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District

Attention 8th Grade Families

Posted Date: 2/18/25 (9:21 PM)

Dear 8th Grade Families,
The next step in your student’s academic journey is here! Beginning this week (see the upcoming events below), Moses Lake School District will provide information and opportunities to help 8th graders select the best high school experience for them.

MLSD offers three great high school options, allowing students to choose the learning environment that best suits their goals:
    Moses Lake High School (MLHS) – A traditional high school setting. 
    Vanguard Academy  – A project-based, innovative learning environment
    Digital Learning Center (DLC) – An online, self-paced program (available during open enrollment)
To help with this important decision, MLHS and Vanguard Academy will visit middle schools, and we encourage families to attend Curriculum Night on February 20, 2025, where you can tour the schools, meet staff, and explore course offerings. Registration Nights will provide an opportunity for students to submit forms and meet with school counselors.


Important Registration Requirement

  • All 8th-grade students must attend a Registration Night and select a foothold program at either Moses Lake High School or Vanguard Academy.
  • Once open enrollment begins (typically in March), students may apply to attend the Digital Learning Center (DLC) if space and staffing allow.

High School Options: Which One is Right for Your Student?

Moses Lake High School (MLHS) – Comprehensive High School Experience 

MLHS provides a learning environment for students that includes:

  • A variety of academic courses, including Advanced Placement (AP) classes (see the Course Catalog)
  • Career & Technical Education (CTE) pathways for hands-on, career-focused learning
  • Athletics, performing arts, and extracurricular activities
  • Traditional grading and structured coursework
  • Can participate in Running Start and CB Tech programs in 11th and 12th grade. 
 Click HERE for more MLHS registration information

Vanguard Academy (VA) – A Project-Based, Hands-On Learning Environment

Vanguard Academy is a fully accredited high school that emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and real-world application of learning. VA students:

  • Work in interdisciplinary teaching blocks (e.g., a single project may satisfy English, Social Studies, and Art requirements)
  • Use their own interests and voice to demonstrate learning
  • Present projects to peers and community professionals for feedback
  • Have access to unique courses such as French, Graphic Arts, Vocal & Instrumental Music (not in an ensemble format such as a traditional band or choir), and Video Production
  • Can participate in Running Start and CB Tech programs in 11th and 12th grade
Click HERE for more Vanguard registration information

Digital Learning Center (DLC) – Online & Flexible Learning
DLC is an independent, self-paced online learning program designed for students who prefer a flexible learning environment. DLC students complete coursework with teacher support in a structured digital setting.
Important:
  • All students must first register for MLHS or Vanguard Academy.
  • DLC enrollment opens in March during open enrollment, based on available space and staffing.


Upcoming Events – Mark Your Calendars!

Curriculum Fair at Your Middle School – Learn About Your Options!
School staff will visit the middle schools during the school day to discuss their respective programs with 8th graders.
  • Wednesday, February 19, 2025 – Columbia Middle School
  • Thursday, February 20, 2025 – Frontier & Endeavor Middle Schools
Curriculum Night – Visit High Schools In Person
Walk the halls, meet teachers, and explore programs!

Thursday, February 20, 2025

  • Moses Lake High School: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
  • Vanguard Academy: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Registration Nights – Submit Registration Forms & Meet with Counselors
Moses Lake High School (803 E. Sharon Ave.)
  • Monday, February 24, 2025: Columbia MS – (4:30 PM, 5:30 PM, or 6:30 PM)
  • Tuesday, February 25, 2025: Frontier & Endeavor MS – (4:30 PM, 5:30 PM, or 6:30 PM)
Vanguard Academy (740 Yonezawa Blvd.)
  • Thursday, February 20, 2025: All Schools – (5:30 PM – 7:30 PM)
  • Tuesday, February 25, 2025: All Schools – (5:30 PM – 7:30 PM)
Note: Students attending Vanguard Academy should bring both their Registration Form and Enrollment Form.


Need Help Selecting Courses?

MLHS Registration Form Video: Watch Here
Vanguard Academy Registration Form Video: Watch Here
This is an exciting time, and we’re here to support your student every step of the way! If you have any questions, please reach out to your school counselor or visit www.mlsd161.org for more information.

We look forward to seeing you at Curriculum Night and Registration Nights!