Skip To Main Content

State and Federal Programs

Highland’s State and Federal Programs provides funding, professional development and support to Highland’s students and staff to support students in achieving high academic standards. 

LAP (Learning Assistance Program) a partner to Title1

LAP is a state-funded program to serve students that are one or more years behind in math or reading as identified by state and school assessments. Students in kindergarten through grade 12 that are identified are provided additional support to develop their basic skills include reading, writing, mathematics and readiness associated with those skills. The LAP program also supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through funding of PBIS and SEL curriculums.

Kirsten Lenz, Director of State/Federal Programs
Phone:  509-678-8950
E-mail: klenz@highland.wednet.edu

Mindy Schultz, Director of Student Success
Phone: 509-678-8773
E-mail: mschultz@highland.wednet.edu

Angie Valdez, Data Entry Specialist
Phone: 509-678-8951
Email: avaldez@highland.wednet.edu

Title I Program

Title I, Part A is intended to help ensure that all children have the opportunity to obtain a high-quality education and reach proficiency on state and academic standards and assessments. The program focuses on students in high-poverty schools and ensures students have access to scientifically-based instructional strategies and challenging academic content.
Title I funds are used to support instruction in reading and mathematics and early learning such as preschool. Districts and schools may use Title I funds to 

Mindy Schultz, Director of Student Success
Phone: 509-678-8773
E-mail: klenz@highland.wednet.edu

Kirsten Lenz, Director of State/Federal Programs
Phone:  509-678-8950
E-mail: klenz@highland.wednet.edu

State Transitional Bilingual Instructional Program

The State Transitional Bilingual Instructional Program (TBIP), with the involvement of parents, educators, and community, addresses the unique needs of Highland’s Multilingual Learners and helps them achieve the high content and performance standards expected of all students in Washington State.

Kirsten Lenz, Director of State/Federal Programs
Phone:  509-678-8950
E-mail: klenz@highland.wednet.edu

Angie Valdez, Data Entry Specialist
Phone: 509-678-8951
Email: avaldez@highland.wednet.edu

Migrant Program

The Title I Migrant Education Program (MEP), in partnership with our school buildings, communities, and families, supports the educational and health needs of migrant students by enhancing their opportunities for personal success and advocating for quality services that promote responsible and productive individuals. The Migrant Program also provides leadership opportunities and college exploration opportunities for Migrant students at Highland Middle School and Highland High School.


Kirsten Lenz, Director of State/Federal Programs
Phone:  509-678-8950
E-mail: klenz@highland.wednet.edu

Elizabeth Thompson, Migrant Recruiter/Migrant Records Clerk/ Migrant Student Advocate
Phone: 509-678-8865
E-mail: ethompson@highland.wednet.edu

Title II Program

The purpose of the Title II Section A is to ensure learning experiences and support services are provided for educators that promote quality instruction for student learning. The ultimate goal is increased student academic learning and achievement. This program funds high quality professional development in subject areas for Highland staff members. 

Kirsten Lenz, Director of State/Federal Programs
Phone:  509-678-8950
E-mail: klenz@highland.wednet.edu

Title IV Program

The Student Support and Academic Enrichment (Title IV, Part A) program provides funding to improve students’ academic achievement by increasing Highland school district’s capacity to:

  • Provide all students with access to a well-rounded education.
  • Improve school conditions for student learning
  • Increase the use of technology to enhance the academic achievement and digital literacy of all students.

Kirsten Lenz, Director of State/Federal Programs
Phone:  509-678-8950
E-mail: klenz@highland.wednet.edu

McKinney Vento Program

The McKinney-Vento Education of Homeless Children and Youth Assistance Act is a federal law that ensures immediate enrollment and educational stability for homeless children and youth. McKinney-Vento provides federal funding to states for the purpose of supporting district programs that serve homeless students.

Kirsten Lenz, Director of State/Federal Programs
Phone:  509-678-8950
E-mail: klenz@highland.wednet.edu

Elizabeth Thompson, Migrant Recruiter/Migrant Records Clerk/ Migrant Student Advocate
Phone: 509-678-8865
E-mail: ethompson@highland.wednet.edu