News and Events
In October, we had the privilege of hosting a vibrant and deeply meaningful Somali Family Night, a gathering that brought scholars, families, and staff together to strengthen partnerships and share valuable information to support scholar success. The evening was organized by our longtime Somali Community Liaison, Safia Mohamed, and Maryan Abdow, McKinney-Vento Specialist, whose leadership and commitment to our families made this event truly exceptional.
We were honored to welcome Somali principal of Tukwila Elementary School, Hani Nur, who spoke powerfully about the importance of strong attendance and being actively engaged in children’s learning. Her message underscored a shared belief across our schools: when families, educators, and scholars work together, everyone thrives.
The event also featured several staff and community partners who provided key resources and guidance:
- School Leaders from Tukwila Elementary, Showalter Middle School, and Foster High School
- Foster High School counselors shared insights on staying on track for graduation and the supports available to ensure every scholar reaches that milestone.
- Security staff discussed scholar safety, reinforcing our collective responsibility to create safe and welcoming learning environments.
- Foster High School Behavioral Health Specialist provided information about mental health supports, highlighting the district’s commitment to whole-child well-being.
- A TRIO specialist from Highline College introduced families to the Tukwila Promise Program and postsecondary opportunities through Highline College, opening doors to future pathways and possibilities.
Alongside rich conversation and shared learning, families enjoyed a delicious meal and time to connect with one another—building relationships that strengthen our entire district community.
The event was a resounding success, leaving families informed, engaged, and empowered. We look forward to continuing this work and creating more opportunities for connection across our diverse and vibrant district.
Each November, American Education Week gives us the chance to step back and celebrate the people, partnerships, and shared values that make public education the heart of our community. In Tukwila School District, we know that our schools are more than buildings—they are hubs of connection, opportunity, and belonging for children and families from all over the world.
This year, we invited our community to reflect on two simple but powerful questions:
Why do you believe in public education?
What does public education mean to you and your family?
Their words were heartfelt, honest, and deeply rooted in the values that guide our work every day.
“They don’t deny any child an education.” – TSD Family Member
Translated from Spanish
“For me, public schools are a huge asset to our children because they don't deny any child an education, and they provide a lot of support when a child is struggling to learn something. They give priority to children who truly want to learn and put in the effort. For me, they are the best. Thank you so much for the opportunities you give my children.”
This reflection reminds us that access is at the core of public education—every child is welcomed, supported, and given the chance to grow.
“One of the strongest ways to uplift and maintain the kind of community we want.” – TSD Staff Member
“I believe in public education because I think it is one of the clearest and strongest ways to create, uplift, and maintain the kind of community and society we want today.”
Our educators know firsthand that schools shape not only scholars, but the future of our neighborhoods and our shared civic life.
“Public education benefits scholars, families, and communities.” – TSD Family Member
“Public Education provides variety of benefits for scholars, families and communities as well. These include early learning programs and financial aid systems for higher education.”
From preschool to graduation and beyond, public education creates pathways for learners and families—opening doors that lead to opportunity.
“Schools are the backbone of communities.” – TSD Staff Member
“Public schools are the backbones of communities. They connect people to resources, people, and systems of support. Schools are not just for learning, they are the sole reason we survive and thrive. Coming from a Title 1 background, I am honored to now teach in a similar community like the one I grew up in. Community care is self-care.”
These words capture what makes Tukwila so special: schools are places where community happens, where care is mutual, and where scholars see themselves reflected in the educators who serve them.
A Shared Commitment
Public education is a promise—one upheld daily by dedicated staff, involved families, caring neighbors, and resilient scholars. During American Education Week, we celebrate:
- Our educators, who nurture every learner
- Our support professionals, who keep schools running
- Our families, who partner with us
- Our scholars, who inspire us
- And our community, who believes in the mission of public education
Thank you to everyone who shared their reflections with us. Your words reaffirm why we do what we do and why public education remains a cornerstone of equity, opportunity, and community in Tukwila.
Together, we continue moving forward—lifting one another, learning together, and creating schools where every child can thrive.
Last Month, Showalter Middle School had the incredible opportunity to host a special event focused on mental health and wellness, thanks to a partnership between Everfi and the Seattle Seahawks.
Organized by Health Teacher Sandra Goins, the event gave a select group of 8th-grade scholars the chance to participate in hands-on activities designed to promote mindfulness and emotional well-being. Scholars learned practical breathing exercises and stress management techniques led by Breathwork Facilitator Hailey Williams. They also heard inspiring words from former Seahawks player Ray Roberts, who spoke about the importance of taking care of both mind and body.
Adding to the excitement, Seahawks cheerleaders Jaedin and Macy joined the event to encourage scholars and share positive messages about teamwork, confidence, and self-care. Representatives Stephanie James (Everfi) and Emily Nabors (Seahawks) were also in attendance, highlighting the shared commitment to supporting youth mental health in our community.
A special thank-you goes to Sara Arevalo-Rivas, Showalter’s Attendance Secretary, for capturing and editing wonderful photos and videos from the event.
We are grateful to Ms. Goins, our partners at Everfi, and the Seattle Seahawks for making this experience possible and helping our scholars build tools for lifelong well-being.
As National Principals Month comes to a close, we take a moment to celebrate and honor the heart of our schools — our principals. Every day, they lead with purpose, compassion, and unwavering belief in the brilliance of our scholars and staff. Their leadership goes far beyond managing a building; they create spaces where every scholar feels seen, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential.
This month, we asked our principals to share the quotes that inspire and guide them in their work. Their choices reflect the deep humanity, courage, and hope they bring to their roles:
Dr. Tenesha Fremstad, Cascade View Elementary
“Be somebody who makes everybody feel like a somebody.” — Kid President
Dr. Fremstad embodies this message daily, ensuring every scholar and staff member feels valued and capable of greatness.
Michael Croyle, Thorndyke Elementary
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou
Principal Croyle leads with empathy and kindness, cultivating a school culture rooted in care and connection.
Hani Nur, Tukwila Elementary
“To soar toward what's possible, you must leave behind what's comfortable.” — Cicely Tyson
Principal Nur inspires courage and growth — reminding scholars and staff alike that real learning begins when we step beyond what we already know.
Sue Rieger, Showalter Middle School
“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou
Principal Rieger leads with compassion and conviction, shaping a school environment where relationships come first.
LaTanya Parker, Foster High School
“These are all our children. We will either profit by, or pay for, whatever they become.” — James Baldwin
Principal Parker’s leadership reflects her fierce advocacy for every scholar’s success and her deep belief in the power of collective responsibility.
Together, our principals represent the very best of Tukwila — visionary leaders who see potential in every child, nurture hope in every classroom, and build bridges across our diverse community.
To our principals: thank you for your passion, your resilience, and your relentless dedication to the scholars and families of Tukwila School District. You are the anchors of our mission and the champions of our future.
October is Filipino American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich history, traditions, and contributions of the Filipino community across the United States — and right here in Tukwila.
This month, Foster High School junior, Student Representative to the School Board, and founding member of Foster’s Asian Student Association, Rhianna Dela Cruz, led an effort to uplift scholar voices by asking her peers what Filipino American Heritage Month means to them. As a proud Filipino American, Rhianna’s leadership continues to create spaces for cultural pride and visibility at Foster.
Rhianna shared,
“To me, Filipino American Heritage Month means celebrating and recognizing my culture — noticing us for who we are as Filipinos. Our history, food, people, and practices. Growing up in the Philippines, we use a term called ‘masaya,’ which means to be happy, and we hold this term close to our hearts in everything we do.”
Fellow scholar Ian Vega echoed the power of this month, adding,
“Filipino American History Month means a lot to me because it’s a time to honor my culture, family, and identity. It reminds me to take pride in my roots, the sacrifices my ancestors made, and the traditions that make being Filipino special.”
Scholars across Foster shared a wide range of reflections that highlight both pride and connection:
Cassie shared,
“It means appreciating who I am and my culture.”
Kyle reflected on how his background shapes his identity, saying,
“I think Filipino American Heritage Month means to me about how important the past affects my life. The life of the Philippines made me who I am, and this month is a way to share my culture — and that is fantastic!”
Alliyah offered a powerful perspective on heritage and identity:
“For me, Filipino American Heritage Month means taking time to appreciate where I come from and the people who helped shape our community. It’s about celebrating our culture, learning our history, and feeling proud to be Filipino. It also reminds me to share our traditions and stories so others can understand and celebrate them too — especially the young Filipino Americans who may not feel ‘Filipino’ enough. It’s taking the time to reflect on what our culture means and how we as individuals embody it. It means celebrating the strength, pride, and resilience of being Filipino, not just for ourselves but for our ancestors too.”
And Radley emphasized the pride and visibility this month brings:
“Filipino American Heritage Month makes me proud to be Filipino, as it allows our culture to stand proud and be properly represented in ways that the past would not have allowed. The public is able to acknowledge the vast and expansive history of the Philippines, whilst also celebrating the people who are a part of Philippine culture.”
In Tukwila School District, our scholars come from all around the world, and each culture adds something beautiful to our shared story. This month, we celebrate our Filipino American scholars, families, and staff — and thank leaders like Rhianna for creating spaces where every voice and heritage can shine.
Mabuhay! (Long live!)
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