Federal Way's High School
Transition Team Recommendations

In November 2001, Superintendent Tom Murphy asked 60 students, parents, staff and administrators to research high school “best practices” in preparation for the transition to a 9-12 high school configuration in the fall of 2003.

Best practices are determined through analysis of instructional research, reports from pilot classrooms, and professional recommendations. In their pursuit of this information, the team of 60 interviewed community members, students, past graduates, parents and staff for their thoughts. In addition, teams read current research, visited successful programs in the Northwest, and brought in post-secondary schools and programs for information.

On May 28, 2002, at the conclusion of this year of work, the team offered to Superintendent Murphy its “best thinking” on high school improvements. What the committee found is contained in the High School Recommendations presented here.

The following recommendations are intended to answer the question “What is best practice?” How they get implemented is left to the individual schools and their communities. However, all the recommendations are driven by the FWPS Course Expectations and the Washington State Essential Learnings.

The 2003 high school transition is a ready-made opportunity for the district to develop more focused instruction, more supportive relationships and a more student-centered structure to improve achievement, attendance, safety and student satisfaction at our four high schools.

We encourage you to share your comments with Danny Leaverton, Director Director of Special Projects at 253-945-5833 or dleavert@fwps.org.