Nov 25, 2025
Full Article
At Highline, everything begins with one question: how do we fulfill our promise to know every student by name, strength and need, so that they graduate prepare for the future they choose?
This promise shapes how we make decisions, how we build relationships and how we show up in our schools. Superintendent Dr. Ivan Duran leads with this approach, grounding our work in values that center students.
Highline is committed to creating a culture were all are welcome, valued and safe. This is more than a goal. It guides daily actions, strengthens our equity efforts and ensures students’ individual needs are recognized and met.
Our community stands with us in these values. Families, voters and our school board continue to show strong support for the Highline Promise. Recent polling shows broad alignment across community members, staff and families.
Below, Superintendent Duran shares a message and video showing how our values guide our work each day.
A Message From Superintendent Duran
Highline Families,
Thank you for your trust and partnership. You help us create schools where every student feels welcome, known and valued. This commitment guides our work and strengthens the learning experience for your children.
Earlier this month, teachers, paraeducators and school leaders spent the day learning together. Their work focused on literacy and inclusion. We grounded the day in a simple truth: inclusion is a practice, not a place. Staff explored what helps students feel welcome. They used strategies that support all learners. They strengthened how they plan and collaborate as school teams.
We know this work takes courage and care. It asks us to look closely at our beliefs about students. Our expectations shape every choice we make. I see the strong commitment our staff bring to help each student learn, grow and succeed. This work begins with us, and we continue it because it is right for our kids.
Our community shows strong trust in our schools and this work. More than 63% of voters renewed our Education Levy. Our elected school board is united in its commitment to our values, our Highline Promise and the work we do for students. This stability strengthens our direction and supports our focus on belonging and learning.
Polling data reflects this belief. Eight in ten residents say our goals and priorities reflect their values. More than 61% believe we should remain true to our values, even as national conversations shift. Staff and families echo that alignment: 96% of staff support the Highline Promise and nearly nine in ten families say their child’s identity is valued at school.
Last week, I attended a Para los Niños event. The focus on corazón—heart— reminds me of the heart our community brings to our schools. Families show this heart in the way you support your children, share your hopes with us and partner with staff to help your child grow. These moments move us toward our Highline Promise to know every student by name, strength and need, so that they graduate prepared for the future they choose.
This video reflects these values and the heart of our promise. Thank you for your trust and for the heart you bring to our schools, our students and our community.
Living the promise, together.
Ivan Duran, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Highline Public Schools
