Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter May 29, 2026

Federal Way Public Schools News May 29, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, I hope you enjoyed the long weekend and returned refreshed for the final weeks of the school year. As we head into graduation season, celebrations are in full swing across FWPS, and this week was no exception.  At our School Board meeting this week at Woodmont K-8, we celebrated several outstanding student accomplishments. Highlights included Federal Way Public Academy mathletes, Sacajawea Middle School’s Math Is Cool competitors, Thomas Jefferson High School’s R.A.I.D. Team 4469 for its success at the FIRST Robotics World Championships, Lakehaven Water Conservation Calendar winners, and our Battle of the Books champions from Lakeland, Rainier View, and Brigadoon elementary schools. We also recognized our June Because of You staff members who exemplify how powerful relationships make a difference every single day.   We are laser focused on improving attendance district-wide, and as part of that effort, we are currently in Week 6 of our annual Attendance Cup Challenge. This week, I had the pleasure of visiting Career Academy, TAF@Saghalie, and Twin Lakes Elementary to present our Attendance Cup “Future Earnings” checks. Career Academy and TAF@Saghalie earned recognition for Most Improved Attendance, while Twin Lakes Elementary earned both Most Improved and Best Attendance honors for Week 6 of the challenge. It is encouraging to see the commitment our students, families, and staff are making to improve attendance and support student success.   As we use these final weeks of the school year to continue supporting student success, our 9th Grade Assurance Teams gathered yesterday to review progress and share strategies that are helping more students stay on track for graduation. We were encouraged to see increases in the number of students passing their classes across the district, a positive sign of the hard work happening in our schools every day. The session was facilitated by the Network for College Success at the University of Chicago, a national leader in helping schools improve ninth-grade outcomes and student success.  On Thursday evening, I attended our annual Native Graduation Celebration, where we honored Native students transitioning from fifth grade to middle school, eighth grade to high school, and graduating seniors. It was a joyful evening that celebrated not only academic milestones, but also Native culture, identity, family, and community. Events like these help foster a strong sense of belonging and connection while recognizing the unique strengths and traditions our students bring to our schools.  Looking ahead to next week, we will celebrate our outstanding student-athletes at the annual Athlete of the Year Awards and honor our Team FWPS staff members who will be retiring at the end of the school year. We are grateful for their years of service and the lasting impact they have made on our students, schools, and community.  There will be much more to celebrate in the weeks ahead, and I look forward to sharing these special moments with our students, staff, families, and community. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   Watch the FWPS Class of 2026 Graduate! The big moment is almost here! Federal Way Public Schools is incredibly proud to celebrate our graduating seniors. If you have family and friends who cannot join us in person, they don’t have to miss a single second of the celebration. Every ceremony will be streamed live online so everyone can cheer on our graduates from anywhere. Be sure to save or bookmark our friendly, easy-to-remember link for quick access to the live feeds and the full ceremony schedule: 👉 fwps.org/watchgraduation2026 🎓 Senior Spotlight Videos As we count down to graduation, we are celebrating some of our amazing seniors and their post-secondary plans! Check out our website to watch our Senior Spotlight video series. We will be posting a new student feature every day, so be sure to check back regularly to see where the Class of 2026 is headed next! Save the link, set a reminder, and let’s get ready to honor our amazing seniors! For more information about graduation, head to www.fwps.org/graduation2026   Start Thinking About Summer Learning Opportunities Summer is just around the corner. It’s important to think about how to bridge school years with fun summer learning opportunities. Luckily, FWPS is continuing “Summer Learning for All” with a variety of offerings for K-12 scholars, including: Summer Learning Packets: Download your child's printable Summer Learning Packet or pick up a hard copy in schools. Hard copies for rising 1-12 grade levels packets are also available to families at the ESC. Video Lessons: K-5 scholars can access video learning available on FWPS’ YouTube channel and our website. Online Learning: Access online learning resources like SORA, iReady, Lexia, and Mathia by logging in to Launchpad to Learning to sharpen academic skills. Summer Reading Challenge: How many books can your scholar read before the next school year? Join thousands of other students in King County by participating in the Summer Reading Challenge. Learn more at: www.kcls.org/summer. FRED Bus and Free Summer Meals: Visit FRED, the big green school bus that brings healthy meals, learning and fitness activities to Federal Way students this summer. FRED helps scholars keep their academic skills growing at no cost to families! Be sure to visit one of the locations Monday - Thursday, June 23-July 30. FWPS will also be providing free summer meals through the USDA Summer Food Service Program. Find our list of locations and times at: www.fwps.org/SummerMeals. Programs by Registration: Scholars who have already registered, will participate in a variety of summer academic programs designed for grades K-12. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates about how to engage in summer learning. For more information, visit www.fwps.org/SummerLearning.   Get Ready to Return Technology Devices The end of the school year is near, which means it’s almost time to turn in checked out technology devices.   All checked out technology devices, which includes any loaner laptop, Wi-Fi hot spot, and associated power adapters, must be returned for inventory and updating. All scholars must return their technology equipment to their school of residence between June 3 through June 12.  Families that have devices checked out after June 12 will receive notification of fines due for the equipment.  Scholars will not be able to check out any additional equipment until the equipment is returned, or fines have been fully paid to the scholar’s school.   Families, please ensure your child returns their device to school between June 3-12.   Congratulations to Our “Because Of You” Award Recipients! We are proud to celebrate our Federal Way Public Schools staff members who were nominated by students and honored with a Because Of You Award at our recent board meeting. These educators and staff go above and beyond every day to support students and make a meaningful difference in our school communities, and it shows. 👉 Learn more about this month’s award recipients and nominate a FWPS staff member at www.fwps.org/becauseofyou. We’re #FWPSProud of each of you!    🏆 Congratulations to the Week 6 Winners of the FWPS Attendance Cup! 🏆 We are thrilled to announce the winners of Week 6 (May 18 – May 21) Attendance Cup! These schools have shown unwavering dedication to attendance excellence, and we couldn't be prouder! 🎉 Congratulations to the following schools for most improved attendance from the previous week and the highest 5-day attendance in their challenge group: 🌟 Highest 5-Day Attendance Rate Winners:        Decatur High School        Employment Transition Program        Kilo Middle School        Brigadoon Elementary School        Twin Lakes Elementary School        Valhalla Elementary School        Sunnycrest Elementary School 🌟 Most Improved Attendance Winners:        Career Academy at Truman         Employment Transition Program         TAF@Saghalie        Star Lake Elementary School         Twin Lakes Elementary School        Mark Twain Elementary School         Lakeland Elementary School Let's continue this fantastic work and strive to attend school every day! Together, we are shaping a brighter future for all our students. Learn more about the FWPS Attendance Cup and view our weekly leaderboard at www.fwps.org/attendancecup. Also did you catch our post earlier this week? In the last few weeks, Dr. Pfeiffer has been out surprising our FWPS Attendance Cup winners with some BIG checks, representing something even bigger: opportunity!! Why the $1,000,000 checks? Because research shows that students with strong, consistent attendance are more likely to graduate, pursue future opportunities, and earn more over their lifetime, potentially over $1 million more. Showing up matters. Every school day helps build confidence, connections, habits, and skills that open doors for the future. Congratulations to our Attendance Cup champions for showing what it means to show up for your future! 👏   🩺Get Started on These Health-Related Tasks for Your Child It’s almost summer break, but before you put next school year’s tasks on the back burner, we’d like to remind you about a few health-related items to plan for now.   Learn about which tasks you can check off the list this summer to ensure your child can start the 2026-27 school year on time. (Hint: school immunizations are major!) Click here to read more!   ☀️ Right At School summer camp for rising K-6 grade students! Act now to sign up for 2026 summer day camp through Right At School (RAS), our school year childcare partner that offers high-quality and flexible summertime care. Register for some or all the nine Adventure Weeks offered, each with a unique theme to captivate your child’s interest! Locations: ↗️Enterprise Elementary ↗️Star Lake Elementary Dates: June 22-August 21, 2026 Schedule: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM (with half-day AM and PM camps available) RAS summer camp benefits include:        Exciting field trips (optional)        Hands-on experiments and creative projects        Building and engineering challenges        Team games and friendly competitions        Water play, arts and crafts, sports and movement        Social skill-building, community, and everyday summer joy        Indoor and outdoor adventures For summer camp rates and to register, visit www.rascamps.com/summer or call 1-855-287-2466. Click here for the flyer.   🎵 Summer Music Opportunities As a reminder following our email earlier this week, registration is open for summer music programs! Space is limited, so please register soon. Important: If your student registers, please ensure they check out an instrument for summer use through their home school. Symphony South (Strings Only): June 29–July 23 (Mon–Thu), 8:00 AM–11:30 AM at Thomas Jefferson High School. Transportation is provided. Register here. FWPS Drumline: July 12–July 23 (Mon–Thu), 8:00 AM–11:30 AM at Thomas Jefferson High School. Transportation is provided. Register here. Federal Way Youth Symphony Orchestra Camp (All Instruments): June 29–July 3, 1:00 PM–5:00 PM at the Federal Way Performing Arts Center. Transportation is not provided. Register by June 5, 2026, by emailing FWYSOLOVE@gmail.com.   Good News Announcements May 26 We’re #FWPSProud of our phenomenal scholars, staff, and community members and love recognizing them during the Good News Announcements at our board meetings! Click through for an overview of our honoree’s cause for celebration. For more details visit www.fwps.org/goodnews.   🍎 Reminder: Washington SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) As a reminder, eligible school-aged scholars will receive a one-time $120 grocery benefit this summer to help buy food while school is out. What to expect: Most eligible families are automatically enrolled. Brand-new SUN Bucks cards and approval letters will begin arriving in the mail in mid-June. Important check: Cards are mailed to the address on file. If you have moved recently, please contact the SUN Bucks Call Center at 833-543-3230 to update your mailing details. For full eligibility guidelines, application details, and information on extra matching benefits at local farmers markets, visit our website here.. Early Release Friday, June 5, 2026 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, June 5 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   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar   05/29/2026

Saturday, May 30 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter May 22, 2026

Federal Way Public Schools News May 22, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, As we move closer to the end of the school year, our schools continue to be filled with opportunities for students to showcase their learning, creativity, and leadership. On Monday, we held our 3rd Annual CTE Scholar Showcase at Todd Beamer High School, highlighting all six CTE Programs of Study offered across our middle and high schools. The event began with high school students presenting their INCubatoredu business pitches to local professionals, followed by student booths, interactive demonstrations, and hands-on learning experiences showcasing the creativity and career-ready skills our scholars are developing across the district. Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate our students and their work throughout the year. I’m excited to share that Enterprise Elementary School took first place in the Washington State can recycling contest. Enterprise students and staff recycled more than 48,000 cans, over 1,300 pounds, as part of the nationwide Million Cans Recycling Contest, helping promote sustainability and keep recyclables out of landfills while learning about environmental stewardship. Attendance continued to be a major focus across the district this week, and I had the opportunity to present our Attendance Cup “Future Earnings” checks to Sunnycrest, Valhalla, Enterprise, and Brigadoon elementary schools, along with Sequoyah Middle School. These recognitions celebrate schools achieving either Most Improved or Best Attendance for the week while reinforcing the connection between strong attendance, academic success, and future opportunities. Check out the excitement on our social media channels and see where I go next! We were also grateful to recognize the many substitute staff members who support our schools during Wednesday’s Guest Staff Celebration. From team members who joined us this year to those who have served FWPS for more than a decade, our guest staff play an important role in keeping our schools and departments running smoothly each day. Our final Scholar and Parent Advisory meetings of the year also took place this week, with discussions focused on Behaviors that Promote Learning and connections to our Portrait of a Graduate competencies. I am deeply grateful for the thoughtful feedback and partnership our scholars and families shared throughout the year. Recognition and celebration continued this week as we concluded our final two School Board Recognition Nights at Decatur High School and Thomas Jefferson High School. These events honor scholars and staff who exemplify the goals of our Strategic Plan through achievement, growth, leadership, character, and service. As we head into Memorial Day weekend, I hope our students, staff, and families have a safe and restful holiday weekend as we take time to honor and remember those who have served our country. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   Download the New ParentVUE and StudentVUE Mobile Apps The current ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps are being retired and will not be available for use starting August 1, 2026. They are being replaced by new versions, available to download now. The new ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps offer a cleaner layout, user-friendly features, and an improved experience where students and families can access: View and update attendance records View student grades in the all-new, easy-to-read tile format Keep track of classroom assignments Customize alerts and quick links Complete enrollment and annual verification, and more Download the new apps to continue accessing this important information in a mobile format. App Store for iPhone:        ParentVUE (New)        StudentVUE (New)   Google Play Store for Android:        ParentVUE (New)        StudentVUE (New)   Click here to learn more about the new apps, including helpful tips on how to set up a new account or transition to the new version.   Last day to vote! Have you voted yet? Today is the last day to help choose the 2026 Federal Way Mirror male and female Athlete of the Year! Among 16 amazing FWPS scholar-athletes representing the best in Football, Track and Field, Wrestling, Golf, and more, only one male and female will be given this exciting honor, and it’s up to you to decide! Read more about this year’s nominees and vote by 11:59 pm tonight, Friday, May 22: https://www.fwps.org/AOTY   Washington SUN Bucks Are Returning for Summer 2026! Federal Way Public Schools is pleased to share that the state of Washington is operating the SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) program again this year. This program provides families with a one-time grocery benefit of $120 for each eligible school-aged scholar to help buy food during the summer months when school meals are unavailable. What to Expect: Approval letters and brand-new SUN Bucks cards will begin arriving in the mail in early summer (starting mid-June through August). Benefits can be used at grocery stores, farmers markets, and online EBT-approved retailers. How Do Families Qualify? Automatic Enrollment: Most eligible scholars who are directly certified for free or reduced-price meals, or whose households participate in assistance programs like SNAP or TANF, are automatically enrolled and do not need to do anything. Who Needs to Apply? Because all FWPS students receive meals at no cost during the school year via the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), status must be verified. If your family is not automatically enrolled but meets the household income guidelines, you can still submit an application online during the summer. Important Actions & Resources for Families Need to Update Your Address? Cards are sent to the address on file. To check or update your mailing address, contact the SUN Bucks Call Center at 833-543-3230 or TTY 800-833-6384. Stretch Your Benefits Farther: You can get additional bonus food benefits by using your SUN Bucks card at participating local farmers markets and grocery stores that offer SNAP Market Match and SNAP Produce Match. Learn More or Submit an Application: For general eligibility questions, to check application statuses, or to apply online, visit the official state portal at sunbucks.dshs.wa.gov.       🏆 Congratulations to the Week 5 Winners of the FWPS Attendance Cup! 🏆 We are thrilled to announce the winners of Week 5 (May 11 – May 15) Attendance Cup! These schools have shown unwavering dedication to attendance excellence, and we couldn't be prouder! 🎉 Congratulations to the following schools for most improved attendance from the previous week and the highest 5-day attendance in their challenge group: 🌟 Highest 5-Day Attendance Rate Winners: ·        Decatur High School ·        Federal Way Public Academy ·        Sequoyah Middle School ·        Brigadoon Elementary School ·        Enterprise Elementary School ·        Valhalla Elementary School ·        Sunnycrest Elementary School 🌟 Most Improved Attendance Winners: ·        Career Academy at Truman ·        Evergreen Middle School ·        Sequoyah Middle School ·        Rainier Elementary School ·        Twin Lakes Elementary School ·        Panther Lake Elementary School ·        Sherwood Forest Elementary School Let's continue this fantastic work and strive to attend school every day! Together, we are shaping a brighter future for all our students. Learn more about the FWPS Attendance Cup and view our weekly leaderboard at www.fwps.org/attendancecup.    Thank You, FWPS Guest Staff! Federal Way Public Schools recently gathered to honor our incredible certificated and classified guest staff at our annual Guest Staff Celebration! These dedicated professionals are essential to our district's daily success, stepping into our classrooms and schools to ensure learning never misses a beat. Whether filling in for a day or anchoring a classroom for weeks, our guest staff provide the stability and support our scholars need to thrive. Thank you to each and every one of our guest staff members for your unwavering commitment, flexibility, and dedication to FWPS scholars!   Early Release Friday, May 29, 2026 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, May 29 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 on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25. As a friendly reminder, in observance of Memorial Day there will be no school, and the Educational Service Center (ESC) will be closed to the public, on Monday, May 25, 2026. School and district operations will resume Tuesday, May 26, 2026.   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar   05/22/2026

Saturday, May 23 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter May 15, 2026

Federal Way Public Schools News May 15, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, Across FWPS this week, we had many opportunities to celebrate the achievements and hard work taking place in our schools and community. This week, we held two School Board Recognition Nights, one at TAF@Saghalie on Monday evening and another at Federal Way High School on Wednesday evening. These events celebrate scholars and staff who exemplify the goals of our Strategic Plan through academic achievement, growth, character, leadership, and service, and it is always inspiring to recognize the incredible accomplishments taking place across our schools. During this week’s School Board meeting at Illahee Middle School, we were treated to an outstanding performance by the school’s eighth-grade orchestra. We also celebrated scholars from Federal Way High School for representing FWPS at the Washington State Spring Fair Art Show, recognized Decatur High School student Omar Serna for earning first place in both the Boeing Manufacturing Assembler State Competition and the SkillsUSA State Diesel Technology Competition, honored the outstanding achievements of the Thomas Jefferson High School Math Team and Speech and Debate Team at their state competitions, and gratefully accepted a Certificate of Appreciation from the Islamic Center of Federal Way recognizing the district’s support of Muslim scholars and inclusive school practices. This week we also launched voting for our annual Athlete of the Year recognition. Sixteen outstanding FWPS scholar-athletes from Federal Way, Todd Beamer, Thomas Jefferson, and Decatur high schools have been nominated, and families and community members are encouraged to learn more about the students and cast their vote by May 22 at www.fwps.org/aoty. One of the highlights of my week has been delivering giant “$1,000,000 Future Earnings” checks to our weekly Attendance Cup winners. These fun recognitions help reinforce an important message: consistent attendance matters. Research shows that strong attendance throughout a student’s school career can positively impact future opportunities and earnings, and our schools are doing an amazing job building those habits for success. I’m excited to see where we’ll bring the checks next! And today, at the Washington Association of School Administrators Region 110 Awards Luncheon at Puget Sound ESD, we were proud to recognize the Citizens for Federal Way Schools Committee for their work with the Educational Programs and Operations Levy renewal with the Community Leadership Award and our graduating Scholar Advisory students with the Student Leadership Award. Both recognitions reflect the important role that partnership, advocacy, and student voice play in supporting the success of our schools and community. I’m also looking forward to the many opportunities ahead next week, including the CTE Scholar Showcase and INCubator Final Pitch event on Monday at Todd Beamer High School, our final Scholar and Parent Advisory meetings of the year, and celebrating our last Board Recognition Nights at Decatur High School and Thomas Jefferson High School. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent     📣 Your Voice Matters, FWPS Families! 💙💛 Federal Way Public Schools is inviting all families to participate in the 2026 Family Survey now through May 20. This is your opportunity to share your thoughts, experiences, and ideas for our schools and district. Your feedback helps shape future planning, communication, student support efforts, and district priorities — and every response makes a difference. 🌍 The survey is available in multiple languages  ⏱️ It only takes a few minutes to complete 📝 Take the survey here:  https://bit.ly/3Rbtbn5 Thank you for partnering with us and helping shape the future of Federal Way Public Schools! Download the New ParentVUE and StudentVUE Mobile Apps The current ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps are being retired and will not be available for use starting August 1, 2026. They are being replaced by new versions, available to download now. The new ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps offer a cleaner layout, user-friendly features, and an improved experience where students and families can access: View and update attendance records View student grades in the all-new, easy-to-read tile format Keep track of classroom assignments Customize alerts and quick links Complete enrollment and annual verification, and more Download the new apps to continue accessing this important information in a mobile format. App Store for iPhone: ·        ParentVUE (New) ·        StudentVUE (New)   Google Play Store for Android: ·        ParentVUE (New) ·        StudentVUE (New)   Click here to learn more about the new apps, including helpful tips on how to set up a new account or transition to the new version.   Now Enrolling New Students Bright futures start in Federal Way Public Schools. Online Enrollment is now open for the 2026–27 school year for new students, as well as previously inactive students returning to Federal Way Public Schools. FWPS offers more than just the basics: Free meals and school supplies for all students School buses for eligible students Guaranteed college admissions for eligible seniors Robust Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs Comprehensive support for multilingual learners Social-emotional and digital citizenship curriculum to develop the whole child And more! Join a community where every scholar is empowered to thrive. Enroll today: www.fwps.org/enroll *Enrollment for the current 2025-26 school year is also still open. Annual verification for returning students for the 2026-27 school year begins August 1, 2026.   The CTE Scholar Showcase is Next Week, May 18 — Check Out the Program! The third annual FWPS CTE Scholar Showcase is just days away, and we’ve got some exciting things to share! 📅Monday, May 18 | 6-7:30 p.m. 📍Todd Beamer High School Click here to check out the program! FWPS middle and high school CTE scholars are producing incredible work, and we’re excited to put their learning on display for everyone to see! Join us for an evening of inspiration, insight, and celebration to discover the innovative projects, skills, and talents CTE scholars have cultivated throughout the year. 🎓Why attend? ·        Elementary students can explore what CTE is all about—and what exciting courses are ahead in middle and high school ·        Middle and high school students can discover CTE classes that let them “try out” careers, gain industry experience, and even earn college credit before graduation ✨Bonus! Attend early, from 4:30-6 p.m. to see original business pitches from our INCubator Entrepreneurship students, Shark Tank style. You’ll get to cast your vote for the winning business idea! Free parking and interpreters are available. Learn more at www.fwps.org/CTEShowcase   🏆 Congratulations to the Week 4 Winners of the FWPS Attendance Cup! 🏆 We are thrilled to announce the winners of Week 4 (May 4 – May 8) Attendance Cup! These schools have shown unwavering dedication to attendance excellence, and we couldn't be prouder! 🎉 Congratulations to the following schools for most improved attendance from the previous week and the highest 5-day attendance in their challenge group: 🌟 Highest 5-Day Attendance Rate Winners: ·        Decatur High School ·        Employment and Transition Program ·        Kilo Middle School ·        Adelaide Elementary School ·        Enterprise Elementary School ·        Valhalla Elementary School ·        Woodmont K-8 🌟 Most Improved Attendance Winners: ·        Thomas Jefferson High School ·        Employment and Transition Program ·        Illahee Middle School ·        Adelaide Elementary School ·        Enterprise Elementary School ·        Silverlake Elementary School ·        Lakeland Elementary School Let's continue this fantastic work and strive to attend school every day! Together, we are shaping a brighter future for all our students. Learn more about the FWPS Attendance Cup and view our weekly leaderboard at www.fwps.org/attendancecup.    2026-27 Choice Post-Lottery Enrollment Application Now Open The Post-lottery Choice enrollment application is now open from May 1 – August 24. The application is open to all residents of Federal Way Public Schools and also residents of other districts. For more information, or to submit your online application, visit www.fwps.org/Choice Cast your vote today! Voting is now open to decide the 2026 Federal Way Mirror male and female Athlete of the Year! Among 16 amazing FWPS scholar-athletes representing the best in Football, Track and Field, Wrestling, Golf, and more, only one male and female will be given this exciting honor, and it’s up to you to decide! Read more about this year’s nominees and vote by 11:59 pm on Friday, May 22: https://www.fwps.org/AOTY   Good News Announcements May 12 We’re #FWPSProud of our phenomenal scholars, staff, and community members and love recognizing them during the Good News Announcements at our board meetings! Click through for an overview of our honoree’s cause for celebration. For more details visit www.fwps.org/goodnews.   No School on Friday, May 22. No School on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25. As a friendly reminder, since we haven’t had any snow days yet this school year, May 22 will be a no school day as scheduled. Also, in observance of Memorial Day there will be no school, and the Educational Service Center (ESC) will be closed to the public, on Monday, May 25, 2026. School and district operations will resume Tuesday, May 26, 2026. Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar   05/15/2026

Saturday, May 16 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter May 08, 2026

Federal Way Public Schools News May 8, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, It has been a week full of activities, celebrations, and learning across FWPS. I visited Camelot Elementary, Federal Way High School, and Todd Beamer High School, where I saw students engaged in meaningful learning, collaboration, and hands-on experiences that continue to prepare them for success beyond the classroom.  At Twin Lakes Elementary, kindergarten students wrapped up a hands-on science project exploring the butterfly life cycle. After observing caterpillars transform into butterflies, students cared for them before releasing them into nature this week.  I want to recognize Thomas Jefferson High School’s R.A.I.D. Team 4469 for their outstanding performance at the FIRST Robotics World Championships in Houston this past weekend, where they competed alongside 600 of the world’s top robotics teams. We are incredibly proud of these students and the innovation, teamwork, and dedication they continue to demonstrate.  Our 55th Annual Elementary Track Meet brought hundreds of elementary athletes to Memorial Field for a day of running, jumping, teamwork, and school spirit. It was wonderful to see students showcase the skills they’ve been building throughout the season while cheering one another on.  On Monday evening, the Federal Way Lions Club hosted its annual Recognition Night at Todd Beamer High School, honoring 24 middle school students and 10 high school students for their leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to service. We are grateful for community partners like the Lions Club for their continued support of our students.  This week was also our 26th Annual Battle of the Books, where teams of third- through fifth-grade students spent weeks reading, preparing, and competing for a spot in the district competition. Congratulations to our first place teams from Brigadoon Elementary, Lakeland Elementary, and Rainier View Elementary—who, in an unprecedented showing, all answered 37 out of 37 questions correctly.  On Wednesday, we proudly announced that seven FWPS schools were recognized by the Washington State Board of Education for exceptional progress in key academic areas of student success. This recognition reflects the dedication of our students, staff, and school communities, and we’ve shared more information in the section below.  Last evening, we kicked off the first of five School Board Recognition Nights at Todd Beamer High School, celebrating scholars and staff who exemplify the goals of our Strategic Plan through achievement, growth, leadership, and service. It is always inspiring to hear about the incredible work taking place across our schools. And as we close out Teacher Appreciation Week, I want to once again thank our incredible educators for the care, dedication, and expertise they bring to our schools each day. I also want to recognize our school nurses in honor of School Nurse Day, and our speech-language pathologists and audiologist as we celebrate National Speech-Language-Hearing Month. Each of you plays an essential role in supporting the success and well-being of our students, and we are deeply grateful for all that you do. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   Board of Directors Corner On behalf of the Federal Way School Board, I would like to share an update on some of the activities and meetings the Board participated in during the past several weeks. On April 14, I attended the quarterly Government Entities Meeting at City Hall alongside Dr. Pfeiffer. This meeting brings local partners together to discuss topics impacting the Federal Way community. Board members also participated in school visits throughout the month. Vice President Trudy Davis visited Lake Dolloff Elementary with Dr. Pfeiffer on April 15, and Director Phillips visited Green Gables Elementary with Dr. Pfeiffer on April 28. These visits provided an opportunity to observe teaching and learning taking place in our schools. During the April 21 Board Work Study, the Board received updates from Nutrition Services and a presentation on the Craft Education Pre-Apprenticeship Program. At the April 28 regular Board Meeting, the Board received presentations on EL-3 Financial and Asset Protection, as well as updates related to the Technology Levy, instructional technology, and artificial intelligence. On April 29, Board members participated in the annual Community Connect event at Federal Way High School, joining families, staff, students, and community members in conversations about the future of the district. At the May 5 Work Study, the Board received presentations on the High School Master Schedule and MTSS work within our Highly Capable and Earned Honors programs. And this Thursday, the Board hosted the first of five School Board Recognition Nights celebrating students for their leadership and academic progress! Thank you for your continued support of Federal Way Public Schools. Respectfully, Dr. Jennifer Jones President, Federal Way School Board   Community Connect Family Survey Now Open! Federal Way Public Schools is inviting all families to participate in the Community Connect Family Survey, open now through May 20.  The survey provides families with an opportunity to share feedback about their experiences, priorities, and hopes for our schools and district. Responses will help guide future planning and decision-making across FWPS.  We encourage every family to take a few minutes to participate. Your voice plays an important role in helping us continue improving and supporting students and families across our district.  Take the survey here!   7 FWPS Schools Recognized By State Board of Education We’re excited to share that seven of our schools have been recognized by the Washington School Recognition Program for the 2024–25 school year! The following schools were recognized in one of three categories: Adelaide Elementary – Growth in One or More Student Groups Star Lake Elementary – Growth in One or More Student Groups Twin Lakes Elementary – Closing the Gap Valhalla Elementary – Growth in One or More Student Groups Olympic View K-8 – Closing the Gap Woodmont K8 – Growth in One or More Student Groups Lakota Middle School – Closing the Gap These recognitions, announced by The Washington State Board of Education, reflect the hard work of our students, educators, and families who came together and made a shared commitment to student success across our district. Only 16% of schools across the state were recognized! Learn more about how our schools were recognized here: https://sbe.wa.gov/school-recognition   Coming up soon! CTE Scholar Showcase, May 18 The third annual FWPS CTE Scholar Showcase is almost here! 📅Monday, May 18 | 6-7:30 p.m. 📍Todd Beamer High School FWPS middle and high school CTE scholars are producing incredible work, and we’re excited to put their learning on display for everyone to see! Join us for an evening of inspiration, insight, and celebration to discover the innovative projects, skills, and talents CTE scholars have cultivated throughout the year. 🎓Why attend? Elementary students can explore what CTE is all about—and what exciting courses are ahead in middle and high school Middle and high school students can discover CTE classes that let them “try out” careers, gain industry experience, and even earn college credit before graduation ✨Bonus! Attend early, from 4:30-6 p.m. to see original business pitches from our INCubator Entrepreneurship students, Shark Tank style. You’ll get to cast your vote for the winning business idea! Free parking and interpreters are available. Learn more at www.fwps.org/CTEShowcase   🏆 Congratulations to the Week 3 Winners of the FWPS Attendance Cup! 🏆 We are thrilled to announce the winners of Week 2 (April 27 – May 1) Attendance Cup! These schools have shown unwavering dedication to attendance excellence, and we couldn't be prouder! 🎉 Congratulations to the following schools for most improved attendance from the previous week and the highest 5-day attendance in their challenge group: 🌟 Highest 5-Day Attendance Rate Winners: Decatur High School Federal Way Public Academy Kilo Middle School Green Gables Elementary School Enterprise Elementary School Lake Dolloff Elementary School Nautilus K-8 🌟 Most Improved Attendance Winners: Federal Way Public Academy Green Gables Elementary School Enterprise Elementary School Mirror Lake Elementary School Lakeland Elementary School Let's continue this fantastic work and strive to attend school every day! Together, we are shaping a brighter future for all our students. Learn more about the FWPS Attendance Cup and view our weekly leaderboard at www.fwps.org/attendancecup.    Video Spotlight: National Arab American Heritage Month While April marked National Arab American Heritage Month, we are continuing to celebrate these important stories through our We Are FWPS video series. In our latest video, scholars from across the district share what makes them proud of their heritage and how seeing their identity reflected in school creates a lasting sense of belonging. What our scholars are saying: Cultural Pride: Sharing the joy of traditions like dabke dances and favorite family foods like dolma and kabza. Representation: Why it matters to see their culture reflected in school libraries and assemblies. Belonging at School: How being able to share their language and traditions with others empowers them to be their authentic selves. Explore the full archive: www.fwps.org/wearefwps   Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month The celebration of our diverse student voices continues throughout May for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. This is a meaningful time for our schools to recognize the contributions and vibrant cultures of communities whose roots span more than 40 countries across Asia and the Pacific Islands. We are proud to reflect this diversity in our district and remain committed to fostering inclusive environments where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered. Explore AANHPI stories and resources: www.fwps.org/aanhpihm2026   Now Enrolling New Students Bright futures start in Federal Way Public Schools. Online Enrollment is now open for the 2026–27 school year for new students, as well as previously inactive students returning to Federal Way Public Schools. FWPS offers more than just the basics: Free meals and school supplies for all students School buses for eligible students Guaranteed college admissions for eligible seniors Robust Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs Comprehensive support for multilingual learners Social-emotional and digital citizenship curriculum to develop the whole child And more! Join a community where every scholar is empowered to thrive. Enroll today: www.fwps.org/enroll *Enrollment for the current 2025-26 school year is also still open. Annual verification for returning students for the 2026-27 school year begins August 1, 2026.   📱 Celebrating Our Voice: School Communicators Day Friday, May 8, is School Communicators Day, a time to recognize the people who keep our community informed, connected, and engaged. Effective communication is a team effort that extends far beyond a single office. Today, we want to celebrate the dedicated staff across the entire district who help tell the story of our schools: Our School Administrators: Who work late to send out weekly newsletters and urgent updates to families. Our Website and Social Media Coordinators: Who manage school sites and social feeds to showcase the incredible achievements of our scholars. Our Communications Team: Who help coordinate district-wide messaging and ensure our community stays connected to our mission. From a quick social media post to a detailed district announcement, these professionals work behind the scenes to ensure that every family has the information they need for student success. Please join us in thanking these vital "storytellers" who work tirelessly to keep our community informed!   Thank You, FWPS Speech-Language Pathologists & Audiologist! May is National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, a time to recognize the vital role communication plays in learning, connection, and community. At Federal Way Public Schools, our dedicated speech-language pathologists and audiologist work tirelessly to support scholars in developing the communication skills they need to thrive — both in and out of the classroom. Their expertise helps bridge communication gaps, foster understanding, and empower students to express themselves with confidence. We are deeply grateful for their commitment, compassion, and the positive impact they make every day in the lives of our scholars and staff. Thank you for all that you do to help every voice be heard!   🩺 Honoring Our School Nurses This week, we celebrated National School Nurse Day on May 6, a special opportunity to recognize the health heroes of Federal Way Public Schools. Our school nurses are trusted advocates and champions for student success. From managing chronic conditions and responding to emergencies to offering daily support, they ensure our scholars are healthy, safe, and ready to learn. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our nurses for their compassion and professionalism. Thank you for the unwavering commitment you show to our students and families every day.   💙 Heartfelt Thanks: Wrapping Up Teacher Appreciation Week As Teacher Appreciation Week comes to a close, we want to share one final, resounding thank you to the incredible educators across Federal Way Public Schools. This week, our hallways and social media feeds were filled with stories of gratitude, memories, and appreciation for the staff members who go above and beyond for our scholars. Whether in a classroom, a lab, or on a stage, your impact is felt across our entire community. 📽️ Catch the Highlights In case you missed them, we shared several special tributes on our social media channels this week featuring voices from across the district. You can watch the full videos here: Teacher Appreciation Highlight Reel #1 Teacher Appreciation Highlight Reel #2 Thank you to every student, parent, and community member who took the time to tag us and share a message of support. While the official week is ending, our gratitude for our teachers continues all year long!   🎶 Celebrate National Music Week: May 3–9 In FWPS, music is a constant companion—lifting spirits in our classrooms and inspiring creativity on our stages. This week, we celebrate the power of music to connect us and the incredible talent of our scholars. From first notes to final bows, our music programs continue to strike a chord in the hearts of our community. Thank you for supporting the arts and keeping the music playing in our schools!   Early Release Friday, May 15, 2026 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, May 15 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   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar 05/08/2026

Saturday, May 09 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter May 01, 2026

Federal Way Public Schools News May 1, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, I have been enjoying the warmer weather and longer days this week, along with the many opportunities to connect, celebrate, and strengthen partnerships across Federal Way Public Schools. At our School Board meeting at Silver Lake Elementary, students welcomed us with their school song, By the Shores of Silver Lake. We recognized our April Because of You recipients, Brooke Ho, Madeleine Brost, Kelly Egaas, Han Ros, and Lee Bay, each nominated by students for their dedication and support. Among our Good News Announcements, we honored Renia Papadimas of Thomas Jefferson High School, named Best High School Teacher in the 2026 Best of Federal Way awards, and recognized 16 schools for leading sustainable composting efforts, diverting more than 280 tons of organic waste from landfills. We also celebrated scholars from the Thomas Jefferson Invitational Speech and Debate Tournament, Federal Way High School Thespian Troupe 3541 for earning Honor Troupe status and a Gold rating at the State Thespian Festival, and award winners in the 8th Annual STEAM Film Festival. On Wednesday, I joined students from Brigadoon, Green Gables, Lake Grove, Lake Dolloff, Meredith Hill, and Twin Lakes elementaries for the annual Storming the Sound salmon release. This event marked the culmination of a project in which students raised Coho salmon in their classrooms, while building skills in observation, data collection, and environmental science. This meaningful learning experience is made possible through our partnership with the City of Federal Way Parks and Recreation Department.     That evening, I welcomed families and community members to Community Connect at Federal Way High School. This event provides an opportunity to share ideas, feedback, and aspirations for our district. Our next step is to dive into the insights that were provided and identify themes we will use as we plan for the 2026-2027 school year. As we move into May, there are many events ahead. I’m excited to see our elementary track athletes at Memorial Field tomorrow for our annual Elementary Track Celebration, where students will showcase the skills they’ve been building over the past two months. It will be a great opportunity to celebrate their hard work and growth. Next week begins with the Lions Club Awards Ceremony at Todd Beamer High School and concludes with our first School Board Recognition Night of the year. I encourage you to follow our social media channels as we share highlights leading into the end of the school year. I want to recognize our outstanding Nutrition Services Team as today is School Lunch Hero Day! As a team, they have served more than 1 million lunches this year alone! Truly amazing work in support of our scholars. This Tuesday was also School Bus Driver Appreciation Day. Our bus drivers play a vital role in safely transporting students each day, and we deeply appreciate their commitment and care. And next week, we will be celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week, honoring the incredible FWPS educators who make a difference for our students every day. Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Federal Way Public Schools. I look forward to all that the weeks ahead will bring. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   Thank You for Joining Community Connect Thank you to the FWPS families and community members who joined us for Community Connect on Wednesday evening at Federal Way High School. This event provided a valuable opportunity for families to engage with district leadership, share what is working, and discuss ideas to support student success. We are grateful for the thoughtful conversations and insights shared about the hopes and vision for our students. Your voice plays an important role in shaping the future of our schools, and we appreciate your continued partnership.   🏆 Congratulations to the Week 2 Winners of the FWPS Attendance Cup! 🏆 We are thrilled to announce the winners of Week 2 (April 20-24) Attendance Cup! These schools have shown unwavering dedication to attendance excellence, and we couldn't be prouder! 🎉 Congratulations to the following schools for the most improved attendance from the previous week and the highest 5-day attendance in their challenge group: 🌟 Highest 5-Day Attendance Rate Winners: Decatur High School Sacajawea Middle School Kilo Middle School Star Lake Elementary School Meredith Hill Elementary School Valhalla Elementary School Sunnycrest Elementary School 🌟 Most Improved Attendance Winners: Federal Way High School Employment and Transition Program Kilo Middle School Olympic View K-8 Mirror Lake Elementary Nautilus K-8 Let's continue this fantastic work and strive to attend school every day! Together, we are shaping a brighter future for all our students. Learn more about the FWPS Attendance Cup and view our weekly leaderboard at www.fwps.org/attendancecup.   🍎 Celebrate Our Teachers: May 4–8! Next week is Teacher Appreciation Week, and it’s time to celebrate the incredible educators who inspire our scholars every day. From the classroom to the sidelines, their dedication makes all the difference. Show the Love: Post a Tribute: Share a photo or a "thank you" message honoring a teacher. Tag Us: Use @FWPS210 on social media so we can highlight your stories! Send a Note: A quick email or handwritten card from a student means the world. Let’s fill the week with gratitude for the hard work and heart our teachers bring to FWPS!   Celebrating Our Principals on School Principals Day – May 1, 2026 We proudly honored the outstanding leadership of our FWPS principals this week! Your dedication, vision, and steadfast support help create vibrant, inclusive learning environments where every scholar can grow, achieve, and thrive. Thank you for being the heart of our schools — guiding students and staff with excellence, compassion, and purpose. Your leadership makes a lasting difference, today and every day!   FWPS Elementary Track Celebration, May 2 Our elementary scholars have been working hard over the past two months—running, jumping, cheering each other on, and building some serious track and field skills! Now it’s time to celebrate all that hard work. Please join us for the district FWPS Elementary Track Celebration on May 2nd! 📅 Saturday, May 2, 2026 🕗 8:25 am – 3:00 pm 8:25 – 10 am: Grades K-3 Jog-a-thon 10 – 11 am: Break 11 am – 3:00 pm: Grades 4-5 Jog-a-thon and Meet 📍 Federal Way Memorial Field (1300 S 308th St, Federal Way, WA 98003) This is the final elementary track event of the season, and we’d love for you to come cheer on our scholars as they showcase their speed, teamwork, and determination on a professional track. View event details, including the full schedule of events and Memorial Field’s Clear Bag Policy, at www.fwps.org/elementarytrack.   Honoring Our School Lunch Heroes! 🎉 Today, we proudly recognize the outstanding efforts of our Nutrition Services staff who work each day to keep students nourished and ready to learn. This school year alone, they’ve served over a million healthy meals across the district—an incredible achievement that reflects their dedication and care. Thank you for the vital role you play in supporting student success. We appreciate all that you do! Honoring Our FWPS Bus Drivers Earlier this week, we celebrated School Bus Driver Appreciation Day on April 28, honoring the dedicated team that keeps our district moving. As the first smiling faces many of our scholars see each morning and the last they see each afternoon, our drivers play a vital role in starting every school day on a positive note. They do much more than drive; they provide a safe, welcoming environment that ensures our students arrive ready to learn and return home safely. We are deeply grateful for their professionalism, care, and unwavering commitment to student safety. Thank you to our bus drivers for going the extra mile for our scholars every single day! Join the Team! Do you know someone who wants to make a difference in the lives of students? We are always looking for great people to join our transportation team. Apply Today: www.fwps.org/BusDriver   CTE Scholar Showcase is this month, May 18! FWPS families, don’t miss the third annual FWPS CTE Scholar Showcase! 📅Monday, May 18 | 6-7:30 p.m. 📍Todd Beamer High School FWPS middle and high school CTE scholars are producing incredible work, and we’re excited to put their learning on display for everyone to see! Join us for an evening of inspiration, insight, and celebration to discover the innovative projects, skills, and talents CTE scholars have cultivated throughout the year. ✨Bonus! Attend early, from 4:30-6 p.m., to see original business pitches from our INCubator Entrepreneurship students, Shark Tank style. You’ll get to cast your vote for the winning business idea! Free parking and interpreters are available. Learn more at www.fwps.org/CTEShowcase   Congratulations to Our “Because Of You” Award Recipients! We are proud to celebrate our Federal Way Public Schools staff members who were nominated by students and honored with a Because Of You Award at our recent board meeting. These educators and staff go above and beyond every day to support students and make a meaningful difference in our school communities, and it shows. 👉 Learn more about this month’s award recipients and nominate a FWPS staff member at www.fwps.org/becauseofyou. We’re #FWPSProud of each of you!    Good News Announcements April 28 We’re #FWPSProud of our phenomenal scholars, staff, and community members and love recognizing them during the Good News Announcements at our board meetings! Click through for an overview of our honoree’s cause for celebration. For more details visit www.fwps.org/goodnews.   Early Release Friday, May 8 2026 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, May 8 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   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar 05/01/2026

Saturday, May 02 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter April 24, 2026

Federal Way Public Schools News April 24, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, With spring weather beginning to brighten our days, this week brought meaningful moments of learning, growth, and connection across Federal Way Public Schools. On Tuesday, our Scholar Advisory gathered to share input on updating our Behaviors That Promote Learning, the skills and habits that help students be successful in the classroom. These include things like collaboration, taking ownership of learning, and problem-solving. This work focuses on how students learn and engage with others, not just what they learn, and student voice is helping shape what these behaviors look like across all grade levels. On Thursday morning, we celebrated an exciting milestone as our Employment Transition Program launched its first coffee cart, Grounds for Growth, at the Educational Service Center. I had the honor of being the first customer and enjoyed a delicious cup of hot chocolate. This new opportunity provides students with hands-on experience in customer service, communication, and workplace skills that will support their future success. Last night, we hosted our final Family Academy session of the year, Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change, with more than 500 families registered. Attendees learned about supporting their students as they transition to the next grade level, understanding academic expectations, and social-emotional development. We are grateful for the strong participation and engagement from our community. I want to remind families and community members that there is still time to register for Community Connect, taking place next Wednesday, April 29 from 5:45–7 p.m. at Federal Way High School! This event is an opportunity for families, students, staff, and community members to connect with district leadership, share ideas, and help shape the future of our schools. Interpretation, childcare, and refreshments will be provided to ensure a welcoming experience for all. Register here: https://bit.ly/4jfsIJK Before I close, I want to give a huge shout out to our incredible FWPS occupational therapists for National Occupational Therapy Month! Your dedication to supporting students, helping them overcome challenges, and empowering them to reach their full potential makes a meaningful difference every day. Thank you for all that you do. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer, Superintendent   Still Time to Register for Community Connect! We still have spots available at Community Connect on Wednesday, April 29 at Federal Way High School, starting at 5:45 p.m.! Register Now! (Be sure to use the dropdown menu to select your language of preference.) Community Connect is an opportunity for families to share input directly with district leadership. During the event, participants will sit in small table groups and respond to a set of guided questions focused on: What is working well for students Where there are opportunities Ideas and suggestions for the future Your voice helps shape real decisions and we want to make sure it’s part of the conversation. Childcare provided Refreshments available Interpretation and translated materials offered We hope to see you there!   🏆 Congratulations to the Week 1 Winners of the FWPS Attendance Cup! 🏆 We are thrilled to announce the winners of Week 1 (April 13-17) Attendance Cup! These schools have shown unwavering dedication to attendance excellence, and we couldn't be prouder! 🎉 Congratulations to the following schools for most improved attendance from the previous week and the highest 5-day attendance in their challenge group: 🌟 Highest 5-Day Attendance Rate Winners: Decatur High School Federal Way Public Academy Sequoyah Middle School Star Lake Elementary School Twin Lakes Elementary School Valhalla Elementary School Woodmont K-8 Let's continue this fantastic work and strive to attend school every day! Together, we are shaping a brighter future for all our students. Learn more about the FWPS Attendance Cup and view our weekly leaderboard at www.fwps.org/attendancecup.  Celebrating Our Dedicated Occupational Therapists This April, we are proud to recognize National Occupational Therapy Month and celebrate the incredible occupational therapists (OTs) who serve our district. As Opportunity Makers, our OTs work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every scholar has the tools and skills necessary to participate fully in their school day. From developing fine motor skills to creating sensory-friendly environments, their expertise allows our students to overcome barriers and achieve their full potential. Please join us in sharing a heartfelt thank you to our OT team for their commitment to student success and their vital role in our district’s mission!   Thank you FWPS Volunteers! 🌟 Celebrating our incredible FWPS volunteer community! 🌟 Happy #PublicSchoolVolunteerWeek! We extend our heartfelt THANK YOU to the dedicated volunteers who help make Federal Way Public Schools a welcoming, supportive, and inspiring place to learn and grow. Your passion, commitment, and generosity uplift our students, staff, and the entire community. Together we’re creating a lasting impact! 💙 #ThankYouVolunteers If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact your school office and complete our volunteer form at https://www.fwps.org/volunteer.    FWPS Elementary Track Celebration, May 2 Our elementary scholars have been working hard over the past two months—running, jumping, cheering each other on, and building some serious track and field skills! Now it’s time to celebrate all that hard work. Please join us for the district FWPS Elementary Track Celebration on May 2nd! 📅 Saturday, May 2, 2026 🕗 8:25 am – 3:00 pm 8:25 – 10 am: Grades K-3 Jog-a-thon 10 – 11 am: Break 11 am – 3:00 pm: Grades 4-5 Jog-a-thon and Meet 📍 Federal Way Memorial Field (1300 S 308th St, Federal Way, WA 98003) This is the final elementary track event of the season, and we’d love for you to come cheer on our scholars as they showcase their speed, teamwork, and determination on a professional track. View event details, including the full schedule of events and Memorial Field’s Clear Bag Policy, at www.fwps.org/elementarytrack.   📘 Supporting Your Child Through State Testing As state testing begins across our schools, many families and students may have questions about how to prepare. To help families navigate this important time, we’ve created a resource-packed blog post with practical strategies for building routines, boosting confidence, and supporting students as they do their best on test day. We invite all families to read and share: Read the full blog post here   An Amazing Ending to a Year of Family Academy Yesterday, we welcomed over 420 scholars and families in person at Lake Grove Elementary and on Zoom for the fourth and final Family Academy event of the year. Families gathered practical tips and resources to help with important milestone transitions, leading to a successful school year. Workshop rooms were packed, and featured topics covering everything from math strategies, reading growth, preparing for kindergarten through college, and so much more! A huge thank you to our families, to our participating workshop partners, our childcare partner Right At School, interpreters, and our incredible high school volunteers for their time and service. We hope to see everyone again next year! For those who missed the event, workshop slides and handouts are available at www.fwps.org/bridgingthegap.    Early Release Friday, May 1, 2026 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, May 1 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   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar 04/24/2026

Saturday, Apr 25 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter April 17, 2026

Federal Way Public Schools News April 17, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, I hope you all had a restful Spring Break and were able to enjoy time to recharge. It has been wonderful to welcome our students and staff back as we begin the final stretch of the school year. During a visit to Lake Dolloff Elementary this Wednesday, I spent time in classrooms across multiple grade levels. In kindergarten, students were practicing their writing skills, while first graders were engaged in phonics instruction. In second grade, students focused on identifying the main idea, and in fifth grade, students worked in small groups exploring 2-D shapes and their properties. As we approach the end of the year and graduation activities, our high schools are calling on our seniors to showcase their creativity. Seniors are invited to submit original artwork or a class photo for a chance to be featured on the inside front cover of their high school’s graduation program, with one piece selected from each school. Submissions are due by April 24 and should be turned into your school’s Career and College Specialist. This week also marks the beginning of our third annual Attendance Cup. We know that consistent attendance plays a critical role in student success, and this friendly competition between schools encourages and celebrates strong attendance. Each week, schools will be recognized for both high and most improved attendance, with one school ultimately earning the Attendance Cup. As we look to the last half of April, there are two important opportunities for family and community engagement I am excited for. On April 23, our final Family Academy, Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change. The event includes tools and insights to help families support their child’s transition to the next grade level. And lastly, I want to invite you to join us for our annual Community Connect, on Wednesday, April 29, at 5:45 p.m. at Federal Way High School. This is an evening where district leadership, staff, scholars, families, and community members come together to share hopes and ideas for our nearly 23,000 students. Register for Community Connect now, and I look forward to seeing you on April 29! Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Federal Way Public Schools. I look forward to all that the weeks ahead will bring. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   Celebrating Our Assistant Principals Although National Assistant Principals Week occurred during Spring Break, we want to recognize the incredible impact these leaders have on our schools. Now that we are back in our buildings, it is the perfect time to celebrate their dedication to the Federal Way Public Schools community. Assistant Principals serve as the backbone of our school sites. They manage essential responsibilities including instructional leadership, staff mentorship, and safety coordination. Their commitment to partnering with families and supporting student growth is vital to building a positive and inclusive school culture. We are grateful for their thoughtful leadership and unwavering care for our scholars. Please join us in thanking our Assistant Principals for everything they do to make our district brighter. April is National Arab American Heritage Month This month, Federal Way Public Schools proudly celebrates the rich heritage, culture, and contributions of Arab and Arabic-speaking Americans. Arab American cultures are a vibrant part of what makes FWPS the most diverse district in Washington—a distinction we honor and integrate into the heart of our schools and classrooms. By recognizing these contributions, we continue to build an inclusive learning environment that reflects and respects the identities of all our scholars. Throughout April, our schools will engage in meaningful activities that highlight Arab American history, achievements, and cultural traditions. We look forward to sharing the many ways our students and staff are celebrating Arab American Heritage Month across the district! Stop by www.fwps.org/naahm2026 throughout the month to find out.   Register for Community Connect Join us. Share your voice. Be part of the conversation.  FWPS Community Connect is back, and we want to hear directly from you.     Register Now: https://bit.ly/4jfsIJK  April 29  5:45–7 p.m.  Federal Way High School, 30611 16th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003 This is your opportunity to:  Connect with district leadership  Share insights and ideas that support learning  Help shape the future experience of our schools   We are committed to making this a welcoming space for all families:  Refreshments provided  Childcare available  Interpretation and translated materials available    🚨Last Chance: Family Academy, Bridging the Gap on Thursday, April 23 Next Thursday, we will host the last Family Academy event of the year. Are you coming? Don’t miss the last event of the line-up, which will help you support a successful transition for your child and all the changes that may come along with moving to a new grade level. From exploring social changes and planning for more challenging coursework, to learning about available support and preparing over the summer — this event will set your entire family up for success. Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change Thursday, April 23, 2026 6-7:30 p.m. Lake Grove Elementary (303 SW 308th St, Federal Way, WA 98003) or via Zoom 🔗REGISTER NOW (Interpreters are available!) ✨Additional perks: dinner 🍜, childcare, STEAM Learning Lab, and prizes! Explore the workshops.    🏆 The Race for the Cup Started This Week! The FWPS Attendance Cup officially kicked off this week! From now through May 29, every school in the district is competing for the top spot. When our scholars are here today, they are getting ready for tomorrow by staying connected and on track for success. Let’s show up strong and help our schools bring home the glory! What’s on the line? 🥇 Best Overall Attendance 📈 Most Improved Attendance ⚡ Weekly Challenge Awards Which school is going to take the lead first? Check the standings and join the challenge! 📍 Learn more: www.fwps.org/attendancecup   🎓✨ Class of 2026: Enter the Graduation Program Artwork Contest! ✨🎓 Attention Class of 2026 Seniors! Federal Way Public Schools invites 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. Put your creativity on display and make your mark on this year’s graduation program. Will your artwork be the winning Submission Criteria: Your submission can be a class photo or original student artwork that meets the following: Page Width: 8.5 inches Page Height: 11 inches File Format: PDF 📅 Submission Deadline: April 24, 2026 📧 Submit To: Your School’s Career & College Specialists   Early Release Friday, April 24, 2026 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, April 24 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.   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar 04/17/2026

Saturday, Apr 18 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter April 03, 2026

Federal Way Public Schools News April 3, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, As we head into Spring Break next week, I hope this time provides an opportunity for rest, connection, and renewal for our students, families, and staff. It’s also a moment to reflect on the strong progress we’ve made this year as we prepare for the final stretch of the 2025–26 school year.  Earlier this week we held our school board meeting at Thomas Jefferson High School, where we recognized several outstanding achievements across our district. We celebrated our state qualifiers in Boys Swim and Dive, Girls and Boys Wrestling, Bowling, and Gymnastics, the Decatur High School Jazz Band for representing FWPS at the 29th annual Starbucks Hot Java Cool Jazz, Brenda Bargelt, Truman Campus Data Secretary, for being named the Washington Education Association (WEA) Education Support Professional of the Year, and three scholars for their exceptional performance in the 2026 American Mathematics Competitions (AMC) 8. We also recognized the retirement of Executive Director of Business Services, Jeri Carlson, after 36 years of dedicated service to the students and community of Federal Way.  I had the opportunity to visit Illahee Middle School on Tuesday, where I saw students preparing for Student-Led Conferences (SLCs) and engaging in meaningful writing work. With SLCs wrapping up today, I am glad to see so many families participate in this important opportunity for students to share their progress, reflect on their growth, and set goals in partnership with their families and teachers.  Yesterday, our partners at Build to Lead hosted a Melanin in Medicine event, where middle and high school students had the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning and hear directly from professionals in the medical field. Experiences like these help students explore career pathways and see themselves in future opportunities.  In the coming weeks, we will be sharing more information about our annual Community Connect event, an opportunity for families, staff, and community members to come together to share ideas and input on how we continue strengthening our district in support of all students. Please watch for information on how to register in our newsletter, on social media, and on our website.   As we move into the spring months, I’m asking families to help remind our students that items not appropriate for school should remain at home. We appreciate your continued partnership in supporting a safe and positive learning environment for all students and staff.  I hope you have a restful Spring Break, and I look forward to welcoming students back on Monday, April 13, as we begin the final stretch of the school year.  In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   School Board Corner – April 2026 On behalf of the Federal Way School Board, I’m pleased to share a brief update on the work and engagement that has taken place across our district in recent weeks. It has been a meaningful time of learning, collaboration, and connection as we continue our focus on supporting student success. Throughout March, the Board engaged in several opportunities to deepen our understanding of district initiatives and connect with our school communities. During our Work Study session, we received updates on the Asset Preservation Program, Inclusionary Practices, the district budget, and capital projects, all important areas that help ensure our schools are safe, inclusive, and well-supported. Board members also had the opportunity to visit several schools alongside Dr. Pfeiffer. Director Murphy and Vice President Davis visited Mirror Lake Elementary and Illahee Middle School, President Dr. Jones visited Sunnycrest Elementary, and Director Gollings visited Mark Twain Elementary. These visits provided valuable insight into the teaching and learning taking place in our classrooms and allowed us to connect directly with staff and students. At our regular Board meetings, held at Nautilus K-8 and Thomas Jefferson High School, we reviewed key district work, including Executive Limitations, continued budget updates, and a presentation on civics curriculum adoption. These discussions help guide our governance and ensure alignment with district priorities. During Good News Announcements, Schools Can’t Do It Alone, and Because of You recognitions, we celebrated the many scholars, staff, and community members who make our district great. In addition, Director Gollings represented the Board at the Communities in Schools Annual Fundraising Breakfast, which highlighted the important partnerships that support our students both inside and outside the classroom. Thank you for your continued support of Federal Way Public Schools. We are grateful for the strong partnership we share with our families and community as we work together to provide meaningful opportunities for every student. Respectfully, Dr. Jennifer Jones President, Federal Way School Board   Help Your Child Prepare for the School Year Ahead Join us for Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change on Thursday, April 23, from 6–7:30 p.m. at Lake Grove Elementary or online via Zoom. As students move to new grade levels, big transitions can bring excitement—but also uncertainty. Whether your child is starting kindergarten, entering middle or high school, or preparing for life after graduation, this event is designed to help families feel confident, informed, and ready for what’s ahead. 🔗 Click Here to Register! At the event, you’ll: ✅ Attend up to two micro workshops tailored to your family’s needs ✅ Receive practical tools and insights to support your child’s success ✅ Enjoy a hot dinner, childcare (for potty-trained children ages 5+), and interpreter services 🔗 View workshop details here: www.fwps.org/bridgingthegap   FWPS Students Make Remarkable Reading Growth Thanks for another remarkable National Reading Month! As we close out the month of literacy, we’re highlighting four students who displayed exceptional reading growth, as evidenced in their most recent iReady test scores! Each student has shown a commitment to academic growth through perseverance, consistency, and an investment of time. Let’s give a round of applause to: Maximus, at TAF@Saghalie, who raised his reading level by four grades Rawena, at Evergreen Middle School, who raised her reading level by three grades Raidon, at Rainier View Elementary, who raised his reading level by three grades Lachesis, at Olympic View K-8, who raised her reading level by one grade Read their stories of growth on our website: FWPS Students Make Remarkable Reading Growth   Good News Announcements: April 3, 2026 We’re #FWPSProud of our phenomenal scholars and staff and love recognizing their achievements during the Good News Announcements at our board meetings! We celebrated a historic milestone for Decatur High School’s Jazz Band, the first South Sound school invited to perform at the prestigious Starbucks Hot Java Cool Jazz at the Paramount Theatre. We also honored Brenda Bargelt, Truman Campus Data Secretary, for her incredible achievement as the WEA State Education Support Professional of the Year. Our student-athletes showed exceptional skill on the state stage, with 12 Girls Bowling qualifiers including state runner-up Laelah, and 18 Boys Swimming and Diving scholars competing at the WIAA 3A championships. In Wrestling, 59 scholars competed at Mat Classic XXXVII, led by state finalists Marina and Caleb. Our Gymnastics teams also excelled, with 28 state qualifiers and Rylee crowned as the Individual Beam State Champion! Finally, we recognized top mathematical talent in the AMC 8 contest, celebrating Tirufat, Michael, and Declan for their national-level scores. Congratulations to all for representing FWPS with excellence! For more details, visit www.fwps.org/goodnews.   Congratulations to Our “Because Of You” Award Recipients! We are proud to celebrate our Federal Way Public Schools staff members who were nominated by students and honored with a Because Of You Award at our recent board meeting. These educators and staff go above and beyond every day to support students and make a meaningful difference in our school communities, and it shows. 👉 Learn more about this month’s award recipients and nominate a FWPS staff member at www.fwps.org/becauseofyou. We’re #FWPSProud of each of you!    We Are FWPS: Women’s History Month “Women’s History Month is a great way to appreciate women and remind people of their impact.” In our latest We Are FWPS video, scholars from across the district share how they see themselves reflected in their learning—from researching "unspoken heroes" in science to finding inspiration in the strong women in their families and schools. This monthly series celebrates student identity, belonging, and the diverse cultures that make our schools thrive. By amplifying student voices, we ensure every scholar feels valued and empowered to succeed. Explore the full Cultural Appreciation archive: www.fwps.org/wearefwps   🚀 Recap: Full STEAM Ahead at our 9th Annual Exploration Night! Full STEAM Ahead! Thousands of scholars and families joined us for STEAM Exploration Night, enjoying hands-on activities, student showcases, robotics, the STEAM Film Festival, and more. Watch the highlight video to hear from students and see the excitement at Federal Way High School. Thank you to our students, partners, and community for making the night a success! https://www.fwps.org/steamnight   Registration is Open: Secure Your Scholar’s Spot for Summer 2026! Federal Way Public Schools is excited to announce that registration for our 2026 summer programs is now open! We invite you to explore our offerings and register your scholar today to ensure they have a summer filled with growth and exploration. Summer Learning Program (Grades K–7) We are thrilled to offer an expanded full-day, five-day-a-week experience for scholars in grades K–7. Through generous support from a private funder, this program is offered at no cost to families. Students will strengthen skills in English Language Arts and Math, then dive into hands-on STEAM projects, gardening, creative arts, sports, and exciting electives. This full-day program provides a safe, engaging environment for your scholar while supporting working families. Summer School (Grades 8–11) Our proven half-day program returns with flexible options for high school scholars! Students can experience introductory high school ELA and Math courses and engaging electives. Incoming 9th-grade scholars will also participate in Freshman Success work to prepare for a smooth transition to high school. Support for All Scholars: To ensure all scholars can participate, FWPS provides transportation and no-cost breakfast and lunch for both programs. Additionally, our Academic Language Academy is available for scholars receiving multilingual services across all grade levels. Program Overview: Summer Learning (Grades K–7): June 26 – July 29 (Monday–Friday). Note: No school July 2-3. Summer School (Grades 8–11): June 29 – July 23 (Monday–Thursday). How to Register: Registration Period: Open now through April 24, 2026. Register Today: Visit www.fwps.org/SummerLearning for full program details and to access the registration link. Space is limited, so we encourage families to register early! We look forward to seeing your scholar this summer.   🏆 The FWPS Attendance Cup is Back! 🏆 Get ready to show your school spirit! The third annual Attendance Cup is officially returning from April 13 through May 29. Our mission remains clear: "Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!" We know that when our scholars are here today, they are getting ready for tomorrow by building the habits and connections that lead to lifelong success. Regular attendance is about more than just being present—it’s about preparing for a bright future! 🏁 The Challenge It’s time for some friendly district-wide competition! Schools will go head-to-head to see who can claim the top honors in two main categories: Best Overall Attendance: For the schools with the highest consistent turnout. Most Improved Attendance: For the schools making the biggest strides. ✨ What’s Up for Grabs? Keep an eye out for weekly challenge awards along the way to keep the momentum high. Every day counts toward helping your school earn the prestigious FWPS Attendance Cup!   🎓✨ Class of 2026: Enter the Graduation Program Artwork Contest! ✨🎓 Attention Class of 2026 Seniors! Federal Way Public Schools invites 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. Put your creativity on display and make your mark on this year’s graduation program. Will your artwork be the winning Submission Criteria: Your submission can be a class photo or original student artwork that meets the following: Page Width: 8.5 inches Page Height: 11 inches File Format: PDF 📅 Submission Deadline: April 24, 2026 📧 Submit To: Your School’s Career & College Specialists   Join us for Preschool Info Night on April 15! 🎒 Families with children ages 3–4 are invited to learn about free and tuition-based preschool programs in Federal Way Public Schools. 📅 April 15 ⏰ 4:30–6:30 PM 📍 Truman ECEAP Campus ✔ Tour classrooms ✔ Get help finding the right program ✔ Apply on the spot ✔ Connect with community resources Interpreters available! Bring your documents if you have them—or just come and our team will help you get started. 👉 Learn more: fwps.org/preschool   Spring Break April 6 – April 10 As a friendly reminder, there will be no school Monday, April 6 through Friday, April 10, due to Spring Break. Schools will resume normal schedules on Monday, April 13. The district Educational Service Center (ESC) building will operate on a normal schedule during Spring Break week.   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar 04/03/2026

Saturday, Apr 04 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter March 27, 2026

Federal Way Public Schools News March 27, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, This week highlighted the many ways strong partnerships across our schools, families, and community come together to create meaningful opportunities for our scholars. Last evening, we hosted our annual STEAM Exploration Night, one of our signature FWPS events, welcoming thousands of families and scholars from across the district. This year’s student-selected theme, Full STEAM Ahead, highlighted how science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics can open doors to future career opportunities. Through hands-on activities, interactive booths, and engaging conversations with professionals, students had the opportunity to explore, experiment, and begin imagining their future pathways. Events like this spark curiosity in our youngest learners while helping older students connect their interests to real-world careers. A special thank you to our sponsors—Highline College, BNBuilders, Lakehaven Water and Sewer District, Sound Transit, and Sylvan Learning Center of Federal Way—and to the many community partners who helped make this inspiring experience possible for our students and families. Last week, 374 middle and high school musicians came together for our third annual District Music Festival. Guided by guest conductors and supported by our incredible music educators and community partners, students demonstrated not only strong musicianship but also collaboration, dedication, and a shared passion for the arts. If you were unable to attend, recordings of both concerts are now available for you to experience here, Thursday’s Choir and Orchestra Concert and Friday’s Band Concert! We are continuing to recognize National Reading Month, I encourage families to explore the 2026 Scholar-Recommended Booklist. This collection of more than 50 titles, selected by students from PreK through grade 12, reflects the diverse interests and voices of our scholars. To view the full booklist, visit: www.fwps.org/ScholarBooklist. As a reminder, our communications survey for families is still open to help us better understand how to share important information from our schools and district. The survey is available in multiple languages and will remain open through April 17. I encourage you to take a few moments to share your input as we continue improving how we connect with our community. And lastly, Scholar-Led Conferences (SLCs) are taking place next week, and I hope you’ll make plans to attend. These conferences are a great opportunity for students to share their progress, celebrate their growth, and talk about their goals with their families and teachers.  Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting the learning and growth of our scholars. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   Scholar-Led Conferences Reminder: Schedule Your Time! We are just over one week away from our Spring Scholar-Led Conferences on April 2 and 3! If you haven't yet, please log into ParentVUE and click on “Scholar Led Conferences” to select a time that works best for your family. Our goal is 100% participation as we partner together to celebrate your child’s academic goals and progress. For scheduling help, visit www.fwps.org/SLC.   Family Communication Survey – Please Share Your Feedback Federal Way Public Schools is inviting families to participate in a short Family Communication Survey to help improve how we share information about district programs, services, and events. Family feedback plays an important role in ensuring communication is clear, accessible, and helpful in keeping families informed about opportunities that support student learning and well-being. The survey takes approximately 5–7 minutes to complete and is available in multiple languages. When you click the link below, please select your preferred language to begin. 👉 https://bit.ly/FWPSCommsSurvey The survey will remain open through April 20. Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback and for your continued partnership with Federal Way Public Schools.     Last Night’s STEAM Exploration Night Was Incredible! Yesterday evening, FWPS PreK–12 scholars and families filled Federal Way High School to experience the magic of STEAM Exploration Night. With more than 150 booths hosted by STEAM partners and FWPS schools, plus a variety of workshops, demonstrations, and hands-on activities, the event was full of curiosity and excitement. The event helped thousands of students explore future careers and connect what they are learning in the classroom to real-world opportunities. Eighth-grade Sequoyah Middle School students Cooper and Liam joined the event to present journalism and gardening. It was their first time at the event. "I like games, I like coding, I like creating things, and I also think I heard there's a drone station, so I might check that out,” Liam shared. “I'm gonna try to see maybe some robotic stuff...maybe some physical things. I think I heard about an airplane station," Cooper shared. "I'm trying to see basically everything that I can see.”  We extend our gratitude to everyone who made this event possible: ⭐Our 2026 event sponsors: Highline College, BNBuilders, Lakehaven Water and Sewer District, Sound Transit, and Sylvan Learning Center of Federal Way The many STEAM partners who shared career pathways and post-secondary opportunities Our schools, which showcased the engaging STEAM learning happening all year round FWPS pathway leads and event staff, including Nutrition Services, Transportation, Security, Maintenance and Operations, ITS, Student Support Services, Communications, Multilingual Services, and Teaching for Learning Our incredible adult and high school volunteers who helped the event run smoothly Federal Way High School, with a special thank you to the custodial team for welcoming our community Lastly, thank you to the families who joined the fun. We hope you had a great time and will join us again next year. Check out more pictures in our recap post! 🗣️Want to share your experience? Send us a note at comments@fwps.org!   Help Your Child Prepare for the School Year Ahead Join us for Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change on Thursday, April 23, from 6–7:30 p.m. at Lake Grove Elementary or online via Zoom. As students move to new grade levels, big transitions can bring excitement—but also uncertainty. Whether your child is starting kindergarten, entering middle or high school, or preparing for life after graduation, this event is designed to help families feel confident, informed, and ready for what’s ahead. 🔗 Click Here to Register! At the event, you’ll: ✅ Attend up to two micro workshops tailored to your family’s needs ✅ Receive practical tools and insights to support your child’s success ✅ Enjoy a hot dinner, childcare (for potty-trained children ages 5+), and interpreter services 🔗 View workshop details here: www.fwps.org/bridgingthegap Registration is Open: Secure Your Scholar’s Spot for Summer 2026! Federal Way Public Schools is excited to announce that registration for our 2026 summer programs is now open! We invite you to explore our offerings and register your scholar today to ensure they have a summer filled with growth and exploration. Summer Learning Program (Grades K–7) We are thrilled to offer an expanded full-day, five-day-a-week experience for scholars in grades K–7. Through generous support from a private funder, this program is offered at no cost to families. Students will strengthen skills in English Language Arts and Math, then dive into hands-on STEAM projects, gardening, creative arts, sports, and exciting electives. This full-day program provides a safe, engaging environment for your scholar while supporting working families. Summer School (Grades 8–11) Our proven half-day program returns with flexible options for high school scholars! Students can experience introductory high school ELA and Math courses and engaging electives. Incoming 9th-grade scholars will also participate in Freshman Success work to prepare for a smooth transition to high school. Support for All Scholars: To ensure all scholars can participate, FWPS provides transportation and no-cost breakfast and lunch for both programs. Additionally, our Academic Language Academy is available for scholars receiving multilingual services across all grade levels. Program Overview: Summer Learning (Grades K–7): June 29 – July 29 (Monday–Friday). Note: No school July 3. Summer School (Grades 8–11): June 29 – July 23 (Monday–Thursday). How to Register: Registration Period: Open now through April 24, 2026. Register Today: Visit www.fwps.org/SummerLearning for full program details and to access the registration link. Space is limited, so we encourage families to register early! We look forward to seeing your scholar this summer.   Spring Break April 6 – April 10 As a friendly reminder, there will be no school Monday, April 6 through Friday, April 10, due to Spring Break. Schools will resume normal schedules on Monday, April 13. The district Educational Service Center (ESC) building will operate on a normal schedule during Spring Break week. We’re Here to Support You If your family is experiencing challenges that impact attendance, your school is ready to help. Whether it’s transportation, health concerns, or scheduling barriers, we are committed to partnering with you to find solutions. Access support at www.fwps.org/attendance   🎶The Third Annual District Music Festival 2026 was a resounding success! Last week, 374 middle and high school musicians gathered at the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center for two days of immersive music clinics and evening performances. Our scholars had the unique opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside renowned guest conductors Alonso Brizuela, David Drassal, and the Boston Brass. “It was inspiring to witness not only the musicianship of our scholars, but also the collaboration among our music teachers and the powerful learning happening in the clinics,” shared Dr. Erika Rudnicki, Executive Director of Scholar Learning, Academic Programs, and Staff Development. We are grateful to our partners—the Arts Foundation Federal Way, 4Culture, and the Federal Way Performing Arts Center—for helping make this event possible and keeping the arts thriving in our community. If you missed the live event or want to relive the magic, you can watch the full performances online and visit www.fwps.org/musicfestival to learn more about this annual celebration of scholar talent.   🎓✨ Class of 2026: Enter the Graduation Program Artwork Contest! ✨🎓 Attention Class of 2026 Seniors! Federal Way Public Schools invites 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. Put your creativity on display and make your mark on this year’s graduation program. Will your artwork be the winning Submission Criteria: Your submission can be a class photo or original student artwork that meets the following: Page Width: 8.5 inches Page Height: 11 inches File Format: PDF 📅 Submission Deadline: April 24, 2026 📧 Submit To: Your School’s Career & College Specialists   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar 03/27/2026

Saturday, Mar 28 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter March 20, 2026

Federal Way Public Schools News March 20, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, This week offered several meaningful moments that reflect the learning, talent, and partnership across our schools. Earlier this week, our Scholar Advisors and Parent Advisors to the Superintendent came together to learn about and discuss the importance of transcripts in the college application process. We also gathered valuable feedback about what makes events and activities meaningful and engaging for families as we continue to strengthen our family engagement efforts. Last evening, we held the first of our All-District Music Festival concerts at the Performing Arts and Event Center, in partnership with the Arts Foundation Federal Way and with support from 4Culture. Our middle and high school orchestra and choir students delivered a beautiful and inspiring performance that showcased both their talent and dedication. Tonight, our middle and high school band students will take the stage, and we look forward to another outstanding evening of music. We have also launched a communications survey for families to help us better understand how to share important information from our schools and district. The survey, linked in the section below, is available in multiple languages and will remain open through April 17. I encourage you to take a few moments to share your input so we can continue improving how we connect with our community. Finally, next Thursday is one of our signature events, STEAM Night: Full STEAM Ahead! I am excited to see so many community partners joining us to provide hands-on learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics. There is a wealth of information available on our STEAM Night webpage, and I hope you will join us for this engaging and inspiring event. Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Federal Way Public Schools. I look forward to seeing many of you next week and to all the learning and connection ahead. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   Family Communication Survey – Please Share Your Feedback Federal Way Public Schools is inviting families to participate in a short Family Communication Survey to help improve how we share information about district programs, services, and events. Family feedback plays an important role in ensuring communication is clear, accessible, and helpful in keeping families informed about opportunities that support student learning and well-being. The survey takes approximately 5–7 minutes to complete and is available in multiple languages. When you click the link below, please select your preferred language to begin. 👉 https://bit.ly/FWPSCommsSurvey The survey will remain open through April 20. Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback and for your continued partnership with Federal Way Public Schools.   🎶 Final Chance to Join the 3rd Annual Federal Way Public Schools District Music Festival 2026! The energy at the Federal Way Performing Arts and Event Center (PAEC) is electric! Our scholars have been working hard all morning to perfect tonight’s performances—take a sneak peek at their rehearsal in the video below. Don't miss our final night of the festival as we celebrate the incredible talent and dedication of our district's band programs. Tonight’s Performance: Band Concert Time: Doors open at 5:30 p.m. | Concert begins at 6:00 p.m. Location: 31510 Pete von Reichbauer Way S, Federal Way, WA 98003 Admission is free, but space is filling up fast. If you haven't secured your spot yet, please reserve your free tickets and view the full music program at www.fwps.org/musicfestival. We can’t wait to see you in the audience for this spectacular finale!   🎉STEAM Exploration Night is Next Week! Here’s Everything You Need to Know! STEAM Exploration Night is next Thursday, March 26, from 6-8 pm at Federal Way High School, and we are ecstatic about what is in store for you.    Here's what you can look forward to:  Over 150 STEAM-related business and school booths with exciting hands-on activities, helpful information, and demonstrations  Nearly 20 scheduled and drop-in experiences to choose from  An exciting evening, with free dinner, shuttle transportation, and other special accommodations    A couple more notes:  🚌Getting There: The option is yours — take a free bus shuttle from areas across the district, park and catch a shuttle ride from one of our overflow parking lots, or park on location, at Federal Way High School. View details at www.fwps.org/steamnight/transportation    ✍️Planning Your Night: Check out our interactive online program to learn what you can expect and view the event layout so you can maximize your time at the event. Then, use the online program to navigate during the event! View the event map and program at www.fwps.org/steamnight/program.    🫶An Evening for Everyone: We’ve put a lot of thought into this event to ensure everyone has fun. From special accommodations like nursing and sensory-friendly rooms and securing interpreters in our top languages, to providing dinner options for different dietary needs and a centrally located Helpdesk, we’ve got you covered!    We look forward to seeing you next week on March 26! Learn more at www.fwps.org/steamnight.     Spring Scholar-Led Conferences: Partnering for Success! It’s time to celebrate your scholar's growth! We invite all families to join us for our Spring Scholar-Led Conferences on April 2 and 3, 2026. These conferences are a unique opportunity for students to take the lead in sharing their academic goals, strengths, and progress with you. Our goal is 100% participation, as we believe family partnership is vital to every student’s success. How to Schedule Your Conference: Login: Visit ParentVUE and select the “Scholar Led Conferences” tab. Choose a Time: View available slots and select a time that works best for your schedule. Need Help? For step-by-step instructions, view our "How To" guides and videos at www.fwps.org/SLC.   Important Reminders: No School: There will be no school for students on April 2 and 3 to allow time for these important conversations. Attendance: We strongly encourage both you and your child to attend together. Stay Connected: Remember to check ParentVUE regularly to monitor attendance, grades, and upcoming schedules. If you have any questions or need assistance with scheduling, please reach out directly to your child’s school office. We look forward to seeing you there!   Save the Date: 2026 Summer Opportunities are Coming! FWPS is excited to announce that registration for our 2026 summer programs will open on March 23! Summer Learning Program (Grades K–7) We are thrilled to share that this year’s program for scholars in grades K–7 has been expanded to a full-day, five-day-a-week experience. Through generous support from a private funder, this program is offered at no cost to families. Students will strengthen skills in English Language Arts and Math, then dive into hands-on STEAM projects, gardening, creative arts, sports, and exciting electives. This full-day program means no need for additional childcare while your scholar stays engaged and learning. Summer School (Grades 8–11) Our proven half-day program returns with flexible options for high school scholars! Experience introductory to high school ELA and Math courses and fun and engaging electives. Incoming 9th grade scholars will also engage in Freshman Success work to prepare for the transition to high school. Support for All Scholars: To ensure all scholars can participate, FWPS will provide transportation and no-cost breakfast and lunch for both programs. Additionally, our Academic Language Academy is available for scholars receiving multilingual services across all grade levels. Program Overview: Summer Learning (Grades K–7): June 29 – July 29 (Monday–Friday). No school July 3. Summer School (Grades 8–11): June 29 – July 23 (Monday–Thursday). Mark Your Calendars: Registration Period: March 23 – April 24, 2026. Where to find info: Visit www.fwps.org/SummerLearning starting March 23 for full details and registration. We look forward to a summer of growth and exploration with our scholars!   Join us for Bridging the Gap: Supporting Students Through Change on Thursday, April 23, from 6–7:30 p.m. at Lake Grove Elementary or online via Zoom. As students move to new grade levels, big transitions can bring excitement—but also uncertainty. Whether your child is starting kindergarten, entering middle or high school, or preparing for life after graduation, this event is designed to help families feel confident, informed, and ready for what’s ahead. 🔗 Click Here to Register! At the event, you’ll: ✅ Attend up to two micro workshops tailored to your family’s needs ✅ Receive practical tools and insights to support your child’s success ✅ Enjoy a hot dinner, childcare (for potty-trained children ages 5+), and interpreter services 🔗 View workshop details here: www.fwps.org/bridgingthegap   Interested in enrolling in Federal Way Public Schools? Whether your family is brand-new to the district, want to enroll another child at one of our schools, or interested in attending an alternative school, take note of the following enrollment dates for the 2026-27 school year. Open Now: Kindergarten Enrollment Choice Enrollment (In-District and FWPS Staff): Apply by March 16 Preschool Enrollment Upcoming: Post-Lottery Choice Enrollment (Late Applications and Out-of-District): May 1, 2026 New Student Enrollment (All Grades): May 4, 2026 Find all enrollment information at www.fwps.org/enrollment. If you have questions about the enrollment process, please contact your school directly. You can find your neighborhood school using the search tool at www.fwps.org/SchoolBoundary. For support outside of school hours, please contact the district’s Educational Service Center at 253-945-2000.   Early Release on March 27 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, March 27 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  Every Day Counts Even a few absences can add up overtime. Each missed day is a missed opportunity to learn, participate, and connect. Encouraging consistent attendance ensures students don’t fall behind and remain confident in their learning. Learn more at www.fwps.org/attendance.   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar 03/20/2026

Saturday, Mar 21 2026