Mountlake Terrace High School

Gazing upon Mountlake Terrace High School, can you sense the echoes of “To be, not to seem”? Mountlake Terrace High School stands as a testament to the pursuit of knowledge and growth, a place where students have been shaping their futures since 1960. The current building, a modern marvel designed by Bassetti Architects, rose from the ashes of the old in 1991. The school’s motto resonates through its halls, pushing students to strive for genuine accomplishment rather than superficial appearances. Mountlake Terrace High School is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a vibrant hub of learning, creativity, and community, part of the Edmonds School District. The school boasts a rich history, marked by innovative programs and exceptional achievements. Did you know Mountlake Terrace High School was the first suburban high school in the nation to embrace the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s Small Schools project? This bold experiment, dividing the school into five smaller learning communities, ran from 2003 to 2008. While ultimately discontinued due to budget constraints, it showcased the school’s commitment to exploring new educational frontiers. The school’s music program has earned national and international acclaim. The jazz band, a consistent force in the music world, has graced the stage at the prestigious Essentially Ellington Jazz Festival and Competition in New York multiple times. The Hawkeye, the student newspaper, consistently delivers high-quality journalism. And the athletic program, fielding teams in a variety of sports, fosters teamwork and sportsmanship. Even the school’s fight song, set to the tune of the University of Michigan’s fight song, exudes a spirit of spirited competition: “Hail to the Hawks so valiant, Hail to the conquering heroes, Hail to the Terrace Hawks, The leaders of the West!” From its innovative programs to its accomplished alumni like renowned fiddler Mark O’Connor, Mountlake Terrace High School stands as a beacon of educational excellence. It continues to inspire students to “be, not to seem,” leaving an indelible mark on the community and beyond.