Helping all students reach their full potential

[NEW for 2023-24!] “Intentional Collaboration Time”: This Foundation-led initiative provides necessary time for staff members to authentically collaborate for student success. Funds will be provided to hire substitute teachers and cover expenses for off-site meetings, ensuring an undisrupted learning experience for students.

[CURRENT/ONGOING] Writers in the Schools (WITS): Professional local writers spend two weeks in 9th grade classrooms, giving every student a guided opportunity to engage in the writing process: brainstorming, writing, revising, and sharing their work in front of an audience. This unique program gives students the chance to find and cultivate their voice. Nathan Hale has enjoyed a long and fruitful partnership with WITS going back decades. Learn more about the program here.

[PAST SUPPORT] 9th Grade Academy: The Foundation historically funded supplemental resources required to support a holistic 9th grade education approach - one rooted in block scheduling, “connected curriculum”, and heavy emphasis on critical thinking skills. The program was designed to support higher graduation rates for all students..

[PAST SUPPORT] College in the High School program: Before the state began funding the College in the High School program due to its demonstrated success, the Foundation funded these scholarships for Hale students. The scholarships provided tuition assistance for college credit courses taken at NHHS, for students who needed financial support to begin college with courses on their transcript.

[NEW for 2023-24!] NHHS Digital History Project: Celebrating 60 years of Nathan Hale history, the Foundation is evaluating options for an exciting way to digitally preserve and showcase student achievements of all kinds through the decades. Stay tuned!

[CURRENT/IMPLEMENTING] NHHS Performing Arts Center (PAC) Enhancements: The Foundation provided funding for a wireless mic system replacement in the PAC which requires new receivers, mics, mic packs, and rechargeable batteries. This investment also included replacement of PAC border lights to create pre-set lighting for all presentations, class meetings, individual student and class activities.

[PAST SUPPORT] Maker’s Space: Hale students can enter The Maker’s Space for access to multiple tools, including 3D printers, allowing them to bring their ideas and creations to life. During the pandemic, the Foundation funded 3D printer filament for students working in the Maker’s Space to create personal protective gear for the team at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.

[PAST SUPPORT] Sentinel Digital Start Up: Nathan Hale’s award-winning school newspaper, The Sentinel, continues to develop an inclusive and engaging digital presence for the greater Hale community. The Foundation’s investment increased the ability of Sentinel staff to develop digital skills and facilitate real-time, relevant reporting in a variety of platforms.

[NEW for 2023-24!] “Calm Rooms”: An on-site Calm Room is where students can go to recharge and take time for themselves if/when things become overwhelming. The school has one Calm Room today which is most often in use. The Foundation is helping to fund a second space, as well as replenish and improve the current one.

[NEW for 2023-24!] Clothing Closet Support: Nathan Hale “Counselor Lex” has started a clothing closet for students in need. The Foundation will support this effort by funding full length mirrors, benches for trying on shoes, and closet items as needed.

[CURRENT/ONGOING] InvestED: These funds support individual students in need with class fees, sports equipment and music equipment rental, field trips, activity and academic testing fees, and other basic needs. InvestED provides Hale students with a truly equitable high school experience.

[CURRENT/ONGOING] Grad Signs for Seniors: The Foundation helps fund a window/yard sign for each senior in the graduating class every year. This is a visible celebration of our seniors and their accomplishments out in the community, and one of the ways we wish them well as they take their next steps on life’s journey.