The 2026 Burien Brat Trot is a community fun run happening Saturday, October 3, in downtown Burien, featuring a 5K race, kids 1K, and a block party from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The untimed event, which benefits the Highline Schools Foundation, welcomes teams in costumes and offers prizes, food, kids’ activities, and more. Registration opens at 8:30 a.m., with pre-registration ending October 2 at 3 p.m.
The Burien Brat Trot returns Saturday, October 3 for its 17th year in Downtown Burien. This beloved community celebration benefits the Highline Schools Foundation, which serves local students. All are invited to join the festivities.
Burien Elks Lodge No. 2143 is hosting a “dinner for a cause” fundraiser on Thursday, September 17 to support the Highline Schools Foundation. This community event brings together local organizations to benefit the schools that serve Burien families.
Highline High School’s varsity football team opened their 2026 season with a 25–15 loss to Mount Rainier on Friday, Sept. 4 at Highline Memorial Stadium. The Pirates fell short in their home opener against the Rams, setting the tone for what lies ahead this fall.
Highline Heritage Museum, located in Burien, is hosting a free children’s program called “Firefighters to the Rescue” on Saturday, Sept. 19 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The event is designed for kids and offers a fun way to learn about firefighters and community safety right here in our neighborhood.
TeenSounds, a youth vocal program run by Northwest Associated Arts under Artistic Director Dr. Tyler Kimmel, is accepting auditions for singers this fall. This marks the program’s third year of youth programming in the community. Interested teens should visit the original source for audition details and how to apply.
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 Public Schools, which serves Burien, has been ordered to court over public records delays. King County Superior Court Judge Kristin Ballinger issued an order on September 10 requiring the district to respond to allegations of violating Washington’s Public Records Act in a hearing on September 25. Burien resident Kristen Price filed the case, citing requests that received completion estimates of six to ten months. The district has only one full-time employee handling public records requests across 327 open requests since January 2024.
Kennedy Catholic High School’s Lancers fell to Bellevue High 14-10 in their 2026 football season opener on Saturday, Sept. 5 at Highline Memorial Stadium in Burien. The game was played right here in our community, making it a local sports moment worth watching as both teams begin their seasons.
A Burien resident wrote a letter to the Highline School Board criticizing closed-door decision-making in public education, arguing that transparency is essential. The school district responded to the concerns. The letter reflects ongoing community debate about school board openness and public participation in decisions affecting local students and families.
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.
The Highline School Board held its Sept. 2 meeting focused on accountability and superintendent evaluation. While the board unanimously approved four focus themes for Superintendent Ivan Duran’s 2026–27 evaluation, academic achievement was not specifically included—despite his July evaluation identifying measurable academic growth as an area needing focus. The board extended Duran’s contract through June 2029, but Highline’s English Language Arts growth reached only 48% against a 60% target for 2025–26.
Twin brothers from Highline High School were struck by violence in a shooting while their family attended a funeral in Utah. One brother was killed and his twin was critically injured. A GoFundMe fundraiser has been launched to support the Angilau family during this difficult time.
On August 19, the Highline School Board approved a letter to the Port of Seattle demanding completion of sound insulation and air quality improvements at schools affected by Sea-Tac Airport expansion. Of 15 schools covered under a $100 million 2002 agreement, 11 projects are complete; the Port says remaining funding is available but Highline controls project timing. Public comment on the airport expansion plan closes August 20 at 5 p.m.
Highline Public Schools Board voted unanimously on Wednesday, August 19 to send a letter to the Port of Seattle demanding stronger protections and increased investment related to Sea-Tac Airport expansion. The school district, which serves Burien students, is advocating for safeguards as the airport plans growth that could affect local schools and families.
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 has opened kindergarten enrollment for the 2026-27 school year. Early enrollment gives families access to free welcome events and readiness programs designed to help kindergarteners start strong. Burien families with children entering kindergarten should enroll now to connect with their school early.
Highline Public Schools is hosting four Family Information Nights this September to introduce families to the Waskowitz Outdoor School program. The sessions cover the 5th Grade Outdoor School experience and High School Leadership Program. Burien residents in Highline schools can learn more about these outdoor education opportunities by attending one of the evening sessions.
Highline Public Schools is proposing a construction bond to fund neighborhood school improvements and districtwide upgrades focused on safety, health, and accessibility. The bond would replace aging school buildings, address health-related facility needs, and modernize learning environments across the district, which serves Burien students and families.
Highline Public Schools Superintendent Ivan Duran welcomed students and families to the 2026-27 school year, emphasizing that all children and families belong in the district. Highline serves Burien and surrounding communities in South King County, making this message directly relevant to local families starting the new academic year.
A Highline Public Schools parent is calling for greater transparency and academic accountability from the school board. Kristen Price criticized the board’s September 2 approval of Superintendent Dr. Ivan Duran’s evaluation criteria, citing the exclusion of student learning metrics, lack of public input, and unequal access to virtual meeting participation. She also raised questions about a $1.25 million tennis court contract and a principal’s reassignment.
Highline Public Schools Board voted unanimously to urge the Port of Seattle for stronger protections and increased investment in schools and communities impacted by Seattle-Tacoma International Airport expansion plans. The board submitted a formal letter outlining these concerns as the airport expansion moves forward. Highline Schools serves Burien and surrounding South King County communities.
The Highline Schools Foundation is seeking community sponsors for the second annual “Wake Up with Waskowitz” breakfast fundraiser on Sunday, Sept. 13. This annual event supports the Highline School District, which serves Burien students, and welcomes local business and community participation.
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.
Highline Public Schools is transitioning to Microsoft technology tools, with staff training underway since fall 2024. The full shift to classroom use is expected in the 2026-27 school year. Families in Burien served by Highline should expect this change to affect how their children learn and interact with technology in school over the next couple of years.
Urban Art Works’ Mural Apprentice Program brought two new community murals to life this summer, with youth artists working primarily in Burien at Technology Access Foundation’s Bethaday Community Learning Space. Participants received stipends while learning artistic and professional skills, creating a mural designed to celebrate community spirit. A second mural was completed in North Delridge at Southwest Youth and Family Services, featuring multilingual messages of hope and inspiration.
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 Musical Theatre is offering full-tuition scholarships for fall classes in singing, dancing, and acting to King County public school students, thanks to a 4Culture Curiosity Pass grant. The only requirement is enrollment in a King County public school—no financial need documentation or previous theatre experience necessary. Space is limited, so families are encouraged to apply early at HMT.art.
Back-to-school season is here with staggered start dates across the region. Kennedy Catholic High School in Burien has already started, while Highline Public Schools (which serves Burien residents) begins Thursday, September 3. Other nearby independent and parochial schools start between August 31 and September 9. Check with your school directly to confirm your student’s specific start date and any preparation requirements.
Sixty South King County students graduated August 14 from the Workforce Discovery Lab, a free two-week program by the Seattle Southside Chamber and Success Foundation that introduces students to career paths in health care, aviation, trades, STEM and more. Students from Highline and Tukwila school districts explored opportunities through site visits, professional development, and received $500 stipends upon completion. Burien was among the supporting cities, with the Port of Seattle providing $275,000 in funding to help expand the program.
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.
Freshwater fish populations across the Northwest are declining sharply, with migratory species down 81% worldwide since 1970 and Salish Sea Chinook salmon down 60% since 1984. Researchers are using eDNA technology to map lesser-known species like lampreys, mussels, and dace that are crucial to the ecosystem but understudied. Washington’s cross-border collaboration between tribes, state agencies, and nonprofits offers a model for conservation, with efforts focused on habitat restoration and removing fish passage barriers on private land.
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.
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.
As fall sports season kicks off, the Auburn Reporter highlights key storylines across South King County high schools for the 2026 season. While the piece doesn’t specify which teams or athletes to watch, it points to emerging narratives worth following throughout the region—including schools that serve Burien residents attending high schools across South King County.
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.
Lynnwood’s Waste Reduction Team toured Republic Services’ Seattle recycling facility and learning center in August to learn about proper recycling practices and the state’s Recycling Reform Act. The facility processes 200,000 tons of recyclables annually, with environmental benefits equivalent to planting 500,000 acres of forest. Free public tours are available by emailing RecyclePNW@republicservices.com.
A major mixed-use development is breaking ground October 15 at Mount Baker in Seattle, featuring 239 affordable housing units across two eight-story buildings, plus an early learning campus and UW facility. While this Mount Baker Station project is regionally significant transit-oriented development, it’s located in Seattle proper rather than Burien, though South King County residents may be interested in the affordable housing model and early childhood education innovations being piloted nearby.
Tumwater High School senior Frances Staudt, who sat out a basketball game in February 2024 rather than compete against a transgender player, is speaking out in support of Initiative 638, which would require biological sex verification for girls’ school sports. Staudt says the experience affected her team and locker room, and she’s pushing back against claims the measure could require invasive exams. Though Tumwater is outside Burien, this statewide ballot initiative and high school sports debate may resonate with South King County families.
A vandalized mural honoring the Seattle Black Panther Party at Franklin High School has been restored and reinstalled this month. Volunteers, including current and former Franklin students, teaching artists, and community members, repaired the mural originally created in 2018 and added a new panel below it featuring a quote by Black Panther member Ericka Huggins about unity and interconnection.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma has launched Fins for the Future, a behind-the-scenes shark tour running Tuesday through Saturday. The thirty-minute tour costs $35–$55 per person and takes up to six visitors through employee areas, the filtration system, and kitchen while learning about the zoo’s conservation work with endangered Indo-Pacific leopard sharks. The program connects visitors to global wildlife efforts, including efforts to boost shark populations in Indonesia.
A science teacher in Whatcom County writes about pigeon guillemots—red-footed seabirds found year-round in the Salish Sea—and their importance as indicators of regional waterway health. The Puget Sound population was estimated at roughly 6,430 in 2020, one of the lowest in 20 years. The article encourages community members to participate in citizen science through apps like eBird or by volunteering with the Salish Sea Guillemot Network to help monitor and protect these birds.
Voice of the Valley published a historical column about the Kummer Schoolhouse, a 1898 structure originally built for a small coal and clay mining town south of Black Diamond. The schoolhouse, acquired by the Callero family in 1929 and later moved to S.E. Green Valley Road, still stands today as a privately owned building, now marked with a sign reading “This is Kummer, formerly School District 123, home of the lonely red schoolhouse.”
UW Tacoma has unveiled a master plan to double enrollment from 5,000 to 10,000 students over the next 30 years, designed by international architecture firm Bjarke Ingels Group. The plan includes a new residence hall (opening 2029) and dining hall, expanded green space, and a redesigned campus that prioritizes community access and connection to nature. The university consulted about 80 community groups, including the Puyallup Tribe and Hilltop neighborhood residents, to address historical injustices and prevent gentrification.
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.
The Tacoma Ledger recommends outdoor spring activities for students across Washington state, highlighting parks and trails in Tacoma, Mount Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park, and the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge ($3 daily entrance fee). While these destinations are accessible to Burien residents, this article focuses on Tacoma-area recommendations and statewide outdoor opportunities rather than local Burien events or resources.
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.