The diversity of cultures and languages among the students at Southgate would cause difficulty for many schools, but at Southgate they have been able to embrace their students’ unique backgrounds and overcome language barriers. Using visually engaging and active cues, the teachers at this elementary school make learning interesting for their students.

What sets Asa Mercer apart from other schools are the students, who come to class each day open and ready to learn. Some credit does have to be given to the instructors as they work with other faculty members to collaborate and determine what is truly best for their students. Each class also features a “Do Now” and an “Exit Ticket”, which prime students for learning.

Lakewood’s Hudtloff Middle Schoo has steadily fostered notable success for all its students. Maureen David, former principal of Hudtloff, credits a staff that has come together around a fundamental belief in the children’s abilities.

When it comes to helping historically under served students realize their potential, Toppenish High School is bucking state and national trends.

The staff’s efforts to support every student in meeting high academic expectations have led to incredible strides; Neah Bay Elementary students exceeded Washington state standards in five of the eight areas in which the state tested in spring 2012.

At Denny International Middle School, being an international school means the curriculum has a global perspective, students embrace new languages and everyone is committed to academic excellence. While most schools base grades on testing and assignments, Denny uses the standards-based system, which focuses on mastering skills and meeting learning goals.

The number one goal at Chinook Elementary School in Auburn, Wash., is to have each child reading at or above his or her grade level. “The greatest gift I believe as an educator that you can give a child is the ability to read,” says Principal Jennifer Davidson. “They can then read to learn, and they can become successful.”

Chief Sealth International is dedicated to educating students so they can become global citizens. With coursework including contemporary world problems, global leadership, academies focusing on business and finance, and foreign language instruction in Chinese, Japanese and Spanish, the school is setting a foundation for success for their diverse student population.