Open Window School is the Eastside's only independent school dedicated to meeting the needs of gifted children.
Our experienced teachers truly understand gifted students, nurturing both their intellectual and emotional growth.
We value authenticity and cultivate a deep love of learning, where students dive into topics with passion.
Social and emotional learning is a priority, supporting students as they navigate their intensities.
Above all, we foster a close-knit community where gifted kids belong, valuing connection over competition. Here, students are empowered to grow, explore, and thrive.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked WA School
- Grades: Kindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 370 students
- Yearly Tuition: $38,160
- Acceptance rate: 25%
- Average class size: 19 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 16
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Open Window School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Washington for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
Advanced Degrees
Student Body
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-8
Year Founded
1985
Summer School Offered
Yes
Student Body
Total Students
370 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
60%
State avg.: 29%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
50 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
95%
Average Class Size
19 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Jan. 16
Yearly Tuition Cost
$38,160
Tuition Notes
Tuition Assistance is available.
% on Financial Aid
16%
Acceptance Rate
25%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Cary Kirby
Admissions Associate
Vonda Renfroe
Sports
Total Sports Offered
4 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
5 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Chess Club, First Lego League
Arts and Music Programs:
Choir Club
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Cascade League Sports, Martial Arts
Chess Club, First Lego League
Arts and Music Programs:
Choir Club
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Cascade League Sports, Martial Arts
School Notes
- Tours for prospective families about the school are offered regularly October through January. Please sign up for a one of these information sessions on our website, or call for more information (425-747-2911).
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Open Window School cost?
Open Window School's tuition is approximately $38,160 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Open Window School?
The acceptance rate of Open Window School is 25%, which is lower than the national average of 86%. Open Window School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Washington with low acceptance rates.
What sports does Open Window School offer?
Open Window School offers 4 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Track and Field and Volleyball.
What is Open Window School's ranking?
Open Window School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Washington for: Lowest average acceptance rates, Highest percentage of students of color, Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees and Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for Open Window School?
The application deadline for Open Window School is Jan. 16.
In what neighborhood is Open Window School located?
Open Window School is located in the Cougar Mountain neighborhood of Bellevue, WA. There are 2 other private schools located in Cougar Mountain.
School Reviews
5 9/4/2019
Excellent!!! We are very lucky to have found Open Window (and we moved across the country). The whole community - from faculty, staff, students, and parents are so welcoming, not pretentious at all (for a private school), and have a passion for seeing everyone succeed. Teachers at this school have credentials for gifted education. They are fully equipped to engage gifted learners and understand how to teach these kids. They have regular opportunities to enrich themselves in gifted ed too. Learning is indeed differentiated for each student. It's not just lip service. My daughter loves going to school everyday and she is super engaged. What she's learning is tailored to her level and interests because the teachers do well to know their students.A plus is the campus - idyllic and beautiful atop Cougar Mountain. Such a conducive space for learning!
5 3/9/2018
My Kindergartener comments out-of-blue several times a week that he loves his school and said this morning he wishes he could rate it, so here we are :)I'm extremely happy with the school: It seems all the lower school specialists manage to work physical activity into their lessons, children are treated with respect and have SEL built into daily activities. The teachers and staff are highly conscientious, constantly revising their curriculum and methods based on outcomes, the latest in educational research, and community feedback. Just driving onto campus each morning feels good, because everything is done so well. The active and supportive parent community is wonderful. Lots of helpful parent Ed talks and resources (and plenty of nerdy, type A parents as you might imagine, that tend to knock whatever task they've volunteered for out of the park). Of course, each year is going to be different depending on the mix of parents, students, and faculty but the institutional structure of constant improvement and community involvement is one of the best I've seen.I also really appreciate the fact that my son is now middle-of-the-pack in terms of intellect and assertiveness, finding friends with similar interests and abilities. And I've been able to relax around the other parents who share similar experiences of parenting exceptional kids. Hope this is helpful; I know picking a school is a big decision and the cost is significant. All I can say it that we really love Open Window.
5 7/24/2015
Our son has gone to Open Window from K - 8. Our experience, inclusive of his feedback, has been excellent. The mission of "children first, gifted second" has helped our son to become a great human being in addition to ultra-high standardized scores including the SSAT and ISEE tests. We would make the decision to send him here again without reservation. If you are a parent who demands "gifted first, children second" or a "tiger mom" type of parenting that is only focused on brutal rigor, home schooling may be a better option.
Endorse Open Window School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
U.S. Private Schools: A Guide for International Students
Dive into the nitty-gritty of attending U.S. private schools as an international student. From tackling the admissions maze to conquering the TOEFL, this guide's got you covered. We'll walk you through visa hurdles, financial realities, and even virtual campus tours. Buckle up for an insider's look at making your American education dreams a reality!
Early Childhood Education: A Guide for Parents of 1 and 2 Year Olds
In this article we explore three popular approaches to early childhood education: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf. It provides parents of toddlers with essential information about each method, helping them make informed decisions about their child's early education.
Making the Right Choice: A Parent's Guide to Private School Selection
We explore the reasons to consider private school education, compares boarding and day school options, and outlines essential factors in choosing the right school. It provides parents with valuable insights to make informed decisions about their child's education, drawing from real-world scenarios and expert advice.