Westside School is an independent Preschool8th grade school in West Seattle where students learn to think critically and act with compassion in a joyful, supportive community.
We believe every child deserves to be known, challenged, and encouraged to grow into a confident learner.
Our student-centered program combines strong academics with experiential learning, outdoor education, and social-emotional growth.
Students build a deep understanding of core subjects while exploring world languages, the arts, athletics, and hands-on learning experiences that connect the classroom to the world around them.
Our Preschool8th grade model creates a close-knit community where students grow over time, younger children are inspired by older role models, and older students develop leadership through mentoring and service.
Small class sizes and caring teachers ensure every child is known as an individual and supported throughout their educational journey.
From Preschool through Lower School, classrooms are led by dedicated teachers and supported by instructional assistants, allowing for personalized instruction and strong relationships.
In Middle School, students experience a challenging academic program, advisory, exploratory electives, athletics, and a robust outdoor education program that helps them build independence, resilience, and leadership.
At Westside, students graduate with strong academic foundations, confidence in themselves as learners, and the skills to thrive in high school and beyond.
Quick Facts (2026)
- Top-Ranked WA School
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool-8
- Enrollment: 360 students
- Yearly Tuition: $24,200
- Acceptance rate: 75%
- Average class size: 18 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 14 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Westside 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 Nursery/Preschool-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Dyslexia and other reading-based learning differences, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, ADHD and executive functioning challenges, Mild language-based learning differences, Students who benefit from organizational or study-skills support
Year Founded
1981
Colors
Blue & Green
First Day of School
Wed. Sep 2, 2026
Last Day of School
Fri. Jun 11, 2027
Student Body
Total Students
360 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
36%
State avg.: 32%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
52 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 11:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
85%
Average Class Size
18 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Jan. 14 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$24,200
Tuition Notes
PS and PK Tuition is $23,500
Kindergarten-4th Grade is $26,900
Middle School Tuition is $29,900
% on Financial Aid
25%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$14,500
Acceptance Rate
75%
National avg.: 82%
Admissions Director
Clem Leek
Admissions Associate
Alysse Mastrude
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
6 sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
3 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Arts and Music Programs:
Garden ClubStudent Leadership Council
Arts and Music Programs:
Middle School Theater Club
School Notes
- School Mascot: Wolf
- Westside School is an independent Preschool8th grade school in West Seattle where students learn to think critically and act with compassion in a joyful, supportive community. For more than 45 years, we've partnered with families to provide a student-centered education rooted in strong academics, experiential learning, and a caring community.
- Every child is known by caring teachers who challenge, support, and encourage them to ask thoughtful questions, make connections, solve real problems, and grow into confident learners. Small class sizes and strong relationships allow teachers to understand each student's strengths, interests, and learning style, creating an environment where every child feels seen, supported, and encouraged to do their best.
- Our academic program builds a strong foundation in literacy, mathematics, science, and humanities while engaging students in world languages, visual and performing arts, music, physical education, technology, and outdoor education. Hands-on learning, interdisciplinary projects, and real-world experiences help students develop critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills that extend beyond the classroom.
- As a Preschool8th grade school, Westside offers a unique opportunity for students to grow within one connected community. Younger students learn alongside positive role models, while older students develop leadership through mentoring, service, advisory, and school traditions. This continuity allows teachers and families to build lasting partnerships that support students throughout their educational journey.
- Westside is committed to educating the whole child through intentional social-emotional learning woven into everyday school life. Students build resilience, empathy, self-awareness, and the skills to navigate challenges, build healthy relationships, and contribute positively to their communities. A dedicated Student Support Team-including school counselors and learning specialists-partners with teachers and families to provide personalized support and help students develop the confidence and independence to succeed.
- From Preschool through Lower School, classrooms are led by dedicated teachers and supported by instructional assistants, allowing for individualized attention and meaningful connections. In Middle School, students experience a challenging academic program complemented by exploratory electives, athletics, advisory, leadership opportunities, and outdoor education experiences that foster independence and personal growth.
- Graduates leave Westside with strong academic foundations, confidence in themselves as learners, and the character to lead with curiosity, compassion, and integrity. They are well prepared for the opportunities and challenges of high school and beyond.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Westside School cost?
Westside School's tuition is approximately $24,200 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Westside School?
The acceptance rate of Westside School is 75%, which is lower than the national average of 82%. Westside School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Washington with low acceptance rates.
What sports does Westside School offer?
Westside School offers 6 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Dance, Soccer, Track and Field and Volleyball.
What is Westside School's ranking?
Westside School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Washington for: Lowest average acceptance rates, Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees and Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for Westside School?
The application deadline for Westside School is Jan. 14 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 14 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is Westside School located?
Westside School is located in the West Seattle neighborhood of Seattle, WA. There are 2 other private schools located in West Seattle.
School Calendar
View the Westside School yearly calendar below. Note key dates such as:
Event
Date
First Day of School
September 02, 2026 (Wednesday)
Labor Day. School Closed.
September 07, 2026 (Monday)
Veterans Day. School Closed.
November 11, 2026 (Wednesday)
Fall Break. No School.
November 23, 2026 (Monday)
Fall Break. No School.
November 24, 2026 (Tuesday)
School Reviews
Endorse Westside 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
The True Cost of 'Required' Private School Expenses Beyond Tuition
Discover the required private school expenses beyond tuition and learn how to budget for the true cost of a private school education.
How to Compare Schools When Every Website Says "Individualized"
Learn how to compare private schools beyond marketing language by evaluating academics, support services, teaching methods, and student outcomes.
What to Ask Before Signing an Enrollment Contract
Learn the essential questions to ask before signing a private school enrollment contract, from tuition policies to withdrawal terms and financial aid.








