Admission

What determines if my child is accepted?

Perkins School is a learning community.  We look for families who value helping children become good learners and good people and who are invested in working with the school. We strive to build a diverse and inclusive community that celebrates many different learning styles. Through the admission process we encourage families to  experience the rewards of participating in a small, hands-on, collaborative community. 

What is early kindergarten?

Early kindergarten, also called transitional kindergarten, is designed for children turning five during the summer or fall. The program is designed for children academically and socially/emotionally ready for a full-day of school.  

Will my child be given an I.Q. test?

No. In addition to obtaining references from preschool teachers, we require students entering the EK/K program to participate in a kindergarten observation day. This event gives our teachers an opportunity to watch prospective students interact with peers and adults and allows the child to experience Perkins School firsthand.

Students entering grades 1-5 will spend a day in classes, get acquainted with their peer group, and meet with the Head of School and Admission Director. They will also complete a work sample as part of their school day.

Curriculum

What is your two-year interdisciplinary approach?

Students at Perkins School are in multi-age classrooms and typically spend two years with the same core teacher.  Social studies and science curricula provide the big ideas. American Studies alternates with World Cultures with science topics linked thematically. In the younger classes, year-long themes of Family and Community provide the social studies focus. By planning with the core teachers, enrichment teachers tie their content to what is being studied in core classes.  Math, reading, and writing are all connected to the year’s themes.

What are the benefits of multi-age classes?

In multi-age classes students learn with and from each other. Interdependence counts at least as much as independence. Because learning is differentiated, teachers allow students to work at their own pace and encourage them to celebrate one another’s progress. Since teaching tends to be organized around problems, projects, and questions rather than around facts and skills, children are invited to think deeply about issues that matter. 

Classroom

What is the teacher-student ratio?

The teacher-student ratio is 1:6. Two teachers are in the classroom of the EK/K students for a good portion of each day. All classes encourage parent participation, which frequently allows teachers to give individualized attention to every student.

How many students are in each classroom?

The maximum classroom size is 15 students, though our younger grades usually have under 12.

What are your class hours?

Early Kindergarten / Kindergarten9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Kindergarten / First Grade     8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Second Grade / Third Grade         8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.  (Except Wednesdays which is 3:00 p.m.)

Fourth Grade / Fifth Grade     8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.  (Except Wednesdays which is 3:00 p.m.)

Tuition and Child Care

What does tuition really cover? Will we incur additional costs or fees during the year?

Tuition for the 2009-2010 school year is $14,500 and covers all expenses. We do not assess additional fees for field trips, overnight excursions, or any other aspect of the regular program.

Do you offer before and after school care? What are your hours and fees?

Extended care is available before school starting at 7:00 a.m. and after school until 6:00 p.m. throughout the school year and during school vacations. The fee for the 2009-2010 year is $3,200. Arrangements can be made for drop-in child care as well as for part-time, regular attendance. 

The Perkins School is a candidate member of the Pacific Northwest Association of Independent Schools

Frequently Asked Questions

9005 Roosevelt Way NE

Seattle, WA 98115

206-526-8217

Perkins School

Early Kindergarten - 5th Grade

The