Highline Spending Up, Academic Scores Still Down

Highline spending increased 82% to $25,000 per student while state test scores dropped and now lag nearly 18% behind Washington averages.

Staff Writer

Oct 31, 2025 - 1 min read

Highline schools are spending more money each year, but test scores in reading and math have gone down, according to state data.

In 2018, the district spent approximately $13,743 per student. According to Highline's Chief Financial Officer Jackie Bryan, spending will reach about $25,000 per student this school year—an 82% increase. For comparison, tuition at Kennedy Catholic High School in Burien is $22,104 for 2025–26.

During the same period, academic outcomes have declined. In 2018, 48.7% of Highline students met state standards in English Language Arts; the most recent state assessment shows 33% meeting standard. Math scores fell from 38.5% to 23.9%.¹

COVID-era school disruptions affected most Washington districts, but state data shows Highline’s scores have recovered more slowly and are now nearly 18% below the statewide average.²

Two current board members, Angelica Alvarez (Serving since 2009) and Joe Van, (Serving since 2015), have served during this timeframe. Dr. Damarys Espinoza was appointed in 2025. Three candidates are challenging the incumbents. Sue-Ann Hohimer (Position 2), Katie Kresly (Position 3), and Ken Kemp (Position 4).

Footnotes:

Washington State OSPI Report Card for Highline Public Schools, accessed at: https://reportcard.ospi.k12.wa.us/ReportCard/ViewSchoolOrDistrict/100105
“Like a Broken Record: Comparison of Highline and State 2025 Test Results,” The Highline Journal, Sept. 26, 2025. Available at: https://www.thehighlinejournal.com/like-a-broken-record-comparison-of-highline-and-state-2025-test-results/