Navigating the Highline School District: A Family’s Guide to Schools in South King County

Welcome to South King County. If you are a new resident, a growing family, or someone taking a fresh look at your local education options, you have likely heard the name Highline School District. Maybe you saw it on a yard sign, read about a bond measure in the news, or are simply trying to figure out where your child will go to school. I remember when my friend moved to the Des Moines area a few years ago; she was filled with questions. Where do I register? What are the schools really like? Is there a focus on arts or technology? It can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone in asking these questions.

The Highline School District is more than just a collection of buildings; it is a vibrant and diverse community dedicated to a single, powerful promise. Their stated goal is that every student is known by name, strength, and need and graduates prepared for the future they choose. This is not just a nice slogan on a website. In my conversations with teachers and administrators there, I have found a genuine, deep seated commitment to turning that promise into a reality for each of the over 17,000 students they serve. This guide aims to be your friendly roadmap, breaking down everything you need to know about Highline Public Schools, from the practical steps of enrollment to the inspiring programs that make it unique.

Getting to Know the Highline School District

First, let us talk about location. The Highline School District serves a wonderfully diverse set of communities just south of Seattle. Its boundaries include the cities of Burien, Des Moines, SeaTac, and portions of unincorporated King County like White Center and Boulevard Park. If you live or work in this area, you are in Highline territory. The district is a microcosm of the wider world, with a student population that speaks over 100 languages at home. This diversity is not just acknowledged; it is celebrated as a core strength. Walking the halls of one of their elementary schools, you will see artwork and hear greetings in multiple languages, creating a rich, global learning environment from a very young age.

The district is led by a superintendent and a publicly elected school board. These are the individuals responsible for setting the strategic direction, approving the budget, and ensuring the district’s policies serve its students well. I have sat in on a few school board meetings, and while they can be long and filled with budgetary details, what always shines through is the passion of the community members, parents, and board members themselves. They are deeply invested in the success of every child. Staying informed about board decisions is one of the best ways to understand the district’s priorities and challenges.

Read Also: The Coolidge Theater: Your Ultimate Guide to Boston’s Premier Indie Cinema

The Highline Promise: A Commitment to Every Student

You will hear the phrase “The Highline Promise” frequently. It is the north star for everything the district does. Let me break down what this really means. “Known by name” speaks to the importance of relationships. In a large system, it can be easy for a student to feel like just a number. Highline initiatives focus on ensuring teachers and staff build strong, mentoring relationships with each student. I spoke to a counselor at Chinook Middle School who proudly told me she makes it a goal to learn every new sixth grader’s name within the first two weeks of school. It is a small thing, but it makes a world of difference to a child feeling seen and valued.

“Known by strength and need” is about personalized learning. Every child has unique talents and faces unique challenges. The district employs a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to identify what each student needs to succeed, whether that is extra help in reading, advanced learning opportunities, or social-emotional support. Finally, “prepared for the future they choose” underscores a focus on real world readiness. This goes beyond just earning a diploma. It is about preparing students for a four year university, a two year college, a trade apprenticeship, or a direct path to a meaningful career. This holistic approach recognizes that success looks different for every single graduate.

How to Enroll Your Child: A Step by Step Guide

The enrollment process is often the first direct interaction a family has with the district, and Highline has worked to make it as straightforward as possible. Enrollment is primarily done online through the district’s website. You will fill out a digital packet with information about your child, your residence, and their health history.

Before you start, it is a good idea to gather your documents. Being prepared will save you a lot of time. You will typically need:

• Proof of your child’s age: A birth certificate or passport.

• Proof of residency: This could be a rental agreement, a utility bill in your name, or a mortgage statement. The district needs to verify you live within its boundaries.

• Immunization records: Washington state has strict immunization requirements for school attendance. Your pediatrician can provide you with an updated record.

• Any relevant legal documents: If applicable, you may need to provide custody orders or guardianship papers.

If you are unsure about your school boundary, the district website has a handy “School Locator” tool where you can enter your address. It is also perfectly okay to call the district office or the school directly if you have questions. The office staff at these schools are usually incredibly helpful and understanding, especially with new families navigating the system for the first time.

A Tour of Academic Programs and Opportunities

One of the most impressive aspects of Highline School District is its range of academic programs designed to meet diverse interests and learning styles. They truly offer pathways for every student.

Career and Technical Education (CTE): This is a area where Highline excels. Forget the old idea of “shop class.” Today’s CTE programs are sophisticated, high tech, and directly linked to high demand careers. At the Technology, Engineering, and Communications (TEC) High School, for example, students can dive deep into robotics, computer science, and engineering. Other high schools offer robust programs in fields like healthcare, maritime science, and business. These programs often include internships and partnerships with local companies, giving students a real world resume before they even graduate.

The Power of STEM and Specialized Schools: Highline is home to one of the most remarkable schools in the state: Aviation High School. Located near the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, this school is a magnet for students passionate about aerospace, engineering, and, of course, aviation. The curriculum is rigorous and project based, and students have opportunities to learn from professionals in the field and even work towards their private pilot’s license. It is a shining example of the district’s commitment to providing unique, career-focused education.

Early Learning and Dual Language: The district understands that learning starts early. They offer a variety of preschool and early learning programs to prepare young children for kindergarten, many of which are free or low cost for qualifying families. Furthermore, several elementary schools offer dual language programs, where instruction is delivered in both English and Spanish. Students in these programs become bilingual and biliterate, a tremendous asset in our global economy.

Supporting the Whole Child: Services and Community

Academic learning is crucial, but schools are also places where children grow socially and emotionally. Highline has a strong network of support services to ensure students are safe, healthy, and supported.

This includes school counselors, psychologists, and family advocates who can help connect families with community resources. The district also has a strong commitment to nutritional services, providing healthy meals and, in many schools, offering free breakfast and lunch to all students through the Community Eligibility Provision. After school activities, from sports to clubs to music and arts, are vital for helping students find their community and develop new interests. I have attended a drama production at Evergreen High School and was blown away by the talent and dedication of the students and the staff. These programs build confidence and create joyful school memories.

Staying Connected as a Parent

Your role in your child’s education does not end after you drop them off on the first day. Staying connected is key. The Parent Portal is your digital window into the classroom. Through this secure online system, you can check your child’s grades in real time, see their attendance record, and communicate with their teachers. It is an incredibly powerful tool for staying involved.

I also encourage you to glance at the Highline School District calendar at the start of each year. Mark down key dates like parent-teacher conferences, early release days, and school breaks. Attending a school board meeting or reading the meeting summaries online is another excellent way to understand the bigger picture decisions affecting your child’s education. Finally, do not underestimate the power of simply asking your child about their day. Those conversations, paired with the information from the school, give you the fullest picture of their educational journey.

Conclusion

Choosing a school district is one of the most significant decisions a family can make. The Highline School District, with its unwavering commitment to its promise, its diverse and vibrant community, and its wide array of innovative programs, offers a compelling and supportive environment for students to learn and grow. It is a district that recognizes the potential in every child and is actively building the systems and schools to help them achieve it. From the moment you enroll your child to the day they walk across the graduation stage, you will find a community of educators and staff dedicated to making the Highline Promise a reality for your family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What cities does the Highline School District serve?
A: The Highline School District primarily serves the cities of Burien, Des Moines, SeaTac, and portions of unincorporated King County, including White Center and Boulevard Park.

Q2: How can I find out which school my child will attend?
A: The easiest way is to use the “School Locator” tool on the official Highline School District website. You just need to enter your home address.

Q3: What makes Aviation High School special?
A: Aviation High School is a specialized, choice school focused on STEM and aviation careers. It offers a rigorous, project-based curriculum with unique opportunities like flight instruction and internships in the aerospace industry.

Q4: Are there free preschool programs available?
A: Yes, Highline School District offers a variety of early learning programs, including free and low-cost preschool options for qualifying families. You can find more information on the “Early Learning” section of their website.

Q5: How do I access the parent portal to see my child’s grades?
A: The parent portal, often called “Home Access Center” or something similar, can be accessed through a link on the district website. You will need a login and password, which the school should provide you with during the enrollment process. If you have trouble, contact your child’s school office for assistance.