The Best Private Schools in Seattle, Washington
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Seattle. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Lakeside School
Independent
Lakeside School is one of Seattle's most prestigious independent schools, consistently ranked among the top private schools in the nation. Serving grades 5-12, Lakeside offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with exceptional STEM programs, extensive arts offerings, and competitive athletics. The school boasts small class sizes, highly qualified faculty (many with advanced degrees), and state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. Notable alumni include Bill Gates and Paul Allen. The school emphasizes global citizenship, ethical leadership, and community service.
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The Bush School
Independent
The Bush School offers a progressive K-12 education focused on developing critical thinkers and compassionate leaders. Known for its strong sense of community and innovative approach to learning, Bush emphasizes experiential education, outdoor programming, and arts integration across all grade levels. The school features modern facilities including science and innovation labs, art studios, performing arts spaces, and athletic fields. With a student-teacher ratio of 8:1, students receive personalized attention and support. The curriculum balances academic rigor with social-emotional learning and community engagement.
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The Northwest School
Independent
The Northwest School offers a distinctive college preparatory education for grades 6-12, combining a rigorous academic program with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and global citizenship. The school features an urban boarding program that attracts students from around the world, creating a diverse learning community. Curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, critical thinking, and hands-on learning experiences. Facilities include historic buildings renovated with sustainable features, science labs, art studios, and performance spaces. The school is known for its strong arts program and commitment to community service and environmental stewardship.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Seattle, Washington
What are the main types of private schools available in Seattle, WA, and how do they differ?
Seattle offers a diverse range of private schools, primarily categorized as independent secular, religious-affiliated, and progressive/alternative. Top-tier independent schools like Lakeside School and The Bush School offer rigorous college-preparatory curricula with extensive extracurriculars. Religious schools, such as those affiliated with Catholic or Lutheran churches, integrate faith-based education. Seattle is also known for its strong progressive education community, with schools like The Northwest School emphasizing global citizenship, sustainability, and interdisciplinary learning. The choice often hinges on educational philosophy, with Seattle parents valuing both academic rigor and holistic development.
How does the tuition for private schools in Seattle compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are available?
Tuition at Seattle's leading private schools is among the highest in Washington State. For the 2024-2025 academic year, day school tuition at top institutions like Lakeside School often exceeds $45,000. This is significantly above the state's private school average due to Seattle's high cost of living and the schools' extensive resources. However, most Seattle private schools are committed to socioeconomic diversity and offer robust need-based financial aid programs. For example, Lakeside and The Bush School have substantial endowments dedicated to aid, with many families receiving grants that significantly reduce the net cost. Washington state does not offer tax-credit scholarships or vouchers, so aid is primarily direct from the schools.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private high schools in Seattle, like Lakeside or The Bush School?
The process for Seattle's most competitive private high schools begins over a year in advance. Prospective families should attend open houses in the fall (September-October) of the year before desired entry. Application deadlines are typically in early to mid-January for the following fall. The process almost always includes a standardized test (like the ISEE or SSAT), student and parent essays, teacher recommendations, school records, and a mandatory student interview/visit. Admissions decisions are released in mid-March. Due to high demand, it's crucial to start early, especially for entry points like 6th and 9th grades. Many families also apply to multiple schools to increase their options.
How do Seattle private schools leverage the city's unique tech and environmental culture in their academic programs?
Seattle private schools deeply integrate the region's identity into their curricula. Given the city's status as a tech hub, schools offer advanced computer science, robotics, and engineering programs, often with partnerships or mentorship opportunities at local companies like Microsoft or Amazon. Furthermore, aligning with the Pacific Northwest's environmental ethos, schools emphasize sustainability and outdoor education. The Northwest School, for instance, has a dedicated Environmental Science and Urban Sustainability program. Many schools utilize the nearby Cascade and Olympic mountains, Puget Sound, and urban parks for experiential learning in ecology, marine biology, and outdoor leadership, making education distinctly place-based.
For a family considering both, what are key differences between Seattle Public Schools (SPS) and private school options?
Key differences include class size, resources, and program consistency. Seattle Public Schools offer diverse, often excellent programs (like language immersion or Advanced Learning), but access can depend on assignment areas and lotteries. Private schools typically have smaller classes (12-18 students) and more individualized attention. Financially, SPS is free, while private school requires significant tuition, though SPS may ask for substantial donations at some schools. Curricularly, private schools have more autonomy to offer specialized or progressive programs without district-wide standardization. Transportation is another factor; SPS provides it, while private schools often require carpooling or private arrangements. The choice often comes down to prioritizing a specific educational philosophy and community fit versus the geographic and tuition considerations of the public system.
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