Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter February 27,...

Federal Way Public Schools News February 27, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, This week brought another wonderful reminder of the talent, dedication, and pride that define Federal Way Public Schools.  Panther Lake Elementary hosted our school board meeting this week and shared a musical performance from their upcoming production of 101 Dalmatians. We also celebrated several outstanding achievements across the district. Congratulations to our FIRST LEGO League Robotics teams from Adelaide, Valhalla, and Wildwood elementary schools, who advanced to and competed in the regional semifinals, and to our talented students from Federal Way, Todd Beamer, and Thomas Jefferson High Schools for their success at the Washington State Thespian Regional Competition. We also recognized our Because of You staff members, Seok Kang, Toby Dycus, Paris Lillard, Quinn Gillis, and Noe Flores Montoya, for their dedication to student success. I also want to give a thank you to Dr. Louis Guiden Jr., and Right at School for their generous donations of grocery gift cards that were distributed to 100 families in need.   I also had the opportunity to visit the Truman Campus, where we celebrated a special moment. Data Secretary Brenda Bargelt was named the Washington Education Association (WEA) Education Support Professional of the Year. This recognition reflects her extraordinary dedication to students, families, and staff. Congratulations, Brenda! Your work is truly appreciated!  During school visits this week, I spent time at Adelaide Elementary observing strong instructional practices, including purposeful math engagement, differentiated small-group reading, and opinion writing development. At Olympic View K-8, I saw Dual Language literacy instruction, targeted Tier 2 reading support, and middle school scholars actively engaged in projects while monitoring their academic progress. These visits continue to highlight the focused, meaningful learning taking place across our district every day.   As we look ahead, there is so much to be excited about. Read Across America Week begins March 2, launching National Reading Month, and we will also celebrate Women’s History Month with stories and highlights shared on our social media channels. I also hope you’ll mark your calendars for our STEAM Exploration Night on March 26 at Federal Way High School, an inspiring evening showcasing innovation, creativity, and student learning across our district.  I look forward to all that March will bring as we continue this important work together and am grateful for our shared commitment to ensuring every scholar has opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed In partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   Women’s History Month: Learning from Trailblazers March is Women’s History Month! We are excited for scholars to learn about the contributions women have made to the United States over the course of American history. At FWPS we believe each and every scholar has limitless potential. This belief is woven into the education of our children by including the achievements of women into our curriculum, not just in March, but all year round. Join us in honoring these trailblazers! Explore more at www.fwps.org/whm2026   March is National Reading Month March is National Reading Month, which celebrates the privilege of literacy and encourages readers, young and old, to engage in reading.  To highlight our commitment to scholar literacy, this month, we’ll feature book selections from our PreK-12th grade scholar community on our social media channels, a scholar recommended booklist, plus other reading-related activities and resources.  Next week, March 2-6, scholars will engage in various activities to observe national #ReadAcrossAmerica Day. We invite you to share photos of your scholars with their favorite book for us to share on our district social media pages to celebrate your child’s love for reading! Send all photos to socialmedia@fwps.org.   Get more information about the Reading Challenge, and all the ways we plan to celebrate National Reading Month at: www.fwps.org/NationalReadingMonth    Good News Announcements: February 24, 2026 We’re #FWPSProud of our phenomenal scholars, staff, and community members and love recognizing them during the Good News Announcements at our board meetings!   Congratulations to our FIRST LEGO League teams from Adelaide, Valhalla, and Wildwood elementary schools for advancing to the regional semifinals. More than 30 FWPS students, supported by six staff coaches, competed among 50+ teams, showcasing creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving. Reaching the semifinals is an incredible accomplishment!  We also recognized students from Federal Way, Todd Beamer, and Thomas Jefferson high schools for their success at the Washington State Thespian Regional Competition. Federal Way High School earned seven Superior Awards, qualifying students for nationals, along with 16 Excellent Awards. Todd Beamer and Thomas Jefferson students also brought home multiple Excellent Awards across musical theatre and performance categories.  Congratulations to all for representing FWPS with excellence! For more details visit www.fwps.org/goodnews.    Schools Can’t Do It Alone Now more than ever, schools can’t do it alone. Thank you to Dr. Louis Guiden Jr. and Right At School for your generous partnership in supporting our scholars and families during the holiday season. Together, your combined gift of $3,750 in grocery gift cards helped ensure families had access to nutritious food and essential items during this time of year.  Dr. Guiden Jr.’s donation of Safeway gift cards and Right At School’s donation of Fred Meyer gift cards reflects a shared commitment to care, community, and student well-being. We are truly grateful for your support and for the positive difference you continue to make for Federal Way Public Schools families. 🌟    Now Accepting Dual Language Applications for Incoming Kindergarteners Federal Way Public Schools is now accepting applications for incoming kindergarten students (2026–27 school year) for our Korean/English Dual Language program at Olympic View K-8 and Spanish/English Dual Language program at Sunnycrest Elementary. Students in our Dual Language programs learn in two languages every day, building bilingual skills, strong academic foundations, and cultural confidence. Families are invited to attend our Dual Language Information Night on Thursday, March 19, from 5:30–6:30 p.m. at the Educational Service Center (Room 104) to learn more about program structure, benefits, and the application process. Applications open February 2, 2026, with a priority deadline of April 3. All incoming kindergarten students may apply through Choice Enrollment, including families living outside district boundaries. Space is limited, so we encourage families to apply early. To access the application and learn more, visit our Dual Language Program page.   Spring Early Learning Gathering, March 5 Calling all early learning professionals and caregivers! RSVP for the in-person Early Learning Gathering on Thursday, March 5 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Truman Early Learning Center, 31457 28th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003; or via ZOOM. This is an opportunity to explore early learning in Federal Way, take home ideas, and build community connections. The focus will be “the playground is a classroom too!” RSVP to FWPS Early Learning Department at preschool@fwps.org or call 253-945-5875. The Zoom link will be emailed to you.   Start Strong, Stay Strong A strong school year begins with consistent attendance. When students attend every day, they build routines that support learning, confidence, and connection. Being here today helps students stay ready for tomorrow. Learn more at www.fwps.org/attendance   STEAM Exploration Night: March 26 STEAM Exploration Night, Full STEAM Ahead, is less than a month away!  I hope you’ll join us at this exciting annual event to see how STEAM can be used as a tool to achieve career goals. This event is designed for all scholars, grades PreK-12th grade. Through booths, workshops, and exciting experiences, students can explore STEAM opportunities available in FWPS and beyond!  STEAM Exploration Night  📅 When: Thursday, March 26, 2026  ⏰ Time: 6-8 pm  📍 Location: Federal Way High School  Let us know you’re coming! Click here to RSVP  Learn more about the entire event at www.fwps.org/steamnight.    Check out the Program! It is finally time for what you’ve all been waiting for – a full overview of what you can expect at this year’s event!   So, without further ado, we invite you to explore what’s in store for you on March 26!  🔗 Click here to view the evolving event program.  Helpful tip: Browse booths and special events by category!    Free and Convenient Transportation Do you need a ride to STEAM Exploration Night?   FWPS offers free and convenient bus shuttles to the event for the entire family! All students can ride the shuttle bus with a parent or guardian, and high school students can ride the shuttle by themselves with a signed permission slip.  🔗 Click here to view transportation options.    Early Release Friday, March 6, 2026 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, March 6 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 02/27/2026

Saturday, Feb 28 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter February 20,...

Federal Way Public Schools News February 20, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, We began the week with a pause in observance of Presidents’ Day, a nice opportunity to recharge before diving back into the important learning that took place this week. We had the opportunity of meeting with both our Scholar Advisory and Parent Advisory groups to discuss key indicators of college success. Together, we explored why these indicators matter, how our district is helping students build the knowledge and skills needed to meet them, and where we can continue improving. The thoughtful insights from both groups help guide our work and strengthen our support for students’ futures. At Decatur High School, scholars in the Physics of Medical Interventions course explored how vaccines are structured and function, even conducting simulated clinical trials to test effectiveness. Throughout the semester, students have gained hands-on lab experience while strengthening their analytical and critical thinking skills. This course, along with Human Body Systems, and Sports Medicine, is part of our CTE Health Sciences Program of Study, where scholars prepare for careers in medical and health services through real-world application. And I want to give a shout-out to Brigadoon Elementary teacher Audrey Jones’ kindergarten class, for recently earning the highest iReady math scores in the district! Students are building strong foundational skills through engaging whole-group lessons, personalized support, and hands-on activities that make learning both joyful and rigorous. Their enthusiasm for counting, addition, and tracking progress reflects the vibrant learning culture present in our classrooms every day. Families also engaged in meaningful learning opportunities this week. We wrapped up our High School Planning Nights, helping eighth graders and their families prepare for the transition to high school, and hosted our Family Academy at Illahee Middle School focused on summer programs and enrichment opportunities. I’m excited to share that more than 500 participants attended Family Academy, demonstrating the strong commitment our community has to student learning and growth. I’m also pleased to share that our Educational Programs and Operations Levy has now been certified by King County with 61.77% voter approval. Once again, thank you for your trust and partnership. This continued investment ensures stable support for academics, extracurricular programs, student services, and daily operations across our schools. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to Federal Way Public Schools. I am grateful for our community and look forward to the continued growth and learning ahead. In partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   Now Accepting Dual Language Applications for Incoming Kindergarteners Federal Way Public Schools is now accepting applications for incoming kindergarten students (2026–27 school year) for our Korean/English and Spanish/English Dual Language programs at Olympic View K-8 and Sunnycrest Elementary. Dual Language students learn in two languages every day, building bilingual skills, strong academics, and cultural confidence. For the application and additional information, visit our Dual Language Program page. Applications open February 2, 2026, with a priority deadline of April 3. All incoming kindergarten students may apply through Choice Enrollment, including families living outside district boundaries. Space is limited, so we encourage families to apply early.   Start Strong, Stay Strong A strong school year begins with consistent attendance. When students attend every day, they build routines that support learning, confidence, and connection. Being here today helps students stay ready for tomorrow. Learn more at www.fwps.org/attendance   Deadline Extended! Accepting Book Nominations for the Booklist Through February 22! Good news! We’ve extended the deadline! FWPS is preparing its fifth annual Scholar Recommended Booklist for National Reading Month in March, and we’re calling all students to share their favorite books to be adding to this year’s edition. This booklist will be featured on the district’s website, social media, and in the weekly e-newsletter. Students can submit their favorite book by the end of day, Sunday, February 22, 2026, for a chance to be included in the booklist. Although all book nominations may not be featured in the booklist, some may appear on the district’s social media. Submit your favorite book! To submit online, make sure you are logged in to an FWPS student Google account before completing the form. If you prefer, you can also email your nomination to comments@fwps.org Please include: • Student’s full name • Book title • A brief summary of what the book is about • Why you recommend and love it Don’t miss your chance to be part of this year’s list—we’re looking forward to your submissions! 📚   Spring Early Learning Gathering, March 5 Calling all early learning professionals and caregivers! RSVP for the in-person Early Learning Gathering on Thursday, March 5 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Truman Early Learning Center, 31457 28th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003; or via ZOOM. This is an opportunity to explore early learning in Federal Way, take home ideas, and build community connections. The focus will be “the playground is a classroom too!” RSVP to FWPS Early Learning Department at preschool@fwps.org  or call 253-945-5875. The Zoom link will be emailed to you. .   Over 500 Attend Family Academy to Gather Information About Summer Programs and Resources Yesterday, over 500 participants attended the third Family Academy event, Summer Connections, in person at Illahee Middle School and through Zoom to learn about community and school-based summer resources and programs available. Families were able to attend focused workshops about FWPS summer school programs, AI, preventing learning loss during the summer, reading growth, and more. A drop-in session was also available for high school families to get support with financial aid and college applications and completing High School and Beyond Plan tasks. To top it off, a resource fair featuring nearly 20 local community organizations was available throughout the evening for families to gather additional information to plan an engaging summer for their children. Family Academy events help connect families with information and resources to support their child’s growth — academically, socially, emotionally, and digitally. We’re thankful for all who came to take part in the event! Also, we want to extend a special thank you to our childcare partner, Right At Schools, our many high school volunteers, and all the community-based organizations that came out to support our families!   Have you checked ParentVUE yet this school year? If you haven’t logged in recently, now is a great time to re-familiarize yourself with this important tool. You can find helpful tutorials on our website here!    ParentVUE continues to be the place where you’ll find quick access to your child’s attendance, grades, list of courses, teacher information, and more! Have a new email address or phone number? ParentVUE is also where you’ll update your contact information to ensure your child’s school knows how to reach you!   What’s the difference between ParentVUE and ParentSquare?   ParentSquare is a communications tool that syncs with the contact information you enter in ParentVUE during enrollment and verification each year. Through this tool, you’ll:  Receive district, school, and classroom communications via email, text, voice call, and/or app notification  View the school calendar and upcoming events for your child’s school  Customize your notification preferences  Receive messages in your home language  And more!  ParentVUE is your one-stop-shop for your child’s information about their personal academic progress. In ParentVUE, you’ll have quick access to your child’s:  Grades  Attendance  Course Schedule  Teacher Information  And, you’ll use ParentVUE to schedule your child’s Scholar-Led Conferences!    Log in to ParentVUE today!   ✨ STEAM Exploration Night: Something for Everyone to Enjoy The lineup for this year’s STEAM Exploration Night, Full STEAM Ahead, is packed with something to pique every interest. Our growing list of industry participants is just one more reason to carve out time in your schedule for this exciting annual event. STEAM Exploration Night 📅 When: Thursday, March 26, 2026 ⏰ Time: 6-8 pm 📍 Location: Federal Way High School Let us know you’re coming! Click here to RSVP Here is some of the fun you can expect from STEAM Night booths: Try your (steady) hand at a game of Operation and trivia with Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Make elephant toothpaste with Sound BioLab Learn about prototyping and production with GRC Manufacturing Technology Participate in a flight activity about the four forces of flight with Federal Aviation Administration Test water quality with the City of Federal Way Get moving through strength training exercises with Curves Federal Way Learn about money basics with A Worthy Cause Learn about the printmaking process and view artwork by Yoshi Nakagawa Printmaking View plant details through a microscope with Washington Native Plant Society Plus, many more! To top it off, by attending the event, you can also enjoy free food, convenient transportation, interpreters, an interactive online program, and fun event swag! 🔗 Learn more at www.fwps.org/STEAMNight.   Are your contact preferences up to date? When weather impacts our normal school schedule, one way we communicate with you is through ParentSquare Alerts. To ensure you are receiving messages according to your preferences, please: Ensure your contact information in your ParentVUE account is up to date. You can update your account by visiting https://grades.fwps.org/ . If you have not activated your ParentVUE account, please contact your child’s school. Update your notification preferences in ParentSquare. You can edit message delivery settings according to your preference for voice, email and/or app notification as well as language preference. Please leave the option for "School Alerts" on to ensure you receive these important updates. More information is available on the FWPS website and in ParentSquare support. For more information about weather-related school closures or delays, please visit our website: https://www.fwps.org/departments/communications/school-closure-and-delay   Early Release Friday, February 27, 2026 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, February 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   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar 02/20/2026

Saturday, Feb 21 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter February 13,...

Federal Way Public Schools News February 13, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, This week began with an important milestone for our district. On February 10, voters demonstrated strong support for Federal Way Public Schools, with a 61.75% approval of the EP&O Levy! We are deeply grateful for our community’s continued partnership. This renewal will provide stable funding over the next four years to support academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, student supports, and daily operations across our schools. Thank you, thank you, thank you for investing in our scholars.  Across the district, there have been wonderful celebrations of learning. At Lakeland Elementary, we spotted a few “centenarians” in the kindergarten halls as students dressed up to celebrate 100 days of school. This joyful milestone marks 100 days of building friendships, routines, and strong academic foundations. As we continue recognizing Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, we’re proud to spotlight the impact of our programs. Through our Family and Consumer Sciences CTE Program of Study, scholars across our high schools are gaining hands-on experience in fields such as health sciences, education, culinary arts, and human services. Courses like ASL Interpreting, ProStart Culinary Foods, and Child Development are equipping students with real-world skills that prepare them for college and career success. In recognition of Black History Month, our ECEAP students at Thomas Jefferson High School welcomed Destiny Wimpye from Pacific Northwest Ballet for a special classroom visit. Students learned introductory ballet movements while exploring the importance of representation and inclusion in the arts. Experiences like this reflect our ongoing commitment to honoring Black excellence and ensuring every scholar feels seen, valued, and empowered to thrive—this month and throughout the year. This week, I met with district leaders and principals to hear updates on their School Improvement Plans. Every school in our district has a school improvement plan, and the principal of each school presents their plan twice a year. It was encouraging to hear the progress being made and the intentional strategies in place to strengthen outcomes for all students as we move into the second half of the year. Looking ahead, I’m excited for next week’s Scholar Advisory and Parent Advisory meetings, as well as our third Family Academy of the year on Thursday. These opportunities for dialogue and partnership strengthen our work together. Thank you for your continued support of Federal Way Public Schools. I hope you all enjoy the long weekend, and I look forward to all that next week will bring. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer, Superintendent   Thank You Voters: Educational Programs and Operations Levy is Passing! We are pleased to share that early election results show the Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy is currently passing with a 61.75% approval. While ballots are still being counted and results will not be certified until February 20, we are encouraged by these early returns and grateful for the strong support from our community. This support reflects a shared commitment to ensuring students have access to the programs, staff, and services that help them learn, grow, and feel connected at school. We remain committed to being responsible stewards of these resources and to sustaining safe, supportive learning environments where every student can thrive. Thank you to the many staff members, families, and community partners who helped share clear, factual information with voters. Your efforts made a meaningful difference. We appreciate your continued partnership and trust in Federal Way Public Schools.   No School on Presidents Day, Monday, February 16 As a friendly reminder, in observance of Presidents Day there will be no school, and the Educational Service Center will be closed to the public, on Monday, February 16. School and district operations will resume Tuesday, February 17.   Welcoming Submissions for the Annual Scholar Recommended Booklist! FWPS is creating its fourth annual Scholar Recommended Booklist of books submitted by students across the district, and we want students to share their favorite books from this school year! (See the booklist from last year). This booklist will be shared on the district’s website, social media, and e-newsletter. Each selected book feature will include the book nominator’s name, school, and quote. Students can submit their favorite book by 5 PM on Friday, February 20, 2026, for a chance to be included in the booklist.  Although all book nominations may not be featured in the booklist, some may appear on the district’s social media. Submit your favorite book! The booklist will be published during National Reading Month in March 2026. (Entries must be submitted using FWPS student Google account)   STEAM Booths, Workshops, and Experiences, Oh My! STEAM Exploration Night, Full STEAM Ahead, is coming up next month on March 26. As you know, last year, the annual event received an upgrade to integrate art moving forward. Science, technology, engineering, art, and math are driving the future. Fueled by imagination and driven by innovation, students can embark on a journey to explore, experiment, excel, and ultimately, realize a bright future! STEAM Exploration Night 📅 When: Thursday, March 26, 2026 ⏰ Time: 6-8 pm 📍 Location: Federal Way High School Let us know you’re coming! Click here to RSVP How would you like to: Learn the proper technique of driving a screw into wood? Fly an airplane in a VR simulator? Test soil to determine its mineral composition? See how STEAM is implemented in the district by visiting FWPS school booths? View specimens through a microscope? Learn how to take a prototype to production? Get advice about which courses to take to prepare for certain college degrees or post-secondary programs? Watch the crowd-favorite scholar films at the STEAM Film Festival (with popcorn, of course!) Not only will every FWPS school showcase STEAM learning at the event, but there are also now over 90 STEAM partners signed up to make this year’s event the best in history. That means over 120 booths in total! That’s not all! Along with event attractions, enjoy free food, convenient transportation, interpreters, an interactive online program, and fun event swag! It will be an exciting event you won’t want to miss!   Celebrate Your Language Skills with the World Language Competency Test March testing is coming soon for students in grades 8–12. The World Language Competency Test allows students who speak, read, write, and understand another language to earn high school credit and work toward the Washington State Seal of Biliteracy. Students are assessed in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Complete the interest form to participate: https://bit.ly/SpringWLCT For more details, click here or contact your school counselor.   Early Release Friday, February 20, 2026 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, February 20 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 02/13/2026

Saturday, Feb 14 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter February 06,...

Federal Way Public Schools News February 6, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, As we move through February, there is a great deal happening across Federal Way Public Schools, and I’m grateful for the continued engagement of our scholars, families, and staff. I had the opportunity to visit Enterprise Elementary this week and observe fourth graders engaged in a writing lesson focused on cause and effect, using graphic organizers to plan and strengthen their written work. I also saw teachers collaborating to review student data and plan targeted Tier 2 small-group reading instruction, reflecting the thoughtful, data-informed practices taking place in our schools. At Panther Lake Elementary, students are rehearsing for their production of 101 Dalmatians, showcasing the confidence, teamwork, and joy that arts education brings, opportunities supported by the Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy. February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, and a great time to highlight the opportunities available to our students. Federal Way Public Schools offers 86 unique CTE courses at the middle and high school levels, providing hands-on learning connected to real-world careers. High school scholars can explore six CTE Programs of Study, with opportunities to earn dual credit and industry-recognized credentials before graduation. We will be spotlighting CTE learning on our social media pages this month, so I hope you will follow along! I also want to encourage our eighth-grade scholars and families to attend High School Planning Nights between February 11–18, where they can learn more about high school expectations, programs, and course offerings as they prepare for this important transition. More details are shared below, so I hope you will check out these informational events. As a reminder, February 10 at 8 p.m. is the final opportunity to vote on the EP&O Levy renewal. This levy is not a new tax and provides about 10% of the district’s budget, supporting academic programs, arts and athletics, student support staff, and the daily operations that keep our schools running. And as National School Counseling Week comes to a close, I also want to extend my sincere thanks to our school counselors and college and career specialists. Their guidance, advocacy, and dedication play a vital role in supporting students’ academic success, well-being, and future planning. Before I close, I do want to take a moment to acknowledge how our students conducted themselves this week during student-led walkouts. Across our nation and state, we are seeing student walkouts taking place.  In our schools, our young people demonstrated responsibility, respect for one another, and an understanding of expectations, ensuring these moments were orderly and safe. We respect and uphold students’ constitutional rights to peaceful expression and assembly, and as these walkouts are not school- or district-sponsored or led activities, we appreciate our students maintaining a positive, respectful, and safe school environment.  Thank you for your continued partnership, and I look forward to all that February will bring.  In Partnership,  Dr. Dani Pfeiffer  Superintendent    EP&O Levy Reminder — Ballots Due February 10 The FWPS Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) renewal levy is on the ballot and continues existing local funding that helps support essential services not fully funded by the state. Scholar programs, curriculum, and opportunities College and career readiness programs Band, Orchestra, Theater programs Art and Music classes 100% of athletic programs and coaching staff Professional Development for staff Student Wellness and Safety Staff Counselors and mental health support professionals   College and Career specialists   School nurse services  Transportation bus monitors  Safety and security personnel   Custodial and maintenance personnel  School Operational and Maintenance Costs  Classroom technology and instructional software at all FWPS schools  Scholar transportation and nutrition Utilities, insurance, and supply costs  📅 Ballots must be returned by February 10. We encourage our community to stay informed and participate in the election. Learn more by visiting www.fwps.org/Levy2026   🎉 It’s National School Counseling Week! 🎉 This week, we proudly celebrated the amazing school counselors and College and Career Specialists who make a lasting impact every single day.  From guiding academic success and supporting social-emotional growth to helping students plan for college and careers, their dedication empowers our scholars to thrive and achieve their dreams.  💙 Join us in showing appreciation for these incredible professionals and their unwavering commitment to student success! Learn more about the FWPS Counseling Program: www.fwps.org/academics/counseling    Celebrate Your Language Skills with the World Language Competency Testtle goes here March testing is coming soon for students in grades 8–12. The World Language Competency Test allows students who speak, read, write, and understand another language to earn high school credit and work toward the Washington State Seal of Biliteracy. Students are assessed in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Complete the interest form to participate: https://bit.ly/SpringWLCT For more details, click here or contact your school counselor.   🎓 High School Planning Nights – Mark Your Calendars! Save the Date! Mark your calendar to attend High School Planning Nights, offered at every FWPS high school between February 11-18! These events are an excellent opportunity for 8th grade students and families to:  ✅ Successfully navigate the transition from middle school to high school. 📚 Explore course offerings and understand what to expect. 🤝 Engage with high school staff and current scholars. 🌟 Discover opportunities to prepare for college and future careers.   Learn more and view the events schedule at: www.fwps.org/HSPlanningNight   February 19 - Get Your Summer Plans in Order Now Summer will be here quicker than you think! Save the date for the next Family Academy: Summer Connections on Thursday, February 19 from 6-7:30 pm at Illahee Middle School and Zoom to get community-based and school summer programming and resources. Enjoy an array of workshops and a special resource fair to connect with community-based organizations. You can begin planning your child’s summer now! Learn more and register at www.fwps.org/SummerConnections.   Fuel Your Imagination Through STEAM – March 26 Mark your calendar! The ninth annual STEAM Exploration Night is on March 26, 2026, from 6-8 pm at Federal Way High School — you don't want to miss it! Designed for all ages, STEAM Exploration Night allows students of all ages to dive into science, technology, engineering, art, and math! This year’s scholar-voted event theme, Full STEAM Ahead, illustrates how STEAM can fuel imagination and innovation, propelling students to discover a bright future. Last year’s event drew over 4,200 individuals and guests enjoyed over 120 STEAM-related partner and school booths, workshops, and other curated experiences. Learn more at www.fwps.org/STEAMNight.   No School due to Mid-Winter Break, Friday, Feb. 13 and on Presidents Day, Monday, February 16 Please remember there is no school on Friday, February 13 due to Mid-Winter Break. Additionally, in observance of Presidents Day there will be no school, and the Educational Service Center will be closed to the public, on Monday, February 16. School and district operations will resume Tuesday, February 17.   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar 02/06/2026

Saturday, Feb 07 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter January 23, ...

Federal Way Public Schools News January 23, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, This week offered many meaningful opportunities to connect with our scholars, families, and staff across the district. I had the pleasure of visiting Sacajawea Middle School, where I observed sixth-grade English Language Arts intervention in action, an engaging seventh-grade science lesson exploring the phases of the moon, and eighth-grade teachers collaborating during their Professional Learning Community time. Seeing targeted supports, hands-on learning, and strong staff collaboration all happening in one school was a powerful reminder of the intentional work taking place every day in our classrooms. We also held both our Scholar Advisory and Parent Advisory meetings this week. During Scholar Advisory, students shared thoughtful perspectives on how teachers can set high expectations while providing the supports students need to succeed. Our Parent Advisory focused on ways schools can continue strengthening family engagement and partnerships. I am grateful for the honesty, insight, and commitment these groups bring to our district. This week marked the conclusion of our final four Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy informational sessions, held Tuesday through Thursday. If you were unable to join us or would like to learn more, I encourage you to visit our levy website and watch the EP&O informational video to better understand how this local funding supports our schools and scholars. Ballots are starting to arrive this week and the final day to vote is February 10 by 8 p.m. On Wednesday evening, nearly more than 100 students and family members attended FAFSA Night, receiving hands-on support to access financial aid and plan for life after high school. It was wonderful to see families working together to open doors to future opportunities. Last night, we also hosted the second of our Early Learning Gatherings, bringing together early learning professionals and caregivers to share strategies and best practices that support strong foundations for our youngest learners. And across the district, schools also took time to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. At Twin Lakes Elementary and Lake Dolloff Elementary, student-led assemblies highlighted Dr. King’s message through music, reflections, and lessons on peace, giving scholars meaningful opportunities to learn, lead, and reflect together. Thank you for your continued partnership, engagement, and trust. The care and collaboration across our community make a meaningful difference for our scholars every day. I hope you have a restful and wonderful weekend.   Better Together: Celebrating National Mentoring Month January is National Mentoring Month, and we are grateful for the mentors and community based organizations who show up every day for our students. Through encouragement, guidance, and meaningful relationships, mentors help students build confidence, explore interests, and envision their futures. Thank you to the many individuals and partners who make a lasting difference across Federal Way Public Schools. Together, we truly are better together. Learn more about becoming a mentor at www.fwps.org/mentoring. 💙   Choice Enrollment Open February 2 – March 16, 2026. The 2026-27 Choice Enrollment Registration will be available for all grade levels February 2 – March 16. For more information, or to submit your online application visit www.fwps.org/Choice. All Choice Enrollment applications are due by 4:30 p.m., Mar. 16, 2026. The Choice Lottery will take place April 15, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. Please see the website for location details. Existing Choice families: You are not required to reapply except for non-residents students who are transitioning between grade spans such as elementary to middle to high school. Please see our website for more information regarding the Choice timeline.   Get Ready for Kindergarten: Registration Is Open! Kindergarten registration is open! Families with a child who will be five years old by August 31, 2026, are invited to enroll their child in kindergarten for the 2026-27 school year. Learn more and register online here: www.fwps.org/KinderRegistration.   EP&O Renewal Levy: February 10 What is the EP&O Renewal Levy and why is it important in Federal Way Public Schools? Ballots have begun arriving in mailboxes for the Feb. 10 Special Election which includes the Federal Way Public Schools Educational Programs and Operations Levy. An Educational Programs and Operations Levy is a voter-approved property tax that provides local revenue for schools. The state of Washington provides funding for basic education, but not all services and programs are fully covered. It is important because the EP&O Renewal Levy allows our district to continue providing student programs, services, and extracurricular opportunities, staffing, and operational expenses beyond what the state provides. The current voter-approved levy expires in December of this year, and this four-year renewal levy would continue funding for FWPS schools through 2030. Remember to vote February 10, 2026. For more information about the EP&O Renewal Levy, visit www.fwps.org/Levy2026.   Get a Jumpstart on Your Child's Summer Plans Summer will be here quicker than you think! Save the date for the next Family Academy event to get community-based and school summer programming and resources.  Summer Connections: Maximizing Scholar Engagement and Learning 📅 Thursday, February 19, 2026 ⏰ 6-7:30 pm 📍 Illahee Middle School (or Zoom) Enjoy an array of workshops and a special resource fair to connect with community-based organizations. You can begin planning your child’s summer now!  Dinner, free childcare through Right At School, Learning Lab, and interpreters are available! Learn more and register at www.fwps.org/SummerConnections.    🎓 High School Planning Nights – Mark Your Calendars! Save the Date! Mark your calendar to attend High School Planning Nights, offered at every FWPS high school between February 11-18! These events are an excellent opportunity for 8th grade students and families to: ✅ Successfully navigate the transition from middle school to high school. 📚 Explore course offerings and understand what to expect. 🤝 Engage with high school staff and current scholars. 🌟 Discover opportunities to prepare for college and future careers.   Learn more and view the events schedule at: www.fwps.org/HSPlanningNight   No school for Semester Break, Friday, January 30, 2026 Please remember there is no school on Friday, January 30 due to Semester Break. Schools will resume normal schedules on Monday, February 2.   Every Day Is an Opportunity to Grow Each day in the classroom gives students the chance to practice new skills, connect with peers, and make progress toward their goals. Missing even a few days can add up and make it harder to stay on track. By encouraging regular attendance, families and schools can work together to ensure students benefit from every learning opportunity. At FWPS, we know that when students are here today, they are better prepared for tomorrow. Learn more about attendance expectations, resources, and support at www.fwps.org/attendance   Free Take-Home Meals for Students Who Observe Ramadan Ramadan is observed from February 17 to March 19, 2026, and we recognize this is an important month for many in our community. To ensure students who are not eating during the school day have access to nutritious meals at home, Federal Way Public Schools is offering take-home breakfast and lunch options in alignment with OSPI guidance. How to Participate: If your family would like to participate, please complete this brief form: www.fwps.org/ramadan. Participation is voluntary. Our goal is to support every student’s well-being while respecting the varied ways families observe Ramadan. If you have questions, please contact Nutrition Services at 253-945-5555. We wish all observing families a peaceful and meaningful Ramadan.    Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate with the Class of 2026 As of January 2026, graduation dates, times, and locations are as follows: Friday, June 12, 2026 at the Federal Way Performing Arts and Event Center, 31510 Pete von Reichbauer Way South in Federal Way, WA 98003 Employment and Transition Program | 10:30 a.m. Internet Academy and Career Academy | 2 p.m. Open Doors at Truman | 4 p.m. TAF@Saghalie | 6 p.m. Sunday, June 14, 2026 at the ShoWare Center, 625 West James Street Kent, WA 98032 Decatur High School | 8:30 a.m. Todd Beamer High School | noon Thomas Jefferson High School | 3:30 p.m. Federal Way High School | 7 p.m. Learn more at: www.fwps.org/graduation2026   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar 1/23/2026

Saturday, Jan 24 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter January 16, ...

Federal Way Public Schools News January 16, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, As we continue into January, it has been wonderful to feel the steady rhythm of learning, connection, and community across Federal Way Public Schools. Out in our schools, learning continues to shine. At Lakeland Elementary, fourth-grade scholars researched animals of their choice and created detailed dioramas highlighting habitats, predators and prey, and survival adaptations. This hands-on project extended Unit 2 of their Wonders ELA curriculum and gave students the opportunity to deepen their understanding through creativity and presentation. Amazing work, scholars! On Tuesday evening, we held our regular School Board meeting and were delighted to welcome two special guests, sheep from the Decatur High School FFA program. It was a fun reminder of the hands-on, real-world learning happening in our schools! The Board also celebrated Thomas Jefferson High School math scholars for their strong performance at the 27th Annual Math Fall Classic and recognized several community partners for their support of FWPS, including the Lions Club of Federal Way for annual dictionary donations, Federal Way Cares for Kids and its event partners for supporting families, and St. Luke’s Needlers for providing handmade quilts that bring warmth and comfort to students experiencing housing instability. On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to present our annual State of Education and share information about our upcoming Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy with the Kiwanis Club of Federal Way. Later that afternoon, I joined members of Korean news media to continue sharing information about the EP&O Levy. During that time, Dr. Jenai Choi, principal of Olympic View K-8, also shared an update on our new Korean Dual Language Program, the first program of its kind in Washington state, which is located at her school. As a reminder, voters in our community will have the opportunity to consider a renewal of the EP&O Levy on February 10. This levy is not a new tax and helps fund programs, staff, and daily operations that are not fully funded by the state. I will continue sharing information in the weeks ahead. Federal Way Public Schools remains deeply committed to fostering safe, welcoming, and inclusive environments where every student feels valued and supported, every family is respected, and every voice is heard. Before I close, I want to reaffirm that every student has the right to a free, high-quality education, regardless of our differences – this is inclusive of immigration or citizenship status. This right is protected by law, reflected in our district policies, and grounded in our unwavering belief in the success of all FWPS students and families. If you or your family need additional support or information, please visit our Family Resource Page, which includes the message I previously shared with FWPS families, and immigrant and refugee resources to help connect families to support. As we honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day, I hope that we can all pause to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy of service, justice, and community. We look forward to welcoming scholars back on Tuesday, ready to continue learning together. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   Good News Announcements We’re #FWPSProud of our phenomenal scholars, staff, and community members and love recognizing them during the Good News Announcements at our board meetings! A huge shout out to Thomas Jefferson High School students for their success at the 27th Annual Math Fall Classic. This year’s competition brought together students from schools across the state to showcase their mathematical skills. TJ students delivered a strong performance, with nine students earning top results, including four first place finishes across multiple division categories. Congratulations to all who participated and earned honors. We are #FWPSProud! For more details visit www.fwps.org/goodnews. Schools Can't Do It Alone Now more than ever, schools can’t do it alone. We are deeply grateful for the incredible community partners for their contributions to support our FWPS scholars and families in our district: Thank you to the St. Luke’s Church Needlers from St. Luke’s Lutheran Church for 13 years of steadfast support for our McKinney-Vento program and scholars experiencing homelessness. Your handmade quilts and hats offer more than warmth. They provide care, dignity, and a reminder to our scholars that their community sees and supports them. Thank you to our incredible community partners and volunteers who made this year’s Federal Way Cares for Kids Holiday Gift Giving Event possible. Through your generosity and time, hundreds of families and scholars were supported with holiday gifts, toys, and a joyful community celebration at Lakota Middle School. Thank you to the Federal Way Lions Club for your continued partnership and for your 18th Annual Dictionary Project. Your donation of hundreds of English dictionaries to four FWPS elementary schools is helping build strong literacy foundations and support student learning. Your generosity helps ensure our scholars and families feel supported and valued. Thank you for helping us build a brighter future for all. 🌟   EP&O Renewal Levy: February 10 The 2026 EP&O Renewal Levy provides funding for staff and staff supports that are not fully funded by the state. For example, the state funds four security officers across the district. Local levy funds allow the district to employ 15 additional security staff to support school safety. Levy funds also support: Professional development for more than 3,000 staff members College and career specialists at our high schools Special education support staff, including speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and paraeducators 100% of funding for athletic coaches and event supervision for activities Remember to vote February 10, 2026. For more information about the EP&O Renewal Levy, visit www.fwps.org/Levy2026. REMINDER: EP&O Levy Info Sessions! Federal Way Public Schools is providing a series of community information sessions to share details about the Educational Programs & Operations (EP&O) Renewal Levy, which will appear on the February 10, 2026, ballot. These sessions are designed to provide information about what the EP&O Levy funds, how it supports students and schools, and to answer questions from community members. Meeting Dates & Times: January 20 at 12:15 p.m. Room 104 in the Educational Service Center 33330 8th Ave S., Federal Way January 21 at 5:45 p.m. Wildwood Elementary 2405 S. 300th St., Federal Way January 22 at 5:45 p.m. Room 104 in the Educational Service District 33330 8th Ave S., Federal Way These meetings are open to the public. For more information about the EP&O Levy, please visit www.fwps.org/Levy2026 or email Levy@fwps.org with any questions you may have.   🎓 High School Planning Nights – Mark Your Calendars! Save the Date! Mark your calendar to attend High School Planning Nights, offered at every FWPS high school between February 11-18! These events are an excellent opportunity for 8th grade students and families to: ✅ Successfully navigate the transition from middle school to high school. 📚 Explore course offerings and understand what to expect. 🤝 Engage with high school staff and current scholars. 🌟 Discover opportunities to prepare for college and future careers.   Learn more and view the events schedule at: www.fwps.org/HSPlanningNight   No School on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, January 19 As a friendly reminder, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day there will be no school, and the ESC will be closed to the public, on Monday, January 19, 2026. School and district operations will resume Tuesday, January 20, 2026.  Community MLK Day Celebration Families who are looking for ways to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. may be interested in an MLK Day event hosted by the City of Federal Way on Saturday, January 17, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is organized by the city and community partners and is free and open to the public. More information can be found at: https://www.federalwaywa.gov/MLK-Day   Free Take-Home Meals for Students Who Observe Ramadan Ramadan is observed from February 17 to March 19, 2026, and we recognize this is an important month for many in our community. To ensure students who are not eating during the school day have access to nutritious meals at home, Federal Way Public Schools is offering take-home breakfast and lunch options in alignment with OSPI guidance. How to Participate: If your family would like to participate, please complete this brief form: www.fwps.org/ramadan. Participation is voluntary. Our goal is to support every student’s well-being while respecting the varied ways families observe Ramadan. If you have questions, please contact Nutrition Services at 253-945-5555. We wish all observing families a peaceful and meaningful Ramadan.    Winter Early Learning Gathering, January 22 Calling all early learning professionals and caregivers! RSVP for the in-person Early Learning Gathering on Thursday, January 22 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Truman Early Learning Center, 31457 28th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003; or via ZOOM. This is an opportunity to explore early learning in Federal Way, take home ideas, and build community connections. The focus will be “Language Development in Young Children and the steps to success.” RSVP to FWPS Early Learning Department at preschool@fwps.org or call 253-945-5875. The Zoom link will be emailed to you.   Early Release Friday, January 23, 2026 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, January 23 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   Choice Enrollment Open February 2 – March 16, 2026. The 2026-27 Choice Enrollment Registration will be available for all grade levels February 2 – March 16. For more information, or to submit your online application visit www.fwps.org/Choice. All Choice Enrollment applications are due by 4:30 p.m., Mar. 16, 2026. The Choice Lottery will take place April 15, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. Please see the website for location details. Existing Choice families: You are not required to reapply except for non-residents students who are transitioning between grade spans such as elementary to middle to high school. Please see our website for more information regarding the Choice timeline.   Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate with the Class of 2026 As of January 2026, graduation dates, times, and locations are as follows: Friday, June 12, 2026 at the Federal Way Performing Arts and Event Center, 31510 Pete von Reichbauer Way South in Federal Way, WA 98003 Employment and Transition Program | 10:30 a.m. Internet Academy and Career Academy | 2 p.m. Open Doors at Truman | 4 p.m. TAF@Saghalie | 6 p.m. Sunday, June 14, 2026 at the ShoWare Center, 625 West James Street Kent, WA 98032 Decatur High School | 8:30 a.m. Todd Beamer High School | noon Thomas Jefferson High School | 3:30 p.m. Federal Way High School | 7 p.m. Learn more at: www.fwps.org/graduation2026   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar 1/16/2026

Saturday, Jan 17 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter January 9, 2026

Federal Way Public Schools News January 9, 2026 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, Happy New Year to everyone! It was wonderful to welcome our scholars back to school after the winter holiday and begin the new year together. Seeing students reconnect with their classmates and teachers and settle back into learning routines across our schools has been energizing for us all.   This Wednesday, I presented our annual State of Education to the Greater Federal Way Chamber of Commerce. It was a meaningful opportunity to highlight the academic growth and successes our scholars have achieved over the past year and to share how our community partnerships continue to support that progress. I appreciate the Chamber for giving me the chance to share with our business community and I want to give a special shout-out to the Decatur High School Jazz Band, for performing as attendees arrived.  I also had the opportunity to share information about our upcoming Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy with both the Lions Club of Federal Way and the Rotary Club of Federal Way. Since November, we have been working hard to provide the community with information about this important funding measure. The EP&O Levy represents 10% of the district’s total budget and provides ongoing funding for day-to-day operations across all schools. Approval of the levy would continue funding essential staff, programs, and services that help every student succeed. We have a Virtual Levy Information Session coming up next Tuesday, Jan. 13 on Zoom being hosted by the Greater Federal Way Chamber of Commerce. Please register for the session, if you’d like to attend! Also, be sure to check out our Levy Frequently Asked Questions page and remember to vote on February 10!  Our winter athletics are in full swing this week, with Decatur and Thomas Jefferson Gymnastics competing against Kentlake, where two athletes earned special recognition for their bar and floor routines. Thomas Jefferson, Federal Way, and Decatur girls bowling teams competed at Secoma Lanes, and Federal Way and Todd Beamer high school boys swim teams competed at the Weyerhauser Aquatic Center. I want to remind everyone that 100% of our athletic programs, coaching staff, supervision costs, and transportation to competitions, are funded by our local levy.   As we look ahead, I invite you to watch my Welcome to 2026 video, where I share more about the many exciting events, learning experiences, and opportunities still to come for our students this school year. I’m grateful for the continued partnership of our families, staff, and community as we move forward together.  In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   Board of Directors Corner On behalf of the Federal Way School Board, I’m pleased to share an overview of the Board’s work over the past several weeks, along with what’s coming up in the new year.  In December, the Board remained focused on monitoring progress toward student success and supporting district priorities. During our monthly work study, we received updates on the work of the District Support Team and reviewed progress related to ENDS 1: Progress to Graduation. At our regular meeting at Mark Twain Elementary, the Board continued this discussion and received an update on the ongoing work to develop a new High School Master Schedule. We also welcomed newly sworn-in Board member Eric Gollings (District 1) and welcomed Trudy Davis (District 4) back to the board following her re-election, and held elections for Board officers for the coming year.  Board members also spent time visiting schools to see teaching and learning in action. In December, Board President Dr. Jennifer Jones visited Meredith Hill Elementary, where she observed professional learning related to the district’s new math curriculum and saw math instruction taking place in classrooms.  The district then paused for Winter Break, with schools and offices closed from December 22 through January 2.  As we move into January, Board members will continue engaging with district and regional partners and will attend the WSSDA/WASA/WASBO Legislative Conference, where school leaders from across the state gather to advocate for public education.  Our next regular Board meeting will be held at Decatur High School, where the Board will receive updates on Career and Technical Education and College & Career Readiness, as well as assurance team updates for K–3, 9th, and 12th grades.  Looking ahead, the Board encourages members of the Federal Way community to register and vote on the Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy Renewal when it appears on the February 10, 2026 ballot. This levy provides essential funding for programs and services not fully funded by the state, including special education, health and safety, counseling, career and technical education, music, drama, and athletics. Our community has consistently supported this levy since 1980, demonstrating a strong commitment to our scholars and schools.  Respectfully,  Dr. Jennifer Jones  President, Federal Way School Board    2026 State of Education Federal Way Public Schools kicked off the new year with our annual State of Education presentation, thanks to the partnership and support of the Greater Federal Way Chamber. Superintendent Dr. Dani Pfeiffer shared an update on where the district is today and how, with continued community collaboration, FWPS can keep expanding opportunities for more than 21,500 scholars, both in the classroom and beyond. We were also proud to feature a special performance by the Decatur High School Jazz Band, whose musical talent helped make the event a memorable celebration of learning, growth, and community connection. Thank you to everyone who joined us and continues to support Federal Way Public Schools.   EP&O Levy Info Sessions! Federal Way Public Schools is providing a series of community information sessions to share details about the Educational Programs & Operations (EP&O) Renewal Levy, which will appear on the February 10, 2026, ballot. These sessions are designed to provide information about what the EP&O Levy funds, how it supports students and schools, and to answer questions from community members. Meeting Dates & Times: Virtual Session January 13 at 1 p.m. Sponsored by the Greater Federal Way Chamber of Commerce To register: https://bit.ly/FWPSLevyInfoSession In Person January 20 at 12:15 p.m. Room 104 in the Educational Service Center 33330 8th Ave S., Federal Way January 21 at 5:45 p.m. Wildwood Elementary 2405 S. 300th St., Federal Way January 22 at 5:45 p.m. Room 104 in the Educational Service District 33330 8th Ave S., Federal Way These meetings are open to the public. For more information about the EP&O Levy, please visit www.fwps.org/Levy2026 or email Levy@fwps.org with any questions you may have.   Early Release Friday, January 16, 2026 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, January 16 is an Early Release day. Schools are let out 75 minutes early in support of staff professional learning and collaboration time. View the bell schedules at: www.fwps.org/earlyrelease   Get Ready for Kindergarten: Registration Opens January 20! Kindergarten registration opens Tuesday, January 20! Families with a child who will be five years old by August 31, 2026, are invited to enroll their child in kindergarten for the 2026-27 school year. Learn more and register online here: www.fwps.org/KinderRegistration.   Winter Early Learning Gathering, January 22 Calling all early learning professionals and caregivers! RSVP for the in-person Early Learning Gathering on Thursday, January 22 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Truman Early Learning Center, 31457 28th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003; or via ZOOM. This is an opportunity to explore early learning in Federal Way, take home ideas, and build community connections. The focus will be “Language Development in Young Children and the steps to success.” RSVP to FWPS Early Learning Department at preschool@fwps.org  or call 253-945-5875. The Zoom link will be emailed to you.   Choice Enrollment Open February 2 – March 16, 2026. The 2026-27 Choice Enrollment Registration will be available for all grade levels February 2 – March 16. For more information, or to submit your online application visit www.fwps.org/Choice. All Choice Enrollment applications are due by 4:30 p.m., Mar. 16, 2026. The Choice Lottery will take place April 15, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. Please see the website for location details. Existing Choice families: You are not required to reapply except for non-residents students who are transitioning between grade spans such as elementary to middle to high school. Please see our website for more information regarding the Choice timeline.   Free Take-Home Meals for Students Who Observe Ramadan Ramadan is observed from February 17 to March 19, 2026, and we recognize this is an important month for many in our community. To ensure students who are not eating during the school day have access to nutritious meals at home, Federal Way Public Schools is offering take-home breakfast and lunch options in alignment with OSPI guidance. How to Participate: If your family would like to participate, please complete this brief form: www.fwps.org/ramadan. Participation is voluntary. Our goal is to support every student’s well-being while respecting the varied ways families observe Ramadan. If you have questions, please contact Nutrition Services at 253-945-5555. We wish all observing families a peaceful and meaningful Ramadan.    Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate with the Class of 2026 As of January 2026, graduation dates, times, and locations are as follows: Friday, June 12, 2026 at the Federal Way Performing Arts and Event Center, 31510 Pete von Reichbauer Way South in Federal Way, WA 98003 Employment and Transition Program | 10:30 a.m. Internet Academy and Career Academy | 2 p.m. Open Doors at Truman | 4 p.m. TAF@Saghalie | 6 p.m. Sunday, June 14, 2026 at the ShoWare Center, 625 West James Street Kent, WA 98032 Decatur High School | 8:30 a.m. Todd Beamer High School | noon Thomas Jefferson High School | 3:30 p.m. Federal Way High School | 7 p.m. Learn more at: www.fwps.org/graduation2026   Building Strong Habits for a Strong Future The habits students practice today shape their success tomorrow. Attending school every day helps students stay on track academically while building responsibility, confidence, and resilience. At Federal Way Public Schools, we know that showing up matters. When families and schools work together to support regular attendance, students are better prepared for what lies ahead. Being here today helps ensure students are ready for tomorrow. Learn more about attendance expectations, resources, and support at www.fwps.org/attendance.    Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar 1/9/2026

Saturday, Jan 10 2026

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter December 19,...

Federal Way Public Schools News December 19, 2025 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, We’ve reached the last day of school in 2025! I can’t believe that the new year is right around the corner. This week’s weather has created real challenges for many in our surrounding communities, including some of our FWPS families and staff. We are holding those affected in our thoughts and have added local support and relief resources to our Community Resources page on our website, including assistance from King County, Pierce County, and the Department of Social and Health Services, for anyone who may need them.  I also want to thank our families for your patience and understanding as we navigated the subsequent transportation slowdowns this week due to weather and traffic issues. Our bus drivers did a terrific job safely navigating the roadways, and our Maintenance, Custodial, and Grounds teams kept our campuses clean and safe for both students and staff. Great job, everyone!  This week we held our last Scholar Advisory of the year, with discussions around our Panorama survey data and reimagining our high school schedule. On Wednesday, we recognized and celebrated our dedicated AmeriCorps team members for their outstanding work in support of our students. This is the 30th year that Federal Way Public Schools has benefited from AmeriCorps members, and the individuals in this particular group have put in more than 8,000 hours since starting in October. Thank you for all you do for our scholars. As we reflect on the school year thus far, I want to share several highlights that demonstrate our collective progress: We proudly launched Washington state’s only Korean Dual Language program at Olympic View K–8, creating new pathways for bilingual learning, cultural connection, and academic growth. Our FWPS Board of Directors earned the 2025 WSSDA Board of Distinction for the tenth consecutive year, recognized for strong governance, MTSS leadership, and improved outcomes in more than 20 schools. Thomas Jefferson High School’s RAID Robotics team captured the championship at the 2025 Washington Girls’ Generation robotics competition. Fall sports wrapped up strong seasons, with teams and student-athletes from Decatur, Federal Way, Thomas Jefferson, and Todd Beamer advancing to postseason play. Nearly 900 scholars and families participated in our Life After High School College and Career Fair, exploring future opportunities with colleges, trades, and local employers. Throughout the fall, families connected through DiscoverU Week, Family Academy sessions, scholar-led conferences, parent advisories, and multicultural celebrations across our schools. Our fall theater productions and concerts highlighted the creativity and talent of students at every grade level. FWPS families benefitted from the incredible generosity of our community partners, including We Love Our City Federal Way, JTM Construction, Garner Construction, the Federal Way Lions Club, and St. Luke’s Needlers, who provided support this season. With so much accomplished in the first part of the school year, I am looking forward to all that is to come in 2026.   As winter break begins, I hope you find time to rest, reconnect, and enjoy whatever brings you joy and wellbeing, whether that’s time with loved ones, meaningful traditions, or simple moments to recharge. May this break offer space to pause and return renewed, ready for the year ahead. I look forward to seeing you in January. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   Winter Break Dec. 22 – Jan. 2 and 2-Hour Late Start on Jan. 5 This is an important message from Federal Way Public Schools to remind you that Winter Break is from Monday, December 22, 2025, through Friday, January 2, 2026. There will be no school on these days. The district Educational Service Center (ESC) building will be closed to the public starting Monday, December 22, 2025, through Friday, January 2, 2026. The ESC will return to regular hours of operation on Monday, January 5, 2026. Schools will resume on Monday, January 5, 2026, under a 2-hour late start schedule. As a reminder, this means all schools will begin two hours after the normal start time. For students who ride the bus, pick-up schedules will also be two hours later than normal. Click here to view the bus stop time conversion chart at www.fwps.org/2hourbuschart   Breakfast will not be served when there is a two-hour late start. Interested scholars may visit the school office for a light snack until lunch which will be served at the normally scheduled times.    Full Day ECEAP will be delayed two hours behind the regularly scheduled start time and will dismiss at the regular time. There will be no part-day ECEAP, and no A.M. or P.M. Preschool.    School will dismiss at the normal time.   We Are FWPS: Cultural Appreciation Month Video Series Federal Way Public Schools is proud to continue our Cultural Appreciation Month Video Series, a yearlong effort to uplift student voices and celebrate how scholars see themselves reflected in their classrooms, learning, and school communities. So far, we’ve released three student-led videos, featuring scholars sharing what cultural appreciation months mean to them, how they’ve found belonging at school, and why celebrating all cultures supports learning and academic success for everyone. 🎥 Watch the videos and hear directly from our students. New videos will continue to be added throughout the school year as we celebrate additional cultural recognition months across FWPS.   Remember to visit your local library for reading and fun! Federal Way Public Schools continues to partner with the King County Library System for library access for our scholars. FWPS students have special library accounts which they can access from the library, school or home. Click here for more info about how to access this resource!   What is the EP&O Renewal Levy and why is it important in Federal Way Public Schools? The Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy provides funding for programs and services that the state does not fully cover. These include academics, classroom support, safety and security, technology, transportation, athletics, and extracurricular activities, all of which directly impact scholars every day. As an example, Federal Way Public Schools uses levy funds to ensure each high school has a College and Career Specialist to support our students’ goals following graduation. These staff members provide support for securing financial aid, college application and admittance help, exploring the different career options that are available, and so much more. It’s important to know that local levies help bridge the gap between state funding and the actual cost of educating and supporting more than 21,000+ FWPS scholars. Learn more about how levy dollars make a difference at fwps.org/levy2026. Stay Connected with ParentSquare! ParentSquare is the official communication tool for Federal Way Public Schools, keeping you informed and engaged every step of the way. With ParentSquare, you can: Receive all district, school, and classroom communications via email, text/call and or app notification Communicate directly with teachers and school staff View the school calendar and RSVP for upcoming events Easily sign up for appointments Set your notification preferences to stay connected the way you want Receive messages in their home language And more! To get the most out of ParentSquare, families are encouraged to claim their account and/or download the ParentSquare app today! Ready to learn more? Visit our ParentSquare Resource Page for tips, guides, and videos. Stay informed. Stay connected. All in one place!   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar 12/19/2025

Saturday, Dec 20 2025

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter December 12,...

Federal Way Public Schools News December 12, 2025 Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, I hope that you were all able to navigate this week’s weather issues safely, and despite the downpour, this week was full of meaningful moments that showcased the strength, talent, and partnership across our FWPS community. On Tuesday evening, our School Board meeting was held at Mark Twain Elementary, where students performed a song and gave a powerful spoken word performance. We also recognized our state-bound cross country and swim & dive athletes from all four of our comprehensive high schools, along with scholars who participated in the 19th Annual Math Bonanza competition for grades four through eight. Congratulations to these outstanding scholars on their achievements. This meeting also marked Director Quentin Morris’s final session as a member of the Board, and we were grateful for the opportunity to honor his four years of dedicated service to FWPS. We also welcomed back Director Trudy Davis, returning after her re-election in November, and newly elected Director Eric Gollings to the Board. This week, I visited Woodmont K–8 and observed the implementation of our Walk-to-Reading model, where kindergarteners and first-graders learned together in targeted, skill-aligned literacy groups that ensured every student receives the instruction they need. And at Meredith Hill Elementary, I observed our 4th and 5th grade teachers engaged in our math intervention program, Innovamat, with our FWPS trainer and visited kindergarten classrooms where students explored equations using movement and discussion to model plus and minus signs with their whole bodies. On Wednesday evening, our Parent Advisory gathered, despite the heavy rain, to discuss reimagining our high school schedule and learn more about our upcoming Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy. I appreciate their thoughtful insights and continued partnership in shaping the future of our schools. Last night, more than 300 families and scholars joined us for our second Family Academy of the year. This session, Healthy Minds, Healthy Families: Empowering Families for Scholar Success, provided tools and strategies to support student well-being and learning at home. Thank you to everyone who attended and to our staff who made this event possible. This week I also presented important information about our upcoming renewal levy to the Communities in Schools South King County Board of Directors, the Federal Way Chamber of Commerce, our city’s faith-based leaders group, and the Arts Foundation Federal Way Board of Directors. I hope you’ll check out our EP&O Renewal Levy section below, which provides an overview of the academics, activities and extracurricular programs, support and services that are fully or partially funded by the levy. If you have questions, you can visit our EP&O Renewal Levy Information Page at www.fwps.org/levy2026. It has been a busy and energizing week filled with powerful learning, celebration, and connection. With just one week left in 2025, let’s make it the best yet. In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   Families Gather for a Night of Learning and Connection What an incredible event we had yesterday! On Thursday, we hosted our second Family Academy session of the year, Healthy Minds, Healthy Families: Empowering Families for Scholar Success. More than 300 parents and students joined us at Star Lake Elementary and online to learn practical strategies to support their child’s overall well-being. Families came with clear goals — whether they were looking for support with the sometimes-stressful financial aid process, setting healthy boundaries around social media and device use, building a growth mindset in math, or for parents, exploring healing and breaking generational patterns. Each workshop offered meaningful tools and insights families can use right away. While adults attended sessions, younger children enjoyed childcare provided by our partner Right At School, and older students engaged in hands-on STEAM activities in the Learning Lab. To wrap up the evening, over 100 families were surprised with grocery store gift cards to help with holiday season costs, generously donated by Dr. Louis Guiden of GuidenU4Life and Right At School. Thank you to everyone who participated and made the event such a success. If you were unable to attend, workshop resources are available at www.fwps.org/healthymindshealthyfamilies. Our next Family Academy event, Summer Connections: Supporting Successful Transitions, takes place in February. Stay tuned for more details!   FWPS Celebrates Computer Science Education Week FWPS are joining students around the world in Computer Science Education Week by participating in the Hour of Code and Hour of AI. Throughout the week, students across all grade levels are exploring coding, artificial intelligence, and digital creativity through fun, hands-on activities inspired by Code.org and CSEdWeek. These experiences help students build problem-solving skills, understand real-world technology, and discover how computer science connects to their interests and future opportunities. See more highlights and photos from schools across FWPS on our website. Looking for grade-level activities? Visit the FWPS Hour of Code online Canvas course by CLICKING HERE or explore specific resources for: Grades PreK-2 Grades 3-5 Grades 6-8 Grades 9-12   Good News Announcements: December 9, 2025 We’re #FWPSProud of our phenomenal scholars, staff, and community members and love recognizing them during the Good News Announcements at board meetings! Read more about their accomplishments at www.fwps.org/GoodNews   Schools Can’t Do It Alone Now more than ever, schools can’t do it alone. We are deeply grateful for the incredible community partners for their contributions to support our FWPS scholars and families in our district: ✨ JTM Construction and Garner Construction WBE for once again supporting our scholars and families by donating and distributing more than 400 turkeys and holiday meal packages. This is your largest contribution so far, and it helped ensure families across our district could enjoy warm and nourishing meals this season. ✨ We Love Our City Federal Way, Brooklake Church, Family Life Community Church, Federal Way Church of the Nazarene, LifeWay Church, and South King Fire for coming together to support our families through this year’s 13th Annual Turkey Drive. Each organization partnered with an FWPS school to distribute more than 300 turkeys along with complete meal kits and other essential items for families.   Small Steps Lead to Big Success Helping your child get to school on time each day makes a big difference. Establishing evening and morning routines can reduce stress and set students up for a strong start.  For resources and guidance, visit www.fwps.org/attendance.    Early Release: December 19, 2025 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, December 19 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   Winter Break Dec. 22 – Jan. 2 and 2-Hour Late Start on Jan. 5 This is an important message from Federal Way Public Schools to remind you that Winter Break is from Monday, December 22, 2025, through Friday, January 2, 2026. There will be no school on these days. The district Educational Service Center (ESC) building will be closed to the public starting Monday, December 22, 2025, through Friday, January 2, 2026. The ESC will return to regular hours of operation on Monday, January 5, 2026.  Schools will resume on Monday, January 5, 2026, under a 2-hour late start schedule. As a reminder, this means all schools will begin two hours after the normal start time. For students who ride the bus, pick-up schedules will also be two hours later than normal. Click here to view the bus stop time conversion chart at www.fwps.org/2hourbuschart   Breakfast will not be served when there is a two-hour late start. Interested scholars may visit the school office for a light snack until lunch which will be served at the normally scheduled times.    Full Day ECEAP will be delayed two hours behind the regularly scheduled start time and will dismiss at the regular time. There will be no part-day ECEAP, and no A.M. or P.M. Preschool.    School will dismiss at the normal time.   Federal Way Public Schools, 33330 8th Avenue S, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-945-2000 FWPS Website Careers Calendar 12/12/2025

Saturday, Dec 13 2025

Federal Way Public Schools E-Newsletter December 5, ...

Federal Way Public Schools News December 5, 2025   Greetings FWPS Families, Staff, and Community, It is hard to believe how quickly this school year is moving as we approach the winter season. I am proud to say our schools continue to be filled with meaningful learning and connection. This week, Olympic View K-8 fourth grade students welcomed their families in for the annual Day of Learning. Families sat with students during instructional time for two-digit multiplication, enjoyed lunch together, then headed out to the playground for recess. It was a wonderful opportunity for families to see what their students do on a daily basis.  One of the highlights of my week was joining the inaugural light rail ride into Federal Way. We stopped at the beautiful new Star Lake Station and continued into the heart of Federal Way. It was exciting to celebrate this milestone for our region. I am grateful to the many partners whose dedication brought this project to life. It will be a tremendous resource for our community for years to come.  Today, I participated in the Gates Foundation Roundtable, where we focused on defining post-secondary success and explored how schools and higher education are using technology to keep students connected and prepared for the future. I was especially proud to join the discussion alongside three FWPS scholars who represented our district by sharing their insights.  As you know, Federal Way Public Schools is asking voters to approve an Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy on February 10, 2026. This measure provides 10% of our district’s budget, supporting academics, extracurriculars, essential staff, and operational costs not fully funded by the state. This week, I had the opportunity to share information about the levy with the City of Federal Way Council, alongside Board President Dr. Jennifer Jones, and I appreciate the council’s time and engagement. I also joined former Federal Way mayor Mike Park on our community’s Korean radio station to share levy information and answer questions.  Next week, I’m looking forward to my upcoming school visits, our December Parent Advisory and our second Family Academy of the year, Healthy Minds, Healthy Families: Empowering Families for Scholar Success. Check out the section below for more information!  Have a wonderful weekend and I look forward to all that next week will bring!  In Partnership, Dr. Dani Pfeiffer Superintendent   Board of Directors Corner On behalf of the Federal Way School Board, I am pleased to share an update on the work the Board and district leadership have engaged in over the past several weeks, as well as a look ahead to upcoming meetings and activities.  In late November, the Board held its regular meeting at Enterprise Elementary, where we completed the second public reading and approval of the Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Renewal Levy resolution. Later in the month, Board Directors attended the Washington State School Directors’ Association (WSSDA) Annual Conference in Seattle. We were honored to be recognized as a School Board of Distinction for the 10th consecutive year, a reflection of our shared commitment to supporting scholar success across FWPS. The district then observed the Thanksgiving holiday break.  As we move through December, the Board will continue its focus on district governance and monitoring. Our monthly work study session was held at the Educational Service Center, and our regular Board meeting will be held at Mark Twain Elementary on Dec. 9. This meeting will include updates on Ends 1, progress on the High School Master Schedule, the swearing-in of Directors for Districts 1 and 4, and the annual election of Board officers. Later this month, schools and district offices will observe Winter Break, and all school activities will pause until early January.  As a Board, we strongly encourage members of the Federal Way community to support the EP&O Levy Renewal when it is presented for a vote on February 10, 2026. This Educational Programs and Operations Levy provides funds needed for many important programs and services, including special education, health and public safety, counseling, Career and Technical Education, music, drama, and athletics.  Our community has continually supported the EP&O Levy since 1980. This is a direct and powerful way for voters to show their support for our scholars and the educators who work with the young people in our schools!  Respectfully,  Dr. Jennifer Jones  President, Federal Way School Board    Because of You Nominations Now Open! Students in grades 3-12 are invited to nominate any Federal Way Public Schools staff member in the district they believe has positively impacted them, their school, and/or their community for the “Because of You” award! Students should fill out a nomination form on the district’s website at www.fwps.org/BecauseOfYou.  All nomination forms are due by the end of every month.    Coming Up Soon! Family Academy on December 11 Have you registered yet?! Attend Healthy Minds, Healthy Families: Empowering Families for Scholar Success to learn how you can support your child’s physical, mental, digital, social, and emotional health.  📅 Thursday, December 11, 2025  🕕 from 6-7:30 p.m.  📍 Star Lake Elementary (or through Zoom)  CLICK HERE TO REGISTER Dinner, childcare, and interpreter services are available. Families who pre-register to attend in person will also be entered in a drawing to win one free week of childcare for one elementary-aged child. At the event, choose two of the following workshops:  The A-B-C's of Raising Resilient Kids: Your Simple Guide to Emotional, Social & Digital Wellness  Empowering Healthy Choices: Talking to Your Child About Vaping   Window to Wellness: Growing Fresh Food at Home for Healthier Families  Healthy Habits: The Health Effects of Screen Time  Life on the Other Side: Breaking Cycles by Becoming the Parent YOU Needed  Empower and Elevate: Supporting Mental Health for Scholars with Disabilities  Heart to Heart: Nurturing Mental Health for Our Scholars  Healthy Habits: Device-Free Moments  Growing Math Minds: Building Confidence Through Family Connections  Every Day Matters, Every Future Counts: Partnering with Families for Student Success  ✨ Plus: Financial Aid and College Application Drop-In Sessions    Learn more about the event and register at www.fwps.org/familyacademy/register.   Winter Weather: Is Your Contact Information Up-to-Date? When weather impacts our normal school schedule, one way we communicate with you is through ParentSquare Alerts. To ensure you are receiving messages according to your preferences, please: Ensure your contact information in your ParentVUE account is up to date. You can update your account by visiting https://grades.fwps.org/ . If you have not activated your ParentVUE account, please contact your child’s school. Update your notification preferences in ParentSquare. You can edit message delivery settings according to your preference for voice, email and/or app notification as well as language preference. Please leave the option for "School Alerts" on to ensure you receive these important updates. More information is available on the FWPS website and in ParentSquare support. For more information about weather-related school closures or delays, please visit our website: https://www.fwps.org/departments/communications/school-closure-and-delay   ParentSquare Important Update: Streamlining Notifications for Posts ParentSquare is excited to announce an improvement to how you receive notifications for posts from our schools. Soon, if you use the ParentSquare app and have both app and text notifications turned on, you'll receive post notifications through the app, with text notifications sent only as a backup when needed. This smart delivery system will simplify and streamline how you receive your schools’ communications. What's changing? Currently, you might receive duplicate notifications for posts via both the app and text message. With this update: App-first delivery, with text as fallback: When a post is shared, you'll receive a notification through the app first, with a backup text notification only if needed. This applies to posts, post digests, and updates to posts. No change for time-sensitive messages: Direct Messages and alerts will continue to be delivered via your preferred methods. Why it’s changing This change streamlines how you receive post notifications. By reducing the number of notifications sent to your device for each post, it will be easier for you to keep track of school updates in one place. What do you need to do? No action is required from your side! If you already use the app and have both app and text notifications turned on, you'll automatically benefit from this smart notification delivery. If you haven’t downloaded the ParentSquare app or turned on app notifications, now is a great time to do so. This gives you the best way to access and customize classroom communications on your mobile device. To learn more about this change, see ParentSquare's Help Article.   Every Day Builds Confidence Consistent attendance helps scholars feel confident in their learning. Each day in class strengthens skills, builds routines, and keeps students connected to their teachers and peers.  Find attendance tips and supports at www.fwps.org/attendance.    Early Release: December 12, 2025 This is a friendly reminder that Friday, December 12 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 12/5/2025

Saturday, Dec 06 2025