Highline Public Schools board of directors recognized board member Julie Burr Spani during the final meeting of her term. Superintendent John Welch said, "We are grateful for Julie's contribution. During her four-year tenure, the district has created – and grown - a college-going culture.” The addition of the Office of College and Career and the annual Life After High School event have given students, parents, and the community a look at ways to increase opportunities and open doors for students.

“Julie really pushed for academic rigor,” said Welch. In the past three years, the number of students taking Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) classes has increased significantly. In addition, the number of students graduating with a transcript making them eligible for a four-year school has grown from 35% to 51%.

Burr Spani also championed a number of good practices for the board itself. The process of using research and data to make decisions, building and following a board work plan focused on student achievement, and involving parent and community in moving the district’s work forward have been areas where Burr Spani expended her efforts.

To honor Julie’s contribution to the board, the Superintendent’s senior leadership team will be making a $500 donation in her name to the Highline Schools Foundation for Excellence.