FW School Board holds elections, shares update on graduation rates

The Federal Way School Board held elections on December 17, 2024, where Dr. Jennifer Jones was re-elected president and Trudy Davis and Luckisha Phillips retained their positions as vice president and legislative representative, respectively. Board member Quentin Morris was unanimously elected as the WIAA representative. A significant portion of the meeting focused on the district's graduation rates, which Deputy Superintendent Marla Newton described as complex due to many students enrolling in their senior year with credit deficiencies. These challenges often stem from students transferring from other states or countries, where course requirements differ, or from issues like language barriers.

To address these problems, the district is implementing graduation assurance meetings and a new data dashboard to track student progress. Increased emphasis on helping freshmen pass all their classes, particularly in algebra, is also part of the initiative. Todd Beamer High School Principal Travis Savala shared success stories from a co-teaching program that has improved student performance and reduced behavioral incidents. The board is committed to creating a supportive environment that fosters academic success and personal growth among students.