Saghalie Middle School in Federal Way is one of two South King County schools recognized as a “STEM Lighthouse School” by the state Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction for their educational model in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education.

The award carries with it a $20,000 grant. Only six schools statewide received the award this year, and just 29 schools in the state have ever been given that title since 2010. Those chosen as Lighthouse Schools receive the grant to help them share with schools in the early stages of developing STEM-focused learning environments.

Saghalie Middle School is the first school in the district to receive the designation.

“Our STEM journey began more than five years ago with the leadership of Laura Davis-Brown and support from (Career and Technical Education Director) Nancy Hawkins,” Principal Marin Miller noted. He also credited the work of the Saghalie STEM Team under the leadership of Sharon Norton, in partnership with the Saghalie Change Team, for developing STEM education at Saghalie.

“Lighthouse” schools are selected and awarded grants to promote and develop STEM education, including technical assistance and advice for other elementary, middle and high schools that are creating their own STEM environments. The award originated in 2010 with the Legislature’s passage of House Bill 2621. The bill directs the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction to designate as many as three middle and three high schools each year as lighthouse schools.

“Saghalie Middle School continues to point the way for great STEM learning,” said Sen. Mark Miloscia, who represents Federal Way. “This is a great achievement and will drive further growth of these skills that are so valuable in our community.”

The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction said the schools serve as resources and examples of how to combine the following best practices: Small, highly personalized learning communities; an interdisciplinary curriculum with a strong focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), delivered through a project-based instructional approach; and active partnerships with businesses and the local community to connect learning beyond the classroom.

“It’s a great honor to be chosen as a lighthouse school,” said Randy Dorn, state superintendent. “It makes those schools leaders in STEM education.”