Highline School Board Candidates Discuss Academics and Family Engagement at Forum

The Highline School Board candidates addressed critical issues during a forum on Sept. 30, focusing on academics, bullying, and family engagement. Kresly criticized the current academic outcomes, noting that only one in three students meets grade-level standards despite a $25,000 annual expenditure per student. Espinoza framed her candidacy around student support, emphasizing in-class assistance and community connections. Kemp called for improved academic results and stronger discipline enforcement.

Candidates agreed on the importance of translation services and outreach efforts to involve non-English-speaking families in the education process. They discussed their support for the Highline Education Renewal Levy, with candidates advocating for transparency in how new funds are utilized. Audience questions raised concerns about past data sharing incidents, prompting candidates to emphasize the need for student information protection. The forum highlighted the contested nature of three school board seats this election year.