Public & Private Schools in Federal Way
With lucrative jobs available in the greater Federal Way area, schools throughout the region are making sure students are prepared with the skills needed to fulfill those positions.
At Federal Way Public Schools (FWPS), scholars graduate ready to compete for jobs in the region, across the state, the nation, and the world. Careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are in high-demand, and FWPS is focusing on ensuring all students are exposed to STEM opportunities.
“We are committed to our districtwide effort to create a K-12 STEM Region, enhancing our STEM demonstration sites and our scholars’ preparedness for college and career,” says Superintendent Dr. Tammy Campbell. “We want our students to start preparing now to access high-demand, high-wage college and career pathways.”
Scholars can begin STEM and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) learning in kindergarten at the district’s technology-rich STEM and STEAM lighthouse schools, Woodmont K-8 and Nautilus K-8. Here they experience project-based learning that makes subjects relevant and helps them to think critically and solve problems.
FWPS students interested in STEM fields can also choose to attend TAF Academy, a sixth through 12th-grade award-winning school, which, in the 2017-18 school year, will move to Saghalie Middle School, creating TAF@Saghalie. TAF Academy has developed into an award-winning school, with 95 percent on-time graduation, 100 percent college acceptance, and 91 percent college entrance. There are five career pathways available to high school students: engineering, manufacturing, and industrial technology; arts and communications; business and marketing; health and agricultural sciences; and human services.
Those looking to continue their education after high school have several top colleges and universities close by.
Highline College, located in Des Moines, offers a wide array of degree and certificate programs in over 60 areas of study, including health care, computer science, business, and more. In addition, students can earn an applied bachelor’s degree in the areas of cybersecurity and forensics, global trade and logistics, respiratory care, and youth development. Beginning late 2017, the college will also offer an applied bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. Each is designed to help students reach their goals of higher learning and career success.
Located on Highline College’s campus, Central Washington University (CWU) offers two-year bachelor degrees on the Des Moines campus, as well as bachelor’s and master’s degrees online. Areas of study include accounting, business administration, early childhood education, IT management, cybersecurity, and more.
“One of the most important strengths of CWU is the connection to local employers and community,” says Lucas Rucks, CWU regional director. “CWU hosts several advisory boards made of local alumni, business leaders, and community stakeholders. We use their feedback, surveying new alumni and local businesses annually, to adjust curriculum, internship experiences, and community events.”
Likewise, the University of Phoenix Western Washington Campus, located nearby in Tukwila, is available for working adult students looking to continue their education. Degrees offered include associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs to include health care, criminal justice, information technology, education, business, and much more. n Information in this article was provided by FWPS, Mallorie Ann Ingram, and Brooke Payne.
An A+ Alternative
Programs Tailored to Any Need
Federal Way is home to several alternative education options for students and parents looking for a faith-based education, additional learning resources, test prep, and more.
Christian Faith School
Christian Faith School (CFS) is founded on the belief that America needs leaders who take responsibility, who lead with integrity, and who choose Biblical truth. CFS strives to accomplish this by giving families a partnership that supports both home and school life. Students enjoy a secure campus facility and are safe emotionally as CFS expects kindness and respect among students.
The school offers advanced placement (AP) courses, along with educational support for those who need additional help to learn. Classroom sizes are kept small, allowing teachers to know each student.
Korean School of Federal Way
Korean School of Federal Way (KSFW) is a Korean language school, providing classes on speaking, listening, reading, and writing Korean. In addition, students in preschool through 12th grades, as well as adults, are offered enrichment classes, such as taekwondo, choir, and samulnori. Many students are of Korean descent, but dedicated classes are offered for nonheritage learners
as well.
The school’s goals are to instill in second-generation students a strong sense of identity and pride in being Korean-American, share the richness of the Korean culture with those of diverse backgrounds, and have an influential presence in the Federal Way community.
Kumon of Federal Way
Kumon of Federal Way is part of the world’s largest after-school academic enrichment program, helping children of all ages become self-learners and have a lifetime of advantages. The Kumon Math and Reading Programs are designed to advance students’ comprehension
and appreciation for learning, providing an edge throughout school.
Kumon is a structured, proven self-learning program that gives students the critical-thinking skills and mindset to learn new materials independently through individualized instruction carefully planned by an instructor. Students progress at their own pace, regardless of academic level, which results in several students who are studying above grade level.
Sylvan Learning Center
At Sylvan Learning Center in Federal Way, tutors help students reach their full potential in the classroom and beyond by enabling academic progress through an engaging and enjoyable learning environment.
Whether it’s help with a tough homework assignment, ongoing personal tutoring by certified teachers, or preparing for college, Sylvan’s custom tutoring programs will help students navigate each step of their academic journey. From tailored tutoring sessions and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) camps to homework help and college SAT preparation, Sylvan offers a range of programs to choose from to equip children for success. n Information in this article was provided by Christian Faith School, Korean School of Federal Way, Kumon of Federal Way, and Sylvan Learning Center.