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Issaquah Highlands School Spotlight: January 2026

Three Levies on the February Ballot

Local levy dollars cover the difference between the funding provided by the state and federal government, and the true cost of operating Issaquah School District (ISD). In 2022, voters approved three levy measures to help continue funding for programs and positions not fully paid for by the state, such as school nurses, counselors and mental health supports, special education, safety and security, technology and critical repairs. These funding measures help ensure equal access to education for all ISD students. Without approval of the renewals from voters in 2026, the funding will go away.

Prop. 1: Renewal Educational Programs & Operations (EP&O) Levy

The EP&O Levy continues operations of student services, enrichment and safety beyond what is provided by state and federal funding. It also allows for expanding student well-being supports and broadening academic opportunities. Learn more about the EP&O Levy here.

Prop. 2: Renewal Capital (Technology and Critical Repairs) Levy

The Capital Levy delivers up-to-date classroom technology, applications, device support and network infrastructure. It also addresses urgent safety needs, prioritizing the highest-impact repairs to buildings and systems. No funding is proposed for constructing new schools. Learn more about the Capital Levy here.

Prop. 3: Transportation (School Bus) Levy

The School Bus Levy provides safe, sustainable and reliable transportation while managing maintenance costs through fleet modernization, including adding electric buses and expanding charging infrastructure. Learn more about the Transportation Levy.

Transition to Adulthood with The ARC of King County

Join Tracie Warren, ARC of King County’s future planning support program manager, for a presentation on the Transition to Adulthood on Jan. 12 at 5:30 p.m.  The information will include a timeline of when adult students should apply for certain services. ARC of King County will also share resources for families as well as any required applications. The discussion will focus on moving students into adulthood and the importance of fostering their ability to be independent. Join the Microsoft Teams meeting here.

Explore Graduation Pathways in High School

Students are the drivers of their own future—and there are many exciting pathways to help them succeed! Join the ISD Student Counseling and Family Partnership Team for an informative, virtual presentation about high school graduation pathways on Jan. 12 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. ISD staff will be available to answer questions at the end of the session. Sessions will be offered in English, Spanish and Chinese, with additional languages scheduled at a later date.  Register online to receive the Zoom link. For information, please email gilmourl@issaquah.wednet.edu.

Interested in ISD Online Full-Time School?

ISD is hosting two upcoming virtual open house meetings to share details about the new online high school. The next meeting is scheduled for Jan. 13 at 5 p.m., followed by another meeting on Feb. 5 at 6 p.m.

The new full-time online school opens in the fall of 2026. At the upcoming events, ISD will share details about how the new school will offer flexibility, meaningful support from teachers and mentors, and a welcoming community that encourages students to learn, grow and find balance in their academic journey!

Those who attend will also have the chance to hear about the learning center; what the personalized, high-quality instruction will be like; how students can participate in extracurricular activities; and more. Students will have the chance to vote on a mascot for the new school, which will serve grades 9-12.

Register for the virtual open house or for an in-person tour using this form.

Financial Strategies & Estate Planning for Students with Disabilities

ISD’s Special Services Department is hosting a Financial Strategies and Estate Planning presentation for parents of students with disabilities on Jan. 14 from 5:30-7 p.m. Presenters include Sheldon Sweeny from Snider Financial Group and Jerimy Kirschner of Jerimy Kirschner & Associates PLLC.

There are three phases of family life, based on age, for a child with special needs: pre-guardianship, post-guardianship and independent living. Each phase has its own unique financial challenges. However, with proper planning, parents/guardians can hopefully find peace, knowing that their child’s financial well-being is protected throughout their life span as well as in the event of an unforeseen life change. ISD will discuss the resources available and have an open conversation for attendees to ask questions and/or share life experiences. Join the Microsoft Teams meeting here.

Special Services Family Listening Session

Families of students with IEPs are invited to attend ISD’s Family Listening Session on Jan 22 from 5:30-7 p.m. Join fellow families in the Mt. Rainier Room at the ISD Administration Building, 5250 220th Ave SE, Issaquah. This is an opportunity to connect directly with the district’s Special Services team and share your thoughts on special education services. The session will focus on “Portrait of a Graduate” to help shape the vision for the skills and attributes ISD wants all graduates to develop. An interpreter will be available. Please RSVP using the sign-up form here.