Many Highline district elementary students enjoy and excel at math, as demonstrated by the record attendance at the seventh annual Seahurst Elementary Math Bonanza, a district mathematics contest at Seahurst Elementary School on Friday, May 6, 2016.

Students in grades four through six competed in a variety of tests in different formats: an individual test in which students attempted to solve 30 problems in 30 minutes, a mental math test in which individuals tried to solve 20 questions in their head in 15 minutes, and two team tests (Algebra & Probability and Geometry & Potpourri) in which teams of four students attempted to solve 20 topic-specific problems in 15 minutes.

After a dinner break for pizza and hot dogs, the tests had all been scored and the results were ready. The first award category was “All That and a Bag of Chips”, where the top scorer on each team of four receives a bag of chips!

On Thursday (May 12), Navos’ Annual Community Health Fair took place in Burien at their Mental Health & Wellness Center, located at 1210 SW 136^th Street.

More than 20 non-profits and local businesses – including United Healthcare, Molina Healthcare of Washington and Gay City Health Project – joined Navos for this annual community health education event. Susan G. Komen Puget Sound provided free mammograms for low-income community members.

This year marks the 50^th anniversary of Navos’ founding, and together with legacy partners Seattle Children’s Home and Ruth Dykeman Children’s Center, Navos has provided more than 275 years of service to vulnerable children, families and adults in our community.  Navos has proudly evolved to create a comprehensive continuum of care to meet the specialized treatment needs of young children, adolescents, young adults, and older adults who represent diverse cultures and backgrounds.

Navos is committed to providing innovative, trauma-informed care that addresses the holistic needs of each client. Every day, Navos delivers hope, healing and wellness to help clients reach their full potential for recovery and self-sufficiency, and ensure they lead productive, healthy lives.  Navos is an employer, provided and community partner that promotes diversity and champion’s inclusion for all.

Learn more at navos.org

The next ‘Conversation with the Superintendent’ will be this coming Saturday, May 21, from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. at NAVOS – Revelle Hall, located at 1210 SW 136th Street in Burien:

Families and community members are invited to join Superintendent Susan Enfield for a series of conversations at locations across the district.

The sessions are intended to be open conversations. Participants can bring up issues of concern and ask questions.

Please come with questions and ideas so Superintendent Enfield can learn about the issues that are important to you.

All community members are invited to attend.

Saturday, May 21, 2016

10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

NAVOS – Revelle Hall
1210 SW 136th Street
Burien WA  98166

The next Burien Film Office Happy Hour – to be held at the Tin Room Bar & Theater on Tuesday night, June 7 – will feature presentations on a local film acting workshop, as well as an upcoming weekend film competition.

This free event is open to all ages, and the June one will run from 5 – 7 p.m. Please note that due to time constraints, presentations will begin around 5:45 p.m. (they usually start at 6).

REEL CAMP SEATTLE
Organizers of Reel Camp Seattle will talk about (and show clips from) their film acting workshop, which takes place over a weekend and results in actors getting a professionally-produced, 90-second scene on film:

Reel Camp Seattle video from Adventus Films on Vimeo.

These days, it’s crucial for every actor to have a reel

Now that virtually everything is on the Internet, casting directors, agents, producers and directors want instant access to see you and your work. With the advancement of camera technology in the last decade came the exponential growth of indie filmmaking, allowing actors more opportunities to get in front of a lens. Unfortunately, that didn’t always mean a surefire way for them to showcase themselves for future gigs.

Frankly, it’s a roll of the dice.

Film production doesn’t really cater to the actor and developing their career. Filmmakers are focused on their movie as a whole and understandably so. We know how difficult it can be for an actor to receive usable footage from a short or feature film. It often takes several months, sometimes years, before a movie is released – and in some cases, not at all! Reel Camp, however, does both: catering primarily to the actor and his or her talents while still maintaining high production value of each cinematic “piece” that we produce.

Reel Camp is a weekend workshop designed to provide content for your reel

Our Reel Camp team is the complete package; hair/makeup artist, gaffer, cinematographer, director and producer; all for an experience designed specifically to create a professional short scene for your reel. Whether you’re an actor just starting out with nothing to show or adding to an existing portfolio, we want to help you choose a role that will highlight your image and round out your collection of work. Always cast as the villain? Let’s find a scene that showcases you as say, the “Romantic” or the “Caretaker”. Reel Camp is here to help promote the hungry actor, and to give you a leg up when it comes to casting across several character types.

More info at http://reelcampseattle.com

48 HOUR FILM PROJECT
Krk Nordenstrom from the 48 Hour Film Project will discuss the “wild and sleepless weekend in which you and a team make a movie – write, shoot, edit and score it – in just 48 hours!!”

48 Hour Film Project Documentary – 2012 from Team Awesome Seattle on Vimeo.

48HFP WhyDoIt from kirk nordenstrom on Vimeo.

Filmmakers from all over the Seattle, WA area will compete to see who can make the best short film in only 48 hours.

The winning film will go up against films from around the world at Filmapalooza 2017 for a chance at the grand prize and an opportunity to screen at the Cannes Film Festival 2017, Court Métrage.

More info at http://48hourfilm.com/seattle-wa

Here are two previous films from this competition:

I, Charon from Harvey Brothers on Vimeo.

Monster Mash – Award Winner – 48 Hour Film Horror Project Seattle from Bruce Bracken on Vimeo.

The Burien Film Office Happy Hour will run from 5 – 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 7, at the Tin Room Bar & Theater, located at 923 SW 152nd Street in Olde Burien.

This is an open, free, all-ages event, and all filmmakers and movie lovers are encouraged to attend!

Rose Clark, Co-Chair of Highline Public Schools’ Capital Facilities Advisory Committee, will speak at the Burien Lions Club on Wednesday, May 25.

The event will run from Noon to 1 p.m. at Angelo’s Restaurant, located at 601 SW 153rd Street.

• Do you have a family member attending school in the Highline School District?
• Are you concerned about ensuring that money allocated to the Highline School District is appropriate to the District’s needs?

The Capital Facilities Advisory Committee is a Committee composed of 40 members, across the Highline School District. Its members range in age from high school students to senior citizens. The charge of thisCommittee is to research the capital facility needs for the Highline School District and make recommendations to the Highline School Board for consideration and potential adoption. Once these recommendations are adopted by the Highline School Board, the community-at-large will vote on these as a future bond proposal.

The Highline School District supplied the Committee with data supported by engineering studies and OSPI capital expectations. The Committee has toured several schools in the District, and is now in the process of prioritizing issues for School Board consideration into potential phases for the next 20 – 25 years. This is an important topic, and we at the Burien Lions want to give you an opportunity to make your voice heard.

On Wednesday, May 25, Rose Clark, Co-Chair of the Capital Facilities Advisory Committee, will speak before the Burien Lions to discuss the Committee’s work, hear your input, and take your comments back to the Committee for its consideration. Join us for this important community presentation.

The Burien Lions meet each Wednesday from Noon to 1 p.m. at Angelo’s Restaurant, located at 601 SW 153rd Street in Burien.

For more information on the Burien Lions and how to join us to help make our community an even better place to live for all, please call 206.433.0715.

The next Highline Forum will be Wednesday, May 25, from 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. at the Normandy Park Community Club, located at 1500 SW Shorebrook Drive.

The public is invited to make comments at the start of the meeting.

The City of Normandy Park is hosting the meeting, and the theme is Transportation.

The Highline Forum membership includes the southwest King County communities of Des Moines, Burien, Normandy Park, SeaTac, Tukwila and Federal Way and Highline Public Schools, Highline College and the Port of Seattle.

The 2016 Highline Schools Foundation Scholarship recipients were honored at Wednesday night’s Highline Public Schools Board meeting at Bow Lake Elementary:

Each student received a certificate of recognition from Highline Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Susan Enfield.

“A very BIG thank you to all the families who took the time to spend the evening with us to celebrate these wonderful students!”

This year, the Highline Schools Foundation will donate nearly $120,000 in scholarships to students in Highline Public Schools. Their scholarship program is growing every year – last the foundation donated nearly $90,000, and only three years ago they awarded nearly $50,000.

These scholarships are made possible by the support of Highline Schools Foundation’s generous individual donors and corporate partners.

FYI:

All Highline Schools Foundation Scholarships are available to graduating seniors who live in the Highline Public Schools service area and will graduate with a diploma from Highline Public Schools by June of their senior year.

The 2017 application will be available January 2017 for seniors graduating in 2017.

You can find a list of the scholarships available and the requirements for each at http://www.highlineschoolsfoundation.org/scholarships/.

Each scholarship has its own review committee and they look at a number of factors when deciding who will receive their scholarship.

Students are asked to write essays and provide letters of recommendation as well as a copy of their transcript and SAT scores.

On Tuesday (May 17), the City of Burien helped host a ‘speed networking event’ for juniors and seniors from Highline Public Schools at City Hall:

Burien City Manager Kamuron Gurol addressed students to kick off the event. Photo courtesy City of Burien.

More than 100 students and 30 career professionals registered for the event, where students were able to try out their elevator speeches and build networking skills.

“We enjoyed having so many students around City Hall! #burienstrong #makingburienawesome”

Burien’s Hi-Liners will be holding a Clothing and Textile Drive on Friday, June 17 and Saturday, June 18 at the Burien Annex.

“We all have unwanted textiles that are out of fashion, not needed, or no longer fit,” reads an announcement. “Instead of discarding surplus clothing and household linens, give them a second life through Clothes for the Cause.”

Donating these items to The Hi-Liners Clothing Drive allows them to be re-worn, recycled or repurposed for the good of our cause and our planet.

Clothing new and gently used. SHOES paired only. TOWELS, STUFFED ANIMALS, HATS, SHEETS, BLANKETS, QUILTS, BEDSPREADS, DRAPES, PURSES, BELTS… All items must be dry, clean and in a tied plastic bag.

*We cannot take glass, breakables, electronics, pet beds, bed pillows, carpeting, uniforms, or hotel linens or items previously for sale at a thrift store.

This is not a rummage sale; we cannot accept donations of household goods or furniture.

• Friday, June 17: 4 – 8 p.m.
• Saturday, June 18: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Questions or Donations?
Call 206-617-2152 or email info@hi-liners.org

The Hi-Liners is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, accordingly, donations are tax deductible as allowed by law.

Highline Public Schools released this video, showing students, alums, staff, and other volunteers helping to paint, weed, landscape and clean Highline High School on Friday, May 20:

“The support that we’re having for Highline is just amazing,” student Yair Montiel said. “It makes me feel, as a senior, that I’m not alone. Everybody here is going to help out.”

Students initiated the campus clean-up after the failure of the bond measure that would have rebuilt the school. This event helps HHS to be more inviting for students and staff until a future bond passes.

“Thank you to everyone who lent a hand on Pirate Pride day!”

[EDITOR’S NOTE: Now in her second year with more great work is our youngest-ever Contributor – 12-year old Isabel Herbruger – Local Girl Scout, 4-H member, and aspiring photojournalist. We encourage residents of all ages to submit stories and photos for posting – for consideration, please email yours to editor@b-townblog.com!]

Photos and Story by Isabel Herbruger, age 12

Last Friday, May 20, 2016, the Highline High School campus was taken over by more than 1,300 students, staff, and volunteers to spring clean the failing 92-year old building. I stopped by to see how things went.

“This is OUR school. This is all we got.”

As many adults know, two recent bonds have failed to pass for the district. This has been hard on students, who talked to staff about how rundown the school looked and the impact it was having on them. They wanted to do something about it. It took three months to plan this first “Pirate Pride Day” which included deep cleaning, painting and fixing garden beds on the campus.

Principal Vicki Fischer gave a tour to show off the work done by students, staff, and community volunteers. By the east entrance, staff was cleaning a sign hidden behind bushes and years of dirt. They were very excited by their treasure.

I met Pastor Dan from Four Square Church and Burien City Councilmember Austin Bell, who were working on garden beds by the cafeteria. Neither had gone to Highline but felt it was very important to be involved in the community.

“Highline is at the center of this community and we should take pride in how it looks,” said Mr. Bell.

Around the next corner was Stan, from the class of ’95. He took the day off to bring his pressure washer to clean the foyer between the main office and cafeteria. The ‘heart’ of the school used to be dark and forgotten but now was looking very bright and cheery.

In one of the staging areas I met Guy from facilities. He spent the last few months preparing for this day. Sixty yards of bark is a lot to move in a few hours, and the Pirates of Highline did an incredible job at it. They also filled two large trucks with garbage from the campus, with more piles waiting for pick-up. Inside the school, fresh paint went on some walls, others were washed down, lockers were scrubbed, and trophy cases shined.

I am sure the list was much longer, but it was time to eat burgers and play on the front lawn. Some of the Senior Pirates told me:

“Even though we are graduating, doing this for our school gives hope to the others here. It feels hopeful here now.”

Out on the front lawn I spotted a few firefighters and asked if they had come to help. They hadn’t been able to, but wanted to show their community support. I also spotted Superintendent Dr. Susan Enfield incognito. When I asked if she helped with the cleanup, she smiled, “Yes. I scraped weeds off the front sidewalks and steps over there and flipped burgers!”

Then I asked how she felt about the day.

“It went really well but I wish more community members could have been involved today. It is important to show support for our students,” she said.

The campus still has lots of projects waiting to be done, but that is okay. As one person put it, “I am looking forward to the next one. This was fun and we made a huge difference!”

One thing I discovered on my tour was a plaque for Matt Pauls. After being an online detective, I learned he was 16 when he died in a car accident in Burien 26 years ago. I wonder what other hidden history will be discovered in the next Pirate Pride Day…?

Click images to see larger versions/slideshow:

Principal Vicki Fischer

Bark in front of the school.

Garden spaces inside the school.

“Look what we found!”

Sign rediscovered!

Pastor Dan and Councilmember Bell at work.

’95 Graduate Stan finishing up his pressure washing.

The foyer is bright and cheery now.

Guy from facilities, one of the coordinators of the day.

One of the staging areas at the end of the day.

One of the piles of debris waiting to be hauled off.

Memorial sign found.

One of the walls repainted.

One of the walls cleaned up.

Food and games on the front lawn.

Food and games on the front lawn.

Superintendant Enfield with firefighters.

Thank you for your time and consideration,
– Isabel H.
Official “Unofficial Pirate Photographer”
and aspiring Photojournalist

2016 Highline Schools Foundation Scholarship recipients, their families and scholarship funders gathered at the Puget Sound Skills Center for the second annual Scholarship Recognition Reception following the Highline Public Schools Board meeting on May 18, 2016.

The 2016 Highline Schools Foundation Scholarship recipients were honored at the May 25, 2016 Highline Public Schools Board meeting at Bow Lake Elementary. Each student received a certificate of recognition from Highline Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Susan Enfield. Students are pictured here with Superintendent Dr. Susan Enfield, School Board Members Angelica Alvarez, Tyrone Curry Sr., Bernie Dorsey, Michael D. Spear, and Joe Van along with Scholarship Funders Charles Garrity, Nancy Pappas Barnhart and Foundation Trustees David Baisch, Scott Lautman and Marco Milanese.

The Highline Schools Foundation announced that they are awarding nearly $120,000 in scholarships to graduating students in Highline Public Schools this year.

This is the highest amount ever offered in scholarship dollars by the Foundation.

The 13 students receiving scholarships in 2016 were honored at the May 18 Highline Public Schools Board meeting at Bow Lake Elementary School. Each received special recognition and certificate of merit from Highline Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Susan Enfield. These scholarships are made possible by the support of Highline Schools Foundation’s generous individual donors and corporate partners.

Following the board meeting, students, their families, scholarship funders and Highline Schools Foundation Trustees celebrated at the second annual Scholarship Recognition Reception at the Puget Sound Skills Center where students in the Puget Sound Skills Center’s culinary arts program provided a wonderful dessert buffet.

BILL MAYNARD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Begun in 2008, the Bill Maynard Memorial Scholarship was established to honor the memory of the late Bill Maynard, a beloved figure in the Highline School District. Bill was the coordinator of the Steps to Success program, and he cared deeply for the students that he worked with.

2016 Bill Maynard Memorial Scholarship Recipient:

Tuyen Tran, Global Connections High School
Tuyen will be attending University of Washington-Tacoma this fall where she will study International Business at the Milgard School of Business. Marketing is her passion. She has been very involved in DECA, which was a passion of the late Bill Maynard for whom this scholarship is named. Tuyen is the Communications Coordinator at JUMA Ventures where she leads volunteer events, employee meetings, and leadership conferences. She will pursue a career in business by first attending the Milgard School of Business at the UW Tacoma.

LIGHT & LOVE SCHOLARSHIP
The Light & Love Scholarship was created in 2014 by the Pappas family in honor of Nancy Pappas’s son, Dominick Pappas. This scholarship recognizes students whose personality and genuine kindness have been consistently demonstrated over the years.  Nancy Pappas Barnhart is a long-time employee of Highline Public Schools who lost her son Dominick, at the age of five. Dominick would have graduated from Highline Public Schools in 2014. This year, the Pappas family is awarded (2) scholarships.

2016 Light & Love Scholarship Recipients:

2016 Light & Love Scholarship Recipients Elizabeth Van Flandern and Andrew Schons pictured with Nancy Pappas Barnhart.

Andrew Schons, Big Picture High School
Andrew plans on attending the Cornish College of the Arts to study Visual Art. Andrew wrote one of the most raw and honest essays the Pappas family read.  Andrew is a brilliant artist – after reading his story and references, it is clear he is a “HEART-IST” using every fiber of his being to fuel his talent. Andrew shared challenges and milestones that have made him what he is today, as one references put it, a smart, driven, and kind-hearted young man. His struggles before joining the Big Picture High School family have informed his art, and his pure heart, concern for others, and quirky sense of humor are part of what makes his art unique and mature.

Elizabeth Van Flandern, Raisbeck Aviation High School
Elizabeth plans attend George Washington University to study International Affairs. According to her references, Elizabeth is thoughtful, a loyal friend, the first to smile and step up when need, a truly remarkable young woman. And, she goes well beyond the classroom to enrich other people’s lives and the community. Elizabeth’s application resonated with the Pappas family, and reflected light and love in a simple and clear way  throughout her story; in particular, with this summary statement:  “I want to live in a positive and nurturing world, and that means I need to give out love and kindness and caring in the acts I commit every day.” 

ALASKA AIRLINES SCHOLARSHIP
The Alaska Airlines Scholarship is funded thanks to the generosity of Alaska Airlines, an important partner with Highline Schools Foundation. Started in 2014 as one (1) $5,000 scholarship awarded to one graduating student attending Highline Public Schools, Alaska Airlines increased the number of scholarships awarded in 2016 to four (4)! The scholarship is based on financial need, academic merit, achievement, and the student’s future goals.

2016 Alaska Airlines Scholarship Recipients:

Jade Jordan, Connor Shea, Geneva Rossman, Jesus Quinones pictured with Scott Lautman, Alaska Airlines and Highline Schools Foundation Trustee.

Jade Jordan, Raisbeck Aviation High School
Jade graduates as a National Honor Society member for all four (4) years, and with perfect attendance! She plans to pursue computer science at Western Washington University.  She was first introduced to coding through district sponsored event called “Girls Can Code.”  Before attending the event, she thought it was all too difficult and not interesting.  She liked the idea of creating things.  Jade is described by her faculty as thoughtful, humble and reliable.

Geneva Rossman, Raisbeck Aviation High School
Geneva will attend Gonzaga University where she plans to major in Biology with an emphasis on research. She will also be on a pre-med track.  Geneva received multiple awards at RAHS including the Wingman and the Wright Stuff awards. She was named Rotary Student of the month and is a Cross Country letter winner. She has been a participant, President and leader in the Science Olympiad program at Aviation. Geneva is described by faculty as confident, a mentor and having an unflagging work ethic.

Connor Shea, Highline High School
Connor will be attending DigiPen Institute of Technology and plans on getting his bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Game Design. Connor is an independent student, he has been a member of the National Honor Society all 4 years of high school and is a three (3) sport athlete—participating in wrestling, track & field, and football.  Connor is described by his faculty as a leader, intelligent and kind.

Jesus Quinones, Highline High School
Jesus plans to attend the University of Washington to study Computer Science. Jesus is also the first in his family to attend college! He participated in the “Minds Matter” program for four (4) years, he volunteers and translates at the Seattle Aquarium, and is a DECA and Key Club member at HHS. Jesus is described by faculty as determined, dependable, and thoughtful.

THE SEATTLE-TACOMA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (STIA) SCHOLARSHIP
Started in 2002, The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (STIA) Scholarship is the Foundation’s longest running scholarship. This needs-based scholarship is funded through the annual the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport Scholarship charity golf tournament (sponsored by volunteer employees of the Port of Seattle and HMS Host). Three scholarships are awarded annually to three graduating seniors who attend a Highline Public School and will be pursuing a college education.

2016 STIA Scholarship Recipients:

Hansol Kim, Highline High School receives her Certificate of Recognition from Superintendent Dr. Susan Enfield.

2016 Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (STIA) Scholarship Recipients Chloe McDougall, Hansol Kim and Jan Benedict Mislang with Marco Milanese, Port of Seattle and Highline Schools Foundation Trustee.

Chloe McDougall, Highline High School
Chloe will attend Western Washington University this fall where she will major in Sociology. She is the first in her family to pursue a four-year degree. Chloe maintained a 3.5 GPA at Highline High School and earned a 4.00 GPA at Highline College in her Running Start classes last quarter. Her teachers describe her as a “model of individual determination.”  She is a more than just a great student though and is also very active in a number of organizations and clubs including at Gregory Heights Elementary where she has volunteered since her freshman year.

Hansol Kim, Highline High School
Hansol will be attending University of Washington Seattle and she is interested in studying pre-law. She has taken advantage of every opportunity at HHS to challenge herself as demonstrated by her six AP level classes.  And though she is without question an amazing student, Hansol is very well rounded.  She plays clarinet with the symphonic band, is on the varsity golf team and is currently the ASB President. Somehow she has also found time to serve as an intern at Cascade Middle School and the White Center Community Development Association.

Jan Benedict Mislang, Highline High School
Jan moved from the Philippines to Burien only two years ago knowing, at the time, very little English. His desire to prove himself has always been evident in his daily work and in his willingness to do whatever was necessary both inside and outside of class to develop his understanding. This fall, he’s on his way to Highline College and is the first member of his family to go to college in this country. After 2 years at community college, he plans to transfer to a university so that he can get his bachelor’s degree.  He’s an impressive student and has a bright future ahead of him.

CM GARRITY SCHOLARSHIP
New in 2015, thanks to the generosity of benefactor Charles Garrity—the CM Garrity Scholarship was awarded to two graduating students from Highline Public Schools. This is the only 4-year scholarship opportunity provided by Highline Schools Foundation. Scholarship criteria included financial need, academic performance, leadership and community service or extracurricular activities.

2016 CM Garrity Scholarship Recipients:

2016 CM Garrity Scholarship Recipient Khairul Islam pictured with Pat and Charles Garrity.

2016 CM Garrity Scholarship Recipient Patricia Gonzalez Delgadopictured with Pat and Charles Garrity.

Patricia Gonzalez Delgado, Global Connections High School
Patricia plans to attend the University of Washington where she will pursue an education in International Business.  Patricia has been named Washington’s DECA student of the year, has received the Seamount Award for 2015 and 2016 for having a 3.5 or higher GPA during all of her gymnastics and cross country sports seasons, and has participated in numerous DECA events.

Khairul Islam, Global Connections High School
This scholarship allows him to get closer to achieving his dream—of attending the University of Washington and majoring in Environmental Engineering. He chose UW Seattle because it is a big school with big beautiful buildings!  Khairul grew up in Bangladesh and will be the first person his family to attend college.

TINSHIP SCHOLARSHIP
New in 2016, seniors in Highline Public Schools had a new scholarship available to them thanks to The Tin Room and their patrons. The scholarship is intended for graduates who want to pursue a trade school, for careers in mechanics, building, machinery or craftsmanship.

2016 TinShip Scholarship Recipient:

Tinship winner Osmat Shamdeen, pictured with Tin Room Owner Danny House.

Osmat Shamdeen, Mount Rainier High School
Osmat fell in love with welding while at Puget Sound Skills Center, he attends Renton Technical College to earn early credit, and has been accepted into the Renton Tech Welding program in the fall. He plans to work for Boeing.

Photos by Melissa Ponder/Mel Ponder Photography.

The Highline Schools Foundation was established in 1999 with the purpose of providing community resources to help Highline Public Schools succeed. We believe that by helping to enrich the classroom and school experience, we can engage students to reach a higher level of learning, and the entire community will benefit.  The Foundation is governed by a dedicated group of volunteer Trustees and is the only 501(c)(3) organization supporting all Highline Public Schools.

Learn the secrets to investing in Real Estate at a seminar on Saturday, June 4, 2016, from 9:30 a.m. – Noon.

Are you interested in building your personal wealth, but don’t know where to begin?

Intrigued by “Invest in Real Estate” seminars, but afraid to encounter high-pressure or fly-by-night scam artists?

Then this class is for you! Local experts Joanne Rocheford and Robin Tomazic are long-standing real estate and mortgage professionals with strong reputations built on client trust and referrals. With decades of experience under their belts, they are real people with valuable knowledge you want.

There are offering the first in a series of classes that will equip you to take the next step in real estate investing:

JR INVESTOR SERIES: CLASS 1: Homebuying – The Foundation

Wondering how to get started in the exciting world of real estate investing today? Learn strategies to purchase your first home/investment by leveraging financing and current lending guidelines to maximize your buying power. Learn how to find the best investment home  for your budget, how to evaluate the property for future income potential, and how to win in this competitive market. Join our experts for a fast-paced workshop on goal-focused Homebuying for Beginners – the first step to building wealth in real estate. Get started investing in yourself and your future – RSVP to join us June 4. The First 30 will attend free, $20.00 thereafter. Don’t pay hundreds to acquire this knowledge.  Register NOW! Call or text Shannon at 425-466-0095 or email JRocheford@FinanceofAmerica.com

WHEN: June 4, 2016    9:30am-Noon

WHERE: Youngstown Cultural Arts Center,  South Classroom #111, 4408 Delridge Way SW, Seattle, WA 98106

RSVP: Phone or text Shannon at 425-466-0095 or email JRocheford@FinanceofAmerica.com

About the Instructors

Robin Tomazic – Broker, RE/MAX Metro Realty, Inc.
Robin Tomazic, a Realtor and Broker at RE/MAX Metro Realty, Inc. in Seattle brings 18 years of experience helping home buyers and investors in the Greater Seattle area to her teaching. Robin has been in the trenches with her clients through the ups and downs of the market and tested and refined the tools and strategies she shares in real time markets and situations. Robin has been investing in real estate herself for nearly 20 years, and with a passion for service and education, she looks foward to the opportunity to share with you her knowledge and experience to help you reach your real estate goals.

Joanne Rocheford, Certified Mortgage Planner at Finance of America
Joanne Rocheford, a Certified Mortgage Planner at Finance of America has 16 years of experience financing home buyers and investors in the Pacific Northwest. Joanne, born and raised in Seattle, purchased her first home in 1990, first rental in 2000 and from that point on she was hooked on real estate investing and the power of leverage. Joanne has a degree in Business Marketing from Seattle University and understands the nuances of the Seattle Real Estate Market. Joanne’s goal is to educate and empower you to take action and move confidently into your first real estate purchase/investment today!

A Family Information Meeting for new Girl Scout Troop #42639 will be held on June 6 at the Burien Library:

WHAT: Join the fun and friendship of Girl Scouts by joining the newly formed Troop #42639!

WHEN: Monday, June 6, 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: Burien Library, 2^nd floor conference room

This troop is open to all girls between Kindergarten – 4th grade.

This free family information meeting for Troop #42639 will be held in the 2nd floor conference room of the Burien Library.

We need adult volunteers to complete our Girl Scout leadership team. No prior experience necessary. Discover a new skill, connect with new friends, and take action in your community.

Register online at GirlScoutsWW.org, enter Troop 42639. Financial Aid available.

Troop meetings will be held near Seahurst Elementary.

For more information:

• Checkout girlscoutsww.org or call 1-800-541-9852.
• Or contact Troop Leader Sarah at slittle083@gmail.com or 206-372-9862.

The Highline Capital Facilities Advisory Committee (CFAC) is narrowing down a list of solutions for facility concerns facing Highline Public Schools, and on Tuesday (May 31) released their priorities.

Initial priorities listed include building new schools at Highline High School, Des Moines Elementary, Southern Heights, as well as building two new middle schools at the Glacier and Manhattan sites.

It is not yet known whether the district will put a new bond on the November ballot, and the deadline to file is Aug. 2. The last two bond attempts failed.

Here’s audio of the most recent meeting, held May 25:

CFAC met twice during the month of May, and committee members broke into groups to explore solutions to the top priority problems. The groups developed the following draft solutions, which must now be evaluated for cost and feasibility:

Solution for condition of Des Moines Elementary: Build a new school on the Zenith site at a capacity of 750 students in Phase 1. (Retain existing Des Moines building for public use.)

Solution for condition of Southern Heights Elementary: Rebuild the school on the current location at a capacity of 750 students in Phase 2.

Solution for condition of Highline High School: Build a new school on the current location at a capacity of 1,800 students in Phase 1. Save the façade as much as possible, and replicate the existing architectural style in new construction.

Solution to Elementary Capacity: 

• Scenario 1: Elementary schools with 6th graders
  • Rebuild Des Moines Elementary
  • Rebuild Southern Heights Elementary
  • Build two new elementary schools

• Scenario 2: Elementary schools without 6th graders
  • Rebuild Des Moines Elementary
  • Use state class size reduction funds (6080 funds) to modernize Southern Heights Elementary
  • Gradually implement class size reduction
  • Use portables where necessary

Solution for Middle School Capacity:

• Build two new middle schools at Glacier and Manhattan sites in Phase 1
• Rebuild two existing middle schools in Phase 2.
• Rebuild two existing middle schools in Phase 3.

Read a synopsis of the presentations, review supporting documents, and listen to a complete audio recording of the May 11 and May 25 meetings online here.

CFAC is composed of 40 members and is charged with developing a long-term facilities plan for Highline Public Schools, including a future bond measure (read our previous coverage here).

Fifteen committee members were appointed by community organizations, employee associations, and local government leaders. Twenty-five at-large members were chosen by lottery from a pool of over 70 community members who volunteered to serve.

Read a synopsis of all previous CFAC meetings, see a list of committee members, and read more about the committee charge by visiting the CFAC web section (highlineschools.org/CFAC).

The next CFAC meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 8.

Did you know that Burien has a full service piano technician who can keep your piano in tune, and repair or restore it to its best condition? Dale Lindeke, of Dale’s Piano Service is that man. Not only can he bring back your piano’s sweet, vibrant sound, he can also provide expert consultation to help you determine its value and decide whether it is worth repairing or restoring.

A lifelong resident of Burien, Dale started taking piano lessons at age 7. After high school he pursued another connection to music, teaching ballroom dancing at the Fred Astaire Dance School. While working as the Dance Director, he met his wife Suzy VanHout, also a longtime resident of our area. Together they raised their children and became involved in the music ministry at their church.

Dale Lindeke

Dale’s passion for music and overseeing the maintenance of the church’s piano is what first led him to learn the skill to tune, repair and regulate pianos. What started as simple curiosity became a satisfying occupation as he discovered his talent and ability to turn sour notes into sweet tunes.

Whether you’ve recently purchased a piano or have one that’s been in your family or organization for generations, his commitment is to provide quality service at a reasonable price to help preserve and/or restore your piano.

Dale is a graduate of the Randy Potter School of Piano Technology. He continues to develop his skills through the school’s continuing education program and also through workshops and conventions sponsored by the Piano Technicians Guild. The Guild is a prestigious national organization dedicated to improving and preserving the craft of piano maintenance.

Dale’s Piano Service offers a number of service options, including standard tuning on any make or model of piano, repair of broken strings, hammers or keytops, regulating, voicing and estimates on the value of a piano you might be looking at buying or selling. Special rates are available for churches and non-profit organizations. His many clients continue to offer rave reviews and referrals, like this one:

“Dale clearly loves what he does.  To me, this is the single greatest factor in our continued relationship with him. There are many people out there who possess the skill set necessary to extract quality sound from a piano. The fact that he is passionate about creating exceptional sound on an instrument he personally loves means he cares about your investment and the purposes it serves as much as you do. Thanks Dale! Highest marks.   

– Brett R. Sisley
Executive Pastor, Bellevue Foursquare Church” 

Is it time to bring back the beautiful sound on your piano? Then give Dale a click www.dalespianoservicenw.com or call at 206-489-4980.

New clients can mention The B-Town Blog and save $20 on their first tuning or repair visit!

Dale will come right to your home with a prompt appointment that’s convenient for you. Exceptional sound from your piano is local and affordable. Why wait?

http://www.dalespianoservicenw.com

1-206-489-4980

dale@dalespianoservicenw.com

Kennedy Catholic High School’s ‘Lancer Loop’ 5k Run/Walk will be held on Saturday, Aug. 27 at the school’s new athletic field, located behind the campus at 140 S. 140th Street in Burien.

Celebrating 50 years of Kennedy Catholic High School history, this inaugural race is open to all students, families, alumni, neighbors and friends.

“Join us for a fun morning!”

Options include a chipped timed 5k run, an untimed 5k walk, and a quarter mile kids dash around the school track.

The race will start and finish on the new Kennedy Catholic Athletic Field.

Parking is available in the main school parking lot.

Strollers and leashed dogs are welcome but organizers ask that they start behind the runners.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Kennedy Catholic High’s ‘Lancer Loop’ 5k Run/Walk fundraiser

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 27 starting at 8 a.m.

WHERE: Kennedy Catholic High School Athletic Field, 140 S 140th Street, Burien, 98168

PRICE: $25.00 Race Fee + $2.50 SignUp Fee

REGISTRATION: Register online here (NOTE: Price increases to $35.00 after August 23, 2016 at 10:00am PDT)

DONATE: Donate online here (for those who wish to help, not run/walk…)

Burien-based non-profit Children’s Therapy Center (CTC) this week opened a new co-working space at their office building at 127 SW 156th Street.

‘Desk+’ is designed for “social entrepreneurs eager to make a difference in the community and beyond,” according to a statement.

The demand for shared workspaces has exploded in recent years, and according to NAIOP (a commercial real estate trade group), the number of co-working spaces has exploded nationally from one in 2005 to 781 in 2013.

“Innovation is the key to sustainability when it comes to nonprofits,” said Jon Botten, CEO of Children’s Therapy Center for the past 17 years. “We realized that in 2006 when we launched our own social enterprise, SPIO. Now, they’re our first ‘official’ tenant – and we hope to attract others like them.”

SPIO, a compression orthotic specifically designed to assist children with special needs who struggle with low muscle tone and sensory issues, plays an integral role in the nonprofit’s business model. The enterprise produces more than $1M annually in gross revenue. That earned income matters greatly to an organization which, despite 36 years in existence, finds itself increasingly vulnerable in today’s unpredictable health care environment.

“We’ve seen the numbers of under-insured patients skyrocket in recent years while medical reimbursements continue to decline,” Botten added. “We serve more than 3,400 children every year, and close to 60% of those families are low-income. What keeps me awake at night? I worry about having to cut services to children unless we can find a way to redefine our business model. SPIO and Desk+ will help us get there.”

Botten hopes to attract at least 50 members to approximately 1,400 square feet of space in its modern and conveniently located building in the heart of Burien.

For more information about Desk+ please contact Jon Botten at 253-216-0893 or jon@ctckids.org.

• www.deskplus.org
• Twitter
• Facebook

Children’s Therapy Center is the largest and most comprehensive nonprofit pediatric therapy program in Washington State. Since 1979, our mission has been to maximize the potential of children with special needs. We provide essential services and products for children age birth to 18 including physical, occupational and speech therapy; early intervention services; and parent education and support. In partnership with parents and caregivers, we celebrate where each child is today and work toward who they can become. Last year, we served more than 3,400 children. To learn more about our work, make an investment, join our team, or volunteer your expertise please visit www.ctckids.org.

At its meeting Wednesday (June 1), the Highline Public Schools Board of Directors adopted a resolution supporting a community-driven movement  – ‘Graduate! Highline’ – aimed at increasing Highline Public Schools’ graduation rates.

‘Graduate! Highline’ was initiated by a group of community and civic leaders, district alumni and passionate supporters of Highline students. The vision is to build a grassroots movement fueled by participation from every corner of the community: individual citizens, local businesses, community-based organizations, faith communities, and corporate business partners.  The idea was inspired by the success of the Graduate Tacoma initiative, which helped drive Tacoma Public Schools’ graduation rates from 55 percent to beyond 80 percent.

Background:

• As a community, Highline Public Schools has set ambitious goals for students, all in service of one overarching goal: At least 19 out 20 students in the Class of 2017 will graduate prepared to choose their future.
• Highline’s 2015 graduation rate is 70.3 percent. This represents a significant increase from the 2014 graduation rate of 62.9 percent; however, to reach the 2017 goal of 95 percent graduation, urgent progress is necessary.
• The Graduate! Highline Leadership Team believes Highline’s students are capable of achieving this goal and recognizes that our schools cannot do it alone. Graduate! Highline calls on the entire community to play a part in supporting the success of our community’s students.

“Our goal is to ignite a communitywide effort around our students. We want to rally community, civic, faith, business and philanthropic leaders to support our community’s young people in large and small ways. When kids are fully supported, they will succeed,” said JD Hill, Executive Director of the Matt Griffin YMCA and spokesperson for the Graduate! Highline Leadership Team. “Think of the impact we can have when people come together in one collective effort supporting our students!”

The leadership of Highline Public Schools pledge to facilitate partnerships with the community.

“We are deeply committed to our graduation goal, and we recognize it will take the entire community to make it happen,” said Superintendent Susan Enfield. “It is inspiring to see the community come together and show our students that we believe in them.”

The Seattle Sounders FC recently joined the movement, and according to Roger Levesque, Director of Community Outreach:

“At the Sounders FC we’re always up for a challenge, which is why we’re really excited to support the Graduate! Highline initiative and the ambitious goal of a 95% district-wide high school graduation rate. Let Graduate! Highline be the community’s rallying cry to encourage each student to explore new opportunities and to enable the next generation of Highline students to reach their full potential.”

The Graduate! Highline Team urges community members to visit www.graduatehighline.org to join the movement and learn how to get involved. Questions and ideas can be directed to info@graduatehighline.org.

Graduate! Highline Leadership Team:

• Ray Conner, The Boeing Company
• Bernie Dorsey, Board Member, Highline Public Schools
• Geri Fain, Highline Public Schools administrator (retired)
• J.D. Hill, Matt Griffin YMCA
• Shaunta Hyde, Alaska Airlines
• Scott Lautman, Alaska Airlines, Highline Schools Foundation
• Caroline Maillard, The Boeing Company
• Maya Mendoza-Exstrom, Sounders FC, Highline Schools Foundation
• Chris Craig, City of Burien
• David Sabey, Sabeycorp
• Danielle Tilden
• Chuck Tuman, Yes! for Highline
• Pat Thompson, YES! Foundation
• Jeff Wagnitz, Highline College

From our friends at WABI Burien:

Care to walk through a wooded ravine, bright with late “spring green”? This Sunday, June 5, our Walk-n-Talk will start at the top of the hill and walk down the service road to the Marine Science Center at the north end of Seahurst Beach. This road, and the paths on the adjacent hillside, are the “best kept secrets” known by striders and dog-walkers around town. It’s a beautiful gem of a spot!

Walk Details:

• Date and Time: Sunday, June 5. Meetup at 2:00 p.m. Walking starts at 2:15 p.m.
  The forecast is for 88 degrees and sunny! Wear sunscreen; bring a water bottle.
• Meetup Location: Approx. 13200 Shorewood Dr. SW, Burien WA 98166
  (There’s a passageway in the cyclone fence in the corner.) See the map below.
• Directions: From Burien Town Square Park, go WEST (toward the water) on SW 152nd St.
• Turn RIGHT and go NORTH on Ambaum Blvd. SW until SW 130th St.
• Turn LEFT on SW 130th St. (at Lakeside Milam)
• Go up the hill, following the road and veer RIGHT on SW 131st St.
• Drive one block to Shorewood Drive SW and look for parking.
• Parking Suggestions: Parking at the site is limited and we suggest that you carpool with other walkers. Since the walk starts in a residential area, we remind you to be considerate of private property and driveway accesses.
• Walk Conditions and Time: As with all of the Walk-n-Talks, each walker may go at whatever pace is most comfortable for himself or herself. The walk DOWN the hill on the road takes about 20-30 minutes; it is a hard-packed gravel, full-width road. The walk back UP the hill on the road is most gradual and easiest, taking another 20-30 minutes depending on pace. The walk UP along the trails is steeper and rougher, but quite beautiful. It may take 30 minutes or more (depending on how many photos you stop to take.) If it has rained within a couple of days, there may be mud in places, so boots may be desired.
• For those not wanting to walk back UP the hill, we suggest that friends carpool, leaving one car in the parking lot at Seahurst Beach, then driving to the walk starting point. Once completing the walk DOWN, you may then go to the car in the parking lot and drive back to retrieve the other car.

The road winds down toward the water under a tall canopy of newly-leafed-out trees. Tender greens of all sorts grow along the roadside.

As we make our way down the road, you’ll be able to see entry points to the criss-cross of the North Nature Trails throughout the ravine. Once at the shoreline, walkers can enjoy some time at the beach, then the walk will continue back UP the hill.

Walkers may ascend on the easier, more gradual service road.

For those wanting a more rugged walk, they can climb the hill on the sometimes maintained, sometimes muddy, sometimes bridged creek-crossing trails. (We’ve got warm days in the forecast, so there’s no mud anticipated for this weekend.)

It’s so close to the middle of town, yet so quiet, so green, so much of nature in one spot. It’s a treasured, emerald getaway just minutes from Town Square.

Here’s a map from the City of Burien showing our meeting place, the purple-dashed service road and the red-dashed trail (at the top of the map.) Seahurst Park Service Road Map

Questions? For questions, comments and suggestions, please contact:
Maureen Hoffmann at info@wabiburien.org

(Click on the map to see, and print, a larger version.)