Spring Street International School

Mission
We mentor students to achieve: 

• Academic mastery: the critical thinking skills, depth of knowledge, and complex reasoning necessary for scholarly excellence at the university level; 
• Internal strength: the confidence and discipline to navigate life's complex choices and to achieve individual success; 
• Perspective: an appreciation of the breadth and diversity of the world and its cultures, promoting tolerance, respect for others, and compassion; 
• Integrity: honesty, ethical behavior, and a commitment to the common good.

Philosophy

Our programs are rooted in academic rigor and a progressive educational philosophy and individual development, embodied in three key principles:

1. We meet students at their own levels, ensuring we look at them as individuals with the capacity to succeed;
2. We vary our teaching methods to reach different students, including experiential travel and work outside the classroom;
3. Our teachers teach students, not classes, striving to educate the whole person, developing a capacity to think in depth.

Program

Approximately two-thirds of day students come from San Juan Island. Others commute by ferry from Orcas, Shaw and Lopez Islands. Fifteen students from greater Washington State and Asia board at the school's dormitory. A unique island setting allows for diverse educational experiences and a broad range of perspectives. The school balances an intensive academic program and experiential education. AP courses in Calculus, Environmental Science, History, and Art complement wilderness adventures, field trips, and an overseas field study program. Students learn to put theory into practice, promoting individual growth and group leadership.

History

Spring Street International School was opened in the fall of 1995 by Ted and Peg Hope at the urging of students and parents seeking a rigorous academic program responsive to the skill levels and interests of individual students. The school is approved by the Washington State Board of Education to serve students in grades six through twelve. Spring Street School is accredited by the Northwest Association of Accredited Schools, and is a Candidate Member of the Pacific Northwest Association of Independent Schools. As an independent school, it is registered as a non-profit organization governed by a Board of Trustees and is committed to independence of control by any government, church agency, or special interest group.