The Highline Public Schools School Board is accepting applications and nominations to fill two vacant seats representing Districts 4 and 5, which recently became available following the resignations of board members Azeb Hagos (District 5) and Melissa Petrini (District 4).

The appointed directors will serve until those elected in the Nov., 2025 election are sworn in. 

“Our schools are strongest when the community is involved,” Highline School Board President Joe Van said. “We’re asking our community to help us find thoughtful and committed candidates to fill these seats, whether by nominating someone, applying yourself, or sharing your input on interview questions. This is an opportunity for everyone to play a role in shaping the future of our district.” 

Who Can Apply? 

Applicants must be registered voters and residents of either District 4 or District 5. View district boundaries on the Highline website

  • District 4 represents the communities of Normandy Park and portions of the North Hill neighborhood and City of SeaTac.   
  • District 5 represents the southernmost portion of the district, primarily in the city of Des Moines. 

Nomination & Application Deadlines 

There are two ways to participate: nominate someone you think would be a great fit or apply yourself.  

  • Everyone is invited to nominate candidates who meet the requirements for the positions. Nominations will be accepted through Feb. 4.
    • Nominees will be notified on Feb. 5 and must complete the application by Feb. 12 if they would like to seek the position. Submit a Nomination.
  • Candidates who meet the requirements may submit an application for themselves. Applications will close on Feb. 12. You do not need to be nominated to apply for a position. Submit an Application.

The appointment process is guided by state law and Highline Board Policy 1114 and Procedure 1114. As part of the application process, background checks on candidates may be conducted, including a WATCH check and fingerprinting. 

Candidate Interviews & Final Appointment   

Candidates will be informed by Feb. 21 if selected for an interview. 

The School Board will meet and interview candidates on Feb. 26. The meeting will be public and livestreamed. The School Board anticipates voting for their selection of the new board members on March 5. New Board Directors will take their oath on March 19. 

New Board Directors are expected to attend the March 15 board retreat and all meetings of the school board listed on the district calendar. Additional meetings may be added or times adjusted.  

Interested applicants can learn more about the responsibilities of board directors by reviewing School Board Policy and Procedure Series 1000, particularly 1005, 1220, 1610, and 1620. 

Public Engagement Opportunities   

Meet the Candidates on Wednesday, Feb. 26 

On Wednesday, Feb. 26, the School Board will host a public interview of the candidates. The interview will take place in the Central Office Board Room (15675 Ambaum Blvd. SW, Burien) tentatively scheduled between 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. The interview is open to the public and will be livestreamed. Look for more details on the Highline website once the application window closes. 

Give Feedback on Interview Questions 

The School Board is seeking input from the community on what questions to ask the candidates. Share your ideas and rate others’ suggestions through ThoughtExchange, an online engagement platform. This is one of several ways the School Board is gathering input on candidate questions.

The deadline to submit questions is Feb. 12.

Submit your question here

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