Free wildlife talks are coming to Burien Library this fall, featuring presentations on bats, birds, salmon, and beavers. The speaker series is also happening at libraries in Des Moines, White Center, and SeaTac. No admission cost—these community events are open to all.
Burien Elks Lodge 2143 is now accepting scholarship applications from local high school seniors for the Elks National Foundation program, which offers awards up to $50,000 for college. This is a direct opportunity for Burien students to apply for significant financial aid to support their post-secondary education.
Highline High School’s football Pirates finished their 2026 regular season strong with a 41–22 road victory over Redmond on Friday, Oct. 23, marking their third consecutive win. The Pirates scored their highest output of the season in the dominant performance, closing out the regular schedule on a winning streak.
A former Highline School District employee submitted a letter to the editor calling for safe, modern school facilities for local students. The letter, published on B-Town Blog, reflects community concerns about school infrastructure in the district that serves Burien residents.
A Burien parent and plaintiff is challenging Highline Public Schools’ handling of public records requests ahead of the district’s November ballot measure asking taxpayers across Burien, SeaTac, Des Moines, Normandy Park, and White Center to approve $643.4 million in capital bonds and technology levies. In court filings from August 7, 2026, the district defended delaying records completion until May 2027—after the election—claiming ongoing processing. The plaintiff argues voters deserve transparency on district governance and spending before casting ballots.
Highline School District enrollment has dropped 10% over the past decade, with current enrollment at 16,402 students—387 fewer than last year. Kindergarten and second grade saw the steepest declines this year. The October 21 board meeting heard that lower enrollment will likely mean reduced state funding and possible staffing changes, with more details expected at the November 18 budget work session. If your child attends Highline schools, this affects how the district plans budgets and staffing going forward.
Highline Public Schools is planning for approximately $5 million in budget reductions for the 2027-28 school year due to a shortfall between state funding and expenses. The district, which serves Burien and surrounding areas, previously announced this funding gap in September and is now working through budget planning to address the deficit.
Highline Public Schools is pushing state lawmakers to increase education funding, lower school bond approval thresholds from 60% to 50%, and allow districts to pause inactive public records requests. The board plans to vote on the 2027 Legislative Agenda on November 18. Some parents questioned why literacy — a top priority last year — was dropped, and raised concerns about academic results and transparency.
Highline Public Schools students and employees had personal information exposed in a cybersecurity incident affecting Frontline, a third-party company the district uses for hiring and professional development. The breach impacts families across the district, which serves Burien and surrounding communities. Affected individuals should monitor their information and watch for further updates from the school district about protective measures.
A Burien resident submitted a letter to the editor supporting Highline School District’s bond measure, emphasizing that the plan was developed through community input for local students. The letter was published October 17 on B-Town Blog and represents the author’s opinion on the district’s funding proposal.
A Highline Public Schools parent is urging the district’s board to reject its 2027 legislative agenda, calling out a plan to hire a $43,000-a-year state lobbyist to weaken public records oversight. The parent argues the district is prioritizing central office protection over student academics—citing declining math proficiency and comparing Highline’s approach unfavorably to nearby districts’ efforts on funding equity and transportation support.
The Greater West Seattle area is hosting a Regional Middle School Night on Monday, Nov. 2, to help families explore middle school options. This event is relevant for Burien families navigating school choices in the South King County region. Check the B-Town Blog for full details on location and timing.
A Burien parent and verified Highline Public Schools community member published a letter opposing the district’s $600 million bond and tech levy scheduled for November, citing concerns about leadership accountability and transparency. The letter references disputes involving North Hill Elementary staff and Raisbeck Aviation High School’s principal, and criticizes the district’s efforts to weaken public records laws while requesting voter approval of major spending.
A Highline School District parent submitted a letter to B-Town Blog supporting an upcoming school bond and levy measure, arguing that students deserve better resources and facilities. The letter reflects community advocacy around the funding proposal, though specific details about the measure’s amount, timing, or what it would fund are not included in this excerpt.
Highline School District is opening Cascade, Chinook, and Sylvester middle schools plus CHOICE Academy to the public this October so community members can tour the buildings and learn about construction projects proposed in an upcoming November bond election. The visits give Burien families a chance to see current school conditions before voting on district improvements.
Highline Public School District is asking voters to support a measure on the November 3 ballot to provide students with safe, healthy schools and improved learning resources. The post encourages Burien residents—many of whom live in the Highline district—to vote yes on the initiative.
Highline School District’s Proposition 2, on the ballot November 3, asks voters to approve a $48 million technology levy collecting $12 million annually through 2030 for cybersecurity, networks, devices, software, and support. The measure requires a simple majority to pass and would replace an expired 2020 technology levy. Supporters say reliable technology is basic school infrastructure; opponents question whether tech spending helps while student achievement continues to decline and ask why this doesn’t come from the general budget.
Highline School District is asking voters to approve a $595.4 million construction bond on November 3, which requires 60% approval. The bond would fund renovations and relocations of three middle schools—Sylvester, Cascade, and Chinook—plus $40 million for districtwide critical needs. Key debates center on Cascade’s proposed Salmon Creek relocation, Chinook’s 2031 construction timeline, and the district’s flexibility to change projects after voter approval. A separate $48 million technology levy will also appear on the ballot.
Skunk Works Robotics is launching its 21st season and welcoming students to join. The team, based at Highline College, offers opportunities in robotics building, photography, marketing, and more. Interested students are invited to attend a team meeting to learn more about getting involved.
Highline High School’s Pirates varsity football team kicks off its 2026 season this weekend with a young roster, some returning players, and a focus on building culture and confidence both on and off the field, according to Coach Johntype Jackson. The team is emphasizing improvement across the board as they head into the new campaign.
A Burien parent and Highline Public Schools district plaintiff has published a letter criticizing the district’s public records transparency ahead of November’s $643.4 million combined bond and levy vote. The letter, from Kristen Price, references active litigation (Price v. Highline Public Schools, Case No. 26-2-23235-1 SEA) alleging Public Records Act violations. Highline Schools disputes the characterization and says it’s processing requests in accordance with policy and applicable law.
The Highline School District’s Capital Facilities Advisory Committee voted 18–3 on March 30, 2026, to recommend a $615.4 million bond for the November 2026 ballot. The package includes rebuilding three middle schools (Sylvester, Cascade, and Chinook), modernizing programs at Southern Heights, and districtwide maintenance. Cascade Middle School would relocate to the Salmon Creek site, a move that sparked community concern over the loss of the Shark Garden but saves $46 million in construction costs.
The Highline School District is proposing a $12 million annual technology levy for four years, set to appear on the November 2026 ballot alongside a school replacement bond. The levy would cost homeowners about $180 per year on a $500,000 home. However, the proposal faces scrutiny as research suggests increased classroom technology may correlate with declining test scores rather than improvement.
Highline Public Schools released its October 23 newsletter featuring budget planning updates, new FAQs on an upcoming bond and technology levy, information on reading and writing instruction practices, and a podcast interview with physical therapist Sara Fox. Burien residents in the Highline district should review the bond and levy details to understand how these measures may affect their schools and property taxes.
The Highline School District, which serves Burien, has a $595 million construction bond and $48 million technology levy on the November ballot. The Highline Journal breaks down what these measures will cost homeowners: the combined local school tax is estimated at $4.89 per $1,000 of assessed property value, or about $489 per $100,000 of home value annually. Ballots are due November 3 at 8 p.m.
Highline Public Schools, which serves Burien, is strengthening literacy instruction this school year across all grade levels. Elementary teachers are connecting reading and writing instruction, while middle and high school teachers are refining how they teach reading and monitor student progress. The district emphasizes this as a key focus area for 2026-27.
Highline Public Schools parent Jeff Paulson testified at the October 21, 2026 school board meeting, criticizing the board for priorities he views as self-serving rather than student-focused. Paulson opposed two agenda items: a proposed Public Records Act rule change he says would limit transparency, and a reduction in bond approval thresholds from supermajority to 50%. He also questioned the removal of Aviation High School’s principal from her leadership role, citing the school’s top-three state ranking.
A Highline school principal submitted a letter to the editor about the district’s upcoming school bond and technology levy. The letter, published on B-Town Blog, shares a principal’s perspective on these measures affecting Highline Public Schools, which serves Burien students. The full text of the opinion piece was not included in this excerpt.
Highline Public Schools’ new Pacific Middle School is under construction and on track to open fall 2025. Classrooms, the library, and shared spaces are being built out. The school serves students in the Highline district, which includes Burien and surrounding South King County communities.
Highline Public Schools’ Capital Facilities Advisory Committee met October 12 to review construction progress and discuss the upcoming November bond proposal. The committee, which serves the district covering Burien and surrounding areas, also elected new leadership and explored how the group’s priorities may shift after the election.
Highline Public Schools, which serves Burien, is relying on a technology levy to fund infrastructure and support systems that state funding doesn’t fully cover. The levy, which has backed the district’s tech programs since 2020, helps maintain systems and support for students, staff, and teachers across schools.
The Master Gardeners of King County shared gardening advice on B-Town Blog, focusing on soil health and seasonal garden care. The piece reflects on fall gardening transitions and emphasizes the importance of soil quality for successful gardens, offering insights relevant to Burien gardeners looking to maintain healthy yards year-round.
Highline Public Schools, which serves Burien and surrounding areas, is asking voters to approve a November school construction bond and technology levy. The measure would fund facility improvements and technology upgrades for students across the district. Specific dollar amounts and details on which schools would benefit are not included in this announcement—check Highline’s official materials for the full proposal and how to vote.
A Burien resident has submitted a letter to the editor calling for transparency from Highline School District ahead of an upcoming bond and levy vote. The letter, published on B-Town Blog, emphasizes the need for proactive communication from the district. No specific vote date or financial details are provided in this excerpt.
Highline Public Schools is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in 2026, giving students an opportunity to share what their heritage means to them. Students will reflect on family traditions, favorite foods, and the people, places, and experiences that shape their pride in their identity. Since Highline School District serves Burien residents, this cultural celebration directly affects local families and students.
King County Fire District No. 2 is bringing its upgraded Children’s Fire Safety House to 10 Highline Public Schools elementary schools and four private schools throughout October. The program teaches children fire safety lessons through interactive demonstrations. Highline Public Schools serves Burien and surrounding South King County communities, so this affects local elementary students.
Highline Public Schools is offering Family University, a learning series designed to help families understand how public school systems work, learn their rights and responsibilities, and build stronger school partnerships. The interactive sessions, hosted by the Family and Community Engagement Team, aim to equip parents with tools to support their child’s success. Burien families within the Highline School District should register to participate.
Highline Public Schools voters will decide on a school construction bond and capital technology levy on November 3, 2026. The measures aim to fund facility improvements and technology needs across the district, which serves Burien and surrounding communities.
Highline Public Schools is recruiting residents to serve on committees that will write pro and con statements for two funding measures going to voters in November. The statements will appear in the King County Local Voters’ Pamphlet. Interested Burien residents who attend schools in the Highline district can apply to join either the supporting or opposing committee.
Growing research and parent concerns are challenging the assumption that more classroom technology benefits students. Los Angeles Unified is restricting screen time and eliminating devices for kindergarten and first grade; Seattle parents raised similar concerns at an April school board meeting about device safety and data privacy. The Highline School District is planning a technology levy for November 2026, prompting questions about whether increased tech spending aligns with national trends showing test score declines after states adopted classroom technology.
Kennedy Catholic’s football team dominated Tahoma with a strong fourth-quarter performance, scoring 14 unanswered points to win 45–24 on Friday, Oct. 23. The Lancers turned a seven-point halftime lead into a decisive road victory, showcasing solid defensive and offensive execution in the final quarter. This regional matchup highlights the competitive football happening in South King County this season.
Highline Public Schools is asking voters to approve a $48 million technology levy (Proposition 2) this November, but a parent letter argues the district hasn’t earned that trust. The writer cites the district’s failure to adopt a cell phone policy despite two years of discussion, unaddressed early literacy program concerns, and three consecutive years of missed academic targets. Before funding more technology, the letter urges voters to demand the district establish clear tech policies and demonstrate accountability on existing educational priorities.
A Highline Public Schools parent and advocate has submitted a letter urging community members to vote “No for Now” on the district’s upcoming $595 million bond and $48 million technology levy. Kristen Price-Joof argues that while safe buildings are essential, the district should return with a more transparent, accountable plan that includes completed site studies before requesting such a large investment. The letter reflects concerns about district transparency and staff agency in decision-making.
Two South King County schools have canceled their varsity football seasons due to safety concerns, though both districts are working to arrange junior varsity competition and exhibition games for the remainder of the season. The move affects student-athletes in the region and reflects ongoing concerns about player safety in the sport.
Former King County Prosecuting Attorney Dan Satterberg, an area resident, will perform with his band The Positrons on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026, at the Des Moines Theater. The performance benefits the Highline Schools Foundation, which serves Burien and surrounding communities. This is a great opportunity to support local schools while enjoying live music from a well-known community figure.
Highline Public Schools is hosting community tours at Cascade, Chinook, and Sylvester middle schools plus CHOICE Academy to show how these buildings serve students and introduce the district’s November 3 school construction bond. Tours give Burien residents a chance to learn about proposed projects firsthand before the ballot measure.
Highline Music Theatre, a 60-year-old youth arts organization serving the Highline School District area, is hosting its annual Emerald City Auction fundraiser on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at South Seattle College’s Brockey Center in Seattle. The adults-only event runs from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and includes silent and live auctions, dinner, and performances. Discounted tickets are available for $80 per person through October 1, reduced from the regular $95 price.
Independent Achievements for Minority Youth (I.A.M.U.), founded by Jada Jefferson in honor of her nephew who was murdered in 2015, serves youth ages 8–24 across Pierce, Thurston, and King counties with programs addressing trauma, re-entry support, and prevention. The nonprofit will host a talent showcase on December 19 at Highline College and funds its work through a mobile drink cart called A Drip of Reign, which also provides job training for young people in the program.
Highline Musical Theatre is offering full-tuition scholarships to King County public school students ages 5-18 for fall classes in singing, dancing, and acting running September 26 to December 18. The scholarship opportunity, funded through a 4Culture Curiosity Pass grant, requires no financial need demonstration or prior experience. HMT, based at Highline College in Des Moines and celebrating 60 years, has already served over 300 students and encourages families to apply soon as scholarships are still available.
Highline Public Schools announced new limits on public testimony during election season, effective immediately. Starting with the August 19 board meeting, speakers may no longer use public-comment periods to support or oppose ballot measures once they’re on the ballot. The change follows a Public Disclosure Commission warning to nearby Kent School District, clarifying that public facilities cannot be used to promote political campaigns.
Shark Garden, a beloved community gathering space in the Highline area, faces closure by 2026 as Highline School District plans a possible Cascade Middle School rebuild at the former Salmon Creek Elementary site. The garden offers free summer classes and events throughout June and July, including native plants, mushroom growing, and cultural cooking workshops. Director Taryn Koerker describes 2026 as pivotal as organizers explore relocation options and seek community support through donations.
A Burien resident submitted a letter to the editor expressing concerns about taking a public stance against a school bond and levy. The letter, published on B-Town Blog, reflects community debate over local school funding decisions affecting Burien families and reflects one parent’s perspective on the challenges of publicly opposing education funding measures.
Washington voters will decide Initiative I-638, “Protecting Girls in Sports,” on November 3. The measure would bar students defined as biologically male from girls-only interschool athletic competitions and require healthcare-provider verification of biological sex for all students seeking to participate in those sports. Current Washington Interscholastic Activities Association rules allow students to participate consistent with their gender identity. Both supporters and opponents say they’re protecting girls, but disagree on fairness, medical requirements, and transgender-rights concerns.
Democratic leaders launched the “No Hate in WA State” campaign in June to oppose two conservative-backed ballot initiatives (IL26-001 and IL26-638) targeting transgender rights that will appear on Washington’s November ballot. The initiatives would require schools to disclose student medical information to parents and mandate invasive sex verification exams for girls in school sports. U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, King County Executive Girmay Zahilay, and local advocates spoke at the Seattle rally opposing the measures, which are backed by $5.5 million in funding from Let’s Go Washington PAC.
Kennedy Catholic High School’s Lancers football team kicks off their 2026 season this Saturday against Bellevue, according to Coach Pat Jones. The team features a deep group of running backs heading into the matchup. While Kennedy Catholic is located in nearby Burien, this regional high school sports coverage offers season preview interest for local football fans.
College students across Washington are struggling with food insecurity as grocery prices rise 5.3% and rents climb. Western Washington University’s WHOLE Pantry saw demand jump from 700 to 2,400 students weekly between academic years, while a statewide survey found over half of Washington college students experience basic needs insecurity. Though campus pantries and navigators help, systemic issues like housing costs and financial aid gaps remain unsolved.
A coalition led by the University of Washington, City of Seattle, Mercy Housing Northwest, and El Centro de la Raza broke ground on the Mount Baker Redevelopment and Rainier Rising Early Learning Campus in southeast Seattle. The 3.8-acre, $170 million project will create over 400 affordable apartments, a first-of-its-kind early learning hub serving 120+ children, public spaces, and commercial areas for BIPOC-owned businesses. Completion is expected by 2029.
University of Washington researcher Yael Eiger published three papers examining technology used in prisons and for monitoring people before and after incarceration. Her research found that communication systems like Securus tablets are unreliable and costly—families pay per message even if it fails to deliver—while formerly incarcerated people struggle with digital literacy gaps and scams. Eiger also catalogued 122 products at carceral technology expos, finding privacy and bias concerns in AI tools used by prisons and police.
A hazmat situation at Kentridge High School in Kent on Tuesday around 3:30 p.m. left staff and students feeling ill. Puget Sound Fire evaluated nine patients, transporting two to the hospital as a precaution. Hazmat technicians confirmed the incident was isolated to one area, the source remains undetermined, and the building is safe to return to.
Cascade Warbirds, a Puget Sound–based aviation organization with over 230 members, launched a new aircraft maintenance scholarship program. The first recipient, Kloe Manderville, is studying for her Airframe and Powerplant License at Big Bend Community College in Moses Lake. The scholarship is available at Big Bend and Clover Park Technical College in Puyallup. Interested applicants should check the Cascade Warbirds website or contact their school’s counseling office for details.
An opinion piece argues that universities should open their swimming pools to the public during limited hours. The article discusses pools at University of Washington, Seattle University, University of Puget Sound, Pacific Lutheran University, and Western Washington University, citing potential community benefits and comparing the cost-effectiveness of opening existing pools versus building new ones. Shoreline’s $100 million pool proposal is referenced as context for why public access to university facilities could save communities money.
Tacoma is hosting T-Town, a free family event at the Tacoma Dome on Friday, Oct. 30, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., featuring trunk-or-treating, vehicle displays, virtual reality activities, and a trades and hiring fair with over 100 local employers. While the event draws students from 10 South Puget Sound school districts including those serving Burien, it’s specific to Tacoma and not directly in our community.
This is a letter to the editor published in the B-Town Blog expressing an opinion about the importance of strong schools to the Highline community. The piece does not announce specific policy changes, school closures, enrollment updates, or other actionable education news that would directly affect Burien families.
A Tacoma Ledger article highlights commute options for UW Tacoma students, including paid parking permits ranging from $70–$250 quarterly and free transit via the U-Pass (covering Metro, Sound Transit, and the T-Line). While UW Tacoma is located in downtown Tacoma, this article focuses on campus-specific transportation and does not directly address Burien residents or local concerns.
Tacoma is hosting T-Town, a free family-friendly event at the Tacoma Dome on Friday, Oct. 30, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. featuring hands-on activities, career exploration, trunk-or-treat, and a trades and hiring fair. While the event may draw some South King County residents, it’s specific to Tacoma and doesn’t directly affect Burien.
Annie Chen’s new children’s book ‘Salmon Run’ uses watercolor illustrations to follow a coho salmon’s journey from the Duwamish River to the Pacific Ocean and back. The picture book introduces young readers to Washington’s iconic salmon through detailed artwork showing the fish’s life stages. Salmon return to Washington waters August through November, with viewing opportunities at places like the Ballard Locks.
A Tacoma-based real estate blog compiled a directory of schools and universities across Pierce County, including public districts, private schools, and religious institutions. The guide emphasizes that school choice depends on individual family needs and recommends touring schools and consulting with parents and teachers rather than relying solely on rating websites. While the article mentions Tacoma Public Schools and University Place School District—which serve some Burien students—it’s primarily a Tacoma-focused resource not specific to Burien.
Highline Public Schools warns that winter weather could disrupt the normal school schedule for both in-person and virtual students. The district encourages families to stay informed about potential schedule changes, though specific communication channels or dates are not detailed in this notice.
Highline Public Schools will require all middle and high school students to change their passwords during the week of March 23–27 as part of the district’s commitment to student digital safety.
Highline Public Schools announced this week’s updates including Kindergarten enrollment information and attendance reminders. The district also highlighted ParentSquare notifications, Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month activities, and a Spring Break program at Waskowitz Elementary. Additional details were provided to support families and students across the district.
Highline Public Schools is exploring a renewal of its capital technology levy to maintain local funding for technology initiatives. This proposal was presented at the School Board meeting on Wednesday, March 4. The district is seeking community input on whether to renew this funding source.
Highline Public Schools will make Elementary Trimester 2 report cards available to parents through ParentVUE on March 20, 2026. Parents can access their children’s grades and progress reports on that date through the online portal.
Highline Public Schools released its March 20 Headlines newsletter covering multiple updates including state budget impacts, literacy support initiatives, and student report cards. The bulletin also highlighted upcoming events such as CollegeCon and announced a student password change, along with information about spring break plans.
Highline Public Schools announced position reductions at its central office in this week’s Highline Headlines for February 20. The district is inviting community input through a ThoughtExchange forum to gather ideas for bond planning. Additionally, the district reminded families about an upcoming winter job fair.
Highline Public Schools is hosting Future U on April 1 at Green River College for junior students. The event will help students explore post-secondary options and opportunities available after high school graduation.
Highline Public Schools is implementing a comprehensive literacy initiative across all grade levels to strengthen reading, writing, and language skills districtwide. Elementary teams focus on foundational literacy, multilingual learners receive targeted language development support, and secondary students work on deeper reading comprehension, discussion, and analytical abilities. The district aims to support every student’s growth as a reader, writer, and communicator.
Highline Public Schools’ community-led bond planning committee (CFAC) is expected to finalize its bond package recommendation at a meeting on March 30. Following finalization, the committee will present their proposal to the school board later in spring.
Highline Public Schools celebrated 20 teachers who earned National Board certification, with five renewing their credentials and two school nurses also completing the certification. This achievement places Highline in the top five districts in Washington for National Board-certified educators, highlighting the district’s commitment to educator excellence.
Highline Public Schools is encouraging families to reduce notification overload by switching their ParentSquare settings to Daily Digest mode. This feature consolidates emails, texts, and app alerts into a single end-of-day summary from the district and individual schools. Families can update their notification preferences by logging into their ParentSquare accounts.
Highline Public Schools is assessing the impact of the 2026 supplemental budget recently finalized by the Legislature. While the budget provides some relief, including a sales tax exemption on services for schools, it does not fully cover operating costs. Highline is reviewing how potential statewide education cuts, including Transition to Kindergarten and Running Start programs, may affect the district.
Highline Public Schools’ latest episode of The Promise Podcast features Superintendent Dr. Ivan Duran interviewing ninth graders Susana Mercado Herrera and Mohamed Aided from Tyee High School, both lifelong Highline students. The episode was recorded at the new Tyee High School facility, which was funded through voter approval of the 2022 bond measure.
Highline Public Schools announced no school on Friday, March 13. The district’s March 12 newsletter highlighted upcoming events including a vaccine clinic, elementary report card distribution, and Spring Break activities at Waskowitz Elementary.
Highline Public Schools and HealthPoint will offer a free vaccine clinic for students ages 5 to 18 on Thursday, March 19 at Tyee High School. Registration is not required for this community health initiative.