• Category 1

    Selected in 2024

  • Grades: 6 - 12
    School Setting: suburban
    Town Population: 50,000
    Student Enrollment: 175
    Student Demographics:

    Black/African American: 21%
    White/Caucasian: 29%
    Hispanic: 19%
    Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 1%
    Asian: 11%
    Native American: 2%
    Other: 17%

    Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:29
    % Reduced Lunch: 60%
    % ELL Learners: 25%
    Founded: 2008
  • PRINCIPAL:
    Michael Sita
  • CONTACT:
    18367 8th Avenue South
    Burien, WA 98148
    206-631-7630
    michael.sita@highlineschools.org
Highline CHOICE Academy
Burien, WA
"Active community involvement has been key to our success."
1. Tell us about your school’s success.
CHOICE Academy has achieved consistent, strong student outcomes in reading, math, and social-emotional learning. Our small, tight-knit school community fosters a strong sense of belonging, enhanced by active parent engagement and a collaborative voice from all stakeholders.
2. Talk about the greatest contributing factor(s) that promoted positive change in your school.
Key factors include universal high expectations for students and staff, consistent instructional practices across all classrooms, and teacher dedication to supporting and accelerating student proficiency. Standards-based instruction and grading, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and culturally responsive teaching ensure relevant curriculum and student-centered learning.
3. How has ESEA funding supported the school's success?
ESEA funding has been instrumental in directing federal resources to support students furthest from educational justice. This includes targeted interventions for struggling students, services for multilingual learners and students with IEPs, and professional development for teachers and leadership. These resources improve academic experiences and outcomes for all students.
4. What professional development activities were used to improve teaching and learning?
CHOICE Academy has prioritized professional development in Universal Design for Learning (UDL), GLAD strategies, social-emotional learning (SEL), and culturally responsive instruction. These activities have been embedded into teacher schedules and aligned with instructional practices to maximize impact.
5. Talk about the cultural shift leading up to your school's success.
A palpable cultural shift has occurred, driven by universal high expectations and a shared belief among staff that all students can achieve academic success. This alignment in pedagogy and purpose across content areas has built a cohesive, equity-driven culture, reflected in improved outcomes and a unified school community.
6. How has community involvement strengthened your success?
Active community involvement has been key to our success. Parents, teachers, and stakeholders collaborate regularly, fostering trust and shared ownership of student learning. This engagement creates a strong partnership that supports both academic and social-emotional growth in students.
Stats
  • Category 1

    Selected in 2024

  • Grades: 6 - 12
    School Setting: suburban
    Town Population: 50,000
    Student Enrollment: 175
    Student Demographics:

    Black/African American: 21%
    White/Caucasian: 29%
    Hispanic: 19%
    Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 1%
    Asian: 11%
    Native American: 2%
    Other: 17%

    Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:29
    % Reduced Lunch: 60%
    % ELL Learners: 25%
    Founded: 2008
  • PRINCIPAL:
    Michael Sita
  • CONTACT:
    18367 8th Avenue South
    Burien, WA 98148
    206-631-7630
    michael.sita@highlineschools.org