West Seattle, Washington
21 Thursday
By Anne Higuera
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
Short on funds and running out of time, cooperative preschool program advocates at South Seattle and other colleges are asking for help from everyone from politicians to school administrators to intervene so that the programs don’t close permanently at the end of the school year in early June. As we reported last month, changes in the statewide funding model for community colleges ruled out funding most, if not all parent education programs at community colleges, of which the coop preschools are an integral part.
“Everyone agrees that our programs are important and they should be saved/preserved. And no one is doing anything,” says Jen Giomi, South’s preschool faculty coordinator and a parent educator. In recent weeks, Giomi says more than 100 people joined a call with Governor Bob Ferguson’s office, letters have been sent to U.S. Senator Patty Murray, and a variety of meetings attended, with no commitment so far to keep the 80-year-old program open at 16 colleges statewide.
Organizers have also asked for a deferral from the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC), which is the group that approved the funding model change. When asked this week if the board is actively considering that request, the SBCTC’s Communications Director Rachelle Alongi replied, “We are working closely with colleges to determine next steps,” though she also confirmed that parent education programs are not on the agenda for the board’s next meetings on June 3rd and 4th. “We are meeting with legislators to discuss the Parent Education Program and how we can support colleges.” She added, “Ultimately, the decision to offer or not offer this program is up to the college.”
While this is true, for colleges to offer it and use state funds to pay for it, the program must meet criteria around credentialing and workforce development that are part of the new funding model. That goes back to SBCTC, which reviews and makes a decision about which programs meet the criteria. Alongi says they have received requests from 5 schools so far. Of those, 3 have been denied and 2 are still under review. Six schools statewide already had certificate programs when the funding model change happened, but their future is not yet clear. “We’re continuing to iron this out,” said Alongi.
(WSB file photo)
Giomi says South Seattle’s Program Approval Request is one of the three that was denied. “It appears that will not be a way to save programs.” She says the reasons given for rejection focused around whether parent education would be required as a credential for jobs, other educational programs or with the state agency Department of Children, Youth, and Families. “We’ve all been told that that parent education certificates are not needed for any jobs. Almost all parent educators got their jobs through their programs. Additionally, 95% of what we explore with parents is that same content as a person studying to get an ECE [Early Childhood Education] degree. For some reason, if parents do the work, it’s not considered workforce, but anyone who studies it, is considered workforce.”
With South Seattle’s Cooperative Preschools parent education program application rejected, and a deferral unknown, finding a way to fund the program, even temporarily, is now even higher priority for organizers. A $2 million fundraising effort launched in April by parent educators to keep just the programs at South Seattle and North Seattle open next year has raised 40% of the needed funds so far. Independent fundraising could be a path forward for the preschools, since they run as individual non-profits. A key thing they will lack if they lose status as part of a college program is insurance, but that can be arranged. It’s that or the other option, as the final two weeks of the school year conclude. “There is no firm deadline, but many Co-ops are already putting plans in place to close or try to go independent,” says Giomi.
You’re invited to start the holiday weekend early with the South Seattle College Memorial Day 5K/10K Run & Walk, tomorrow morning. Here’s the announcement:
Friday, May 22, 2026, at 10:00 AM
Location: South Seattle College’s West Seattle Campus at 6000 16th Ave SW. On-campus parking will be free for this event. Visit our campus map for additional details. Participants will meet at the flagpole in front of the RSB Building (near the “Visitor Parking Only” lot on the map).
The Veterans Student Center and Veterans Student Services invite the community to participate in their annual (and free) Memorial Day 5K/10K Run & Walk.
Memorial Day is a time to reflect, remember, and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to the United States. This event offers students, faculty, staff, veterans, and community members an opportunity to come together in support and remembrance.
Participants of all fitness levels are welcome, whether you are a veteran, have a personal connection to military service, or simply wish to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
T-shirts (while supplies last), refreshments, and light snacks will be provided.
Who Can Attend:
Open to students, staff, faculty, and the general public. This is a free event!Registration:
Please RSVP to Paul.vonNahme@Seattlecolleges.edu to reserve your spot and receive additional information.
(Photo courtesy Hope School)
Need plants? You can help the Hope School Garden Club grow by shopping at their plant sale tomorrow (Thursday, May 21). Hope’s Sally Heit explains, “I and a teacher, Ms. Visser, have been leading a garden club after school once week (Thursdays) and teaching students from 14 2nd grade to middle school about seeds, planting techniques, water conservation (we have a rain barrel), worm composting (we have a worm bin) and planting seeds (we have a greenhouse) and so many other fun things. We did our first sale last year, so this will be our second sale which we will host on May 21st for our Grandparent and Special Person school event, as well as the West Seattle community.” The sale will run 9 am to 4 pm Thursday on the patio of Hope’s north campus (4100 SW Genesee), with “assorted veggie starts and flowers.” Proceeds will ” support the purchase of supplies for the club, activities, tools and the purchase of a raised bed container.” Adult volunteers will handle the sales until 11:30 am, then students will take over (it’s an early-dismissal day for Hope).
Story by Jason Grotelueschen
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
The Alki Masonic Lodge held their 47th annual School Awards Night on Monday, and 16 juniors from Chief Sealth International High School and West Seattle High School were honored for their achievements.
Each year, the lodge’s Education Council works with school counselors from WSHS and CSIHS to collect nominations for outstanding junior-class members from each school, as part of the Freemasons’ mission “to recognize and thus encourage participation in public-school education,” as its parent organization “has long supported the public-school system as one of the basic necessities in maintaining the American ideal of democracy.” Selection criteria for the award winners includes a holistic review beyond GPA, emphasizing character, leadership, community service, dedication to athletics/arts, and personal integrity.
The 2026 award winners are, from Sealth:
And from West Seattle:
All 16 students selected for 2026 awards were actually in attendance on Monday, which lodge leaders noted was a rare occurrence due to schedules, and they commended students and their families for making the time. Here’s the whole group, pictured after the ceremony:
Photo by Jason Grotelueschen:
Front Row: Takumi Momma, Phillip Nguyen, James DiPaolo, Brandon Hu, Ada Rutman, Stella Springwalter, Maninte Teshome, Katherine Ackers
Back Row: Jamesia Henderson, Nia King, Christiano Solis, Sofia Bertelli, Keira Collins, Brigham Stowell, Octavio Sanchez Seger, Kazune Hansell
Students on Monday night were presented with certificates and monetary gifts, and faculty members in attendance from each school were given an updated “perpetual plaque” containing names of annual honorees. Eight students from each school were selected, with two students from each school receiving special recognition as “top students.”
Martin Monk was emcee for the evening, and he noted that he was also recipient of one of the lodge’s student awards in 1979 which was the very first year of the 47-year-old program. He added that 2026 marks the group’s 120th year in West Seattle – founded in 1906 on California Avenue in the Admiral District, and moved in 1952 to the current building on 40th/Edmunds. The lodge’s leader, Worshipful Master Michael Riley, also provided remarks for attendees, thanking students and families for their dedication and hard work.
Pictured above (photo by WSB’s Jason Grotelueschen) from left to right are, from WSHS, assistant principal Tia Yarbrough and school counselor Christine Nutters, lodge leader Michael Riley and (at the podium) Martin Monk, and Chief Sealth school counselor Krista Rillo.
Why does the group honor juniors each year, in particular? Lodge leaders joked that “seniors already get lots of attention” and said that the organization has historically recognized that the junior year is particularly crucial for high schoolers, and thus is the ideal time to recognize high achievement and excellence.
Following the ceremony in the lodge’s upstairs room, attendees and their families enjoyed sandwiches and refreshments downstairs, courtesy of the lodge.
(WSB photo from last year’s show)
The Greasy Peeps are doing it again! Here’s the invitation we received to share with you:
Come to the 5th Annual West Seattle High School Greasy Peeps Car Show!
We are very excited to present our 5th Annual WSHS Car Show in partnership with REVUP Energy and the WSHS Alumni Association. After fantastic shows in the last 5 years, we are back bigger and better this year, and can’t wait to see you there!
The car show is open to all vehicles, motorcycles, and even buses/vans that you would like to show off!
The show takes place Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 12 pm-3:30 pm (with vehicle check-in starting at 11 am) at the West Seattle High School Parking Lot.
There is a small entrance fee of $15 if you’re showing a car ($8 for students), that will directly benefit our car club. If you are able to, please pay online in the google form below. If needed, you can pay when you show up with cash or a check.
We are having a small awards show at about 2:45, so stick around for your chance to win an award and some car show merch!
If you plan to attend with a vehicle, please use this google form to let us know you’re coming! forms.gle/Q8Y8nFndk7FuKzNJ6
If you have any questions, feel free to email us at westseattlehscarclub@gmail.com, or by phone (206)-252-8862 – See you there!
Parade season is under way! West Seattle High School music director Ethan Thomas sent the photo and report:
The West Seattle High School Marching Band participated in the 88th annual Spokane Lilac Festival Armed Forces Torchlight Parade last Saturday. The weather was cold and wet, but we had a great time performing for a large and enthusiastic audience. The West Seattle High School Marching Band was recognized as one of the Lilac Parade’s Gold Standard bands. The Lilac Festival has been a tradition in Spokane since 1938. The parade featured over 150 entries from across Washington State.
You will likely see some of these student musicians in the West Seattle Grand Parade on July 18 as part of the Seattle Schools All-City Marching Band. The WSHS Band’s schedule each year includes leading the Costume Parade during the West Seattle Junction Harvest Festival.
(WSB file photo)
Before we get to today’s full list of what’s happening, one spotlight for families who have yet to register incoming kindergarteners and preschoolers for next school year. A registration/information event is happening at West Seattle Elementary (6760 34th SW), 4-6 pm today. This flyer (PDF) explains what you need to bring if you want to register.
The school year has about a month to go. The Chief Sealth IHS PTSA is expecting to finish strong, starting with Wednesday night’s meeting – all invited!
High Point CC is at 6920 34th SW.
Back before construction began on the Alki Elementary rebuild, much discussion – and even an appeal – centered on transportation and traffic issues. Now the new school is a few months from opening, and its traffic management plan is an agenda item for tomorrow morning’s monthly meeting of the Seattle School Traffic Safety Committee, a city-convened advisory committee. Its meeting is set for 8:30-10:30 am tomorrow (Friday, May 15), online and in person at City Hall, and the Alki traffic-management plan is on the agenda for ~10 am. The public is welcome at the meeting – room 370 at City Hall (600 4th Avenue) or online (find the link here). Other discussion items on the agenda include school-zone speeding and idling alongside schools.
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
In a time when Seattle Public Schools enrollment isn’t exactly booming, West Seattle High School enrollment is.
Nearly 1,500 students fill the school now, principal Brian Vance told the Rotary Club of West Seattle today – up from 900 when he took over nine years ago. They’ve had to add portables.
The size of the student body isn’t the only number he brought to tell a success story. He had other numbers, like a 93 percent four-year graduation rate.
And he had some personal points of success, too – dad to two WSHS graduates now in college, president of the districtwide Principals Association of Seattle Schools.
Not everything was rosy. Despite the strong enrollment, they’ve had to make staff cuts for next year because of the district’s finances. Vance mentioned that in response to a question about his biggest current concerns; he also cited students’ mental health, and substance abuse.
He also was asked about cell-phone use in schools, subject of a recently announced district policy. He said WSHS has had a policy since the start of the school year and it’s “going fine.” Elsewhere on the technology front, they’re working with both students and teachers to ensure that AI is used as a support, not a “replacement.”
Vance’s appearance was relatively brief; he said he’d been summoned to a meeting with new district superintendent Ben Shuldiner, whose leadership so far – just hitting the 100-day milestone – led Vance to suggest “there’s going to be some big changes coming.” He did not elaborate.
(WSB photo, May)
Lafayette Elementary‘s students and staff are dealing with the aftermath of a pipe break. Principal Cindy Chaput sent families a note, which was forwarded to us:
Update on Flooding Issue for Lafayette Elementary Families
Dear Lafayette families and staff,
Today, our school experienced a pipe burst resulting in flooding in the kitchen, cafeteria, and office hallway.Repair and cleanup work are underway. While this work continues, the front entrance, kitchen, and cafeteria will be closed for the remainder of the week.
You may notice higher humidity levels and a mild odor as part of the drying process. Please be assured there are no concerns about air contaminants affecting student or staff safety. Drying equipment will be in place throughout the week and will be located away from classrooms.
To maintain a safe and secure environment when doors are open for ventilation, a facilities staff member will be present. You may also see increased presence of a security division lead on-site and the school gates will remain locked.
We have made the following arrangements to support students during this time:
• School Access: Students and families should enter the building through the back entrances.
• Lunch: Culinary Services will provide sack lunches for the remainder of the week. Students will eat outside on the playfield or under the covered area in the event of inclement weather.
• Childcare: Childcare programming will continue in the library.
We understand that this situation may cause concern or inconvenience, and we appreciate your flexibility and cooperation. The health and safety of our students and staff remains our top priority.
If you have any questions, please contact the school office.Thank you for your patience and understanding.
We’re checking with district HQ to see if there’s any additional information. We don’t know if it’s related to any of the boiler work done in a major project five years ago. Lafayette is West Seattle’s most populous elementary, with 532 students as of last month’s official count. It’s been considered, but passed over, for a rebuild in district levies.
With the school year ending next month,it’s time to finalize where your child(ren) are going to school in the fall. For those still deciding, independent preK-8 Westside School in Arbor Heights (WSB sponsor) is offering online info sessions starting tomorrow:
Westside is hosting a series of Virtual Coffee sessions with our Head of School, Dr. Daryl Wright. These are short, informal Zoom gatherings designed to give prospective families a feel for our community, learn about our approach to joyful learning and high academic standards, and ask questions in a relaxed setting.
Upcoming sessions:
May 7 | 9:00–9:30 am
May 14 | 9:00–9:30 am
May 20 | 11:15–11:45 am
May 29 | 12:00–12:30 pmRegistration is required here, and families will receive the Zoom link after signing up.
Congratulations to the Our Lady of Guadalupe School 7th-grade girls for winning the citywide volleyball championship! Here’s how they did it:
Our Lady of Guadalupe 7th Grade Girls Varsity volleyball team won the All-City CYO Playoff Championship Tournament at Bishop Blanchet Sunday night, beating St. Joseph in two straight sets, 25-22, 25-20.
Coach Lori Hinton and Patrick Lamb’s Lady Bulldogs finished the season with a 9-2 record, winning three straight in the single-elimination playoffs, beating St. Pius X and upsetting top-seeded, undefeated St. Anne on Saturday before facing St Joe’s.
“Attitude determines altitude,” said Coach Hinton. “We are so proud of our girls.”
A championship banner will soon hang from the rafters at the OLG gym.
The school’s 8th-Grade Boys also made playoffs and the 6th-Grade Girls Varsity advanced to the semifinals, coming in two points shy of a win in a nail-biting three sets.
(2025 photo courtesy Gatewood PTA)
Less than four weeks until this year’s Gator Fair with community fun at Gatewood Elementary! This morning, we received this call for volunteers:
It’s that time of year again — when your middle schooler or high schooler casually reminds you about the 10+ hours of volunteer work they need for school! Fear not! The Gatewood Gator Fair is here to save the day!
The fair is Saturday 5/30 10:30-2:30; volunteers are scheduled 10-4 (but usually we are wrapped up closer to 3:30). This has been a great volunteer opportunity for middle schoolers and high schoolers for the last 3 years and we are excited for another year of fun!
Click here to sign up! All volunteers will receive a free volunteer shirt designed by Good Sister!
The school is at 4320 SW Myrtle.
One other unique performance tomorrow afternoon – it’s your last chance to see “Little Shop of Horrors“ presented by and at Chief Sealth International High School (2600 SW Thistle), 2 pm Sunday. Nathan from Denny-Sealth Performing Arts, who sent us the pics, says, “Super entertaining, a show not to be missed.”
You can get tickets here!
PHOTOS BY OLIVER HAMLIN FOR WEST SEATTLE BLOG
As the regular season winds down, Chief Sealth International High School and West Seattle High School faced off in softball for the second time in less than a month. Last night’s final score at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex was similar to the earlier game – a double-digit win for the Wildcats, 26-2. Above is Lillian Zerr, who led WSHS scoring with five RBI on four hits. Below, Maddie Moeller, who got both of Chief Sealth’s RBI on one hit:
The Wildcats also had two players with four RBI each – Molly Lefkowitz and Daeja Piggee (below):
Two WSHS players had three RBI each – Kaila Ignacio and Marina Strange (below):
More photos:
Above, Chief Sealth’s Nyko Herndon; below, West Seattle’s Lucy Malloy:
Below, Chief Sealth’s Zayda Fischer:
Next, West Seattle’s Mackenzie Curry Uzwack:
Next, Chief Sealth’s Dani Thach:
And West Seattle’s Julia Herron:
WSHS is 9-4; Chief Sealth is 8-6. Both teams’ last regular-season games are at 4 pm Monday (May 4), with WSHS vs. Rainier Beach at NCSWAC, and CSIHS vs. Cleveland at Georgetown Playfield.
Today we’re welcoming back The Bridge School Cooperative Elementary as a WSB sponsor. New local sponsors have the opportunity to tell you about themselves; here’s what The Bridge School would like you to know:
Local Independent Elementary Now Enrolling K-5 and Announces Part Day Kindergarten Offering
At The Bridge School Cooperative Elementary, a small, independent K-5 in White Center, we’re excited to offer Part-Day Kindergarten starting Fall 2026. This new program will foster young students’ foundational academic skills while slowly building endurance for longer school days.
With a focus on outdoor learning, play, the arts, and caregiver engagement, Bridge School offers a unique nurturing environment for students K-5. We have space for all ages 5-10 for Fall 2026! Learn more at bridgeschoolcoop.org or schedule a private chat and tour by emailing our Head of School, amanda@bridgeschoolcoop.org.
What Makes Bridge School Different?
The Bridge School is the only local elementary offering weekly instruction outdoors in an innovative Outdoor Education model. Seahurst Park in Burien becomes Bridge students’ classroom once a week, with hands-on investigation of the natural sciences, building connection and comfort with nature year-round. Learning is always an adventure when the beach and forest are your classroom!
As a community dedicated to affirming the identities of LGBTQIA and neurodiverse students and families, Bridge School is rethinking what inclusive education looks like in practice. Unlike programs that treat inclusion as an add on, e integrate gender expansiveness and neurodiversity into the fabric of the academic model and community programming, preparing students to both understand themselves and advocate for others.
Incorporating weekly arts instruction, a yearly musical theater production, and seasonal community events, Bridge School is a small and active community where each child and family can express themselves and feel known.
Is Bridge School Right for Your Family in 2026-27? Now Enrolling
Could The Bridge School Cooperative Elementary be right for your family? Our curriculum is designed to support students as learners exactly where they’re at academically, while prioritizing relationships and social-emotional learning. Classroom teachers have over a decade of teaching experience and use multi-age classes and hands-on learning to excite students.
As a cooperative school, families are welcomed into all aspects, from assisting in classrooms, to accompanying young naturalists on outdoor days, to leadership and governance. Participation looks different for everyone, as families’ contributions are tailored to fit their availability and skills. For all, however, it’s the shared values of community and support that make The Bridge School a school home for students and adults alike.
Come Get to Know The Bridge School
There are several opportunities coming up to get to know our community:
Free! May 2nd Play Date & Open House 10 am-12 noon
Free! Weekly Kaleidoscope Play & Learn Tuesdays 10 am for ages 0-5 with caregiver
Free! Pride Family Book Club at White Center Library 4th Thursdays 4:30-5:30
Free! Find us and kid-center activities at the White Center Spring Fling Sat. May 9th
Attend our Spring Musical Theater performance of A Kid’s Life Friday, May 29th, 6 pm, or Saturday, May 30th, 2 pm, at Fauntleroy Church. Purchase tickets here. Kids 0-4 free with an adult ticket.
We thank The Bridge School Cooperative Elementary for choosing to advertise the school by sponsoring independent, community-collaborative neighborhood news on WSB. Interested in joining our sponsor team? Please email WSBAdvertising@wsbsales.com for information – thank you!
Now our second baking story! The daylong “Tastes Like Home” food/culture celebration at South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) – previewed here – culminated Thursday afternoon with a taste-test competition for baked goods created by 10 aspiring chefs, judged by a prestigious panel.
Here’s what the the contestants created (alphabetical by creation’s name) – all original recipes that had to be baked goods featuring a whole grain and fitting into the event’s “Tastes Like Home”theme:
Berry Green Matcha Raspberry Jam Cupcakes by Deeqa
Blueberry Pancake Blondie, by Rachael
Coffee Ceremony Chocolate Cake, by Foziya
Homemade Pani Popo, by Ali’i
Kaab el Ghazal, by Layal
Pear, Apricot, and Blackberry Galette, by Adam
Red-Filled Conchas, by Bruce
Sweet Potato Pound Cake with Vanilla Icing Glaze, by Latrice
Whole Wheat Chocolate Baharat Angel Food Cake with Rose Icing and Fennel Pollen Glaze, by Tyler
Yema Pianono Sponge Cake with Yema Filling by Raoul
The event was a collaboration with King Arthur Baking Company, whose Jonathan Eng was one of the judges, along with William Leaman of Bakery Nouveau, SSC president Dr. Monica Brown, Rachael Coyle of Coyle’s Bakeshop, and Christina Wood of Temple Pastries. They sampled and evaluated big bites of each offering:
…while an audience awaited the verdict:
As did display plates of some of the taste treats:
And the winner … Foziya’s Coffee Ceremony Chocolate Cake, inspired by her Ethiopian heritage – coffee is a big deal in Ethiopia, she had explained, celebrated with ceremonies.
She won a choice between a $5,000 cash prize and a trip to King Arthur’s headquarters. Plus, her recipe will be further refined and then published – so you’ll get a chance to try making it too. (It includes espresso, cardamom cream-cheese filling, and Swiss buttercream.) There were two runner-ups – Latrice’s sweet-potato pound cake, inspired by her aunt, and Rachael’s blueberry-pancake blondie, harkening back to the pancakes her dad made for breakfast when she was little.
(WSB photos)
What a day for a field trip! More than 30 students from Pathfinder K-8 spent the morning at and near Longfellow Creek, starting from Dragonfly Pavilion in North Delridge.. They were split into groups for a variety of outdoor-learning activities, led by environmental educators from DNDA, and while the Salmon Bone Bridge (above) is the most scenic, that’s not where the major excitement was:
Another bridge a short distance south was set up with a sort of slide into which Pathfinder students released some of the coho they’ve been raising as part of the Salmon in the Schools program. That’s long been focused on Fauntleroy Creek, but as we’ve reported previously, culvert work starts this year so some of the release activities are moaving to Longfellow Creek instead. The release terrain isn’t conducive to getting close to the creek, so it’s down the chute with the fish:
At other stations along the creek, the students learned today about how to making the water safer for salmon – hearing about pollutants like tire dust and fertilizers. DNDA’s environmental-education coordinator Mikaela Ebbeson tells WSB this was the third of four field trips as part of their pilot program. partnering with Salmon in the Schools and Seattle Public Utilities.
Starting Monday, Seattle Public Schools will implement a new cell-phone policy for students. According to the announcement sent tonight, it boils down to:
Grade Span-Specific Rules
“Off and Away for the Day” Rule in Grades K–8: Phones are off and stored away for the full school day, with no access during instruction, passing periods, or lunch.
“No Cell Bell to Bell” Rule in Grades 9–12: Phones are off and away during all instructional time. Students may have limited access during lunch and passing periods, supporting responsible device use and digital citizenship while keeping phones out of the classroom.
Exceptions: Students who require access to personal devices for medical needs or as part of a documented IEP or Section 504 accommodation will continue to be supported.
The announcement notes some schools already have strict phone policies; Chief Sealth International High School launched one in 2023.
(Photos courtesy Denny-Sealth Performing Arts)
Turning now to good news: The jazz program at Chief Sealth International High School is growing, and student musicians brought home proof of that from a prestigious festival in Idaho. Here’s the report from Denny-Sealth Performing Arts president Jaeney Hoene:
The Chief Sealth International High School Jazz Program brought home honors from the 59th Annual Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival this past weekend. Led by Director of Bands Joey Roberts (Jazz I and Jazz Combos) and Director Dave Niimi (Jazz II), the Chief Sealth Jazz Bands competed with high school jazz groups from the United States and Canada and earned these recognitions:
(From left: Theo McGaughey, Tito Puente, Jr., Ella Ward, Noah Kimball at the 59th Annual Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival)
Jazz Trio — Division II Winner, Senior Instrumental Combos (Theo McGaughey, Ari Peck, Ethan Faunce)
Jazz Combo I — Division II Runner Up, Senior Instrumental Combos
Jazz Band I — Division II Runner Up, Senior Instrumental Large Ensembles
Theo McGaughey — Runner Up, Avista Scholarship Solo Instrumental AwardStudents attended workshops and performances and learned from jazz greats like Warren Wolf and various college faculty members. See all student performances at the Denny Sealth Performing Arts website: dspaboosters.org/programs/jazz-band.
Chief Sealth’s jazz program has grown by leaps and bounds this year, splitting into Jazz Bands I and II at a time when funding is scarce. Dave Niimi came out of retirement and donates most of his hours leading Jazz II. In addition to the two Jazz bands, Sealth boasts four individual student jazz combos. These combos self-select their individual music, allowing them to explore their interests and education within the field of Jazz music. Congratulations again, students, it is wonderful to see hard work and dedication pay off!
Want to have fun and support the program? Come to our first annual Rent Party on May 17 at Kenyon Hall, where the jazz bands will take the stage again along with local musicians for a rousing evening of jazz. Many thanks to the growing list of sponsors: Reubens Brews, Georgetown Brewery, The Locol Kitchen and Bar, West Seattle Thriftway, and especially Kenyon Hall Management for providing us an amazing space for our jazz party!
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Six West Seattle High School student-athletes were honored at the Washington Athletic Club‘s recent 101 Club Scholar-Athlete Banquet. WSHS athletic director Corey Sorenson provided the photo and short bios of the half-dozen honorees:
Isabella Baber
Isabella Baber competed in swim & dive, cheerleading, basketball, and water polo, demonstrating exceptional versatility as a multi-sport athlete. A captain of the swim & dive team, she led with consistency and poise while exemplifying what it means to be a multi-sport student-athlete. Known for her positivity, competitive drive, and unwavering support of her teammates, Isabella made a meaningful impact across every program she was part of. She will attend San Diego State University to study business.
Kaila Ignacio
Kaila Ignacio competed in both softball and girls’ flag football, serving as captain of the softball team. A four-year varsity letterwinner in softball, she earned multiple All-Division and All-Metro League honors. Throughout her time at West Seattle, she has been a consistent leader, dedicated competitor, and supportive teammate. Kaila will attend Loyola Marymount University, where she plans to study Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences.
Thea-Jane Harnish
Thea-Jane Harnish competed in both soccer and girls’ flag football, serving as a captain of the flag football team. She played a pivotal role in launching the girls’ flag-football program at West Seattle, helping build it from the ground up and creating lasting opportunities for future athletes. Known for her leadership, energy, and commitment to growing the game, she set a strong foundation for the program’s success. Thea-Jane will attend the University of Washington to study Women’s Studies.
William Frederick
William Frederick competed in both cross country and track & field, serving as a team captain in each sport. A four-year athlete in both programs, he has consistently demonstrated leadership, commitment, and reliability across all seasons. He is known as a positive, supportive teammate as well as for his fearless competitiveness and gritty racing ability in high-pressure moments. William is a school record holder and a state place winner in the boys 4x400m relay. William plans to study music and is currently undecided on his college choice.
Sorin Smith
Sorin Smith competed in football and track & field, serving as a captain in both programs. A four-year contributor in each, he has been a leader on and off the field. Known for his high character, coachability, and relentless work ethic, he has earned the respect of his teammates and coaches alike. In football, he earned All-Division honors in recognition of his performance and impact. In track & field, he has been a versatile and important contributor over the past two seasons, helping strengthen the program in multiple events. Sorin plans to major in psychology and is currently undecided on his college choice.
Jeremy O’Keefe
Jeremy O’Keefe competed in swim & dive, cross country, and track & field, serving as a captain of the swim & dive team. A dedicated multi-sport athlete, he is known for his strong work ethic, coachability, and commitment to his teammates. His leadership and consistency have made him a valuable presence across all three programs. Jeremy will attend Whitworth University, where he plans to study aerospace engineering and continue competing in swim & dive.
Though the sign says 2 pm, the Highland Park Elementary PTA‘s donation-only “rummage sale” at the school is planned to continue until 3 pm, so you still have some time to get there. Lots of shopper interest!
What makes it “donation only” is two-fold – donated items, and also, “everything is free, pay what/if you can, proceeds are donations to the HPE PTA.”
Lots of kid stuff, of course! The school is at 1012 SW Trenton.
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