The Highline School District kicked off the first of three community meetings focused on updating its strategic plan and discussing the district budget on January 20, 2026.
The meeting opened with a 15-minute presentation by Superintendent Dr. Ivan Duran, followed by opportunities for attendees to provide feedback on the strategic plan and discuss the district’s budget at a high level.
Where Were the Parents and Community Members?
Despite the importance of the topic, attendance from the broader community was extremely limited.
Only two community members were present: this reporter and one community member who hosts a student attending a Highline high school. Others in the room included School Board Directors Blaine Holien and Stephanie Tidholm, interpreters for Somali, Spanish, and Vietnamese languages, and several district staff members.
The absence of parents and community voices raised questions about outreach, accessibility, and engagement around decisions that will shape the district’s future.
How the Feedback Process Worked
The feedback process itself was straightforward and respectful. Participants were asked to write responses on four major topics and then share their thoughts in a group discussion with Dr. Duran and board members.
Attendees were asked to imagine the year 2030, after the four Strategic Plan Goals have been fully achieved, and to consider what headlines might be written about Highline in the following areas:
- Culture of Belonging
- Innovative Learning
- Bilingual and Biliterate
- Future Ready
Participants were also asked:
Given our budget reality, what is most important for Highline to keep in mind?
During the discussion, I noted that one key area appeared to be missing from the conversation: academic outcomes. While culture, innovation, and future readiness are critical, student academic achievement deserves explicit attention as its own category.
Access to Materials and Online Feedback
District staff shared that these same survey questions will be available online (as noted on the district webpage). I asked whether the presentation slides would be posted with an audio voiceover to improve accessibility for families unable to attend in person. The response was that this option is “being considered.”
A Call to Parents and Community Members
Parents and community members: this is a golden opportunity to share your concerns, priorities, and hopes for Highline’s future. Decisions made during this process will shape district policies, investments, and student experiences for years to come.
If you were unable to attend the first meeting, there are two more opportunities to participate in person.
Upcoming Community Meetings
February 3 | 5:45–7:15 p.m.
Sylvester Middle School
16222 Sylvester Rd SW, Burien
February 9 | 5:45–7:15 p.m.
Madrona Elementary School
20301 32nd Avenue South, SeaTac
Your voice matters—but only if it’s heard.
