Highline is continuing to build schools where every student feels supported, included, and able to participate. This work is underway in all elementary schools and will expand to middle schools in 2026–27. We recently saw inclusion in action at Field Day at Mount Rainier High School, where students from Adapted PE classes and peers from across Highline came together for a day of movement, connection and celebration.
 

As inclusive classrooms expand into more secondary schools next year, we continue strengthening belonging, access and meaningful participation for learners of all abilities. Across our schools, staff show a daily commitment to ensuring every student is seen, supported and included.

In Jorge Velasquez’s classroom at Bow Lake Elementary, inclusion means more than simply sharing space. It means every student learns together, supports one another, and belongs. 

Inclusion means every student learns and belongs with peers, supported in the least restrictive environment. On January 15, educators gathered for our Staff Inclusion Series to learn about neurodiversity and identify strategies for better support and family partnership.

Highline educators stepped away from their daily routine to focus on what matters most: helping every student feel valued, supported and fully included. On November 3, teachers, paraeducators and school leaders spent the day learning together about what students need to feel a strong sense of belonging at school and to be successful in their learning.  

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. 

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.

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.

This week, McMicken Heights Elementary hosted a visit from leaders of state education departments from 14 states. The group of about 20 educators came to observe and learn how Highline has led the work of inclusive education.