Yakima School District

The Yakima School District serves over 15,000 students across 14 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, and 4 high schools. More than 80 percent of students are Hispanic/Latino, and over one-third are multilingual learners. From dual-language programs in nearly every elementary school to college access initiatives that enable students to graduate with an associate’s degree while in high school, Yakima demonstrates equity as a lived commitment.

Click on a story below to read more about the great things happening in our public schools.

Davis High School student advocates for rare disease awareness

Davis High School student advocates for rare disease awareness

Davis High School student Theron Clements partnered with community member Jeff Feen, who lives with Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP), to launch Potato Pants, a project raising awareness for this rare genetic disease. The annual event in May will feature obstacle courses and relay races complete with heavy prop potatoes to simulate the walking difficulties experienced with HSP. Theron and a dedicated team of student volunteers continue to mobilize the community year-round through fundraising events and awareness campaigns.

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Salmon dissection brings anatomy to life at Franklin Middle School

Salmon dissection brings anatomy to life at Franklin Middle School

Franklin Middle School students are getting glimpses into future careers through hands-on experiences, including a recent salmon dissection led by professionals from the Yakima Basin Environmental Education Program (YBEEP). Experiences like this help spark curiosity in science and open doors to careers in marine biology, environmental conservation, fisheries management, wildlife biology, veterinary science, and ecosystem research.

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Roots to Wings program launches at Yakima School District

Roots to Wings program launches at Yakima School District

Yakima School District’s CTE and GEAR UP Program has launched the “Roots to Wings” program in partnership with Pacific Northwest University (PNWU), preparing tomorrow’s healthcare professionals through hands-on experiences in medicine, emergency care, and clinical skills. The program connects students with student doctors from PNWU who serve as peer mentors. Students engage in practical learning opportunities, including human anatomy studies, DNA exploration, sheep brain dissections, CPR certification, dental care training, emergency medical techniques, and high-tech simulation labs.

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