Mission:

In partnership with parents and community, we will provide a comprehensive educational experience that is rigorous, individualized and enables students to contribute to a changing and diverse world.

Vision:

We will be an outstanding school district in which all students exhibit high standards of achievement and critical thinking skills, and are socially responsible, contributing members of their community.

Goals:

Academic Excellence

All students will perform at or above grade level, and we will eliminate disparities among all groups of students.

Partnerships

We will fully engage our parents, community and staff in the education of our children.

 Early Learning

We will focus on early assessment and intervention at the Pre-K through third grade levels to ensure early academic success.

 Safety

All schools will create and maintain safe learning environments that promote excellent academic achievement.

About Us:

Tacoma Public Schools (TPS) is the third largest district in Washington State serving more than 30,000 children in preschool through grade 12. The district has 35 elementary schools, nine middle schools, five comprehensive high schools and 14 alternative learning sites. TPS has more than 5,000 employees and is one of the largest employers in Tacoma.

The district has been a "lighthouse" district for many years and often leads the way for the state's 296 districts in piloting new programs and implementing innovative ideas. The Hilltop Artists in Residence glassblowing program is known nationwide. The Tacoma Public Schools also has two Montessori schools for K-5 and K-8. We are always working to keep students in school and help them succeed. Examples include the Tacoma Business Academy, Tacoma Virtual Learning online school, School of the Arts (SOTA) and the Science and Math Institute (SAMI)—programs that will provide significant enrichment and support, including extended school days for initial groups.

The district has a strong history of passing educational programs and operations levies and construction bond that have allowed the district to continue its 30-year plan to renovate, remodel or replace all of its schools. Voters approved two ballot issues in February, 2014. Proposition 1, a Maintenance and Operations levy and Proposition 2, a Capital levy to build three schools, as well as multiple capital projects. TPS is also acquiring state-of-the art technology such as SMART boards and voice-enhancing microphones for teachers.