FWPSProud: Celebrating Every Step — Milestone Moments Across FWPS

As the 2024–25 school year came to a close, Federal Way Public Schools celebrated scholars at every level as they prepared to take on exciting new chapters in their educational journey. From our youngest preschoolers to graduating seniors, these milestone transitions reflected hard work, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to learning.

Preschool Celebrations: Foundations for a Bright Future 

Preschool celebrations took many forms—from classroom parties to outdoor field days—all designed to acknowledge how far our littlest learners have come. These events marked a big step forward as young scholars completed their first year in a school setting. We’re amazed by the foundational skills they’ve gained and can’t wait to see how they’ll thrive in kindergarten. 

Kindergarten Graduations: First Steps Toward the Future 

Kindergarten scholars beamed with pride as they celebrated their first official school transition with graduation ceremonies and classroom celebrations. This was a year of tremendous growth for our kinders, many of whom began the school year anxious about their academic adventure with new friends and staff. At these celebrations, scholars performed for families, staff shared their aspirations of becoming veterinarians, teachers, astronauts, and more, and families witnessed the transitional moments with excitement and hope. It was a joyful reminder that even the smallest steps are worth celebrating.

Fifth Grade Milestones: Middle School, Here We Come! 

Fifth graders commemorated the end of their elementary years with schoolwide parades, family-inclusive ceremonies, and heartfelt recognitions. It’s a big leap from elementary to middle school, and our schools helped scholars take that step with joy, pride, and encouragement from their community. 

Eighth Grade Celebrations: Ready for High School 

Middle schoolers wrapped up their year with celebrations that honored their growth and readiness for high school. From hallway send-offs and award ceremonies to dance parties and receptions, schools found fun and meaningful ways to say, “You did it!” These traditions mark an important shift as scholars prepare for the next stage of their academic journey. 

Senior Grad Walks: A Full-Circle Moment 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Camelot Elementary School (@camelotfwps)

Graduating seniors took a joyful walk down memory lane—literally—by visiting their former elementary and middle schools. These Grad Walks are a touching tradition where soon-to-be graduates are greeted with cheers, high-fives, and admiration from younger scholars and former teachers. The excitement was contagious, and for the younger students lining the halls, the graduates represented what’s possible with dedication and perseverance. 

Senior Signing Day: Celebrating the Future 

Each high school in FWPS hosted a Senior Signing Day—a high-energy event that puts the spotlight on seniors and their post-high school plans. Whether heading to a four-year university, community college, trade school, the military, or directly into a career, every pathway was honored. These celebrations not only recognized the individual goals of each senior but also served to inspire underclassmen who are beginning to envision their future possibilities. 

High School Graduations: Class of 2025, You Did It! 

This past weekend, we proudly celebrated nearly 1,600 graduating seniors. These scholars walked across the stage ready to take on the world, with 187 becoming the first in their families to graduate from high school, and 333 the first to attend college. 396 earned an Industry-Recognized Credential (IRC), 169 earned the Seal of Biliteracy, and collectively, the Class of 2025 earned close to $11 million in scholarships. 

Early reports from graduates show a wide variety of paths: 

• 38% headed to a four-year college or university 

• 31% attending a two-year community college 

• 11% pursuing a two-year technical program 

• 4% joining an apprenticeship 

• 3% entering military service 

• 12% moving directly into a career 

• 1% entering a volunteer service program

Every graduate has a plan. And every plan has a bright future.

Click here to view video recordings and photos from each high school's graduation ceremony.

As we close the book on the 2024–25 school year, we’re reflecting with pride on all our scholars have accomplished. Their growth, curiosity, and courage to keep learning fuel our belief that the future is bright and begins right here in Federal Way Public Schools. 

Have a safe and restful summer. We’ll see you in the fall! 
#FWPSProud