Burien and SeaTac Police Departments are hosting a free Teen Community Police Academy from July 13–17, 2026. Local teens are invited to participate in this week-long program designed to build community connections between young people and law enforcement. Check the original source for registration details, age requirements, and daily schedule.
The Environmental Science Center will host free low tide beach naturalist programs at Seahurst Park Beach in Burien from April through August 2026. These recurring events give residents and visitors a chance to explore the local marine environment and learn about beach ecology in our own backyard.
Student mariachi musicians from across the Seattle area will gather in Burien on Tuesday, May 12 for the Encuentro de Mariachi Puget Sound festival. Middle and high school students will participate in workshops and collaboration events celebrating this vibrant musical tradition. This regional festival brings together young performers and showcases the cultural richness of our community.
Local nonprofit ANEW is offering free Construction 101 training to Burien residents June 8–12 at its Tukwila facility. The introductory program is designed to help participants explore careers in construction. Enrollment is now open for this no-cost opportunity.
Governor Bob Ferguson has appointed Burien resident Lorraine Chachere to the Highline College Board of Trustees. Chachere, an economic development leader with strong ties to South King County, will help guide one of the region’s most diverse colleges. This appointment directly affects Burien’s representation in decisions shaping higher education access for local students.
A Burien resident has submitted a letter to the editor expressing concerns about leadership changes at North Hill Elementary, a school serving the local community. The letter raises questions about the school’s administration, though specific details about the changes and timeline are not included in this preview. Parents with children at North Hill Elementary may want to reach out to the school or district for more information about any staffing or leadership transitions.
Highline High School’s drama program will present ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’ starting April 23 at the Highline High School Theater over two weekends this spring. This is a great opportunity for Burien residents to support local student performers in a classic musical comedy production.
The Highline School Board voted 3-1-1 on May 6 to approve a contract extension for i-Ready, a digital assessment tool used across the district. The decision came despite parent concerns about student data privacy and a federal lawsuit alleging i-Ready shares student data with third parties without adequate disclosure. Parent Kelly Stonelake testified that the tool lacks peer-reviewed evidence of effectiveness and urged the board to defer the decision or approve only the assessment portion as a temporary measure.
Highline School District is asking voters to approve nearly $1 billion in funding over four years—a $330 million levy (approved November 2025), a $615 million capital bond, and a $48 million technology levy—without clear evidence these investments improve academic outcomes. The article warns that Highline’s funding model mirrors Texas districts carrying $148 billion in bond debt while academic performance has declined, and cautions that large-scale borrowing can burden taxpayers without guaranteeing educational gains.
Maritime High School in the Highline School District is facing significant challenges, according to a parent op-ed responding to recent Seattle Times coverage. Enrollment has dropped sharply since the school opened in 2021—one class started with 46 students and fell to 26—and seven of ten teachers left or were dismissed before the 2024 school year. Parents report unfulfilled promises including lack of rigorous academics, limited boat time despite maritime focus, absent woodworking classes, and poor communication from leadership.
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.
Why Not You Academy, a Des Moines charter high school, is closing at the end of the 2024-25 school year following a November 2025 board decision. The closure reflects deeper challenges beyond funding: the school faced state corrective action in 2023-24, struggled with attendance (12.4% at 90% or more days), poor test scores (10-12% meeting state standards), and declining enrollment (down to 65 students from 102 at start). The school spent $26,945 per student—more than nearby Tyee and Mount Rainier high schools—yet underperformed them academically.
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 has temporarily blocked access to Canvas, its learning management system, due to a security incident affecting the vendor. The issue stems from the vendor’s systems, not Highline’s infrastructure. This affects students and families in Burien and surrounding areas served by the district.
Highline College, which serves Burien students, was impacted by a nationwide ransomware attack on Canvas, the online learning platform used by many colleges. On Thursday, May 7, the cyberattack disrupted classes and communications, leaving students and faculty unable to access coursework and course materials. The attack affected Canvas users across the U.S., creating significant disruptions for local learners who depend on the platform.
Highline Public Schools hosted CollegeCon, an annual event where over 200 local students and families explored college, career, and training opportunities to help plan for life after high school. The event connects Burien-area students with educational pathways and professional options as they prepare for their futures.
Highline Public Schools released an episode of “The Promise Podcast” featuring Highline High School teacher Jesus Torres Munoz discussing how he integrates culture and identity into rigorous learning with Superintendent Dr. Ivan Duran. The podcast explores how students at Highline are developing both academic skills and a stronger sense of self, reflecting the district’s commitment to culturally responsive education.
Highline Public Schools is celebrating its educators this week, recognizing teachers who create inclusive classrooms where students feel supported and valued. The district emphasizes how teachers shape student identity and belonging, helping every student recognize their strengths and envision their future—a mission core to Highline’s commitment to public education.
Six schools in Highline Public Schools have earned state recognition for student growth or academic achievement during the 2024-25 school year. Highline Public Schools serves Burien and surrounding South King County communities. The district did not specify which individual schools received recognition or the achievement categories. Parents in the district can expect more details from their school principals or the district office.
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.
The Bridge School Cooperative Elementary, an independent K-5 in White Center, is now enrolling for Fall 2026 and introducing a new part-day kindergarten program. The school features weekly outdoor learning at Seahurst Park in Burien, arts instruction, and affirms LGBTQIA and neurodiverse students. Families can attend a free open house and play date May 2nd from 10 am-12 noon, or learn more at bridgeschoolcoop.org.
Highline Public Schools, which serves Burien, is expanding Culture & Climate Teams at nearly all schools to build welcoming environments and support student behavior and attendance. These teams meet regularly to use data-driven decisions for consistent student support across the district.
Kennedy Catholic High School is hosting Lancer Athletic Sports Camps this summer for young athletes in grades 3–8. The camps offer a high-energy environment focused on skill development and athletic training. For details on specific sports, dates, times, and registration, visit the original source.
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.
Highline Public Schools announced the transfer of Principal Kimberly Jones and Assistant Principal Kaitlyn O’Leary from North Hill Elementary to Des Moines Elementary, sparking protests and emotional testimony at the May 6 school board meeting. Families and staff expressed concerns about the sudden, unexplained move, lack of transparency, and worry that the district failed to involve the community in selecting replacement leadership. At least 50 people signed a petition supporting the leaders’ return.
The Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce hosted an Education & Workforce Summit bringing together local educators, economists, and employers to discuss artificial intelligence, apprenticeships, and workforce gaps affecting the South King County region. The event featured local leaders addressing how these challenges and opportunities impact the Burien area’s economic future and job market.
Highline College announced the death of former President Dr. John R. Mosby on Monday, May 4, 2026. Dr. Mosby served as the college’s seventh president from July 2018 until December. Highline College is located in the South King County area and serves many Burien residents.
The Highline Soccer Association is holding tryouts for youth players this spring. HSA Select tryouts run May 1–16 for players born 2007–2016, while Highline Premier FC tryouts are open now through May 14 for players born 2007–2019. Both competitive programs offer training under licensed coaches; recreational soccer registration for fall opens in May/June. Contact hsaselect@gmail.com or visit highlinepremier.com for details.
Highline Public Schools is preparing information about potential bonds and levies to fund local schools and support the Highline Promise. The district is sharing details about bond projects recommended by the Community Facilities Advisory Committee (CFAC) and exploring a possible technology levy as the school board considers future funding measures. More information is available on the district’s website.
Federal Title IX rules have shifted back to defining sex as biological sex only, eliminating 2024 protections based on gender identity. While this ends federal oversight of districts like Fife, Washington state law and local policies—including Highline School District’s Policy 3211 on gender-inclusive schools—remain unchanged for now, leaving families navigating conflicting federal and local rules.
The Washington Homeschool Organization is hosting an in-person workshop conference on July 18, 2026, from 9 am to 5 pm at the Federal Way Performing Arts Center. The event features 40 curriculum vendors, a full day of workshops, and curriculum exchange opportunities for both full-time and part-time homeschoolers. Registration costs $30 to $55 depending on membership status. Within the Highline School District, which serves Burien, homeschool enrollment has grown significantly—from 109 students in 2019–20 to 171 in 2025–26.
A free summer program has been announced for low-income school districts across six Washington counties, including King County where Burien is located. More than 100 schools in King, Pierce, Kittitas, Yakima, Klickitat, and Grant counties will participate in the initiative. While specific details about participating Burien schools weren’t mentioned in this announcement, Burien families in qualifying districts may be eligible for this opportunity.
Seattle Public Schools’ new superintendent has implemented a cell phone ban for elementary and middle schoolers, with high schoolers still allowed to use phones between classes and at lunch. This opinion piece argues the policy doesn’t go far enough, citing research on smartphones’ harmful effects on children and comparing the issue to how society eventually rejected cigarette use. While Seattle schools aren’t in Burien, the policy may influence South King County school districts serving similar communities.
UW law professor Anita Ramasastry is advising FIFA and Seattle on human rights preparations for the 2026 World Cup. Ramasastry, an expert in business and human rights, drafted Seattle’s human rights action plan and chairs FIFA’s human rights expert advisory group. Key issues being addressed include human trafficking, rights of unhoused people, immigrant protections, workers’ rights, and peaceful assembly rights. This marks the first World Cup requiring human rights components in host city bids, following criticism of the 2022 Qatar tournament.
May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and UW Tacoma, Seattle, and Tacoma are hosting campus and community events throughout the month. UW Tacoma is offering ribbon lei-making on May 4, Multicultural Night on May 9, and candy lei-making on May 28, while Seattle’s Asian Counseling and Referral Service hosts a Walk for Rice fundraiser on May 16 at Seward Park, and Tacoma’s Washington State History Museum presents its 9th Annual South Sound Day of Remembrance on May 21 featuring Japanese American stories and authors.
Community members in the Rainier Beach neighborhood of Seattle are petitioning King County Metro and the City of Seattle to close a bus stop and build a permanent memorial honoring Tyjon Stewart, 18, and Tra’Veiah Houfmuse, 17, who were fatally shot there on January 30. The petition has garnered over 820 signatures as of April 10, with organizers proposing a bench and plaques at the site as a way to honor the victims and acknowledge gun violence in the community.
Edmonds College presented its strategic vision on May 4, 2026, focusing on flexible, short-term credentials and stackable degrees to adapt to changing job markets and declining enrollment. The college, which recently rebranded from Edmonds Community College, is expanding microcredentials, partnering with employers like Boeing, and strengthening student support services—though this news centers on Edmonds and has limited direct impact on Burien residents.
This weekly newsletter from the Tacoma area covers events, governance, and opportunities across Pierce County, including a Tacoma Municipal Code search upgrade, a Juvenile Justice Task Force recommendation to replace Remann Hall on-site, and various community events in nearby cities like Tacoma, Gig Harbor, and Steilacoom. Most items fall outside Burien’s immediate area, though county-level news and regional transit updates may have tangential relevance to South King County residents.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson is proposing a $1.3 billion levy for education and child care, funded through property taxes that would add roughly $600 annually on a median Seattle home. The Seattle City Council is expected to approve it without voter ballot approval. While this is regional news, it doesn’t directly affect Burien governance or services, though South King County renters may see similar affordability discussions emerge locally.
The Wedgwood Garden Club shared May gardening tips from member Jacqueline Houston, a Master Gardener, comparing two Medina-area gardens and highlighting pollinator-friendly plants. Houston discovered that Abelia ‘Edward Goucher’ shrubs and Allium millenium attracted abundant bees when planted in full sun and properly pruned. The Garden Club welcomes new members; contact Jacqueline Houston at tppoems@comcast.net for information on monthly meetings.
Forty-two women participated in a career workshop hosted by Puget Sound Fire in Kent, exploring opportunities as firefighters and paramedics. While Kent is a neighboring city to Burien, this event is specific to Kent and doesn’t directly involve Burien residents or services.
A Tacoma-based musician shares her experience attending Lakewood Playhouse’s six-day intensive workshop called “Breaking Your Mold,” led by Joseph Walsh and Elijah Bellis. The class helped participants overcome creative blocks by exploring songwriting, singing, and dialogue in a collaborative, low-pressure environment. While the workshop may interest Burien musicians seeking creative inspiration, it’s located in Lakewood and doesn’t directly affect or involve our community.
Voice of the Valley published a historical overview of the Enumclaw Plateau and its small communities, tracing settlement from the 1850s through the railroad and logging era. The article profiles nine communities—including Birch, Boise, Enumclaw, Fir Grove, Flensted, Krain, Osceola, Veazie, and Wabash—and describes how Enumclaw became the dominant civic center as its school district absorbed neighboring communities. The Enumclaw Plateau Historical Museum at 1837 Marion Street is open Thursdays and Sundays, 1–4 pm.
This arts and culture roundup from My Lynnwood News covers events primarily in Edmonds and surrounding areas, including the 69th Edmonds Arts Festival (June 19-21), theater scholarships, Independent Bookstore Day (April 25), and various exhibitions and performances. While one event mentions Lynnwood Idol and another references the Washington West African Center in Lynnwood, most content focuses on Edmonds venues and activities with limited direct relevance to Burien residents.
The Creative Retirement Institute at Edmonds College has opened spring 2026 registration for over 50 non-credit courses aimed at adults 50+. Offerings span arts, history, science, technology, and literature, meeting once weekly for 1-4 weeks both in-person and online. While Edmonds College is outside Burien, this program may interest local lifelong learners seeking intellectual renewal this spring.
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.
The University of Washington is hosting dozens of arts, science, and humanities events throughout May 2026, including lectures, concerts, exhibitions, and performances. Highlights include exhibitions at the Henry Art Gallery, the Mark Morris Dance Group at Meany Center, multiple World Cup-related lectures, and free public talks from Nobel Prize winner John Martinis and author Robert Macfarlane. Most events are free and open to the public, with many offered online.
Washington State University’s Skagit County Extension has launched its second cohort of Climate Stewards, a 10-week course combining climate science education with place-based field trips in Skagit and Island counties. The program, which graduated its first class in Fall 2025, teaches climate literacy and adaptation strategies to help participants become effective communicators on environmental issues in their communities.
The City of Kent Parks has partnered with the NFL Flag Football League to offer teams this summer for children in third through eighth grades. While this is a neighboring community’s program, Burien families interested in youth sports should check if similar opportunities exist locally through Burien Parks and Recreation or explore whether Kent’s program is open to nearby residents.
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.