Federal Way Public Schools News - May 2, 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News May 2, 2025 FWPS WEBSITE CAREERS CALENDAR CONTACT   Greetings Families, Staff, and Community, It’s been another incredible week of learning, celebration, and community connection in Federal Way Public Schools! This week I had the opportunity to visit Nautilus K-8 and visit multiple classrooms, where I observed students hard at work in writing, working on their letters, sounds, and blends, and solving math problems.  It was obvious that these students were eager and focused on their learning.  Great job, Nautilus!  On Tuesday, our fourth-grade scholars had the unforgettable experience of releasing Coho salmon into West Hylebos Creek as part of our annual Storming the Sound project. This hands-on environmental science program, in partnership with the City of Federal Way and numerous local organizations, began back in December when salmon eggs were delivered to schools. Over the past several months, scholars have nurtured the salmon and learned about their life cycle, habitat, and importance to our ecosystem. A special thank you to our high school students from Truman Campus and the Teacher Academy program who helped lead learning stations! At Sherwood Forest Elementary, fifth-grade students transformed the lunchroom into a living wax museum! Dressed as influential figures from astronauts to civil rights leaders, scholars shared facts and brought history to life for classmates and families. It was a powerful celebration of learning and creativity! On Wednesday, we hosted our annual Community Connect event at Federal Way High School. Families, staff, scholars, and community members came together to engage in conversations about our shared vision, review our new Portrait of a Graduate competencies, and reflect on the work ahead. Thank you to everyone who joined us, we truly are better together! Thursday evening marked our first Board Recognition Night at Federal Way High School, where we celebrated outstanding scholars and staff from Lake Grove, Mark Twain, Mirror Lake, and Wildwood elementaries, Nautilus K-8, Woodmont K-8, Sacajawea Middle School, and Federal Way High School. Congratulations to all those recognized for your incredible achievements! I want to give a huge shout-out to our Decatur High School’s Jazz Band 1 and 2 for earning first place in Division II at the prestigious Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival in April at the University of Idaho!  And finally, if you are looking for a fun way to spend your Saturday, join us at Memorial Stadium for our annual elementary track meet! Bring your cheers and school spirit as we celebrate scholar athletes from across FWPS. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent School Board Corner On behalf of the Federal Way School Board, I’m pleased to share some highlights from the past several weeks across our schools and community. After a restful Spring Break (March 31–April 4), we jumped right back into meaningful student-centered learning. On April 8, I attended the FW Government Entity meeting at City Hall to hear updates from the city, police, fire and rescue, and the water district, which is an important collaboration that supports our community. Our Board Directors have been actively visiting schools across the district: Directors Davis and Phillips spent time in classrooms at TAF@Saghalie on April 14, and Dir. Davis followed up with a visit to Camelot Elementary the next day. On April 22, Dir. Davis also visited Sherwood Forest Elementary and saw firsthand the learning and engagement taking place. On April 29, Directors Morris and Davis visited Nautilus K–8 to connect with staff and scholars. At our April 15 Work Study, we received informative updates on Project Lead the Way and Instructional Technology. That same week, I also attended the SAO Risk Assessment meeting on April 18. On April 22, we held our regular Board Meeting at Meredith Hill Elementary. We heard from staff about our MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) and Dual Language programs and had an exciting demonstration of our scholars’ creativity through LEGO Robotics projects. The Good News section was filled with reasons to celebrate, from Battle of the Math Brains champions to AFJROTC, speech and debate, and STEAM Expo Film Fest winners! Our Community Connect on April 30 was held at Federal Way High School. All Board Directors were in attendance as the FWPS Portrait of a Graduate was unveiled to participants. The Portrait of a Graduate was the result of months of collaboration between district staff, families, community members, and partners. We kicked off our Board Recognition Nights at Federal Way High School last evening, and look forward to honoring the amazing work happening across our high schools at our upcoming recognition nights: May 8: TAF@Saghalie May 14: Todd Beamer May 15: Thomas Jefferson May 20: Decatur Our next Work Study meeting will be held on May 6. We always look forward to these opportunities to reflect, learn, and plan with a focus on our scholars. As a Board we will continue to support the educational goals and aspirations of every scholar in our district. We affirm that FWPS welcomes all scholars and families in our community With appreciation, Dr. Jennifer Jones President, Federal Way School Board Celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month—a time to honor the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of AANHPI communities. Throughout the month, our district and schools will highlight stories that reflect the vibrant diversity and impact of AANHPI individuals across Federal Way Public Schools. Explore these stories at: www.fwps.org/aanhpihm2025 Mental Health Awareness Month: Turn Awareness into Action  💚 May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and at Federal Way Public Schools, we are proud to join the national movement to elevate mental health as a key part of overall well-being.   This year’s theme, Turn Awareness into Action, challenges each of us to go beyond learning about mental health—we must take real steps to support ourselves, our students, our colleagues, and our families.   Small actions—like checking in with a friend, learning coping strategies, or connecting someone to resources—can make a big difference. Together, we can create safe, supportive environments where mental health is a priority every day.   If you or someone you know needs support, please visit  https://www.fwps.org/programs-and-services/mental-health-resources   for more information. Let’s work together to turn awareness into meaningful action and build a stronger, healthier community. Honoring Our Principals on School Principals Day – May 1, 2025 Yesterday we celebrated the incredible leadership of our FWPS principals! Your dedication, vision, and unwavering support create thriving learning environments where every scholar has the opportunity to grow, achieve, and succeed.   Thank you for being the heart of our schools and for guiding our students and staff with excellence every day. Your leadership matters—today and always! Honoring Our School Lunch Heroes! Happy National School Lunch Hero Day! 🎉 Today, we recognize and celebrate the incredible Nutrition Services staff who keep our students nourished and ready to learn. This school year alone, our team has served over 2.1 million healthy meals to children across the district. Thank you for your dedication, care, and the vital role you play in supporting student success every day! Announcements 🏆 Congratulations to the Week 3 Winners of the FWPS Attendance Cup!  🏆 We are thrilled to announce the winners of Week 3 (April 21-25) Attendance Cup! These schools have shown unwavering dedication to attendance excellence, and we couldn't be prouder! 🎉 Congratulations to the following schools for most improved attendance from the previous week and the highest 5-day attendance in their challenge group: 🌟 Most Improved Winners: Thomas Jefferson High School Kilo Middle School Sherwood Forest Elementary Green Gables Elementary Woodmont K-8 Sunnycrest Elementary Federal Way Public Academy 🌟 Highest 5-Day Attendance Rate Winners: Todd Beamer High School Kilo Middle School Sherwood Forest Elementary Green Gables Elementary Mark Twain Elementary Let's continue this fantastic work and strive to attend school every day! Together, we are shaping a brighter future for all our students. Learn more about the FWPS Attendance Cup and view our weekly leaderboard at www.fwps.org/attendancecup .   Early Release: Friday, May 9, 2025 This is a friendly reminder that Friday,  May 9, is an Early Release day. Schools are let out 75 minutes early in support of staff professional learning and collaboration time. View the bell schedules at: www.fwps.org/earlyrelease . 📅 Upcoming Events Teacher Appreciation Week is May 5–9! Let’s take time to celebrate the incredible educators who make a lasting impact in the lives of our scholars. Show your appreciation by sharing a photo or message honoring a teacher and tagging @FWPS210 on social media.  This week is a special opportunity to recognize the dedication, care, and hard work our teachers bring to the classroom every day. 🔨🔬🌱 CTE Scholar Showcase Monday, May 19, 2025 6-7:30 p.m. Federal Way High School Joi n us for the second annual FWPS CTE Scholar Showcase! Through a variety of student projects, workshops, demonstrations, and more, celebrate and discover the innovative projects, skills, and talents CTE scholars have cultivated throughout the year. Learn more: www.fwps.org/CTEShowcase . + Click to view more events on the district's calendar. CONTACT Federal Way Public Schools 33330 8th Avenue S Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 comments@fwps.org LINKS AND RESOURCES Language Access Plan Employment ParentVUE School Year Calendar School Menus STAY CONNECTED Facebook Instagram X (Formerly Twitter) YouTube Peachjar May 2, 2025

Saturday, May 03 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News - April 25, 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News April 25, 2025 FWPS WEBSITE CAREERS CALENDAR CONTACT   Greetings Families, Staff, and Community, This week was filled with powerful reminders of the joy of learning, the strength of our community partnerships, and the incredible accomplishments of our scholars!  On Monday, I visited Sherwood Forest Elementary and was especially impressed by the fifth-grade amusement park project, where students designed rides, created PowerPoints and brochures, and confidently presented their ideas. Scholars were deeply engaged, and it was clear they were having fun while building strong academic skills.  On Tuesday, our board meeting was packed with celebration as we recognized a number of student groups for their excellence:  Battle of the Math Brains: 3rd–5th grade competitors from 12 elementary schools used their sharp thinking and teamwork skills in the annual math competition! 7th Annual STEAM Film Festival Winners: Students from both elementary and secondary levels were recognized across the categories of Live Action, Animation, and Documentary. AFJROTC Teams from Todd Beamer and Federal Way high schools were honored for their strong showing at the 2024-25 Northwest Drill and Rifle Championships. Thomas Jefferson High School's Speech and Debate Team was celebrated for earning the 3A Washington State Speech and Debate Championship! I want to especially recognize the 25 students from Federal Way High School’s Pre-Apprenticeship Program who earned their Forklift Certification this week! This is just one of 11 Industry Recognized Certifications available to FWPS students, and we’re so proud of these scholars for taking big steps toward their futures.  Also this week, I had the honor of attending the opening of the Office of Korean Education in Seattle, a meaningful event that highlighted the power of cultural exchange and educational collaboration.   This weekend, our district will be buzzing with activity! From the Bill Harris Invitational for varsity track and field athletes to varsity boys soccer matchups, we’re wishing all our scholar-athletes the very best. I’m also excited to attend the annual Korean School of Federal Way fundraiser. For the past 15 years, this school has served as a vital pillar in our community, providing language learning, fostering cultural pride, and building meaningful connections across generations. As our district continues expanding dual language and international learning opportunities, events like these strengthen our ability to prepare scholars for a global world.  Thank you for your continued support in making these moments possible. Together, we are creating a vibrant and inspiring environment where every scholar can thrive.  In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent Because of You and Good News Announcements Congrats to Staff Nominated and Awarded by Scholars with a “Because Of You” Award! Congratulations to all our FWPS educators who received the Because Of You Award at our board meeting for going above and beyond in supporting our scholars and/or positively impacting our community. We’re #FWPSProud of you all. Nominate a FWPS staff member for the award at  www.fwps.org/becauseofyou   Good News Announcements: April 22, 2025 We’re #FWPSProud of our phenomenal scholars, staff, and community members and love recognizing them during the Good News Announcements at board meetings! Read more about their accomplishments at  www.fwps.org/GoodNews TBHS and FWHS AFJROTC Battle of the Math Brains STEAM Film Festival Winners TJHS Speech and Debate State Champs Bridging the Gap: An Evening of Learning and Celebration Yesterday, we were thrilled to welcome nearly 190 scholars and families—both in person at Evergreen Middle School and virtually on Zoom—for our fourth and final  Family Academy event of the school year: Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change. Together, we explored helpful resources and tools to support students as they prepare for transitions into the next school year. The event wrapped up with a joyful send-off celebration, complete with prizes and ice cream treats from our beloved FRED Bus! A heartfelt thank you to all the families who joined us, our incredible community partners, our childcare provider Right At School, our dedicated interpreters, and the amazing high school volunteers who gave their time and energy to help make this year of programming a success. We couldn’t have done it without you! If you missed the event, no worries—workshop slides and handouts are available  www.fwps.org/bridgingthegap .  We can’t wait to see you at Family Academy next year! Recognitions Celebrating Administrative Professionals   This week, we recognized our incredible administrative professionals for their dedication and hard work. Their support is essential to the success of our schools and departments, and we’re grateful for all they do to serve our scholars, families, and staff every day. Thank you!   Honoring Our FWPS Bus Drivers   This week, we celebrated School Bus Driver Appreciation Day and recognized the incredible individuals who safely transport thousands of FWPS scholars each day. Our bus drivers are often the first and last point of contact for students, providing a warm welcome in the morning and a safe return home each afternoon.   We are grateful for their dedication, professionalism, and the care they show every day. Thank you to all of our FWPS bus drivers for going the extra mile!   Pictured here are some of  our many great bus drivers. Interested in joining our bus driver team? Learn more here!  www.fwps.org/BusDriver .   Thank you FWPS Volunteers!   🌟 We’re giving a shoutout to our fantastic FWPS volunteer community! 🌟 Happy #PublicSchoolVolunteerWeek! We want to express a sincere THANK YOU to the volunteers who make Federal Way Public Schools a great place to be every day. Your commitment, enthusiasm, and assistance uplift not only our students and teachers but the entire community. Together, we are making a positive impact! If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact your school office and complete our volunteer form at  https://www.fwps.org/volunteer . #FWPSProud #FWPSvolunteers #SchoolsCantDoItAlone 🎉📚✨ Announcements 🏆 Congratulations to the Week 2 Winners of the FWPS Attendance Cup!  🏆 We are thrilled to announce the winners of Week 2 (April 14-18) Attendance Cup! These schools have shown unwavering dedication to attendance excellence, and we couldn't be prouder! 🎉 Congratulations to the following schools for most improved attendance from the previous week and the highest 5-day attendance in their challenge group: 🌟 Most Improved Winners: Todd Beamer High School Lakota Middle School Lakeland Elementary Adelaide Elementary Wildwood Elementary Valhalla Elementary Career Academy at Truman 🌟 Highest 5-Day Attendance Rate Winners: Federal Way High School Evergreen Middle School Lakeland Elementary Twin Lakes Elementary Nautilus K-8 Sunnycrest Elementary Federal Way Public Academy Let's continue this fantastic work and strive to attend school every day! Together, we are shaping a brighter future for all our students. Learn more about the FWPS Attendance Cup and view our weekly leaderboard at www.fwps.org/attendancecup .   Early Release: Friday, May 2, 2025 This is a friendly reminder that Friday,  May 2, is an Early Release day. Schools are let out 75 minutes early in support of staff professional learning and collaboration time. View the bell schedules at: www.fwps.org/earlyrelease . 📅 Upcoming Events Community Connect Wednesday, April 30, 2025 6-7:15 p.m. Federal Way High School ( 30611 16th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003 ) 📢 Registration is now open for Federal Way Public Schools’ annual Community Connect! This special event brings together families, students, staff, and community partners for an evening of connection, conversation, and collaboration . You’ll hear district updates, learn more about the goals guiding our work, and have a chance to share your input as we support the success of the nearly 23,000 scholars across FWPS.  💬 Interpreters will be available! Register today: www.fwps.org/CommunityConnect   🔨🔬🌱 CTE Scholar Showcase Monday, May 19, 2025 6-7:30 p.m. Federal Way High School Joi n us for the second annual FWPS CTE Scholar Showcase! Through a variety of student projects, workshops, demonstrations, and more, celebrate and discover the innovative projects, skills, and talents CTE scholars have cultivated throughout the year. Learn more: www.fwps.org/CTEShowcase .   🏅 Athlete of the Year Celebration Monday,  June 2, 2025 5-6:30 p.m. Federal Way High School Celebrate 16 exceptional scholar-athletes for their remarkable performance in school and sports, then bear witness as the top-voted male and female are named the 2025 Federal Way Mirror Athletes of the Year! + Click to view more events on the district's calendar. CONTACT Federal Way Public Schools 33330 8th Avenue S Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 comments@fwps.org LINKS AND RESOURCES Language Access Plan Employment ParentVUE School Year Calendar School Menus STAY CONNECTED Facebook Instagram X (Formerly Twitter) YouTube Peachjar April 25, 2025

Saturday, Apr 26 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News - April 18, 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News April 18, 2025 FWPS WEBSITE CAREERS CALENDAR CONTACT   Greetings Families, Staff, and Community, What an inspiring week it’s been across our schools! From STEM exploration to art-infused math lessons, scholar voice, and creative problem-solving, I’m constantly reminded of the incredible learning taking place in FWPS. I started the week at TAF@Saghalie, where I visited their maker space, where our scholars work in a collaborative learning environment and explore design, engineering, and technology by creating real-world projects. I loved seeing students deeply engaged in innovative and imaginative work! I also visited Camelot Elementary, where I observed how staff are implementing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) to tailor learning for every scholar. In one classroom I visited, students were using mathematics to explore perspective drawing, what an amazing example of integrating art, math, and critical thinking! On Tuesday, we welcomed our Scholar Advisory group to the ESC for their monthly meeting. These dedicated scholars continue to provide valuable insight into both the academic and social experiences in our schools. Their insights around future-focused learning and supports help shape our district in meaningful ways. We also had three exciting Kinders to College visits this week, with Camelot kinders visiting Clover Park Technical College, Meredith Hill kinders visiting Pacific Lutheran University, and Mark Twain kinders visiting Bellevue College! Thank you to our partner colleges for helping inspire our youngest learners to dream big.  And on Wednesday, I had the honor of attending the Technology Access Foundation (TAF) luncheon, which included TAF@Sagahalie scholars sharing impressive STEM-based projects designed to solve real-world problems for local organizations. TAF partners with FWPS to create learning environments that center around problem-based learning. We are proud and grateful for this partnership in support of our scholars! If you have an incoming kindergartener or know a family who does, I want to personally encourage you to explore our  Dual Language programs. These programs offer a rich academic experience where scholars learn in two languages, become biliterate, and gain powerful tools to connect with the world. Our offerings include Spanish/English and Korean/English, with applications now open.  And lastly, we are less than two weeks away from our annual  Community Connect, an event that brings together families, students, staff, and community partners for an evening of connection, conversation, and collaboration . You’ll hear district updates, learn more about the goals guiding our work, and have a chance to share your input as we support the success of the nearly 23,000 scholars across FWPS.  If you haven't had a chance,  I hope you'll register and join us on April 30 at Federal Way High School! In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent Honoring Our Assistant Principals In recognition of National Assistant Principals Week, we extend our sincere appreciation to the dedicated assistant principals of Federal Way Public Schools. Your leadership, compassion, and tireless efforts are essential to creating safe, inclusive, and academically rich environments where all students can learn, be seen, and thrive. From supporting staff and leading schoolwide initiatives to building strong relationships with students and families, assistant principals play a vital role in the success of our schools. Your work often happens behind the scenes, but its impact is felt across our entire community. Thank you for all you do to empower our scholars and strengthen our school communities every day! Celebrating Our FWPS Occupational Therapists This April! This April, we are celebrating National Occupational Therapy Month with deep appreciation for our outstanding FWPS occupational therapists! Your crucial role in empowering our students to achieve their goals and reach their full potential is truly extraordinary. We are grateful for your hard work and commitment in supporting our scholars! Announcements 🏆  FWPS Attendance Cup Week 1 Winners!  🏆 We are thrilled to announce our Week 1 (April 7-11) Attendance Cup winners! Congratulations to the following schools for their unwavering dedication to attendance excellence! These schools had the highest 5-day attendance in their challenge group. 🎉 Group A: Federal Way High School Group B: Evergreen Middle School Group C: Sherwood Forest Elementary School Group D: Brigadoon Elementary School Group E: Nautilus K-8 Group F: Sunnycrest Elementary School Group G: Federal Way Public Academy Let's keep up the fantastic work and continue to strive to attend school every day! By showing up together, we're shaping a brighter future for all our students. Learn more about the FWPS Attendance Cup and to view our weekly leaderboard at www.fwps.org/attendancecup    Early Release: Friday, April 25, 2025 This is a friendly reminder that Friday,  April 25, is an Early Release day. Schools are let out 75 minutes early in support of staff professional learning and collaboration time. View the bell schedules at: www.fwps.org/earlyrelease 📅 Upcoming Events Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change Thursday, April 24, 2025 6-7:30 p.m. Evergreen Middle School ( 26812 40th Ave S, Bldg A, Kent, WA 98032 ) or via Zoom Our next Family Academy event ,  Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change , will help families navigate important school transitions—whether your child is entering kindergarten, middle school, high school, or planning for life after graduation. Choose from  micro workshops like: Ready, Set, Kindergarten! Building Math Bridges FAFSA Drop-In with College & Career Specialists Together We Grow: Family Strategies for Emotional Support ✨ Free dinner, interpreters, and childcare (for potty-trained children 5+) provided! 🔗 Learn more and register: www.fwps.org/bridgingthegap   Community Connect Wednesday, April 30, 2025 6-7:15 p.m. Federal Way High School ( 30611 16th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003 ) 📢 Registration is now open for Federal Way Public Schools’ annual Community Connect! This special event brings together families, students, staff, and community partners for an evening of connection, conversation, and collaboration . You’ll hear district updates, learn more about the goals guiding our work, and have a chance to share your input as we support the success of the nearly 23,000 scholars across FWPS.  💬 Interpreters will be available! Register today: www.fwps.org/CommunityConnect   🔨🔬🌱 CTE Scholar Showcase Monday, May 19, 2025 6-7:30 p.m. Federal Way High School Joi n us for the second annual FWPS CTE Scholar Showcase! Through a variety of student projects, workshops, demonstrations, and more, celebrate and discover the innovative projects, skills, and talents CTE scholars have cultivated throughout the year. Learn more: www.fwps.org/CTEShowcase .   🏅 Athlete of the Year Celebration Monday,  June 2, 2025 5-6:30 p.m. Federal Way High School Celebrate 16 exceptional scholar-athletes for their remarkable performance in school and sports, then bear witness as the top-voted male and female are named the 2025 Federal Way Mirror Athletes of the Year! + Click to view more events on the district's calendar. CONTACT Federal Way Public Schools 33330 8th Avenue S Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 comments@fwps.org LINKS AND RESOURCES Language Access Plan Employment ParentVUE School Year Calendar School Menus STAY CONNECTED Facebook Instagram X (Formerly Twitter) YouTube Peachjar April 18, 2025

Saturday, Apr 19 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News - April 11, 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News April 11, 2025 FWPS WEBSITE CAREERS CALENDAR CONTACT   Greetings Families, Staff, and Community, I hope you had a restful and joyful Spring Break, filled with moments to relax, recharge, and spend time with loved ones. As we return to school, there’s a renewed energy across our district as scholars and staff dive into new learning and exciting experiences during this final stretch of the academic year. Across our schools, meaningful learning is already underway. At Federal Way High School, scholars in the Pre-Apprenticeship Construction program are putting the finishing touches on their tiny homes, while AFJROTC cadets had a unique opportunity to train with the Marines during a special physical training session. TAF@Saghalie high school students visited our college partner, Pacific Lutheran University, for an inspiring campus tour, and middle school students engaged in hands-on science by investigating lung capacity using balloons. Over at Mirror Lake, second graders brought science to life by making their volcano models erupt after a week of learning through the Wonders curriculum. This week also marks the beginning of our second annual  Attendance Cup ! We know that consistent attendance plays a vital role in student success, and this friendly competition between our schools encourages and celebrates strong attendance. Each week, schools can earn recognition for both high and most improved attendance—and by the end of the competition, can proudly take home the Attendance Cup! We’re also looking forward to two important opportunities for family and community engagement this month. On April 24, our next Family Academy session, Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change , will provide valuable tools and insights to help families support their child’s transition to the next grade level. You can find more information about this event below. Then, on April 30, we invite you to join us for our annual Community Connect—an evening of meaningful dialogue where district leadership, staff, scholars, families, and community members come together to share hopes and dreams for our nearly 23,000 students. To register for Community Connect, visit  www.fwps.org/CommunityConnect . Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Together, we are building a bright future for every scholar in Federal Way Public Schools. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent School Board Corner We hope everyone had a restful and rejuvenating Spring Break! As we returned to our schools and routines, March and early April have been filled with learning, connections, and celebration across Federal Way Public Schools. On March 4, the Board held a Work Study session and received a detailed report on the Middle School Master Schedule. We appreciate the dedicated work that’s gone into strengthening scholar experiences across our middle schools. Later that week, on March 6, the district held its final Portrait of a Graduate Design Team meeting—the culmination of months of collaboration from scholars, families, educators, and community members. Dir. Davis attended in person, while Dir. Morris and Dir. Murphy joined virtually, helping close out this important work to define what we want for every FWPS graduate. On March 7, Dir. Phillips attended the Communities in Schools Annual Fundraising Breakfast, recognizing the vital support mentors provide to scholars throughout our district. At our March 11 Board Meeting at Mirror Lake Elementary, we received a presentation on EL-1 (Human Capital) and an update on the WEA Residency program, which supports new teachers joining FWPS. We also celebrated Good News moments, including awards for our mariachi musicians and student-athletes in wrestling. School visits remained a highlight this month. Dir. Davis and Dir. Phillips visited Decatur High School on March 18, observing the strong connections between scholars and staff. On March 25, Dir. Morris and Dir. Davis visited Adelaide Elementary, where they were inspired by the energy and dedication in classrooms. On March 22, all Board members participated in Coffee with the City Council and School Board at Ebony and Ivory Coffee. We appreciated hearing from so many of you, thank you for sharing your thoughts and ideas. We concluded the month with our March 25 Board Meeting at Federal Way High School, which included a presentation on EL-2 (Scholars) focused on scholar relationships, academic programs, and behavior supports. We also recognized our DECA competitors, basketball teams, and gymnastics scholars for their recent achievements. Dir. Davis represented FWPS at the MOU signing ceremony with the Puyallup Tribe of Indians and 12 other local school districts on March 28. This historic moment affirms our commitment to ensuring Native scholars and families are seen, heard, and supported through authentic integration of culture, history, and experience in our schools.   As always, we are proud to serve the FWPS community and remain committed to supporting the goals and dreams of every scholar. We affirm that Federal Way Public Schools welcomes and values all scholars and families as vital members of our school system.   With gratitude,  Dr. Jennifer Jones  President, Federal Way School Board Celebrating National Arab American Heritage Month April is National Arab American Heritage Month, a time for our district and schools to celebrate Arab American heritage and culture and acknowledge the significant contributions of Arab and Arabic-speaking Americans. These cultures are an essential part of what makes our district the most diverse in the state—an attribute we proudly embrace and weave into the fabric of our schools and the education of our students. By recognizing and valuing these contributions, we foster an inclusive environment that enriches the learning experiences of all. Announcements 🏆 The FWPS Attendance Cup is Underway! 🏆 The race is on! Schools across FWPS are competing for top attendance, and every day counts toward the challenge. Show up, stay engaged, and help your school climb the leaderboard! 🏅 Earn weekly awards for the highest attendance  🏆 Compete for the overall Attendance Cup victory Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!  Check your school’s standings at www.fwps.org/attendancecup .   Early Release: Friday, April 18, 2025 This is a friendly reminder that Friday,  April 18, is an Early Release day. Schools are let out 75 minutes early in support of staff professional learning and collaboration time. View the bell schedules at: www.fwps.org/earlyrelease Graduation Program Artwork Contest Seniors:  Submit your artwork for a chance to be featured on the inside front cover of your high school’s graduation program! One winning piece will be selected from each school. Your submission can be a class photo or original student artwork that meets the following criteria: Page width: 8.5 inches Page height: 11 inches File format: PDF 📅 Submit by  April 25, 2025, to your school’s Career & College Specialist. 📅 Upcoming Events ECEAP Preschool Info Night Wednesday, April 16, 2025 4-6 p.m. Truman Campus ( 31457 28th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003 ) Did you know children ages 3-4 may be eligible for free state-funded preschool ? Attend the ECEAP Preschool Info Night to learn more about this program, find out if your family is eligible, and apply on the spot! ECEAP offers several benefits: Play-based learning Developmental curriculum Family support 🔗 Click here to learn more!     Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change Thursday, April 24, 2025 6-7:30 p.m. Evergreen Middle School ( 26812 40th Ave S, Bldg A, Kent, WA 98032 ) or via Zoom Our next Family Academy event ,  Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change , will help families navigate important school transitions—whether your child is entering kindergarten, middle school, high school, or planning for life after graduation. Choose from  micro workshops like: Ready, Set, Kindergarten! Building Math Bridges FAFSA Drop-In with College & Career Specialists Together We Grow: Family Strategies for Emotional Support ✨ Free dinner, interpreters, and childcare (for potty-trained children 5+) provided! 🔗 Learn more and register: www.fwps.org/bridgingthegap   Community Connect Wednesday, April 30, 2025 6-7:15 p.m. Federal Way High School ( 30611 16th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003 ) 📢 Registration is now open for Federal Way Public Schools’ annual Community Connect! This special event brings together families, students, staff, and community partners for an evening of connection, conversation, and collaboration . You’ll hear district updates, learn more about the goals guiding our work, and have a chance to share your input as we support the success of the nearly 23,000 scholars across FWPS.  💬 Interpreters will be available! Register today: www.fwps.org/CommunityConnect   🔨🔬🌱 CTE Scholar Showcase: May 19, 2025, 6-7:30 pm, Federal Way High School Join us for the second annual FWPS CTE Scholar Showcase! Through a variety of student projects, workshops, demonstrations, and more, celebrate and discover the innovative projects, skills, and talents CTE scholars have cultivated throughout the year. Learn more: www.fwps.org/CTEShowcase .   🏅 Athlete of the Year Celebration: June 2, 2025, 5-6:30 pm, Federal Way High School Celebrate 16 exceptional scholar-athletes for their remarkable performance in school and sports, then bear witness as the top-voted male and female are named the 2025 Federal Way Mirror Athletes of the Year! + Click to view more events on the district's calendar. CONTACT Federal Way Public Schools 33330 8th Avenue S Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 comments@fwps.org LINKS AND RESOURCES Language Access Plan Employment ParentVUE School Year Calendar School Menus STAY CONNECTED Facebook Instagram X (Formerly Twitter) YouTube Peachjar April 11, 2025

Saturday, Apr 12 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News - March 28, 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News March 28, 2025 FWPS WEBSITE CAREERS CALENDAR CONTACT   Greetings Families, Staff, and Community, As we head into Spring Break, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the energy and momentum our scholars and staff have carried through this season. From celebrating learning to demonstrating perseverance, it’s been a full and meaningful few weeks! This week, we also experienced a network outage that affected many of our systems. I want to extend my appreciation to our staff, students, and families for your patience and adaptability. These situations are never easy, and I’m grateful for the way our FWPS community responded with flexibility and understanding. At Tuesday’s board meeting, we had the pleasure of recognizing several outstanding scholars and teams from across the district.  DECA Success: Several FWPS DECA scholars qualified for the International Career Development Conference in Orlando, Florida! These outstanding students earned top honors across categories such as Financial Literacy, Promotional and Community Campaigns, Retail, and Storefront. Several scholars also received prestigious scholarships, including the Visionary Scholarship and Seattle Finance Collective Scholarship. Congratulations to all! Basketball Achievements: Federal Way High School boys’ basketball team advanced to Round 12 in the 2025 WIAA 3A State Championships. Decatur High School girls’ basketball team completed a strong season marked by resilience and teamwork. Gymnastics Recognition: 18 FWPS gymnasts from all four comprehensive high schools qualified for the 2025 WIAA 3A State Championships. Additionally, Thomas Jefferson High School earned the WIAA 3A State Academic Championship with a team GPA of 3.81—excelling both on the mat and in the classroom! I also had the opportunity to visit Adelaide Elementary this week, where I saw literacy and math instruction in action across all grade levels. Seeing the confidence expressed by our scholars was inspiring! Across the district, schools have been hosting Scholar-Led Conferences this week. This valuable time allows scholars to take ownership of their learning and share their progress with families. I want to thank all our FWPS families who participated, and to our staff who make these conferences impactful, thank you for your time and commitment to our scholars’ academic success.  Earlier today, FWPS was honored to attend a special ceremony hosted by the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, recognizing our shared commitment to expanding meaningful cultural experiences for Native scholars. The event highlighted our collaborative work around the Since Time Immemorial curriculum and our MOU to ensure authentic integration of Native culture, history, and identity, in support of our Native scholars. We’re deeply grateful for this partnership and its impact on empowering future generations through education. As we head into Spring Break next week, I hope everyone takes time to rest, recharge, and enjoy time with loved ones. We’ll see you back on Monday, April 7, ready for the final stretch of the school year! In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent Good News Announcements and Because of You Recognition We’re #FWPSProud of our phenomenal scholars, staff, and community members and love recognizing them during the Good News Announcements at board meetings! Read more about their accomplishments at  www.fwps.org/GoodNews   Congrats to Staff Nominated and Awarded by Scholars with a “Because Of You” Award! Congratulations to all our FWPS educators who received the Because Of You Award at our board meeting for going above and beyond in supporting our scholars and/or positively impacting our community. We’re #FWPSProud of you all. Nominate a FWPS staff member for the award at www.fwps.org/becauseofyou . Now Enrolling: Give Your Incoming Kindergartener the Superpower of Bilingualism If you have a child entering kindergarten in the 2025–26 school year, now is the time to consider one of the most impactful educational opportunities Federal Way Public Schools has to offer: our Dual Language Program. Starting this fall, we are launching brand-new Korean/English and Spanish/English Dual Language Programs at Olympic View K-8, while continuing the well-established Spanish/English Dual Language Program at Sunnycrest Elementary, now in its 15th year. If you are interested, plan to attend the  Olympic View K-8 Dual Language Program Information Night on Wednesday, March 26. There will be a session for the Spanish/English Program from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and a session for the Korean/English Program from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.  In Dual Language programs, students receive instruction in both English and the partner language, developing bilingualism, biliteracy, academic excellence, and cross-cultural understanding. Students who complete the Dual Language pathway graduate with advanced language proficiency—ready for college, career, and a globally connected world. Dual Language education isn’t just about speaking two languages—it’s about unlocking your child’s full potential. Apply today and learn more at: www.fwps.org/duallanguage Submit your application at: www.fwps.org/enrollment/choice-enrollment Priority deadline: April 4, 2025 Frequently Asked Questions:  Dual Language  Do I have to live in the Olympic View or Sunnycrest attendance area to apply? No! Dual Language programs are open to all families in Federal Way Public Schools and to those outside the district through our Choice Enrollment process. Does my child need to speak Korean or Spanish to join? No! Our programs are designed for both English speakers and Korean/Spanish speakers. No prior language experience is required. Will learning two languages slow down my child’s progress in English? No! In fact, research shows that students in Dual Language programs often  meet or exceed their peers in English literacy and other academic subjects. Learning a second language enhances brain development, memory, and problem-solving skills, giving students a strong academic advantage. What are the long-term benefits of Dual Language education? Students gain fluency in two languages, perform strongly across academic subjects, and graduate better prepared for careers in healthcare, education, business, public service, and more.   Don't miss this opportunity to give your child the gift of language, culture, and academic success. Apply today—spaces are limited! Registration Open! Help Your Child “Bridge the Gap” for a Successful Transition to Next School Year Wondering how to best support your child as they transition to the next grade level? Join us for Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change , a Family Academy event on  April 24, from 6–7:30 p.m. at Evergreen Middle School . Explore mini workshops packed with valuable resources and expert insights to help your family prepare for the school year ahead. You'll leave feeling confident and equipped to support a smooth and successful transition for your child. 📝 Some workshops include: Together We Grow: Family Strategies for Emotional Support in School Changes Stepping Up: How Digital Footprints Impact Middle School Success Ready, Set, Kindergarten! What Happens When the Bus Stops? Supporting Secondary Transitions for Scholars with IEPs What I Wish I Knew Before High School & Exploring Post-High School Training/Education for Career Success Building Math Bridges Plus, senior families can enjoy FAFSA support provided by FWPS College and Career Specialists. ✨ Dinner, interpreters, and childcare are provided at the in-person option.  🔗 View all workshop details and register at www.fwps.org/bridgingthegap .  🎓✨  Class of 2025: Enter the Graduation Program Artwork Contest! ✨🎓 Attention Class of 2025 Seniors! Federal Way Public Schools invite you to showcase your talent! 🎨  Submit your artwork for a chance to be featured on the inside front cover of your high school’s graduation program! One winning piece will be selected from each school. Your submission can be a class photo or original student artwork that meets the following criteria: Page width: 8.5 inches Page height: 11 inches File format: PDF 📅  Submission Deadline: April 25, 2025  📧  Submit To:  Your School’s Career & College Specialists Put your creativity on display and make your mark on this year’s graduation program. Will your artwork be the winning design? We can’t wait to find out! Reminder: Spring Break March 31 - April 4 and Early Release April 11 As a friendly reminder, there will be no school Monday, March 31 through Friday, April 4, due to Spring Break. Schools will resume normal schedules on Monday, April 7!   Early Release Friday, April 11, 2025 This is a friendly reminder that Friday,  April 11 is an Early Release day. Schools are let out 75 minutes early in support of staff professional learning and collaboration time. View the bell schedules at: www.fwps.org/earlyrelease 🏆 Get ready for the FWPS Attendance Cup Challenge!  🏆 The second annual Attendance Cup competition is back! From April 7 through May 30, schools across FWPS will compete for the top spot in attendance! Our theme remains  "Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!"  because showing up each day builds the foundation for success. Regular attendance isn’t just about being present—it’s about preparing for a bright future! We’re bringing back the friendly competition! Schools will compete for top honors in best overall attendance and most improved attendance, with weekly challenge awards along the way. Help your school earn the FWPS Attendance Cup! Learn more at: www.fwps.org/attendancecu p Preschool Enrollment for 2025-26 School Year Will your child be three or four-years-old on or by August 31? Consider enrollment in one of our preschool programs! Learn more on our website at: www.fwps.org/preschool , by phone at 253-945-2379, or email at preschool@fwps.org Did you know children ages 3-4 may be eligible for free state-funded preschool? Attend the ECEAP Preschool Info Night to learn more about this program and see if your family is eligible. ECEAP Preschool Info Night  April 16, 2025, from 4-6 pm  Truman Campus ECEAP  ( 31457 28th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003 ) ECEAP offers several benefits including: Play-based learning Developmental curriculum Family support  You can also apply on the spot! Click here to learn more! 📢 Save the Date: Register for Summer Learning 2025! 📢 📢  Registration Now Open: Sign Up for Summer Learning 2025!  📢 Federal Way Public Schools families, registration for summer learning is now open! Don’t miss out on engaging programs for scholars in grades K-12. ☀️📚 📅 Program Dates: June 30 – July 24, 2025 (Monday – Thursday)  🚍 Transportation available (must indicate need on registration form)  🥪 Breakfast & lunch provided 💡 Programs Offered:  🔹  Camp Invention (grades K-4): ELA, Math, STEM & gardening  🔹  Camp Exploration (grades 5-7): ELA, Math & electives like sports, STEAM & art  🔹  Camp Acceleration (grades 8-12): Credit & non-credit courses, Algebra I, electives like culinary arts & more Space is limited—register early! Registration closes April 18, 2025. 🔗 Visit www.fwps.org/SummerLearning to sign up today! 🚀✨ CONTACT Federal Way Public Schools 33330 8th Avenue S Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 comments@fwps.org LINKS AND RESOURCES Language Access Plan Employment ParentVUE School Year Calendar School Menus STAY CONNECTED Facebook Instagram X (Formerly Twitter) YouTube Peachjar March 28, 2025

Saturday, Mar 29 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News - March 21, 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News March 21, 2025 FWPS WEBSITE CAREERS CALENDAR CONTACT   Greetings Families, Staff, and Community, Spring is in full swing, and so is hands-on learning across our schools! This week, I had the opportunity to visit Decatur High School and visited two of our CTE programs: automotive and agriculture/horticulture programs and while students were busy at work preparing for student led conferences, both teachers provided me with a behind the scenes tour of all the impressive skills students gain while being enrolled in these programs.    We also continued engaging our families in shaping the future of education in FWPS. At this week’s Parent Advisory meeting, families explored the new Portrait of a Graduate competencies, sharing valuable feedback on how these skills should look, sound, and feel in our classrooms. Their insights will help guide how we bring this vision to life for scholars.  Our Kinders to College program is keeping our youngest learners dreaming big! On Tuesday and Wednesday, kindergarteners from Panther Lake Elementary visited St. Martin's University, and Twin Lakes and Woodmont kinders headed to University of Puget Sound, while Enterprise Elementary scholars explored Pierce College. These visits introduce our scholars to the possibilities that lie ahead and help build excitement for their academic journey.  Last evening, more than 150 scholars gathered at Meredith Hill Elementary for Battle of the Math Brain! Scholars worked in teams to tackle math questions/problems, cheered on by families and staff. It was a fantastic celebration of mathematical thinking, friendly competition, and the joy of learning together. A huge thank you to our educators and volunteers for making this event such a success!  I also don’t want you to miss this special  Literacy Month video from Star Lake Elementary , showcasing the strategies and supports in place to build strong readers. From small group instruction to engaging read-alouds, our educators are creating meaningful opportunities for scholars to develop essential literacy skills.  And finally, we have one week to go before spring break—I hope you are all planning to attend Scholar-Led Conferences and share important time with your child and their teacher, looking at progress and goals as we head into the last months of the school year! In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent Now Enrolling: Give Your Incoming Kindergartener the Superpower of Bilingualism If you have a child entering kindergarten in the 2025–26 school year, now is the time to consider one of the most impactful educational opportunities Federal Way Public Schools has to offer: our Dual Language Program. Starting this fall, we are launching brand-new Korean/English and Spanish/English Dual Language Programs at Olympic View K-8, while continuing the well-established Spanish/English Dual Language Program at Sunnycrest Elementary, now in its 15th year. If you are interested, plan to attend the  Olympic View K-8 Dual Language Program Information Night on Wednesday, March 26. There will be a session for the Spanish/English Program from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and a session for the Korean/English Program from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.  In Dual Language programs, students receive instruction in both English and the partner language, developing bilingualism, biliteracy, academic excellence, and cross-cultural understanding. Students who complete the Dual Language pathway graduate with advanced language proficiency—ready for college, career, and a globally connected world. Dual Language education isn’t just about speaking two languages—it’s about unlocking your child’s full potential. Apply today and learn more at: www.fwps.org/duallanguage Submit your application at: www.fwps.org/enrollment/choice-enrollment Priority deadline: April 4, 2025 Frequently Asked Questions: Dual Language  Do I have to live in the Olympic View or Sunnycrest attendance area to apply? No! Dual Language programs are open to all families in Federal Way Public Schools and to those outside the district through our Choice Enrollment process. Does my child need to speak Korean or Spanish to join? No! Our programs are designed for both English speakers and Korean/Spanish speakers. No prior language experience is required. Will learning two languages slow down my child’s progress in English? No! In fact, research shows that students in Dual Language programs often  meet or exceed their peers in English literacy and other academic subjects. Learning a second language enhances brain development, memory, and problem-solving skills, giving students a strong academic advantage. What are the long-term benefits of Dual Language education? Students gain fluency in two languages, perform strongly across academic subjects, and graduate better prepared for careers in healthcare, education, business, public service, and more.   Don't miss this opportunity to give your child the gift of language, culture, and academic success. Apply today—spaces are limited! Registration Open! Help Your Child “Bridge the Gap” for a Successful Transition to Next School Year Wondering how to best support your child as they transition to the next grade level? Join us for Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change , a Family Academy event on  April 24, from 6–7:30 p.m. at Evergreen Middle School . Explore mini workshops packed with valuable resources and expert insights to help your family prepare for the school year ahead. You'll leave feeling confident and equipped to support a smooth and successful transition for your child. 📝 Some workshops include: Together We Grow: Family Strategies for Emotional Support in School Changes Stepping Up: How Digital Footprints Impact Middle School Success Ready, Set, Kindergarten! What Happens When the Bus Stops? Supporting Secondary Transitions for Scholars with IEPs What I Wish I Knew Before High School & Exploring Post-High School Training/Education for Career Success Building Math Bridges Plus, senior families can enjoy FAFSA support provided by FWPS College and Career Specialists. ✨ Dinner, interpreters, and childcare are provided at the in-person option.  🔗 View all workshop details and register at www.fwps.org/bridgingthegap .  Star Lake’s Fifth Graders Are Crushing Their Annual Reading Goals     We’re still celebrating National Reading Month and are excited to share how scholars are engaged in reading.   Every year, our scholars participate in state testing to determine their reading levels and set goals for improvement. Fifth grade scholars at Star Lake are crushing it, with most having already met their annual reading growth target goals in half a school year!   This success is thanks to their dedicated teachers, Ms. Mellander and Ms. Blair who have successfully implemented the district’s Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) strategies to meet individual needs.    Learn how teacher support and encouragement coupled with hard work by scholars worked together to achieve this tremendous accomplishment.   Read the full story here: https://www.fwps.org/story/~board/news/post/star-lake-reading-growth . Reminder: Spring Break March 31 - April 4! As a friendly reminder, there will be no school Monday, March 31 through Friday, April 4, due to Spring Break. Schools will resume normal schedules on Monday, April 7! 🏆 Get ready for the FWPS Attendance Cup Challenge!  🏆 The second annual Attendance Cup competition is back! From April 7 through May 30, schools across FWPS will compete for the top spot in attendance! Our theme remains  "Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!"  because showing up each day builds the foundation for success. Regular attendance isn’t just about being present—it’s about preparing for a bright future! We’re bringing back the friendly competition! Schools will compete for top honors in best overall attendance and most improved attendance, with weekly challenge awards along the way. Help your school earn the FWPS Attendance Cup! Learn more at: www.fwps.org/attendancecup Scholar-Led Conferences: March 27-28 It's time to sign up for your child's school conference! This time is dedicated to hearing about your child's academic goals and progress, and we hope to see each one of you there. To view available times and schedule your child's conference, log into ParentVuew and click on "Scholar Led Conferences." If you have any questions about this process, there are helpful guides and videos on our website at  www.fwps.org/SLC . If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your child’s school. Our families are critical partners in each scholar’s learning. Parents, visit our website for helpful resources:  www.fwps.org/SLC .  Throughout the year, be sure to check ParentVue and frequently monitor your child’s progress including attendance, grades, report cards, and schedules at https://grades.fwps.org. Preschool Enrollment for 2025-26 School Year Will your child be three or four-years-old on or by August 31? Consider enrollment in one of our preschool programs! Learn more on our website at: www.fwps.org/preschool , by phone at 253-945-2379, or email at preschool@fwps.org Did you know children ages 3-4 may be eligible for free state-funded preschool? Attend the ECEAP Preschool Info Night to learn more about this program and see if your family is eligible. ECEAP Preschool Info Night  April 16, 2025, from 4-6 pm  Truman Campus ECEAP  ( 31457 28th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003 ) ECEAP offers several benefits including: Play-based learning Developmental curriculum Family support  You can also apply on the spot! Click here to learn more! 📢 Save the Date: Register for Summer Learning 2025! 📢 Federal Way Public Schools is excited to offer engaging summer learning opportunities for scholars in grades K-12! ☀️📚 📅  Program Dates: June 30 – July 24, 2025 (Monday – Thursday)  🚍  Transportation available (must indicate need on registration form)  🥪 Breakfast & lunch provided 💡 Programs Offered:  🔹  Camp Invention (for current grade K-4 scholars): ELA, Math, STEM & gardening  🔹  Camp Exploration (for current grade 5-7 scholars): ELA, Math & electives like sports, STEAM & art  🔹  Camp Acceleration (for current grade 8-12 scholars): Credit & non-credit courses, Algebra I, electives like culinary arts & more Registration opens March 24! Space is limited—register early! Registration closes  April 18, 2025 . 🔗 Visit www.fwps.org/SummerLearning for details & to register! 🚀✨ CONTACT Federal Way Public Schools 33330 8th Avenue S Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 comments@fwps.org LINKS AND RESOURCES Language Access Plan Employment ParentVUE School Year Calendar School Menus STAY CONNECTED Facebook Instagram X (Formerly Twitter) YouTube Peachjar March 21, 2025

Saturday, Mar 22 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News - March 14, 2025

Federal Way Public School E-Newsletter March 14, 2025 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, Spring just around the corner and our schools are buzzing with energy! This week has been filled with hands-on learning, meaningful community connections, and scholar celebrations. Last night, we had record-breaking attendance at our 8th Annual STEAM Exploration Night! The event brought together more than 4,250 scholars, families, and community members for an interactive evening celebrating science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Check out the  STEAM Expo blog post and additional photos on our social media channels! I want to give a huge thank you to everyone who made this experience possible for our scholars and I am already looking forward to what next year will bring! As we continue highlighting National Literacy Month, we are excited to announce the release of our third annual  Scholar Recommended Book List —a collection of favorite books nominated by PreK-12 scholars across the district. This year’s list features a wide range of genres and interests, including action and adventure, history, fables and fantasy, science fiction and more. I know I am excited to check out the selections! At Tuesday’s board meeting at Mirror Lake Elementary, we celebrated outstanding achievements across academics, athletics, and the arts: Scholar-athletes in wrestling and swim & dive from all four high schools were recognized for their state-level accomplishments. The Thomas Jefferson High School chess team took home the championship title at the South King County High School Chess Championships. Outstanding musicians from across the district earned superior ratings at the Valley Regional Solo and Small Ensemble Contest and the Federal Way High School Mariachi Ensemble placed first in their category and will advance to the 2025 WIAA Music Educators Association State Solo and Ensemble Contest—what an incredible honor!  Middle school students at TAF@Saghalie showcased their STEM projects to staff and community members, applying critical thinking, collaboration, and technology skills to solve real-world challenges. Working alongside partners like the MaST Aquarium, Fusion, and We Rock the Spectrum Indoor Gym, scholars tackled meaningful projects that demonstrate the power of hands-on learning. Applications are now open for our new Korean/English and Spanish/English Dual Language programs at Olympic View K-8! These programs offer kindergarten scholars the chance to become bilingual and biliterate while building strong academic and cultural connections. Our long-standing Spanish/English program at Sunnycrest Elementary is also enrolling for its 15th year!  As we look to the end of March, I encourage families to sign up for Scholar-Led Conferences! This is valuable time to hear from your scholar about their progress, goals, and achievements. In the fall, an amazing 92% of scholars and families participated—let’s keep that momentum going! Look below for information on how to sign up and if you need assistance, please reach out to your child’s school!  It’s truly incredible to see the depth of learning and the variety of opportunities our scholars engage in every day—from academics to music, STEAM, athletics, and beyond.  In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent STEAM Exploration Night Brings Scholars, Families, and Community Together for a Record-Breaking Event Federal Way Public Schools (FWPS) hosted its eighth annual STEAM Exploration Night at Federal Way High School yesterday, drawing a record-breaking crowd of over 4,250 attendees—more than 600 attendees above last year’s total! Scholars and families immersed themselves in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) through nearly 150 interactive booths and 20 special experiences designed to inspire and educate. Thank you to our Sponsors and Partners STEAM Exploration Night was made possible through the generous support of FORMA Construction, Highline College, Sylvan Learning Center of Federal Way, and Light of Christ Community Garden. We also want to thank the 101 participating organizations and nearly 130 dedicated volunteers who contributed to the event’s success.  Read the blog post at  www.fwps.org/steamnight2025  and check out the STEAM Exploration Night 2025 Photo Album on social media.  Scholar Recommended Booklist     To celebrate National Reading Month, we asked PreK-12 grade scholars across our district to share their favorite book with us to create the third annual scholar recommended booklist! Check out the top book picks in the video below, and access the full scholar recommended booklist at  www.fwps.org/scholarbooklist . To learn how we’re celebrating reading this month. visit our website at  www.fwps.org/NationalReadingMonth . Education Support Professionals Week This week we had the honor of recognizing our Educational Support Professionals! Our classified employees support our scholars in so many ways, including technical support, maintenance, assisting in the office and much more. Thank you for your efforts to help our scholars succeed. Pictured here are some of our many great education support professionals. Scholar-Led Conferences: March 27 and 28! Scholar-Led Conferences are coming up on March 27 and 28, 2025, and it’s time to sign up for your child’s conference time!  This time is dedicated to hearing about your child’s academic goals and progress, and we hope to see each one of you there. To view the available times and schedule your child’s conference, log into ParentVue and click on “Scholar Led Conferences.” If you have any questions about this process, there are helpful “How To” guides and videos on our website at  www.fwps.org/SLC.  If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your child’s school. Our goal for these conferences is 100% participation from students and families, and we strongly encourage you and your child to attend. Our families are critical partners in each scholar’s learning. Parents, visit our website for helpful resources:  www.fwps.org/SLC . Throughout the year, be sure to check ParentVue and frequently monitor your child’s progress including attendance, grades, report cards, and schedules at  https://grades.fwps.org . Good News Announcements: March 11, 2025 We’re #FWPSProud of our phenomenal scholars, staff, and community members and love recognizing them during the Good News Announcements at board meetings! Read more about their accomplishments at  www.fwps.org/GoodNews Now Accepting Dual Language Program Applications!  Give your child the gift of bilingualism! Applications are now open for Federal Way Public Schools’ Dual Language Programs, including our new Korean/English and Spanish/English programs at Olympic View K-8 and our long-standing Spanish/English program at Sunnycrest Elementary, now in its 15th year . Why Dual Language? Bilingual & Biliterate : Scholars learn to read, write, and communicate in two languages. Stronger Academic Success : Research shows dual language learners excel in literacy, math, and problem-solving. Cultural Connections : Students develop a deep appreciation for different cultures, preparing them for a diverse world. Future Career Advantages : Bilingual skills open doors in global business, healthcare, education, and more. Who Can Apply? These programs are open to  all incoming kindergarteners —both within FWPS and out-of-district students through Choice Enrollment. Spaces are limited, so families are encouraged to apply early. Apply today as our p riority deadline is April 4, 2025 Help your child build a bilingual future! Early Release Reminder This is a friendly reminder that Friday,  March 21 is an Early Release day.  Schools are let out 75 minutes early in support of staff professional learning and collaboration time.  View the bell schedules at: www.fwps.org/earlyrelease Save the Date for Family Academy: April 24, 2025 Wondering how to best support your child as they transition to the next grade level?  Join us for  Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change , a Family Academy event on  April 24, from 6–7:30 p.m. at Evergreen Middle School . Explore mini workshops packed with valuable resources and expert insights to help your family prepare for the school year ahead.  You'll leave feeling confident and equipped to support a smooth and successful transition for your child. Stay tuned for more details!

Saturday, Mar 15 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News - March 7, 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News March 7, 2025 FWPS WEBSITE CAREERS CALENDAR CONTACT   Greetings Families, Staff, and Community, This week, we celebrated Read Across America Week, shining a spotlight on the importance of literacy. One of the most exciting parts of my week was the opportunity to visit Mark Twain Elementary and read to third and fifth-grade classrooms. I know many of our schools welcomed community members to read aloud to scholars as well—so if you helped share your love of reading with our students THANK YOU. To keep the momentum going at home, set aside dedicated time for reading together, or visit our local KCLS library! Watch for next week's E-Newsletter which will include our Scholar Recommended Book List and soon we will be sharing information about our annual FWPS Battle of the Books in April—so stay tuned for more details! We also had another Kinders to College visit this Wednesday, with Brigadoon Elementary and Nautilus K-8 scholars exploring Highline College. Students engaged in hands-on science activities, from earthquake simulations to chemistry experiments. Next up, Lake Grove Elementary will visit Bellevue College, and Sherwood Forest and Star Lake will head to the University of Puget Sound. We are so grateful for our higher education partners who help make these experiences possible! Thursday marked the final Portrait of a Graduate Design Team Meeting, wrapping up months of collaboration that began in October. Close to 200 participants—including families, educators, higher education partners, community members, and business leaders—came together to define the key competencies our graduates need to thrive. In this last session, we explored how these competencies will come to life in our classrooms. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed their time, insights, and ideas. I look forward to sharing our Portrait of a Graduate with the broader FWPS community soon! This morning, I had the honor of attending the Communities in Schools Breakfast at Evergreen Middle School, where we celebrated the incredible mentors who make a difference for our scholars every day. Their dedication ensures that students receive the academic and emotional support they need to stay engaged and succeed. From tutoring and mentorship to providing resources and encouragement, these individuals truly embody the power of community. Thank you all for your continued partnership in supporting our scholars. Have a wonderful weekend! In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent School Board Corner: March 2025 Greetings FWPS Community, On behalf of the Federal Way Public Schools Board of Directors, I’m excited to share some of the meaningful work taking place across our district over the past several weeks. Director Phillips attended the National School Boards Association (NSBA) Advocacy and Equity Institute in Washington, D.C., from February 1-6, engaging in critical discussions on educational equity and policy. At our February 11 Board Meeting at Star Lake/Evergreen Middle School, we learned about the wide range of Multilingual Services offered across FWPS. With 128 languages spoken in our community and an increasing number of scholars in ML programs, these services are vital in ensuring every scholar has the tools they need to thrive. This work directly aligns with our Strategic Plan, particularly Goals 2, 3, 4, and 5. Also taking place on February 11, Director Davis visited Enterprise Elementary, where she had the opportunity to observe engaged scholars and dedicated staff in action.  At our February 25 Board Meeting at Twin Lakes Elementary, we received an insightful presentation on Ends 3, which focuses on student responsibility. We also celebrated incredible scholar achievements in athletics, cheer, and the business-focused DECA regional competition—where many of our scholars earned spots at the statewide conference! From February 18-20 and on February 26, Directors Phillips, Murphy, and Davis attended the district’s mid-year School Improvement Plan presentations. These sessions provided valuable insight into the diligent work schools are doing to increase student achievement and create positive learning environments. Our final Portrait of a Graduate Design Team meeting took place last evening at Evergreen Middle School, bringing months of collaboration to a close as we finalized the competencies that will shape the future of FWPS graduates. The annual Communities in Schools Fundraising Breakfast followed this morning, and was a wonderful way recognize the invaluable mentors and community members who make a lasting impact on our scholars. As always, FWPS welcomes and supports all scholars and families in our community. The Board remains committed to ensuring every scholar has the opportunities, resources, and encouragement needed to reach their full potential. In partnership, Dr. Jennifer Jones President, Federal Way School Board STEAM Exploration Night: Less Than One Week Away Everything You Need to Know Before You Go STEAM Exploration Night is less than one week away, next Thursday, March 13, from 6-8 p.m. at Federal Way High School. By now, you already know about the many booths available, the hands-on activities and exciting experiences to participate in, and how we’re highlighting art at the event. We look forward to sharing our latest event improvements with you – it will be a time your child won’t forget!  Here are some helpful tips as you plan your evening:  Transportation:  Free parking is available at Federal Way High School and the overflow parking lot at Sacajawea Middle School. Shuttle service is also available as a convenient option from areas across the district and the overflow parking lot. View routes and more information at www.fwps.org/steamnight/transportation . Online Program to Plan Ahead: To get the most out of the evening, we recommend reviewing the program and event map before the event to identify interesting booths to visit and drop-in or scheduled experiences to attend. Doing so will help maximize your time at the event. View the program: www.fwps.org/steamnight/program . 💡 Tip: Filter experiences by category and tags! Multilingual Support: Interpreters in our top 10 languages will be present to help families enjoy the evening. For interpreter support, please visit the interpreter station near the Helpdesk. Simplified programs will also be available in select languages at the door, and the full program is also translatable online. Special Accommodations:  To accommodate the needs of as many families as possible, the event features the following special features: ADA access and activities, special dietary meal options including dluten-free, vegetarian and Halal, nursing room for mothers and babies, a sensory-friendly break room, and separate men’s and women’s prayer rooms for families for religious observance.  If you need help during the event, be sure to visit the Helpdesk in the Lower Commons for support! Find more information about STEAM Exploration Night at  www.fwps.org/steamnight .  A heartfelt thank you to our incredible 2025 STEAM Exploration Night sponsors: — SILVER SPONSORS — — BRONZE SPONSORS — Light of Christ Community Garden Sylvan Learning Center of Federal Way Early Release Friday, March 14, 2025 This is a friendly reminder that Friday,  March 14 is an Early Release day. Schools are let out 75 minutes early in support of staff professional learning and collaboration time. View the bell schedules at: www.fwps.org/earlyrelease FWPS CELEBRATES WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH March is Women’s History Month! We are excited for scholars to learn about the contributions women have made to the United States over the course of American history. At FWPS we believe each and every scholar has limitless potential. This belief is woven into the education of our children by including the achievements of women into our curriculum, not just in March, but all year round. Join us in honoring these trailblazers! Explore more at www.fwps.org/whm2025 . Now Accepting Applications: FWPS Korean & Spanish Dual Language Programs! Federal Way Public Schools is excited to expand our Dual Language Program, offering new Korean/English and Spanish/English options for incoming kindergarteners at Olympic View K-8 beginning in the 2025-26 school year!  We are also continuing our long-standing Spanish/English program at Sunnycrest Elementary, which has enriched student learning for over 15 years.  These programs provide incoming kindergarteners with the opportunity to become bilingual and biliterate, boosting academic success while preparing them for a future of global opportunities. Why Choose Dual Language? ✅  Bilingual & Biliterate – Students gain fluency in two languages. ✅  Stronger Academic Success – Research shows dual language learners excel in literacy, math, and problem-solving. ✅  Cultural Connections – Students develop a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures. ✅  Future Career Advantages – Bilingual skills open doors in business, healthcare, education, and more. Apply Today! 📅 Application Window: Now open until filled (Priority Deadline: April 4, 2025) 🔗 Apply Here Spots are limited so apply early if you are interested!   Scholar-Led Conferences: March 27-28 It's time to sign up for your child's school conference! This time is dedicated to hearing about your child's academic goals and progress, and we hope to see each one of you there. To view available times and schedule your child's conference, log into ParentVuew and click on "Scholar Led Conferences." If you have any questions about this process, there are helpful guides and videos on our website at  www.fwps.org/SLC . If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your child’s school. Our families are critical partners in each scholar’s learning. Parents, visit our website for helpful resources:  www.fwps.org/SLC .  Throughout the year, be sure to check ParentVue and frequently monitor your child’s progress including attendance, grades, report cards, and schedules at https://grades.fwps.org. National Reading Month: Scholars and Schools Celebrate! This past week, scholars and schools across the district celebrated the first week of National Reading Month, Read Across America Week, with read-alouds by special guests, spirit days centered around favorite books, at-home reading, and more! Mark Twain Elementary received a special surprise visit from Dr. Pfeiffer, who captivated a third and fifth-grade class with her book selections. Take a look at some photos from this week below, and learn more about how we're celebrating National Reading Month on social media and our website at www.fwps.org/NationalReadingMonth .  CONTACT Federal Way Public Schools 33330 8th Avenue S Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 comments@fwps.org LINKS AND RESOURCES Language Access Plan Employment ParentVUE School Year Calendar School Menus STAY CONNECTED Facebook Instagram X (Formerly Twitter) YouTube Peachjar March 7, 2025

Saturday, Mar 08 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News - February 28, 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News February 28, 2025 FWPS WEBSITE CAREERS CALENDAR CONTACT   Greetings Families, Staff, and Community! This week started with a blustery challenge as strong winds caused power outages across our district. A huge thank you to our road and weather teams for their early morning efforts to assess conditions and to our families for their patience as we prioritized safety.  There are so many amazing highlights from this past week, here are just a few I want to highlight for you:  A Showstopping Weekend for FWPS Music! The  2025 FWPS District Music Festival at the PAEC was a spectacular showcase of talent! Middle and high school scholars delivered outstanding choir, orchestra, and band performances, led by esteemed guest conductors. Thank you to our dedicated music educators and the Arts Foundation of Federal Way for supporting this incredible event. I am already looking forward to next year’s festival.   Celebrations at This Week’s Board Meeting Tuesday night’s board meeting at Twin Lakes Elementary was full of recognition and celebration.   Because of You Awards: We honored three outstanding teachers for their dedication and impact on scholars. Thank you Ameillya Jean of Panther Lake Elementary, Amy Fenning of Rainier View Elementary, and Ali Roper of Kilo Middle School, for making a difference in the lives of our FWPS scholars. Use our Because of You Form  to nominate a deserving teacher for future recognition. State Champions: We recognized Thomas Jefferson High School’s 2025 WIAA 3A State Bowling Champions, including Individual Medalist Champion Samyia. State Competitors: Celebrated Todd Beamer High School’s Bowling Team and Decatur High School’s Cheer Team for advancing to the state championships. DECA Success: 82 scholars placed in the top 10 at the Area Conference, qualifying for the State Career Development Conference. Tracking Progress: School Improvement in Action Over the past two weeks, we heard from all our school principals as they shared progress on their School Improvement Plans. They provided updates on Math and ELA growth, attendance trends, and efforts to strengthen scholars’ sense of belonging. It’s inspiring to see the hard work and dedication in action as schools implement their plans and track progress toward their goals!   Things to Look Forward To   March is Women’s History Month, and we’re excited to celebrate the achievements, contributions, and leadership of women throughout history and within our own FWPS community! Stay tuned for highlights from our schools throughout the month.  Next Thursday is our final Portrait of a Graduate Design Team Meeting! This meeting is the culmination of work that started in October and will bring together the insights and collaboration of parents, community members, staff, and scholars to finalize the competencies that will define what it means to graduate from FWPS ready for the future.  And lastly, we're less than two weeks away from STEAM Exploration Night on March 13 at Federal Way High School! Join us for hands-on exhibits, interactive demonstrations, and performances that showcase the connections between science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. More information is provided below and on our dedicated  STEAM Exploration Night website, so please check it out and I hope to see you there!  Before I close, I'd ask that you please read through my message to families below as we continue to navigate recent actions and executive orders at the federal level.  In Partnership,  Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent A Message of our Continued Commitment to FWPS Scholars and Families Dear FWPS Families,  I want to take a few moments of your time to address recent executive orders and actions at the federal level that have caused concern in our school community.  While the executive orders and corresponding court rulings may evolve,  we want to reassure you that nothing has changed in Federal Way Public Schools—our commitment to serving every student remains unwavering.  At our core,  we believe that every student, family, and staff member (of every race, linguistic background, sex, socio-economic status, disability/exceptionality, religion, and every member of the LGBTQ+ community) has the right to feel safe, feel valued, and feel a strong sense of belonging when they walk into our schools. Our schools are open to and are welcoming of everyone. We are unwavering in this belief.   No Changes to FWPS Policies or Programs At this time, the federal directives do not call for any changes to our current policies, practices, or programs. We continue to follow Washington state law which has prohibited discrimination based on race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin in public education since 1998, guidance from the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), and our own district policies and procedures which prohibit discrimination. We will communicate with you should there be any changes.    Our Commitment to Every Student We believe all students deserve the resources and support they need to thrive. We will continue to create and maintain safe, welcoming school environments in which every individual feels valued, respected, and embraced.  Thank you for your partnership, and for trusting us with the success and well-being of our scholars. We appreciate your support as we stand by our vision of excellence and equity for every student.  In partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Federal Way Public Schools  STEAM Exploration Night: Less Than Two Weeks Away! STEAM Exploration Night is less than two weeks away – can we count you in? We’re excited to bring this annual, district-wide event to you once again, and we’re certain it will be better than ever! Perks: Free dinner, shuttles, and giveaways.  Interpreters and special accommodations are available. 📅 When: Thursday, March 13, 2025  ⏰ Time: 6-8 pm  📍 Location: Federal Way High School Let us know you’re coming:  RSVP Now!   5 Reasons to Attend STEAM Exploration Nigh t! STEAM Exploration Night is just around the corner on March 13, but what’s all the hype about? Sure, it will be a family-friendly evening of extreme fun but there are more reasons why you should consider attending. Here are 5 reasons to attend the event: Check Out the New Addition of Art See the Positive Job Outlook Engage in Multiple Ways Plan Your FWPS STEAM Journey Learn How FWPS is Investing in STEAM 🔗 READ THE FULL BLOG POST:  Five Reasons to Attend STEAM Exploration Night 🔎 Check out the Program It is finally time for what you’ve all been waiting for – a full overview of what you can expect at this year’s event! So, without further ado, we invite you to explore what’s in store for you on March 13! 🔗 Click here to view the program Because of You and Good News Announcements: February 25 Congrats to Staff Nominated and Awarded by Scholars with a “Because Of You” Award! Congratulations to all our FWPS educators who received the Because Of You Award at our board meeting for going above and beyond in supporting our scholars and/or positively impacting our community. We’re #FWPSProud of you all. Nominate a FWPS staff member for the award at www.fwps.org/becauseofyou   Good News Announcements: February 25, 2025 We’re #FWPSProud of our phenomenal scholars, staff, and community members and love recognizing them during the Good News Announcements at board meetings! Read more about their accomplishments at www.fwps.org/GoodNews   2025 FWPS District Music Festival a Huge Success! 🎶  Relive the Magic of the 2025 FWPS District Music Festival!  🎶 This past weekend, FWPS middle and high school music scholars took the stage at the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center, delivering breathtaking choir, orchestra, and band performances under the direction of esteemed guest conductors. From powerful harmonies to dynamic instrumental pieces, our students showcased the dedication, skill, and artistry that make music education so impactful. A huge thank you to our talented students for their hard work and passion, and to our dedicated music educators and staff for making this unforgettable night a success! Now, you can experience it all over again!  Watch the full recording of the festival and enjoy every inspiring moment of this incredible musical celebration. 📺  Click here to watch the full performance! National Reading Month, March 1-31 March is National Reading Month, which celebrates the privilege of literacy and encourages readers, young and old, to engage in reading.   To highlight our commitment to scholar literacy, this month, we’ll feature book selections from our PreK-12th grade scholar community on our social media channels, a scholar recommended booklist, plus other reading-related activities and resources.   Next week, March 3-7, scholars will engage in various activities to observe national  #ReadAcrossAmerica Day. We invite you to share photos of your scholars with their favorite book for us to share on our district social media pages to celebrate your child’s love for reading! Send all photos to  socialmedia@fwps.org .    Get more information about the Reading Challenge, and all the ways we plan to celebrate National Reading Month at: www.fwps.org/NationalReadingMonth .  It’s National School Breakfast Week!  From March 3-7, FWPS is celebrating the importance of starting the day with a nutritious meal.  🏫🍎 Studies show that students who eat school breakfast have better focus, improved memory, and higher achievement in math and reading. Join us in recognizing the role of school breakfast in fueling success!  Learn more about our meal programs: fwps.org/nutrition-services #NSBW25 #ClueInToSchoolBreakfast #FWPS Reminders No School Due to Teacher Professional Development Day To allow our dedicated teaching staff a professional development day, there will be no school, on Friday, March 7, 2025.  School will resume on Monday, March 10.   Scholar-Led Conferences are coming up on  March 27 and 28, 2025 !  Parents and guardians, signing up for Scholar-Led Conferences on March 27 and 28 is now easier than ever in ParentVUE! Simply log in, select a time that works for you, and use the dropdown tool to request a translator if needed. These conferences are a valuable opportunity to hear directly from your child about their academic progress and goals. Help us reach our goal of 100% participation—we can’t wait to see you there! Visit www.fwps.org/SLC for helpful resources. CONTACT Federal Way Public Schools 33330 8th Avenue S Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 comments@fwps.org LINKS AND RESOURCES Language Access Plan Employment ParentVUE School Year Calendar School Menus STAY CONNECTED Facebook Instagram X (Formerly Twitter) YouTube Peachjar February 28, 2025

Saturday, Mar 01 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News - February 21, 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News February 21, 2025 FWPS WEBSITE CAREERS CALENDAR CONTACT   Greetings Families, Staff, and Community! Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community,  This week was filled with engaging discussions, celebrations, and opportunities to support scholar success!  Black History Month celebrations continue across FWPS! Twin Lakes Elementary hosted an assembly honoring Black Americans, closing with second graders singing Lean on Me. The Lakeland Elementary library gathered classes for special readings featuring “How Do You Spell Unfair?” by Carole Boston Weatherford and “Something, Someday,” by Amanda Gorman. The first book recounts the first Black participant in the US Spelling Bee and the discrimination she encountered, while the second emphasizes the power of unity and hope in making the world a better place. Next week, Valhalla Elementary's Living Museum will showcase student-led exhibits on influential Black figures—I can’t wait to see it!  At our monthly Parent Advisory meeting on Wednesday, families worked together to provide input on the Portrait of a Graduate competencies, helping define the skills and mindsets we want every scholar to develop. Next week, we’ll gather input from our Scholar Advisory before our final Portrait of a Graduate Design Team meeting on March 6. We are grateful for the valuable perspectives shaping this vision for our scholars’ future.  Last evening we held a successful Financial Aid support night that served more than 80 multilingual families! I want to give huge shout outs to our staff and partners responsible for making this amazing event happen, this includes our College and Career staff, interpreters, community partner College Possible, and the FWPS ITS department. Last year, we supported approximately 70% of our 2024 graduates in completing the FAFSA and WASFA, and we’re committed to increasing that number for the Class of 2025, ensuring even more scholars have access to the financial resources they need to pursue their future goals!    Finally, I am so excited for our FWPS District Music Festival tomorrow! Our middle and high school musicians will showcase their talent at the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center. With performances by our orchestras, choirs, and bands, along with distinguished guest conductors, this is a unique opportunity to elevate the musical experiences for our scholars. Admission is free, but space is limited—performance times are 1 p.m. for the Orchestra & Choir Concert and 7 p.m. for the Band Concert.  Thank you for your continued support of our scholars, and I hope you have a wonderful weekend!  In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent FWPS Scholars Are Learning Employable Skills Through CTE Courses                 Imagine schools where scholars are learning the process of gram staining and studying the human body with 3D laptops, or where they can gain employable skills as an automotive technician in an auto shop within their school – complete with bays, lifts, and other industry equipment. These are just two examples of how Federal Way Public Schools scholars are engaged in advanced, applicable learning through  Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses. FWPS scholars, grades 7-12, have access to a total of 82 unique CTE courses, many of which offer dual-credit and an opportunity to earn industry recognized certifications.   There are six CTE Programs of Study:  Agriculture Education Business and Marketing Family and Consumer Sciences Health Sciences Skilled and Technical Sciences STEM Learn more about these exciting courses in the CTE Overview video! Arts Foundation Federal Way Presents the 2025 FWPS District Music Festival This Saturday, February 22, FWPS middle and high school music scholars will take the stage at the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center for a celebration of musical excellence! Featuring choir, orchestra, and band performances, this festival showcases the dedication and artistry of our students under the direction of five distinguished guest conductors.  ✨ Admission is free, but space is limited! Don't miss this opportunity to experience the power of music education in our schools.  🎼 Performance Schedule: 🎻 Orchestra & Choir Concert: 1 p.m. 🥁 Band Concert: 7 p.m.  Winter Early Learning Gathering: February 27, 2025  Calling all early learning professionals and caregivers! Join us in person or on Zoom for the Early Learning Gathering on Thursday, February 27, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.   This is an opportunity to explore early learning in Federal Way, gather new ideas, and build community connections. The theme is “Building Meaningful Relationships with Young Children.” RSVP with FWPS Early Learning at  preschool@fwps.org or call 253-945-5875. The Zoom link will be emailed to you.   Please feel free to download our Early Learning Gathering Flyer   ✨ STEAM Exploration Night: Find Your Passion!  Are you ready for  STEAM Exploration Night ? In less than a month, Federal Way High School will be bustling with STEAM booths, activities, demonstrations, and more! This is the ultimate event of the year – you don’t want to miss this one which now includes art! This event has the power to spark interest in STEAM fields, igniting a new passion for learning and career exploration.  Remember, free transportation, food, interpreters, giveaways, and other perks are included!  STEAM Exploration Night 📅 When: Thursday, March 13, 2025 ⏰ Time: 6-8 pm 📍 Location: Federal Way High School RSVP to let us know you’re coming!   🔎 STEAM Exploration Night Shuttle Bus Routes Do you need a ride to STEAM Exploration Night?   FWPS offers free and convenient bus shuttles to the event for the entire family!  All students can ride the shuttle bus with a parent or   guardian, and high school students can ride the shuttle alone with a signed  permission slip .  View bus shuttle information, along with information about other ways to get to STEAM Exploration Night at www.fwps.org/steamnight/transportation .  Submit Your Favorite Book for the Annual Scholar Recommended Booklist FWPS is creating its fourth annual Scholar Recommended Booklist of books submitted by students across the district, and we want students to share their favorite books from this school year! This booklist will be shared on the district’s website, social media, and e-newsletter. Each selected book feature will include the book nominator’s name, school, and quote.  Students can submit their favorite book by 5 PM on Friday, February 28, 2025, for a chance to be included in the booklist. Books must be assigned reading from a teacher, or a free choice book from the classroom or school library. Although all book nominations may not be featured in the booklist, some may appear on the district’s social media.  🔗Click here to submit your favorite book!   (Entries must be submitted using FWPS student Google account)  ParentVUE: Access your child's grades, attendance information, and more!   Have you checked ParentVUE yet this school year? If you haven’t logged in recently, now is a great time to re-familiarize yourself with this important tool.  You can find helpful tutorials on our website here !     ParentVUE continues to be the place where you’ll find quick access to your child’s attendance, grades, list of courses, teacher information, and more! Have a new email address or phone number? ParentVUE is also where you’ll update your contact information to ensure your child’s school knows how to reach you!     What’s the difference between ParentVUE and ParentSquare?     ParentSquare  is a  communications tool that syncs with the contact information you enter in ParentVUE during enrollment and verification each year. Through this tool, you’ll:   Receive district, school, and classroom communications via email, text, voice call, and/or app notification  View the school calendar and upcoming events for your child’s school  Customize your notification preferences  Receive messages in your home language  And more!  ParentVUE  is your one-stop-shop for your child’s information about their personal academic progress. In ParentVUE, you’ll have quick access to your child’s:   Grades  Attendance  Course Schedule  Teacher Information  And,  you’ll use ParentVUE to schedule your child ’ s Scholar - Led Conferences!      Log in to ParentVUE today!   Reminder: Early Release Next Friday   Early Release for Friday, February 28 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, February 28 is an Early Release day. Schools are let out 75 minutes early in support of staff professional learning and collaboration time. View the bell schedules at: www.fwps.org/earlyrelease   CONTACT Federal Way Public Schools 33330 8th Avenue S Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 comments@fwps.org LINKS AND RESOURCES Language Access Plan Employment ParentVUE School Year Calendar School Menus STAY CONNECTED Facebook Instagram X (Formerly Twitter) YouTube Peachjar February 21, 2025

Saturday, Feb 22 2025