The $3.7 billion biennial budget approved by the state legislature Tuesday morning includes $2 million to construct a permanent facility for Aviation High School. The school serves 400 students interested in careers related to the flight industry and has a strong curriculum that stresses math, science and engineering.

The school is currently located at the Olympic site in Des Moines. A site for a new building has been selected across the street from Tukwila's Museum of Flight.

The school is administered by the Highline School District but admits students from throughout the Puget Sound area.

"I am very pleased that Aviation High School is able to move forward to its new location," said Rep. Tina Orwall, D-Des Moines. "Having it housed in a building scheduled for demolition is not an appropriate setting for one of our most recognized high schools that helps students excel in math and science and prepares them to compete for high-tech jobs in our area."

"For every $1 million we invest in critical construction projects like Aviation High School," said Sen. Karen Keiser, D-Kent. "We create nearly 16 jobs, and many of them are high-wage positions in the private sector. These are smart investments in our economic future."
Aviation, which opened its doors in 2004, is the only college preparatory aviation-themed high school in the Northwest. It is geared to become the premier school of choice for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in the region.

"This appropriation will make an incredible difference in our ability to prepare students for STEM-related education and career pathways," said Reba Gilman, Aviation founder and principal. "It moves us closer to constructing a school on property that is adjacent to the Museum of Flight where we can collaborate with the museum and numerous aviation and aerospace businesses to become a premier model of excellence in science, technology, engineering, and math. We are looking forward to having a permanent home in the heart of Seattle's aviation industry near Boeing Field."

John Welch, Highline School District superintendent, said that the funds will help develop critical partnerships and further advance STEM education in Washington.

"This appropriation signals that the state legislature recognizes the contribution Aviation High School can make to both education and the economy in our state," Welch added.

The supplemental budget also sets aside $1 million to relocate the NAVOS (Mental health and wellness center) to a new site in Burien.