Janet Blanford

The Urban Native Educational Learning Session focused on discussing the history and current state of Urban Native Education. Key discussion points included the history of Indian education funding starting in 1973, the challenges faced by Native students in public schools, the formation of support groups like the Western Washington Native American Education Consortium, and the impact of factors such as military presence and BIA relocation programs on urban Native populations. Updates covered the status of the Urban Native Education Council, legislative efforts like House Bill 1495 mandating the teaching of local Native history, and findings from the 2011 Urban Listening Sessions which highlighted key issues such as funding, enrollment, professional development, and historical trauma. Federal representatives detailed efforts to engage urban communities under the White House Initiative on American Indian and Alaska Native Education and the need for improved consultation policies and data coordination, noting that 90 percent of Native students attend non-tribally-controlled institutions. A new pilot funding opportunity, the State Tribal Education Partnership, was also announced.

This three-year strategic plan, 'LIVING OUR PROMISE,' guides Highline Public Schools toward challenging and equitable learning, ensuring every student graduates prepared for their chosen future. The plan is built upon four main goals: fostering a Culture of Belonging where all are welcome and valued; promoting Innovative Learning through engaging and empowering academic experiences; developing Bilingual & Biliterate students with multicultural skills; and preparing students to be Future Ready by exploring possibilities and developing relevant mindsets.

The meeting commenced with agenda adjustments moving items 8.1, 8.2, and 8.3 to the consent agenda. Recognitions included a performance celebrating Lunar New Year and proclamations designating February as Career and Technical Education Month and National School Counseling Week. The Board recognized the Open Doors Career Link program as a community partner for supporting reengagement of students. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a school presentation from Seahurst Elementary detailing their progress in literacy growth, especially for multilingual learners, and fostering a culture of belonging. Superintendent Duran provided an update on the strategic plan refinement process and invited community input via Thought Exchange. The Highline Education Association President spoke in support of student-designed and student-led walkouts protesting ICE activity, citing constitutional protections. Board members provided updates, including scholarship opportunities, recognition of National Board certified teachers, and legislative updates regarding sales tax impact on the district. Public comments addressed concerns about policy clarity regarding student civic activities, the potential for a perimeter fence around Evergreen High School, and continued support for CTE programs.

The Regular Board Meeting agenda included introductions and acknowledgements for CTE Month, School Counselors Week, Black History Month, and recognized a community partner, Career Link, along with a presentation from Seahurst Elementary School. Discussions also covered a Labor Partner Update from the Highline Education Association President. The consent agenda included approval for Accounts Payable Vouchers, Payroll Warrants, and Personnel Reports, as well as the November 2025 Financial Reports. Action items involved the approval of new Board Policy 3425 regarding accommodating students with adrenal insufficiency, and the final acceptance and close-out of the Cascade Middle School Lighting Grant Project and the Districtwide Roof Replacements and Restoration Project. Introduction and action items included granting an easement to Seattle City Light for the Evergreen High School Replacement Project and approving HealthPoint License Agreements for school-based health centers at multiple high schools.

The meeting included the election of 2026 Board Officers, resulting in Director Van being elected President and Director Alvarez elected Vice President. Key agenda items involved moving several grant applications to the Consent Agenda, removing the Personnel Report for separate discussion and approval, and adopting the 2026 State Legislative Agenda which prioritizes literacy and special education funding. The Board also approved significant revisions and renumbering for Board Policies related to Real Property Management and Sale of Real Property. Public comments focused heavily on the need to reinstate the 'What I Need' (WIN) Time block schedule at Evergreen High School, which was paused despite staff and student support, and concerns regarding the inclusion model for students with significant disabilities. Further discussions covered the Interlocal Agreement with King County for School Impact Fees and the approval of the Allovue Budget Suite Contract.