University Cooperative School
University Cooperative School is a progressive, community-oriented Pre-K through 5th Grade school in Seattle`s North University District.
Since 1975, we have valued children and celebrated childhood that wonderfully rambunctious journey of a lifetime.
We offer a joyful education rooted in engaging, hands-on academics, creative arts, outdoor learning, and social-emotional growth.
Our program features a dynamic, multi-age learning environment, exceptional teachers, and passionate learners actively engaged in their community.
Quick Stats (2022-23)
- Grades: Prekindergarten-5
- Enrollment: 105 students
- Yearly Tuition: $17,850
- Average class size: 16 students
- Application Deadline: Feb. 1 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-5
Year Founded
1975
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
105 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
39%
State avg.: 30%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
14 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
8:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
50%
Average Class Size
16 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Feb. 1 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$17,850
Tuition Notes
Pre-K - $12,300, Kindergarten - $14,150, First-Fifth Grade - $17,850
% on Financial Aid
18%
Sports
Total Sports Offered
2 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
5 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Arts and Music Programs:
Art, Dance/Drama, Instrumental Music, Singing
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Biking
Art, Dance/Drama, Instrumental Music, Singing
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Biking
School Notes
- Welcome to our unique and wonderful school. We are committed to preserving childhood and making each school day joyful and meaningful. Our days are filled with wonder, discovery, and laughter. At University Cooperative School, you will find children climbing trees, digging in the dirt, playing imaginative games, running in the grass, and so much more. You will also see children deeply engaged in their learning, working collaboratively as mathematicians, writers, scientists and artists, actively participating in class discussions and problem solving and creating a culture of kindness.
- When you walk through our doors you will notice a great deal of respect and honoring of individuality from the teachers to the students, and among the students themselves. At University Cooperative School, social and emotional learning and the creative arts are given equal footing with academics.
- Students graduate from our school with a strong sense of self, resilience, passion for learning, and compassion for others. We feel that these are the greatest gifts to have for the middle school years and beyond.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does University Cooperative School cost?
University Cooperative School's tuition is approximately $17,850 for private students.
What schools are University Cooperative School often compared to?
University Cooperative Schoolis often viewed alongside schools like Kapka Cooperative School by visitors of our site.
What sports does University Cooperative School offer?
University Cooperative School offers 2 interscholastic sports: Alpine Skiing and Ultimate Frisbee.
When is the application deadline for University Cooperative School?
The application deadline for University Cooperative School is Feb. 1 / rolling (applications are due on Feb. 1 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
School Reviews
5 11/8/2021
There is something special about the cooperative model. Parents and staff together in the trenches to make school happen outdoors, in the midst of a pandemic, revealed a lot of what the u-coop spirit is about. U-coop kids didn't just survive this incredibly challenging time for kids globally - they thrived. Being new to the school, we have never known the "normal" times, but what we have experienced is exceptional. The kids are engaged in constant learning in a joyful, playful way. The students are known and seen, not just by the teachers and students, but by the extended community as well. Initially, I was concerned about the commitment of a work shift in the classroom and a parent job, but it hasn't been overwhelming. The supportive community means you give what you can, and are suited to your abilities. And by being involved in the community, I truly know my children's friends and peers - their interests and their personalities. My daughter will happily take another parent's hand and tell them about her day. My son will earnestly discuss Minecraft with his friend's parents. I love these children - and in turn, my children have a village of parents who genuinely care about them. We are a part of something special and the real evidence is watching the kids - these are happy children. It's what struck me when we toured, and a big reason why we chose this school. Do you want happy, joyful children that are excited about learning? Because that's what you get. I don't think we could have picked a better school for our children, in Seattle - or elsewhere.
5 5/17/2016
The University Cooperative School is a fabulous school where learning is nurtured in a hands on, integrated manner. You won't find kids sitting in rows filling out worksheets at this school. More likely you''ll find the kindergarten students engaged in creative writing and drawing (for instance about all the things a small piece of yarn could be), building with blocks, counting coins they have collected for a local pet store/animal shelter or skipping in front of the school when energy gets a little high. This is a place where children's learning, as well as their social/emotional development are both taken seriously. Teachers in the K-2 team work closely together, and also work with the 3-5 teachers to ensure continuity and a sense of community (for instance the kindergarten students have 3rd grade buddies who they look forward to doing fun activities with such as reading together and pancake breakfasts.
Another great highlight of this school is the fantastic Spanish, Music and Art curriculum, my child skips home singing new songs (in English and in Spanish) and sharing her excitement about something she has created at school on a daily basis. The school uses Cowen Park for recess and many outdoor activities, but there's also a fantastic new "active space" and music room in the lower level of the school. Love this school!
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