WIHS is committed to creating a safe and positive learning environment for all cultures. We use First Peoples Principles of Learning as a framework to build inclusivity, a sense of belonging, and an ethic of care for all students, staff, elders, families, and community. These principles align with WIHS’ multidisciplinary and holistic instructional framework.

Intergenerational Learning connects our students with members of our broader Whatcom community, who span generations and have distinct insights, skills, and knowledge to share. By connecting generations, we strive to broaden our community’s perspectives and experiences, and thus contribute to growth in compassion, generosity, critical consciousness, and deepened inquiry skills for all.

WIHS sees learning as the authentic investigation of real-world phenomena that focus on issues important to students as well as the community. Students work on complex and multi-faceted problems grounded in their own interests and curiosity. Learners look from multiple perspectives and use the same methods, tools and skills found in the jobs/careers where learned knowledge is used.

Students at WIHS learn to critically examine language and texts to become more discerning citizens in a global and social media world. Through these learning processes, students develop critical consciousness and agency to solve problems and create change beyond the walls of the classroom.

Students will learn about four domains of health- physical, mental, emotional, and social.  Students study how the domains interconnect, exploring different types of physical and mental activity, setting goals for healthy living, and learning how relationships, mental wellbeing, and personal choices can impact their health.