Building Skills for Real-World Careers
May 20, 2025
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Students Trade Desks for Power Tools
Students are stepping out of the traditional classroom and into hands-on learning through a course called Core Plus Construction — where math, science and language arts are taught through the lens of the construction industry.
Students from Evergreen and Highline high schools spend their days learning how to frame walls, operate hand and power tools, read construction plans and work as a team, all while earning certifications that prepare them for real careers in the construction industry.
It’s not your typical classroom experience — and that’s the point.
The Core Plus Construction program, approved by the state and developed by the Associated General Contractors of Washington Education Foundation, is designed to lead directly into the workforce, equipping students with hands-on experience and industry-recognized certifications.
“Our students don’t just learn construction, they gain essential certifications to set them up for success,” said teacher Darrell Chase.
Recently, students took their learning to the Northwest Laborers Training Facility, a construction education and training facility. Students explored apprenticeship pathways and got a first-hand look at what their future could hold. Apprenticeships, like college or trade school, are a powerful form of continued education that set students up for long-term success. From demonstrations to conversations with industry pros, the field trip brought classroom skills into real-world focus.
“Students don’t ask, ‘When will I use this?’ because the applicability is embedded in the program,” shared Executive Director of Student Learning Andrew Benitez. “We need more programs like this to ensure that our students are graduating prepared for life after high school and on-track for family-sustaining careers of their choice."
At Highline we believe in preparing students for a future full of possibilities — whether that means entering the workforce, pursuing apprenticeships, attending trade schools, or continuing their education at a college or university. Programs like Core Plus Construction empower students with real-world skills and meaningful choices, ensuring they graduate ready for success in whichever path they choose.
See students in action at the NW Laborers facility and learn about the career-connected learning opportunities available to our students.
Highline and VMFH Team Up for Hands-On Health Careers
Tyee High School's new Health Sciences Program, opening in fall 2025, will offer students hands-on learning experiences and pathways into careers in the health care field—one of the region’s fastest-growing industries. Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) will support the program by providing students with access to mentorships, guest speakers, field trips, and volunteer opportunities in clinical settings.
Work-Based Learning with VMFH
VMFH will provide guest speakers, field trips, workshops, volunteer opportunities, and mentorship. VMFH will also serve as a clinical site for students in the Nursing Assistant pathway, offering required hands-on training.
Students will have opportunities to:
Attend workshops and field trips led by health care professionals.
Participate in job shadowing and volunteer programs.
Receive mentorship and professional development.
Complete hands-on clinical training in the Nursing Assistant pathway.
Learning will take place at various Virginia Mason Franciscan Health facilities, including St. Anne Hospital in Burien and St. Francis Hospital in Federal Way, which will also help build a pipeline of young professionals who may wish to practice and grow their careers at both locations when the time comes.
Career Pathways
The program offers three career-focused pathways:
Nursing Assistant Pathway – Students earn a Nursing Assistant Certification (NAC), preparing them for immediate entry into health care jobs or further nursing studies.
Pre-Allied Health Pathway – Students explore careers in physical therapy, radiology, and allied health professions.
College in the High School Pathway – Students earn college credits toward two- or four-year degrees in medical fields.
Enrollment Now Open for 2025
Tyee is accepting incoming ninth-grade students for the health sciences program. Current Highline students and out-of-district students can apply online.
Apply here: https://highlineschools.schoolmint.net/signin
Spaces are limited; interested families are encouraged to apply now.