a featured FAQ, information on childcare resources and our tech levy.

Check out today’s family update that includes a learning supply Pack distribution reminder, info on health clinics and a census reminder.

Check out today's update about the Family Webinar, class assignments and meals.

Check out today's family message on meals and online registration.

In preparation for the September 2 family webinars, we want to know what questions you have about school this fall. What information do you still need?

We will begin serving food for the school year starting Wednesday, September 9. Due to Distance Learning, meals will be different. Families must pre-order school meals using our online pre-order system.

It is almost time for school to start! The first day of student learning is Wednesday, September 9. We know this year looks different, but we can't help but be excited. We want to help you feel as comfortable and confident as possible as we start the new year. 

Check out the family update for August 27. It includes information about devices and school supply packs.

Find out more information on Summer Meals and fill out our Meal Distribution Survey.

I invite you to join me for a webinar where we will give you the latest information about school this fall and do our best to answer your questions. We will host two family webinars, one in the morning and another in the evening.

Highline Public Schools Nutrition Services is here to provide healthy meals for your student(s). We want to make sure all students have breakfast and lunch during distance learning, and we want to partner with you to deliver meals in the way that works best for your family. Please complete our survey by August 27.

This August 12 Family Update includes information about Family Connection Days, a thank you to our webinar attendees and information on an upcoming webinar for families of students in special education.

We want to make sure we have the correct information on file for you and your child. There is now a new feature in ParentVUE that allows you to review and update student information for the upcoming school year.

The Highline Public Schools Central Office is now open to the public for limited services. School offices will reopen on August 10. 

This August 6 Family Update includes information about distance learning sample schedules, a reminder of our upcoming August 11 webinars and a link to test internet speed. 

Here is an August update about high school and middle school athletic programming due to the coronavirus pandemic.. 

This August 3 Family Update includes information about athletics, kindergarten registration, voting, technology levy and summer opportunities.

Highline Schools Foundation is helping the district work to ensure that all families have access to broadband internet service when schools open this fall in full distance learning. Find out how to help.

We will host two Dual Language Family Information Sessions for you to choose from on Thursday, August  6. We will to share information and answer some of your questions.   

We know you have questions on distance learning, and we’re working on answers. Please plan on joining Superintendent Susan Enfield for a webinar on August 11 to ask questions and learn about our distance learning plan in fall 2020.

Please read this message from Superintendent Susan Enfield about remote learning in the 2020-21 school year. 

Here is a high-level look at the 2020-21 school calendar. These dates and breaks are reflected in our website calendar. The calendar will be final after HEA members vote on it in August. At this time, we do not anticipate changes. 

We are following state guidelines for reopening school with safety measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus. To plan appropriately, we are asking you to tell us which option you are likely to select, based on what you know today. 

All students need access to technology to learn and be prepared for today’s careers. On July 8, school board members voted to place a two-year $32.5-million technology levy on the November 3 ballot. The levy will not increase taxes beyond the current rate.

We have concluded our most recent Thoughtexchange, which asked families for their feedback on our draft plan for fall. Thank you to all who provided feedback, we had over 2,000 individuals participate. Here are the results.

See results from our most recent ThoughtExchange and watch one of our webinars held on July 1 about our draft plan for fall 2020. 

We are developing a draft plan for returning to school this fall.You are invited to take this survey about the plan and to share your thoughts and questions in this Thoughtexchange format.

As our district workgroups formulate plans for returning to school in the fall, we need your input. Please join Superintendent Susan Enfield on July 1 to learn about our proposed plan for fall, give feedback and ask questions.

In order to provide technology to our incoming kindergarten students for participation in virtual Jump Start experiences, it is necessary to collect information about students’ access to technology and internet connectivity.

Please read this message from Superintendent Susan Enfield about the 2019-20 school year and a preview of next school year. 

It was not the graduation celebration the Class of 2020 always thought it would have. There was no big stage to walk across, no bleachers packed with cheering family and friends, no hugs or high-fives shared between graduates. 

But even without the typical pomp and circumstance, the heart of the celebration remained. Graduates stood tall with confidence as they received their diplomas. Families cheered from their cars, waving signs, honking horns and crying with excitement. Teachers and staff burst with pride as they waved goodbye to graduates one final time.

Summer meal service will begin Monday, June 22. Grab-n-go meals will continue to be free to all students. Meals will only be offered on Mondays and Thursdays during summer break.  We will offer multiple days worth of meals on pick-up days. 

Meet some of our graduating seniors from the Class of 2020. We invite you to find hope and be inspired by what they have to say about their future plans, favorite teacher, favorite memory or advice for future seniors. 

Highline Public Schools is conducting a public opinion survey in June to gather data that will help us learn the funding priorities and communication preferences of our community. This research is being conducted via cell, landline and text messaging.

See a message from Superintendent Susan Enfield about planning for Fall. 

Find out about a potential technology levy being considered for the November 2020 ballot to pay for devices, connection, security, support and training. 

Highline’s second cohort of bilingual teaching fellows graduated this spring. They celebrated together in a virtual event on June 8. This event recognized Cohort 2’s graduation and was a welcome to the new group of future bilingual teachers in Cohort 3. 

It's time to find a comfortable spot with your device to scroll through art created by Highline students. The Highline Visual Arts Show is going online! 

Here is what we know today about our summer and fall athletics programs based on current state and county public health guidelines, and in coordination with WIAA.

The Scholar-Athlete, Coach and Community Recognition Banquet honors students that shine in multi-sport athletics, academics and community service. 

We are deeply grateful for the continued partnership with Music4Life, a non-profit organization that provides donated and repaired musical instruments at no charge to students who qualify.

Congratulations to McMicken Elementary School for being recognized by The Center for Educational Effectiveness (CEE) for continuous improvement for Black students.

Evergreen High School's Mony Thach has been selected to be a featured graduate in the virtual "Dear Class of 2020" graduation special organized by former first lady Michelle Obama's Reach Higher organization. Tune in on Saturday, June 6 at noon on YouTube.

Please read this message from the Board of Directors for Highline Public Schools in response to the homicide of George Floyd. 

FREE Summer Youth ORCA Pass is Back! High school students can sign-up for a three-month Youth ORCA Pass for when safe, non-essential trips on public transit resume in King County. The ORCA Pass is available for students in grades 8 -12 who qualify for free or reduced meals.  

Please read this family and student message from Superintendent Susan Enfield in response to the tragic death of George Floyd and the need to become an anti-racist community. 

Your feedback is valued. We want to know more about your experience with distance learning during the pandemic. 

Our schools are scheduling time during the week of June 15 for you to pick up any items your child left at school and to return library books and other items to school. Please look for a message from your school giving you the designated date and time.

With the current restrictions on in-person activities, children and teens may be spending more time online. Please take this opportunity to talk with your child about staying safe online. Younger children are especially vulnerable to being deceived by people they encounter in multi-player games and other internet gathering places.

Read this family message from Superintendent Susan Enfield about planning for fall 2020.

Congratulations to the Class of 2020. Our seniors have worked hard, and they deserve to be celebrated. We wish we could give them a traditional graduation ceremony, but since that is not possible due to the pandemic, we have worked hard to plan a creative way to celebrate commencement. 

Highline Schools Foundation announced the first 17 winners of its 2020 scholarship process for high school seniors.

Today's update includes the last day of school, email bouncebacks and wifi resources in the community.

Do you know a child who will be five years old on or before August 31? Maybe it's your neighbor, family friend or even your own child.
 

During this difficult time, we understand that as a parent taking a bigger role in your student’s education you may have concerns. Distance Learning brought countless challenges, but Highline Public Schools is committed to communicating and working with you and your family. If you are encountering:

Educators have never had to adapt like they have this year, creating new ways to engage students and families. Highline teachers made an overnight transition to a distance learning model, showing our community their best qualities: innovation, perseverance, tenacity, care and commitment. 

On Friday, May 2, we learned that a kitchen staff member tested positive for COVID-19. Public Health advised us on our response. There are no concerns about the safety of the food because it was pre-packaged and staff uses safe food handling practices, including wearing gloves and masks. 

Students enrolled in Advanced Placement (AP) courses are invited to join an online AP Prep Party to learn how to prepare, access exams and ask questions. We've added a step-by-step checklist to help you get ready to take your AP exam.

Today's family update includes meal site information, learning supply kits, elementary grading and more. 

Superintendent Enfield will serve on a COVID Task Force convened by AASA, the national superintendents association. The advisory panel will assist district leaders with the challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Six new HHS tennis courts are under construction in part of the field at the Sunnydale site.

The annual Scholar-Athlete, Coach & Community Contributor Event will get creative and go virtual on May 27, but the need for scholarship money is very real. Can you help by May 8?

While we eagerly wait for our school buildings to open again, here's a glimpse into one of our classrooms at Beverly Park from before. 

We have updated our high school grading policy for this semester, based on a new directive from the Washington State Superintendent of Public Instruction. This directive applies to all school districts in the state.

CHOICE Academy, Raisbeck Aviation High School, Pacific Middle School, and Midway and McMicken Heights elementary schools have been recognized by the State Board of Education for positive system changes happening in their schools.

U.S. News and World Report just released its annual list of 2020 Best High Schools. All four of Highline Public Schools’ comprehensive high schools made the list this year, in addition to two of our choice high schools. 

Learn the truth about U.S. Census rumors, plus get extra learning materials, provided by the Census, for use in distance learning.

We know that one of the big concerns seniors have right now is earning all the credits you need to graduate this spring. Our priority is ensuring that you graduate on time in June.

CFAC meetings are postponed until the 2020-21 school year. The plan is to meet in person, once public gatherings are possible, to continue the process of building community consensus on school construction priorities.

See the latest photos of progress on the Evergreen Synthetic Turf Field. The new field is being installed inside the existing track between Evergreen High School and Cascade Middle School. 

COVID-19 didn’t stop progress on the new PIrate ship--at least not for long. Highline High School is a public works project, and Skanska revamped workflow plans and added new safety measures.

Meal sites are open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays only to promote social distancing. Students will receive two days worth of meals on Monday, three days worth of meals on Wednesday, and two days worth of meals on Friday.

Staying connected with the school and district is important, especially during this time of distance learning.

As students begin distance learning, you may need technology support. We have created a webpage with resources that provides step-by-step instructions on logging into your Chromebook, connecting your Chromebook to the internet, and rebooting your Chromebook if needed. 

United Way announced an expanded program of rental assistance. One month of rental assistance is being offered to people in King County struggling to pay rent due to the coronavirus.

The School Board and Superintendent Susan Enfield will host a webinar for seniors and families on Tuesday, April 21 at 4:00 p.m. 

Please read this message Superintendent Susan Enfield sent to the Class of 2020 on April 7, 2020.

On April 6, Governor Inslee announced schools will be closed for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year, in order to slow the spread of COVID-19. Without these restrictions, public health authorities say the rate of infection will overwhelm the healthcare system.

Spring is often the time of year we host job fairs to find our student's next great teacher. With the current Stay Home, Stay Healthy order, we are taking our job fairs online. Interested in becoming a teacher in Highline? Complete our online interest form to set up a virtual interview. 

The United Way of King County has several resources to help families during this time including rental and utility assistance, food services, unemployment services, childcare, transportation and more. 

Our meal site locations are changing due to spring break on April 6-10. We are collaborating with our community partners to provide free breakfast and lunch to all students. Here is the week’s schedule

Teachers are reaching out to all students and families as part of our new distance learning plan. Please be on the lookout to ensure you don’t miss anything. Here are four tips when communicating with teachers. 

Here are some free and low-cost internet options for families.

We are providing basic childcare for healthcare workers and first responders. Children must be currently enrolled in grades Pre-K through 5 in a Highline school.

Elementary report cards will be mailed to each students’ listed mailing address between April 7 and April 14. If you do not receive your student’s report card, or if there is an issue with the report card, please reach out to your child’s teacher.

We have been working hard to keep up with changing circumstances and shifting guidance from our state leaders about educating students during the current public health crisis. Based on the latest guidance from the state, we have built a plan to continue instruction to the extent possible.

Seniors and families are invited to join Superintendent Susan Enfield for a live video information session to answer questions about graduation, grades, and any of the topics related to your senior year. 

Here is a family update on supporting students during the school closure, distance learning and grades. 

Does your student need a device to use at home during the school closure? We have one for you to use. Over the next several days, we will be hosting device pick-up sessions at our schools. 

COVID-19 is limiting in-person outreach by U.S. Census helpers. You can help our region and schools get vital services, representation and funding for the next 10 years. Respond online, by phone or by mail. Let’s count every child in Highline. Here's how to help from home.

High school students and teachers will continue to use a 6-period schedule for the foreseeable future, rather than switching to a 5-period trimester system. Here's why....

Times of crisis, particularly when people are in close quarters, can lead to an increase in domestic abuse. Resources are available 24/7, and domestic violence programs across our state are working tirelessly to help people plan for their safety. You are not alone. Help is a call or chat away.

Chromebooks will be handed out to 12th-grade students this Friday, March 27 from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Students need to pick up their Chromebook from the school they attend.

Seattle Public Schools (SPS) has a television studio and has created enrichment videos. Check out this resource!

UPDATE: New OSPI guidance is that education must continue during the closure. We are working on a plan for distance learning. 

To reflect state and county guidelines, we are closing the use of play toys and sport courts, including basketball and tennis courts. All district buildings, facilities and fields are also closed to the public.

The Highline Schools Foundation is accepting monetary donations to purchase supplies for the childcare centers we are opening during the school closure.

A number of local food banks are supporting families and students with food during the coronavirus outbreak. Here is a list of locations.

We will provide basic childcare for a limited number of Highline students in grades Pre-K through 5. Children must be currently enrolled in a Highline school.

As we navigate the ever-changing and challenging circumstances created by coronavirus, we rely on our social and emotional learning strategies and skills to support ourselves and each other. Here are resources for discussing coronavirus with students and helpful RULER lessons for families. 

Many families and community members have asked how they can support during this challenging time. Here are some suggestions.

Comcast is offering its Internet Essentials program free to new customers for 60 days. All new customers will receive a free self-install kit that includes a cable modem and WiFi router. There is no term contract.

Starting Monday, March 16 we will distribute meals to students at several of our schools. Meals are free to every Highline student. Registration is not required. There are no forms to fill out and no names are written down. See a list of locations. 

Governor Inslee issued an executive order closing all schools in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties until at least April 24. All Highline schools will close to students, effective Monday, March 16.

See resources for families who may want to see a doctor, but don’t have one and/or those who need to enroll in public or low-cost health insurance. 

Today and every day we are grateful for our support staff—our behind-the-scenes heroes—bus drivers, paraeducators, kitchen helpers, recess monitors, office staff, custodians, and more. 

Meet our 2020 Gold Star Winners! 

This is the first of several communications over the coming days based on the rapidly evolving coronavirus situation.

We are committed to keeping you informed about our response to coronavirus. Here is your daily update. 

Read a family message sent on March 10 about the coronavirus from Superintendent Susan Enfield. 

If you keep checking your phone for the latest coronavirus updates, chances are your kids have noticed. Be ready to answer your child’s questions about coronavirus. If they don't seem interested or don't ask a lot of questions, that's OK too. Just follow their lead.

We continue to watch the developments in the coronavirus situation. We are doing our best to adjust our decisions based on new information and keep you informed. We acknowledge that this is unchartered territory for us all, and we thank you for your patience. 

We are committed to keeping you informed about our response to coronavirus. Here is your daily update for March 6.

We are committed to keeping you informed about our response to coronavirus. Here is your daily update.

We are committed to keeping you informed about our response to Coronavirus. Here is your daily update from March 4. 

We want to keep you updated on our response to Coronavirus. Today, principals received lesson plans for grades K through 12 on communicable disease prevention. Principals will ensure that every student receives at least one lesson from this curriculum by Friday. 

A lottery was held on March 2 to select students for our secondary schools that require an application or a program transfer. This includes CHOICE Academy, Big Picture Schools, Raisbeck Aviation High School (RAHS) and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program offered at Mount Rainier High School (MRHS).

Read a family message sent on March 2 about the coronavirus from Superintendent Susan Enfield. 

As Coronavirus continues to affect our region, we want to reassure you that the safety of our students and staff is our top priority. Here is how we are responding to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our schools, keep students and staff safe and healthy, and minimize the impact on student learning. 

What is Highline doing to support student behavior and well-being? Ten schools will receive additional support for mental health, starting next fall.

In fall 2019, we launched a new middle school math curriculum to ensure students have the foundational skills necessary to be successful in algebra and beyond.

Highline Public Schools Superintendent Susan Enfield has been awarded the 2020 Women in School Leadership Award by the American Association of School Administrators.

You nominated them, now let's celebrate them. The Highline Schools Foundation announced this year's Gold Star Awards nominees. Winners will be celebrated at the Gold Star BASH on Tuesday, March 10. Each winner will receive a $500 award. Winners will also be celebrated at the Foundation’s Gold Star fundraising breakfast in April 17.

This fall, we asked students and families for input on what you value most about Highline and what we can do to make it better. Families shared their thoughts on a wide range of topics.

Highline and the Port of Seattle intend to create a new high school focused on maritime jobs and environmentally-based career paths. 

Our school tour for community members on Wednesday, March 18 has been postponed. 

Do you speak, read, and write in more than one language? Are you looking to use your bilingual skills in the workforce, but need more training and support? Join us for an information session about our Bilingual Teaching Fellows program on Thursday, February 27.

The tentative first day of school for the 2020-21 school year will be on Thursday, September 3, for grades 1-12.

We want to share information we received this afternoon from the King County Department of Health regarding the coronavirus, the new virus that is spreading in China.

Athletic programs at Evergreen, Highline and Tyee high schools will join the KingCo League starting in fall 2020. 

Our community-led Capital Facilities Advisory Committee (CFAC) reviewed data on current student enrollment and 10-year enrollment projections at their January meeting. Read a meeting summary and find out their next steps to prioritize our backlog of school construction needs.

Breakfast at school is critical for students who don’t get regular meals at home. But not every student is able to make it to school early enough to stop by the cafeteria for breakfast. That’s why we give students options. Thanks to a new vending machine at Tyee High School, students can grab breakfast on the go--before school or between classes. 

Evergreen High School students are getting fresh, wholesome snacks thanks to FEEST, an organization led by youth of color in South Seattle and South King County working to improve health in our schools. Focusing on the need for more healthy, affordable and culturally relevant food at school, FEEST helps young people become leaders in making concrete changes in our food systems.

Do you know a child who will be five years old on or before August 31? Maybe it's your neighbor, family friend or even your own child. Spread the word... now is the time to register for kindergarten. 

The snow make-up day for Tuesday, January 14, will be Tuesday, May 26. 

From time to time during the winter months, the weather may force a change in the normal school schedule. We want you to be prepared and know where to get information.

2019 marked a year of school construction milestones for you, our Highline community. Here are our top 12 picks in the order they happened last year.