Pioneer School

The educational philosophy at Pioneer School is based on a thematic approach to education.
Every year we choose four to six special topics for in-depth study.
Each topic serves as a vehicle for teaching subjects such as Math, Science, Reading, Spelling and Social Studies.
It is our belief that standard subjects are more meaningful to students, and skills are more readily acquired, when taught in the context of an interesting theme.
It is also our belief that immersion in an area of study allows the students to experience success and the satisfaction of accomplishment as they expend time and effort thoroughly exploring a topic.
Pioneer School is dedicated to making school an exciting place where children enjoy learning.
Our thematic approach emphasizes student involvement with hands-on activities and topic-related field trips.
Pioneer School students work through challenges in group settings as well as independently.

Quick Facts (2025-26)

  • School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
  • Grades: Kindergarten-5
  • Enrollment: 71 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $9,500
  • Average class size: 16 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-5
Year Founded
1980
School Calendar

Student Body

Total Students
71 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
20%
State avg.: 31%
Students by Grade
Pioneer School Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
7 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
10:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
16 students

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Application URL

School Notes

  • School Motto: Serving Gifted, Talented, and Highly Capable Students Since 1980
  • Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
    • David Smentek, Gonzaga Prep, class of 2009 -
    • Colleen Culbertson, St. George's, class of 2009 -
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Pioneer School cost?
Pioneer School's tuition is approximately $9,500 for private students.
Who are famous alumni from Pioneer School?
Pioneer School famous alumni include: David Smentek, Gonzaga Prep, class of 2009 and Colleen Culbertson, St. George's, class of 2009.
When is the application deadline for Pioneer School?
The application deadline for Pioneer School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).

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Quick Facts (2025-26)

  • School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
  • Grades: Kindergarten-5
  • Enrollment: 71 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $9,500
  • Average class size: 16 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Spokane County, WA is $7,879 for elementary schools and $10,567 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Spokane County, WA is 88% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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