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Highline Public Schools
15675 Ambaum Blvd. SW Burien, WA 98166

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Highline Public Schools
15675 Ambaum Blvd. SW Burien, WA 98166

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District News

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We want to provide an update to the ransomware attack we experienced last fall. After a thorough forensic investigation and a labor-intensive review, we have determined that certain files containing personal information were accessed by an unauthorized actor. The forensic investigation was conducted by a third-party expert and took several months to complete. 

Read More about Notice of Data Security Event
Malachi, 5th grader

At Gregory Heights Elementary, fifth-grader Malachi is thriving in an inclusive classroom where students of all abilities learn together. His journey from a separate special education setting to a general education classroom has sparked remarkable academic growth, deeper friendships and a powerful sense of belonging—for him and his entire school community.

Read More about A Place to Belong: Malachi’s Journey in an Inclusive Classroom
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In the fall, we will enter the final year of our strategic plan. We would like to hear from you. This year, we introduced four key priority areas to guide our work and investments in alignment with our strategic plan. As we develop next year’s budget and plan for the next version of our strategic plan, we want your input on how we can build on this work and allocate resources for maximum impact.

Read More about Your Input Needed: Strengthening Our Priorities in Highline
student and staff at North Hill

As we expand inclusive education to middle schools, Sylvester Middle School is collaborating with feeder elementary schools to ensure consistent support. Meanwhile, students at Innovation Heights are participating in inclusive learning through a hands-on community garden project. See how we are fostering belonging and innovative learning at every stage. 

Read More about Inclusion Moves to Middle School  
School Board Meeting on March 5

Highline Public Schools’ Board of Directors stands firm in its commitment to protecting students, staff and families regardless of background, identity or immigration status. During a standing-room-only meeting on March 5, the board unanimously approved Resolution 02-25: Our Schools, Our Promise–A Stand for Every Student

Read More about Highline School Board Approves Resolution Affirming Safe & Welcoming Schools 
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Highline's financial outlook remains stable due to steady student enrollment and past budget adjustments. The School Board held a work session on Wednesday, March 5 about the budget development process. The next steps for the 2025-26 budget include working with leaders on school and department budgets, additional board updates in April and May, final budget development and a public hearing in June before submission to OSPI.  

Read More about Update on Budget Planning for 2025-26
Board members L to R: Stephanie Tidholm, Angelica Alvarez and Joe Van

The Highline School Board is moving forward with the appointment process of two vacant board seats. During the March 5 board meeting, the board narrowed the candidate pool to three finalists for District 4. The board also voted to re-open the application window for District 5 after two candidates withdrew from the process before the first round of public interviews. 

Read More about School Board Reopens District 5 Applications & Selects 3 Finalists for District 4
ms williams and student

At Highline Public Schools, students learn best when they feel safe, valued and connected. Social Emotional Learning (SEL) helps make that possible. Learn how two Parkside teachers are helping students build emotional awareness, relationship and communication skills that support a sense of belonging and are the key to their future success in school, work and life.

Read More about How SEL Fosters Belonging in Highline
Superintendent Duran

Following the executive orders to eliminate DEI funding, Superintendent Ivan Duran reaffirmed our commitment to equity and inclusion. At last week’s board meeting, a resolution was introduced to reinforce our dedication to safe and welcoming schools for all. The board will take action on this resolution at its next meeting on Wednesday, March 5.

Read More about A Message from Superintendent Ivan Duran: Committed to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
seahurst kindergarten classroom

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

Read More about Leaders are Listening and Learning to Improve Literacy Instruction  
Resolution to Affirm Safe & Welcoming Schools Introduced at Board Meeting

At the February 19 School Board meeting, Resolution 02-25: Our Schools, Our Promise – A Stand for Every Student was introduced. The proposed resolution reaffirms Highline's commitment to creating safe and welcoming schools for all students, staff and families, regardless of background, identity or immigration status. 

Read More about Resolution to Affirm Safe & Welcoming Schools Introduced at Board Meeting
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Principals Chad Kodama and Kevin Takisaki reflect on the personal impact to their families of President Roosevelt’s Executive Order 9066, signed February 19, 1942. The World War II internment of Japanese and Japanese Americans on the West Coast — including Highline students and alumni — is commemorated by an annual Day of Remembrance on February 19.

Read More about Two Principals Share Family History and Reflections on February 19 Day of Remembrance
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You’re invited to explore the results of January’s ThoughtExchange on our budget development process. More than 330 ideas were shared and rated nearly 13,000 times by 360 participants. A strong majority—69%—reported having at least some knowledge of the budget development process. Check out the top themes and all submitted thoughts in our interactive report. 

Read More about What We Heard: Community Feedback on Budget Development Process 
Dad and daughter using school entrance intercom

At Highline, we are committed to ensuring all students, families, and staff feel welcomed, valued, and safe. As part of this commitment, we have security procedures in place to protect everyone in our buildings. The security systems, installed in spring 2024, allow office staff to see and talk to visitors before unlocking the door. 

Read More about Visitor Check-In Process
student reading at gregory heights

Literacy is one of our Big 4 focus areas, and we’re seeing growth. Elementary students are building strong reading and writing skills, while secondary students engage with complex texts and expand their vocabulary. Secondary iReady scores show a 6% increase in students reading at grade level. Teachers use data and professional development to refine instruction, ensuring every student is prepared for their future. 

Read More about An Update on our Literacy Work: Reading, Writing, and Success  
Snow and cloud

At this time, we plan to open schools on time on Friday, February 7. We are closely watching conditions. We want to remind you that if weather conditions require a two-hour delay on an early release day, school will be canceled for the day.

Read More about Winter Weather Update
Dr. Duran and students

In Highline Public Schools, every student is welcome, valued, and safe. We stand firm in protecting the rights and dignity of all students, families and staff. Our schools embrace people of all beliefs, backgrounds and needs, creating a respectful and inclusive learning community. Please read this all-family message from Superintendent Ivan Duran. 

Read More about Highline's Commitment to Support ALL Students and Staff Remains Unchanged
washington mtss graphic

We are expanding Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) to ensure every Highline student receives the right support or enrichment to succeed. A new District MTSS Implementation Team is guiding this effort, working with focus schools to refine strategies before expanding districtwide next year. This year’s priorities include instructional planning, professional learning, and a strong emphasis on literacy. 

Read More about Enrichment and Support for Every Student
student reading

Students across Highline are busy reading! In the last 90 days, Highline students checked out 14,048 books using Sora, Highline’s free eBook and audiobook platform.Check out what's trending with students! Families can support a love of reading by exploring books together, listening to audiobooks, and encouraging kids to choose stories that excite them. Students can access Sora anytime through ClassLink—happy reading!

Read More about Highline Students Are Reading-A Lot
Piece of paper with money sign on it.

We are seeing an encouraging trend in student enrollment. Looking ahead, we anticipate a slight enrollment decline over the next two years, followed by growth as more housing developments are completed in our community. Our enrollment projections are critical in budget development. As we develop our budget for next year, we are seeking feedback on the most important considerations to support all students we should prioritize. Give your input today. 

Read More about Looking Ahead: Enrollment Projections for 2025-26 
three schools of choice students

Through hands-on learning and career-focused pathways, our Schools and Programs of Choice empower students to explore their passions and opt for learning communities that work for them. Whether it's exploring technology, healthcare, or internships, these programs are designed to give students the tools they need to thrive in the future they choose. 

Read More about The Power of Choice 
Annual Report Graphic

At Highline, we don’t just make a promise—we live it every day. In our new and redesigned 2023-24 Annual Report, you’ll find stories that reflect the heart of our strategic goals and our commitment to fulfilling Highline’s Promise: to know every student by name, strength and need, so they graduate ready for their future.  

The report is mobile-friendly, includes translation features, and highlights the stories that bring our promise to life. It pairs with the Strategic Plan Dashboard, highlighting our successes, opportunities for growth, and providing a tool for the community to explore data and track progress toward Highline’s strategic goals. 

Read More about Our 2023-24 Annual Report: Real Stories, Real Progress
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At Highline Public Schools, we are committed to transforming our district to ensure every student experiences true belonging and academic success within their neighborhood school. By integrating services and resources, our inclusion model supports diverse learning needs while fostering belonging. With a phased cohort approach, we expand these practices, celebrate milestones like unified sports, and improve academic outcomes. Join us in advancing inclusion for every student.

Read More about Building Classrooms Where Every Student Belongs 
Superintendent Ivan Duran

As we look ahead to the winter break, I want to send a clear message in support of our students and families. At Highline Public Schools, we are deeply committed to ensuring all students and families are welcome, valued, and safe.  We stand firmly with our students, especially those who are immigrants and refugees, and are dedicated to protecting their rights and dignity.

Read More about A Message from Superintendent Ivan Duran: Standing with Our Students and Families
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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.

Read More about Innovating for Impact
books

We are strengthening literacy instruction across Highline through standards-based, culturally responsive practices rooted in the science of reading. From foundational skills in elementary classrooms to engaged reading and vocabulary in secondary schools, we are preparing students for academic success and lifelong learning. Learn how collaboration and professional development are driving this work.

Read More about Reading, Writing, and Success 
Maria and her son Chris

Our Highline Dual Language program is about more than language learning. It celebrates the rich cultures students bring to the classroom and helps them excel in school. Multicultural skills enable students to live, work, and communicate across cultures. For many family members, the program is a way for their children to stay connected to their heritage. For others, the program opens doors to different cultures and broadens their children’s own worldview and opportunities. Highline’s Dual Language program is innovative, inclusive and free.

Read More about Building Bilingual Brilliance 
Students in class at Seahurst

Our October student count is nearly 500 students above projections; however, the total number of students enrolled remains about the same as last year.  Next month's student count may fluctuate up or down as we begin capturing attendance digitally and finalize paper enrollments submitted during the network outage. 

Read More about Fall 2024 Enrollment
Seth playing basketball in PE class

At Highline High School, the Unified Physical Education program creates more than just a space for relay races and basketball games. The class is building a community where students of all abilities come together to move their bodies, form friendships, and break down barriers. This is one of many examples of Highline's inclusive education efforts. Students get the support and resources they need in the same spaces rather than in segregated classrooms or gyms. Now in its third year, this program is transforming the school culture.

Read More about Making Friends, Building Community
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Apply for an Excel or Impact Grant from the Highline Schools Foundation to help bring your innovative projects to life. Apply by Friday, November 15, at 6:00 p.m. to secure funding for classroom projects or schoolwide initiatives that support Highline’s strategic priorities. Excel Grants provide up to $1,500, while Impact Grants offer up to $10,000 for larger initiatives.

Read More about Apply for an Excel or Impact Grant Now
Dr. Duran with staff at Cascade

Even without the usual access to technology and resources, teachers and staff across Highline are finding creative ways to keep students engaged, inspired and learning. Your extraordinary heart and skill have deeply inspired Superintendent Ivan Duran during his visits to 10 schools this week.

Read More about Innovation Shines Through 
Health Policy

To combat fentanyl-related overdose deaths and comply with new state legislation, we will be distributing Narcan to our elementary and middle schools. Our high schools have had this medication available for several years. School nurses, as well as identified staff, have received training on how to identify and respond to potential overdose situations. Read our policy and procedure and learn about laws.

Read More about Narcan is Available at Elementary & Middle Schools
Melissa Petrini

Join School Board Director Melissa Petrini for an evening in celebration of National Literacy Month at the My Favorite Book Share & Exchange Event on Tuesday, September 24. Led by School Board Director Melissa Petrini, this event invites readers of all ages to come together, share their love for books, and discover new stories.

Read More about My Favorite Book Share & Exchange Event with School Board Director Melissa Petrini
ParentSquare logo

Stay effortlessly connected and informed about your child's school life. Download ParentSquare! ParentSquare keeps families informed and encourages engagement and connection across Highline. Log in and customize your experience. Set your notification preferences and choose your preferred language to stay connected in the best way for you.

Read More about Download ParentSquare
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Keep on learning! With interactive games, online libraries and engaging platforms, students can continue to expand their knowledge and skills throughout the summer months. Learn how to access our digital tools for students and resources for parents.

Read More about Summer Digital Tools
financial aid

Seniors, there's still time to secure funding for college or training! Apply for financial aid through FAFSA or WASFA as soon as possible. The WA Grant is guaranteed for eligible students in Washington. Need help? Join us for assistance from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at various locations in July. Contact your College & Career Access Specialist for support.


 

Read More about Summer Financial Aid Support
pride heart

Pride Month is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of a Culture of Belonging, one of the four big goals in our strategic plan. In Highline, we are committed to ensuring that our LGBTQ+ students feel welcome, valued and safe. 

Read More about June is Pride Month
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We have seen an increase in threats to school safety posted on social media platforms or in text messages. We treat threats on digital media—and all threats—seriously. All threats are reported to Safety & Security and law enforcement and are investigated. Students may not be aware that posting a threat on social media, text, or any digital media is a crime that can carry serious legal consequences.

Read More about Spotlight On Safety: Social Media Threats
Inspiring Hearts and Minds

Erin's philosophy is simple: every student deserves to feel valued. Each day, she begins her classes at Mount View Elementary with intention and dedication. Following a terminal diagnosis, her commitment to making an impact and creating a haven of belonging and learning has only deepened.

Read More about Inspiring Hearts and Minds
People with hard hats and students in hard hats.

The two general contractors building our new high schools hosted a group of almost 50 students from our CORE PLUS Construction programs for a hands-on learning experience last month. They visited the Northwest Carpenters Institute, a state-of-the-art training facility in Burlington. The field trip included students and teachers from Evergreen, Tyee and Highline high schools!

Read More about Two Builders Team Up to Plan Hands-on Learning at Carpenters Institute for 3 Schools
Student works with a staff member at Innovation Heights Academy.

Innovation Heights Academy is transforming student lives with a new program model that emphasizes credit recovery, wellness, and interest-driven learning.  In the first year of the new school, students and staff are already seeing the results. See how the school ensures its students are seen, valued, and supported to reach their full potential.

Read More about Transforming Futures: The Success Story of Innovation Heights
McMicken Heights student Seth smiling at the camera.

If you spend time at McMicken Heights Elementary, chances are you will meet fourth-grader Seth Bobbitt. His laugh is contagious. His curiosity is infectious. School is his happy place. Seth was born with Down syndrome. His family wanted a school experience where Seth could learn, play and grow alongside his peers. That's exactly what they found at McMicken Heights.

Read More about Seth's Story: Including Students of All Abilities
Fighting Fires and Forging Futures

At Maritime High School, students don't just learn about the sea, they learn on it. From fighting simulated fires in full gear to navigating the waves aboard the Admiral Jack ferry, this school merges classroom learning with hands-on experience. Maritime High School prepares students for a future in a vital industry facing a workforce shortage. Open to all, this school is a beacon for those drawn to maritime careers, providing not just education but a direct route to meaningful, well-paying jobs.

Read More about Fighting Fires and Forging Futures
The Power Of Belonging: Student Voices

At Highline, our goal is for everyone to feel they belong the moment they step through the doors. A Culture of Belonging is the first of four goals in our new strategic plan, “Living Our Promise.” Through the voices of our Superintendent’s Student Leadership Team, discover the difference a Culture of Belonging makes in fostering meaningful connections, self-confidence and academic success.

Read More about The Power Of Belonging: Student Voices
hot topic flame

When you hear of a lockdown at your student's school, it's natural for your mind to race and for concern to set in. We understand that urge to ensure the safety of our young ones. However, it's important to know that lockdowns are often standard, precautionary measures rooted in our commitment to student safety. Read through to learn what scenarios might trigger a lockdown and tips you can take to keep students and staff safe.

Read More about Understanding Lockdowns: A Guide for Families
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48° North: Maritime High School is featured in this article. "A groundbreaking and innovative partnership between Highline Public Schools, Northwest Maritime Center, and Seattle Maritime Academy has recently been established to help address the increasing need for maritime employees in the Pacific Northwest."

Read More about In the News: Innovative Partnership to Further Next Generation of Maritime Employees in the PNW (opens in new window/tab)
Two people smiling and pointing at solar panels on HHS roof.

Environmental Club leaders Jordan Powers, Mikah Ramsey and Raidon Sann capped off their senior year with a celebration of a monumental achievement: a 285-panel, 100-kilowatt Environmental Club solar system is producing energy on top of the new Highline High School. It all started with a question in 2020 from Nha Khuc, a 2021 graduate. Find out more about the project, funders and results.

Read More about A Village of Supporters and Funders Shines Light on Student-Led Solar Project
Rann Sann works with a small group of students.

From the bus garage to the classroom and everywhere in between—Highline staff members inspire and support our students and families, ensuring students have what they need to graduate prepared for the future they choose. They serve with kindness, compassion and dedication. Hear their stories. 

Read More about Educators Share Their Stories
27 members and staff of the Capital Facilities Advisory Committee  in group photo

Our community-led Capital Facilities Advisory Committee (CFAC) held its first meeting of the 2022-23 school year on Wednesday, September 28, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the district central office. Read a meeting summary and learn more about planning for future bonds to rebuild other aging schools.

Read More about Capital Facilities Advisory Committee Kicks Off 2022-23 Session to Plan for Future School Construction
student with teachers

High school seniors and their families are invited to Senior Night on October 5. We are hosting workshops for students and families and a College and Career Resources fair with local college, universities, trade, apprenticeship, and military representation.

Read More about Senior Night
Students on their laptops

Each year, families are required to verify student emergency information and submit updated health information. This ensures we have a current home address, phone number, emergency contact and health information on file. All of these items help us keep students safe while at school. 

Read More about 2022-23 Online Verification
A message from Superintendent Susan Enfield

In this video message, Superintendent Susan Enfield looks ahead at her 10th and final year at Highline Public Schools. Dr. Enfield assures families, students and staff that together we can create a safe, happy, healthy school year. Let's go, Team Highline!

Read More about Team Highline
conversation bubbles

Six individuals have applied for the school board position vacated by Bernie Dorsey. Dorsey stepped down in June because he is moving out of state. 

The open position represents District 4, which geographically encompasses Marvista, North Hill, Madrona, and Bow Lake elementary schools, Chinook Middle School, and Tyee High School, as well as other educational sites. Applicants must live within the boundaries of District 4. 

The School Board will appoint one of the candidates to the open position at its August 4 meeting. The successful candidate will be sworn in on August 18. 

The public will have the opportunity to meet the applicants at a Meet and Greet on Thursday, July 29 at 5:00-6:30 via Zoom.  

Read More about Meet Applicants for School Board Vacancy
student and teacher in classroom

McMicken Heights is one of 38 Washington schools cited in a just-released study of schools that have successfully removed barriers for Black, Latino/a, American Indian/Alaska Native, and students experiencing poverty. 

The study concluded that "these schools demonstrate that it is possible to illuminate the strengths of diverse students and dismantle unproductive systems put in place when the US public school system began."

Read More about McMicken Heights Breaks Barriers
Meal Kits

The last meal kit distribution for the spring will be Wednesday, June 16. See a list of pickup times and locations on our meal page. There will be no meal kit distribution from June 17 to June 27. Our summer meal program will begin Monday, June 28.

Read More about Update on Meal Program
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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. 

Read More about COVID-19 Trends
Student in School

State Superintendent Chris Reykdal announced this week that students will not take state standardized tests this spring. Instead, the Smarter Balanced Assessment (SBA) and Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science will be scheduled in Fall 2021.

The fall testing schedule meets the federal requirement for state testing without committing valuable learning time this spring to test-taking. 

Read More about State Testing Postponed Until Fall
Welcome Back ALL Grades!

We're pinching ourselves—it feels like a dream to have all grades back on school grounds! Today, we welcomed back more students in grades 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12. It is our biggest first day yet and our second-to-last first day for the 2021-22 school year. We welcome back the rest of our secondary in-person students on Thursday. Most middle and high school students attend in two groups, either Monday/Tuesday or Thursday/Friday. Some students who receive special education services attend four days a week. 

Read More about Welcome Back ALL Grades!
2021 Graduation Updates

We look forward to celebrating our graduates in-person this year. Please see the updated 2021 graduation schedule, which includes ceremonies at Highline Memorial Stadium and the Performing Arts Center. Each graduate will be allotted two guest tickets. Seating will be socially distanced and other safety protocols will be in place. All graduations will also be live-streamed.

Read More about 2021 Graduation Updates
A message from Superintendent Susan Enfield

It is almost one year to the day since the pandemic closed our school buildings to students, staff and families. Today we welcomed back Pre-K, kindergarten and first-grade students, as well as students in our IAC program in grades K-12 across the district.

Read More about Hybrid Continues
A message from Superintendent Susan Enfield

Superintendent Enfield's message to families on Wednesday touched a nerve that taps into the frustration and anger many of us a feeling right now. Dr. Enfield has a few words about that, and she also shares some good news about vaccination for Highline staff

Read More about Coming Together
gold star

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

Read More about Nominate a Gold Star
Maritime High School Opens Fall 2021

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.

Read More about Maritime High School Opens Fall 2021
Bus drivers needed

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.

Read More about Calling Future Bus Drivers
cedarhurst principal with students

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.

Read More about Thank a Principal
Share Your Thoughts and Get Ready  to Pre-order Your Fall Meals 

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.

Read More about Share Your Thoughts and Get Ready to Pre-order Your Fall Meals 

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