Highly Capable and Advanced Learning in Seattle, with Jie Lei

In this episode of Rainy Day Recess, we talk with Jie Lei, a Seattle Public Schools parent and former student, about the past, present, and uncertain future of the district’s Highly Capable and Advanced Learning programs. Jie shares powerful personal stories, from being misidentified as needing special education after immigrating to the U.S., to ultimately thriving in advanced learning programs that set her on a path to college by age 14.

We explore the district’s controversial decision to phase out the Highly Capable Cohort (HCC) model without fully implementing promised neighborhood-based services. Jie discusses how these changes affect access, equity, and the future of advanced learning, highlighting the struggle for many students—especially neurodivergent and underrepresented learners—who risk being left behind.

Through candid reflections on advocacy, policy, and personal resilience, this episode offers an in-depth look at what’s at stake for Seattle’s students and how meaningful change could still be possible.

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Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.