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

Federal Way Public Schools News - February 14, 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News February 14, 2025 FWPS WEBSITE CAREERS CALENDAR CONTACT   Greetings Families, Staff, and Community! As we settle into February, it's a great time to reflect on the incredible opportunities our scholars have to explore their interests and prepare for their futures.   This month, we’re celebrating Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month and the impact hands-on learning has in preparing scholars for high-demand careers. FWPS offers 83 unique CTE courses across a variety of fields, including robotics, engineering, healthcare, pre-apprenticeship, culinary arts, advanced manufacturing and agriculture (to name a few), giving our young people the opportunity to explore their passions and develop real-world skills. With approximately 5,839 students enrolled in a CTE course, these programs equip our students with the knowledge and experience needed for future success. We’ve been sharing stories and videos on our Facebook and Instagram feeds, so be sure to check them out!   I had a fantastic visit to Enterprise Elementary this week—where I saw students working hard in ELA utilizing close reading strategies as they looked for evidence from the text to support their thinking as well as young mathematicians focused on their procedural fluency on myPath. It was a great morning of learning and academics!  At our board meeting on Tuesday night, we received the Closing the Hunger Gap Award from United Way King County, in recognition of the incredible work of our Nutrition Services team has done in ensuring scholars have access to nutritious meals through our Breakfast in the Classroom and Second Chance Breakfast programs. We were also thrilled to celebrate our high school and middle school scholars who represented FWPS at the Washington State Thespian Competition, earning 28 awards across seven categories! The Thespys Awards recognize excellence in performance, technical theatre, writing, and filmmaking—showcasing the highest level of achievement in school theatre. Way to go, FWPS thespians!  A huge thank you to Highline College and Bellevue College for welcoming kindergarteners from Rainier View and Lakeland elementary schools this week for their first Kinders to College visits—one of our initiatives which provides every kindergartner their first experience on a college campus! Our youngest of learners got to dream big as they engineered marshmallow bridges, explored geology, and got a glimpse of college life. We’re grateful for partnerships like these and look forward to more visits this spring.   We’re just one week away from the 2025 FWPS District Music Festival on Saturday, February 22, at the PAEC! I can’t wait to see our talented musicians perform, with orchestras and choirs at 1 p.m. and bands at 7 p.m.--the festival will prove to be a showcase of FW talent. We’re also welcoming guest conductors to enhance this experience. A special thank you to the Arts Foundation of Federal Way for supporting music education in FWPS! If you are interested, stop on by the FW Performing Arts and Event Center to check it out.  Last night, I attended the Federal Way State of the City event, where I learned about exciting city initiatives and listened to a performance by Sacajawea Middle School’s Nighthawk Vocal Ensemble and watched the Todd Beamer High School AFJROTC present the flags. It was a wonderful reminder of the talent and leadership among our scholars.   As we head into the weekend, I encourage you to take time to celebrate kindness and connection with those around you. And don’t forget—there is no school on Monday, February 17, for Mid-Winter Break. Enjoy the long weekend, and I look forward to seeing everyone back refreshed for the weeks ahead!  In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent FWPS’ High School Planning Night Events Were A Success!  Eighth graders and their families attended for an evening all about transitioning to high school, and learned about school courses, clubs, activities, and more. Families visited multiple booths and classrooms to see and interact with displays of student work and had the opportunity to meet and talk with schools’ principals, counselors, current high school students, teachers, and other staff members.    “It’s important for [future high school students] to know what the school offers and see what entails before the first day; it’s good for them to see the different classes, meet some of the teachers, and understand what options there are so they can make good choices,” said Rachel, parent of a Sequoyah MS student.   Arts Foundation Federal Way Presents the 2025 FWPS District Music Festival On Saturday, February 22, 2025, 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. This year's festival features choir, orchestra, and band performances, led by five distinguished guest conductors across two incredible concerts.  ✨ Admission is free and space is limited—don’t miss this opportunity to witness the dedication, skill, and artistry of FWPS student musicians, highlighting the power of music education in our schools. Stay tuned for more details on this unforgettable musical experience!  🎼 The Orchestra & Choir Concert begins at 1 p.m., followed by the Band Concert at 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: One Month Away  STEAM Exploration Night , STEAM the Dream, is one month away! I hope you’ll join us at this exciting annual event where all 37 FWPS schools and over 90 industry partners are participating!  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! Remember! Food, drinks, and interpreters will be provided. There is also free transportation for anyone coming to the event. Pick-up and drop-off stops are located across the district. Find your stop at www.fwps.org/steamnight/transportation .  🔎 Check out the STEAM Night 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 on March 13!  🔗  Click here to view the evolving event program .  Helpful tip: Browse booths and special events by category!  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)  Good News Announcements: February 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   Reminders No School due to Mid-Winter Break, Presidents Day, Monday, February 17 In observance of Presidents Day there will be no school, and the Educational Service Center will be closed to the public, on Monday, February 17. School and district operations will resume Tuesday, February 18.   Early Release for Friday, February 21 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, February 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   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 14, 2025

Saturday, Feb 15 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News - February 7, 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News February 7, 2025 FWPS WEBSITE CAREERS CALENDAR CONTACT   Greetings Families, Staff, and Community! Well, the winter weather found us and I want to thank you for your patience as we navigated this week! I also need to give a huge shout-out to our transportation and road crews for their diligent monitoring of weather and road conditions, throughout the night and into the early hours of the morning. I'm equally grateful to our maintenance, custodial, and grounds teams who worked to ensure our school parking lots and walkways remained safe for our staff, students, and families. We will continue to monitor the weather and provide updates and communication as needed.     We are also happy to report that the weather did not interfere with the two High School Planning Nights this week - one at Todd Beamer High School and another at Federal Way High School. We have four more coming up next week, on February 11 at TAF@Saghalie and Decatur High School, and February 12 at Career Academy at Truman and Thomas Jefferson High School. The events provided our 8th-grade students and families with valuable information to successfully navigate the transition from middle school to high school. Check out our  High School Planning Night page for more information!    It was a packed house last night at our third Family Academy, hosted at Wildwood Elementary. The event featured our Summer Connections session, where families learned about valuable community-based and school-based summer resources and programming opportunities for their scholars. A thank you to our families that attended—we value and appreciate your partnership. A shoutout to our community-based partners and our staff who presented valuable resources for our families.     We were honored to welcome former Seattle Seahawk Doug Baldwin for a tour of our CTE and Pre-Apprenticeship programs at Federal Way High School. During his visit our students proudly demonstrated their skills through various projects, including electrical wiring, roofing, construction work and applied skills to their tiny home. It was a memorable event and his message regarding having an appreciation for the skills they are learning now for their future careers was one that will be remembered.   Tonight, I will join past and present students, families, staff and community partners to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Federal Way Public Academy. I am looking forward to the event and celebrating this historic milestone.     Next week I am so excited for our first Kinders to College field trip, Rainier View Elementary kindergarteners will be visiting Highline College. The program is part of a larger initiative to expose students to additional college-going activities throughout the year and ensure scholars can envision a pathway to success in school through FWPS and beyond.  In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent School Board Corner – February 2025 Greetings from the Federal Way School Board!  I’m delighted to share some of the exciting news and accomplishments from around our District over the past few weeks.  On January 6, we welcomed our scholars back from Winter Break to resume classes and extracurricular activities. Director Phillips participated in the WSSDA legislative session and conference and later traveled to Washington, D.C. from February 1–6 to represent FWPS at the NSBA Advocacy and Equity Institute.  On January 14, Director Jones attended the Federal Way Local Government Entity meeting hosted by South King County Fire and Rescue. That same evening, our Board Meeting was held at Green Gables Elementary School, where we learned about FWPS efforts in College and Career Readiness as well as Career and Technical Education.  On January 17, Director Davis, Director Phillips, and Dr. Pfeiffer visited Lake Grove Elementary for a tour and received a presentation from United Way of King County as FWPS was honored with the 2024 Closing the Hunger Gap Award.  Director Davis continued her campus visits on January 24, stopping by Star Lake Elementary, Evergreen Middle School, and Kilo Middle School, and she also visited Illahee Middle School on January 28.  Our second Board Meeting of the month took place on January 28 at Adelaide Elementary School. It featured our first Because of You staff recognition, along with a presentation on the Ends 2 District activities that support academic achievement.  On January 30, the District hosted the third Portrait of a Graduate Design Team meeting at Star Lake/Evergreen Commons. Director Morris and Director Murphy joined community members in this statewide effort, which supports Goal Five of our Strategic Plan—persistence to graduation.  Looking ahead, please mark your calendars for our next regular Board Meeting on February 11 at Star Lake/Evergreen Middle School. We encourage everyone to join us and stay connected!  On behalf of the entire Board, I want to emphasize that Federal Way Public Schools welcomes all scholars and families in our community. We remain dedicated to supporting every student’s educational goals and aspirations.  Respectfully,  Dr. Jennifer Jones  President, Federal Way School Board  Check out our evolving STEAM Exploration Night event lineup! We’ve got a full schedule of events lined up for Federal Way Public Schools’ families and friends. Most notably, are the abundant STEAM booths representing our six event pathways: Agriculture Education, Business and Marketing, Health Sciences, Family and Consumer Sciences, Skilled and Technical Sciences, and College and Career Readiness! 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! Here are just a few STEAM partner booths: REI , who will showcase products and their entire design and production process Green River College Cybersecurity and Networking Program, who will display live cyberattacks Mahan Design Werx , who will showcase their design portfolio including physical products and digital work Lakehaven Water and Sewer District , who will demonstrate the water life cycle with samples UW Bioenegineering , who will offer an interactive demonstration of biomaterials and polymers Bring Your Kids to College STEAM Workshops by Highline College , who is bringing a 3D printer! The Trap Lab Fitness , who will share their fitness app and a preview of their exercise classes View the rest of our growing list online at  www.fwps.org/steamnight   Remember! There is free transportation for anyone coming to the event. Pick-up and drop-off stops are located across the district. Find your stop at www.fwps.org/steamnight/transportation .  🚀 Inspire the Next Generation at STEAM the Dream at STEM Exploration Night! 🎨🔬 Federal Way Public Schools is looking for STEAM professionals to connect with high school students at our exclusive NextGen STEAM Lounge during STEAM Exploration Night. 💡 What’s in the STEAM Lounge?  The NextGen STEAM Lounge is an exclusive space for high school students to drop in and hear from industry leaders, grab free SWAG, snacks, and drinks, take professional headshots, and explore careers that spark their passion. 🌟 How You Can Make an Impact:  Give a short talk about your STEAM career journey. Engage with high school students one-on-one to answer their questions. Share insights about emerging fields in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM). Want to be part of this exciting opportunity? 🔗  Sign Up to Be a STEAM Industry Speaker! Note: Space is limited. Should volunteer slots fill up quickly, we will reach out to see if you would like to participate in another way.  Thank you for helping our students shape the future of STEAM!  Family Academy: Summer Connections Helps Families Plan for an Engaging Break Yesterday, over 300 families attended the third Family Academy event, Summer Connections, in person at Wildwood Elementary and through Zoom to learn about community and school-based summer resources and programs available. Families were able to attend focused workshops about FWPS summer school programs, using Colleague AI to supercharge their child’s learning, preparing for college, mental health, and more. They then enjoyed a resource fair featuring local community organizations where to gather additional information to plan an engaging summer for their children.   Save the date for the next Family Academy event, Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change, happening on Thursday, April 25, from 6-7:30 p.m. at Evergreen Middle School and through Zoom. Be on the lookout for more details!   For now, see some of last night’s highlights below! Because of You Award Students in grades 3-12 are invited to nominate any Federal Way Public Schools staff member in the district they believe has positively impacted them, their school, and/or their community for the “Because of You” award! Students should fill out a nomination form on the district’s website at www.fwps.org/BecauseOfYou . All nomination forms are due by end of month. Reminders No School due to Mid-Winter Break, Friday, Feb. 14 and on Presidents Day, Monday, February 17 Please remember there is no school on Friday, February 14 due to Mid-Winter Break. Additionally, in observance of Presidents Day there will be no school, and the Educational Service Center will be closed to the public, on Monday, February 17. School and district operations will resume Tuesday, February 18.   Are your contact preferences up to date? When weather impacts our normal school schedule, one way we communicate with you is through ParentSquare Alerts. To ensure you are receiving messages according to your preferences, please: Ensure your contact information in your ParentVUE account is up to date.   You can update your account by visiting  https://grades.fwps.org/ . If you have not activated your ParentVUE account, please contact your child’s school. Update your notification preferences in ParentSquare. You can edit message delivery settings according to your preference for voice, email and/or app notification as well as language preference. Please leave the option for "School Alerts" on to ensure you receive these important updates. More information is available on the  FWPS website and in  ParentSquare support . For more information about weather-related school closures or delays, please visit our website:  https://www.fwps.org/departments/communications/school-closure-and-delay 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 7, 2025

Saturday, Feb 08 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News - January 31, 2025

Federal Way Public Schools News January 31, 2025 FWPS WEBSITE CAREERS CALENDAR CONTACT   Greetings Families, Staff, and Community! We have reached the end of January and what a month this has been! We came back strong from winter break, with scholars and staff diving in to engaging classroom work, activities, and events that keep our school community busy. I am proud of all that is happening in our schools.   At Tuesday’s board meeting at Adelaide Elementary, we recognized six FWPS staff who earned their National Board Certification, a credential that is considered a “gold standard” in teaching and advances the quality of learning by maintaining high and rigorous standards. Congratulations to them for their outstanding achievement!  Additionally, we celebrated eight of our schools, Adelaide, Brigadoon, Camelot, Green Gables, Rainier View, Sunnycrest and Twin Lakes elementary schools, and Federal Way Public Academy, who were recognized by the Washington State Board of Education for their achievements in Closing Gaps, Growth, and Achievement from the 2021-22 and 2022-23 school years. We are so proud of the growth these schools have shown!   This Thursday, we held our third Portrait of a Graduate Design Team Meeting, where teams worked together to define key competencies for our scholars and explored options for how the final product will be presented. This work continues to shape a clear vision of what success looks like for FWPS graduates. We have one last meeting in March, to finalize our Portrait of a Graduate, ahead of our annual Community Connect event where it will be presented to the public.    And this morning, in honor of January being National Mentoring Month, we hosted the Mentor and Me Program Breakfast at the ESC, welcoming more than 60 current mentors and those interested in becoming mentors to FWPS students. Attendees learned more about key mentoring resources and identified key mentoring topics. We are so grateful for their continued dedication to helping our scholars achieve their goals.   As we keep an eye on the weather forecast for the coming week, I want to remind everyone of our  School Closure and Delay Protocols . If a school delay or closure is necessary, we will notify families through ParentSquare via text, phone call, and email. Updates will also be posted on our district website, social media pages, and shared with local news organizations.  Wishing everyone a safe and warm weekend!  In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent Celebrating National School Counseling Week! Next week is National School Counseling Week, and we’re excited to recognize the incredible contributions of our school counselors and College and Career Specialists! 🎉 These dedicated professionals provide essential support in academic success, college and career readiness, and social-emotional development, helping students build bright futures. Let’s take a moment to thank them for their unwavering commitment to our scholars! Learn more about the FWPS Counseling Program: www.fwps.org/academics/counseling   . Family Academy Summer Connections is Next Week on February 6! Summer will be here quicker than you think!  Save the date for the next Family Academy: Summer Connections on Thursday, February 6 from 6-7:30 pm at Wildwood Elementary and Zoom to get community-based and school summer programming and resources. Enjoy an array of workshops and a special resource fair to connect with community-based organizations. You can begin planning your child’s summer now!  Learn more and register at www.fwps.org/SummerConnections . High School Planning Nights Are Next Week! Eighth-grade families, be sure to attend High School Planning Nights, which will be offered at every FWPS high school between February 4-12!  These events are an excellent opportunity for 8th-grade students and families to: ✅ Successfully navigate the transition from middle school to high school. 📚 Explore course offerings and understand what to expect. 🤝 Engage with high school staff and current scholars. 🌟 Discover opportunities to prepare for college and future careers.   Learn more and view the events schedule at: www.fwps.org/HSPlanningNight STEAM Exploration Night: March 13, 2025 STEAM Booths, Workshops, and Experiences, Oh My! STEAM Exploration Night, STEAM the Dream, is a little over a month away. As you know, the annual STEM Exploration Night just received an upgrade and will now be known as STEAM Exploration Night – a much-anticipated improvement as we embrace the integral role of the  arts in fostering creativity and innovation within science, technology, engineering, and math.  📅 When: Thursday, March 13, 2025 ⏰ Time: 6-8 pm 📍 Location: Federal Way High School Let us know you’re coming! Click here to RSVP How would you like to:  Learn the proper technique of driving a screw into wood? Fly an airplane in a VR simulator? Test soil to determine its mineral composition? See how STEAM is implemented in the district by visiting FWPS school booths? Look at the circulatory system through Infrared technology? View specimens through a microscope? Learn how to take a prototype to production? Get advice about which courses to take to prepare for certain college degrees or post-secondary programs? Watch the crowd-favorite scholar films at the STEAM Film Festival (with popcorn, of course!) Not only will every FWPS school showcase STEAM learning at the event, but there are also now over 90 STEAM partners signed up to make this year’s event the best in history. That means over 120 booths in total! That’s not all! Along with event attractions, enjoy free food, convenient transportation, interpreters, an interactive online program, and fun event swag!  🚀 Inspire the Next Generation at STEAM the Dream at STEM Exploration Night! 🎨🔬 Federal Way Public Schools is looking for STEAM professionals to connect with high school students at our exclusive NextGen STEAM Lounge during STEAM Exploration Night. 💡 What’s in the STEAM Lounge?  The NextGen STEAM Lounge is an exclusive space for high school students to drop in and hear from industry leaders, grab free SWAG, snacks, and drinks, take professional headshots, and explore careers that spark their passion. 🌟 How You Can Make an Impact:  Give a short talk about your STEAM career journey. Engage with high school students one-on-one to answer their questions. Share insights about emerging fields in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM). Want to be part of this exciting opportunity? 🔗  Sign Up to Be a STEAM Industry Speaker! Note: Space is limited. Should volunteer slots fill up quickly, we will reach out to see if you would like to participate in another way.  Thank you for helping our students shape the future of STEAM!  Celebrating Black History Month February is Black History Month, also known as African American History Month. Throughout February, our schools will celebrate with assemblies, art projects, musical performances and more. We want to share these experiences with the entire District, so be sure to email photos to  socialmedia@fwps.org . We are also excited for scholars to hear Black American stories that thread throughout our culture and communities.  Beyond this month, FWPS is committed to making equity part of our daily instruction, ensuring scholars see themselves in their learning and feel a sense of belonging in our buildings. To that end, FWPS is dedicated to removing barriers to attaining high academic achievement and providing culturally responsive instruction all year long. www.fwps.org/bhm2025 Good News Announcements: January 28, 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 Congratulations to Our "Because of You" Award Recipients! 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 Honoring the Impact of Mentorship in FWPS As National Mentoring Month comes to a close, Federal Way Public Schools celebrates the mentors and organizations making a lasting difference in our scholars’ lives. From STEM and entrepreneurship to skilled trades and career readiness, mentorship helps shape bright futures. 📖 Read more about the  transformative power of mentorship in FWPS and hear from students, community partners, and Superintendent Dr. Dani Pfeiffer! Reminders EARLY RELEASE: Friday, February 7, 2025 This is a friendly reminder that Friday,  February 7 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   NO SCHOOL FOR SEMESTER BREAK: Monday, February 3, 2025 Please remember there is no school on Monday, February 3 due to Semester Break. School swill resume normal schedules on Tuesday, February 4. 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 January 31, 2025

Saturday, Feb 01 2025