New $38M career-focused Tri-Cities high school starts accepting applications. What to know
Applications to enroll in Pasco School District’s choice high schools — including a new “career and college academy” set to open next year in East Pasco — are now open to fill out.
Families have until 3 p.m. Feb. 14 to submit their applications for 2025-26 enrollment at the new Orion High School as well as at Delta High School, the Tri-Cities’ only secondary school focused on STEM education. Eligible students are currently 8th graders set to graduate in spring 2029.
The district has also opened applications for the Virtual New Horizons High School, which provides an online alternative learning experience for the district’s 8th-12th graders.
“While all students have a boundary-assigned high school, these unique programs provide additional options tailored to diverse interests and educational goals,” reads a statement from district leaders.
Additionally, Pasco High School and Educational Service District 123 will also host an event to help students bridge the gap between education and industry.
Families can discover high-demand career pathways, connect with industry professionals and consider educational opportunities at the “Explore Your Future: Career Path Expo,” set to take place 5 p.m. Jan. 30 at the high school’s student mall.
Students will also learn about Pasco’s different high school options and CTE programs.
- Orion High School: Health care, engineering, and advanced manufacturing.
- Pasco High School: Automotive, and law and public safety.
- Sageview High School: Agriculture science.
- Chiawana High School: Information technology-computer science, and STEM.
- Delta High School: STEM.
“The Career Path Expo is a fantastic opportunity for families and students to explore future possibilities, gain hands-on experience and connect with local employers and educators,” said Jim Kindle, a coordinator with ESD 123 in Pasco, Wash.
Orion High School opening 2025
When it opens in fall 2025, the $38 million Orion High School will immediately begin serving students who will graduate with workforce-ready credentials, industry certifications and hands-on learning experience.
It will be a similar learning experience to Tri-Tech Skills Center, located in Kennewick. But instead of serving students from across the Tri-Cities region, Orion will serve up to 600 in-district students. Transportation will be provided.
Located along Salt Lake Street, near Marie Curie STEM Elementary, Orion High School’s building will boast 65,000 square feet of learning space when it opens. Its name stems from the P3 Orion Aircraft, which has historical ties to the former Pasco Naval Air Station.
All four of Pasco’s middle schools will host information night events for families of 8th graders to learn more about the school. Each event runs 6-7 p.m.
- Wednesday, Jan. 8: McLoughlin Middle School.
- Thursday, Jan. 9: Ochoa Middle School.
- Monday, Jan. 13: Ray Reynolds Middle School.
- Wednesday, Jan. 15: Stevens Middle School.
Current 8th grade students who live within the Pasco, Richland or Kennewick school districts may apply for the incoming Delta High School class of 2029.
Approximately 130 students will be selected via a random lottery for admission. Two information sessions will be held at Delta on Feb. 4 and 5, both at 6 p.m.
