If you’ve lived in Bonney Lake for any amount of time, chances are you’ve seen the slogan “Build the Hill” hanging on banners around town or woven into school pep talks at Bonney Lake High School (BLHS). For students, parents, and faculty, the phrase is as familiar as the school’s colors of black and teal. But outside of BLHS and the Sumner School District, many residents wonder: what does "Build the Hill" actually mean?
To unpack the slogan’s origins and meaning, I sat down with Principal Anthony Clarke. Clarke’s roots in the school run deep—he’s in his third year as principal but has been connected to BLHS since its founding in 2005. He started as a Social Studies teacher and wrestling coach, eventually serving eight years as an assistant principal. After a brief stint at Enumclaw Middle School, Clarke returned, drawn back by a connection he describes as “unbreakable.”
What "Build the Hill" Means to Bonney Lake
"'Build the Hill' is a call to service and an expression of pride for our school and our community," Clarke explained. "It means that at BLHS, we serve our community. This is our town, and it's our job to help make sure we build it up, support local businesses, support our feeder schools, and make Bonney Lake the best place it can be." For Clarke, the slogan is more than just words—it’s a mission. Under “Build the Hill,” students aren’t only encouraged to excel in their academics and extracurriculars; they’re inspired to give back to Bonney Lake, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility that stretches beyond school walls.
Origins of "Build the Hill"
The slogan came out of a need for unity and pride—a response to seeing students sometimes overlook the good happening within their school and town. “It really bothers me when our students don't feel pride in their school or when the community misses out on recognizing the amazing things our students are achieving," Clarke shared. "I’ve seen BLHS students do so many incredible things, in the classroom, on the field, the court, the pool, the stage, and throughout the community. These students give Bonney Lake plenty to be proud of.”
And proud they should be. BLHS’s list of achievements isn’t short. In 2024, the school ranked in the top 8% statewide and top 10% nationally according to U.S. News & World Report, placing it among the most esteemed high schools in the country. Nearly 40% of students take AP exams each year, and in the 2023–24 school year, they outperformed the national average in nearly every AP subject. Beyond academics, BLHS holds a Platinum School of Distinction award from Jostens Renaissance for student leadership and culture building, and its CTE programs compete on a national scale in fields as diverse as robotics, culinary arts, FCCLA, Key Club, and HOSA. “Build the Hill” has become a rallying cry, a reminder that students aren’t just working for their own future—they’re building Bonney Lake’s legacy.
Students Building the Hill—Literally
BLHS students are living the slogan every day, whether they’re preparing for a robotics competition or volunteering in the community. The “Beautify Bonney Lake” event is a powerful example of this spirit: over 400 students from BLHS, or nearly a third of the school’s population, participate annually, making up 25–30% of the volunteer workforce for the event. Through tutoring, physical labor, mentorship, and countless community service projects, students are showing Bonney Lake what "Build the Hill" is all about.
Community Embracing the Spirit
Clarke notes a shift in the town’s energy. “Our community is rebuilding its culture,” he said. “When we focus on taking care of each other, it gives us purpose. Look at our football games or our sellout musicals. Our goal is to spread that energy to all events at BLHS, so all of our students feel the love from our town.” The slogan “Build the Hill” has even made its way into local conversations. “It’s common to hear people use the phrase at community events,” Clarke laughed. “There’s a sense of pride in what we have going on here.”
A Vision for the Future
Clarke hopes to see the community’s support grow even stronger. He envisions Bonney Lake showing up for every game, every performance, every moment that makes BLHS what it is. “We just need to keep working together. Show up, and don’t let the noise from those who are critical detract from what makes us great. BLHS is here for the community, and I know our community is here for our students.”
In the end, Clarke is hopeful. “This is our town. Let's buy in and make our school and our community the best we can—even when times are tough. There are too many people who want the same thing for it not to happen.” As the school rallies behind the words “Build the Hill,” Bonney Lake’s students are growing into leaders, its community is strengthening its roots, and the town’s future is looking bright.
Go Panthers! #BuildTheHill
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