Seattle has long been recognized for its strong public education system, especially at the elementary level. Families moving to the city—or already living here—often find themselves choosing between several high-performing schools that consistently deliver excellent academic outcomes, supportive learning environments, and well-rounded enrichment programs.
What truly sets Seattle apart is its focus on early literacy, STEM exposure, and multilingual learning, starting right from the elementary years. Below is a carefully curated list of the best elementary schools in Seattle, selected based on academic performance, student-teacher ratios, enrollment data, and overall school reputation across Washington State.
Why Seattle’s Elementary Schools Stand Out
Seattle Public Schools (SPS) is the largest district in Washington and one of the most academically progressive in the Pacific Northwest. According to state-level education data, Washington consistently ranks among the top U.S. states for early-grade literacy and math proficiency, and many Seattle elementary schools outperform state averages.
Some defining strengths of Seattle’s top elementary schools include:
- Low student-teacher ratios that allow personalized instruction
- Strong parent and community involvement
- Emphasis on inquiry-based learning and creativity
Access to enrichment programs in arts, science, and global studies
Top 10 Best Elementary Schools in Seattle– 2026 Ranked List
1. Coe Elementary School
- Address: 2424 7th Ave W, Seattle, WA 98119
- Enrollment: 446 students
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 17:1
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Ranked #1 in Washington, Coe Elementary is widely regarded as one of Seattle’s highest-performing K–5 schools. Located in the Queen Anne neighborhood, the school is known for its rigorous academics, strong test scores, and highly engaged parent community.
2. John Stanford International Elementary School
- Address: 4057 5th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98105
- Enrollment: 443 students
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 18:1
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John Stanford International stands out for its international education focus, offering immersion programs that promote bilingualism and global awareness. Housed in a historic 1906 building, the school blends tradition with modern instructional practices.
3. Montlake Elementary School
- Address: 2409 22nd Ave E, Seattle, WA 98112
- Enrollment: 184 students
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 13:1
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With one of the lowest student-teacher ratios on this list, Montlake Elementary provides a highly personalized learning experience. Its smaller student body supports close teacher-student relationships and consistent academic growth.
4. Whittier Elementary School
- Address: 1320 NW 75th St, Seattle, WA 98117
- Enrollment: 342 students
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 16:1
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Whittier Elementary is recognized for its balanced approach to academics and social-emotional learning. The school consistently ranks among Washington’s top elementary schools and maintains a welcoming, inclusive campus culture.
5. Beacon Hill International School
- Address: 2025 14th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144
- Enrollment: 326 students
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 13:1
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Beacon Hill International emphasizes global citizenship and language immersion, making it a strong choice for families seeking culturally rich educational experiences alongside solid academic performance.
6. Fairmount Park Elementary School
- Address: 3800 SW Findlay St, Seattle, WA 98126
- Enrollment: 437 students
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 16:1
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Serving students from Pre-K through Grade 5, Fairmount Park Elementary is well-known for its community-driven approach and consistent ranking within the top tier of Seattle Public Schools.
7. Greenwood Elementary School
- Address: 144 NW 80th St, Seattle, WA 98117
- Enrollment: 316 students
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 16:1
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Greenwood Elementary offers a strong academic foundation with a focus on creativity and collaboration. The school serves students from Pre-K onward and benefits from an active parent-teacher community.
8. B.F. Day Elementary School
- Address: 3921 Linden Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
- Enrollment: 406 students
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 15:1
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Seattle’s oldest continuously operating school, B.F. Day Elementary combines historical significance with modern teaching practices. Its well-rounded curriculum supports both academic excellence and student well-being.
9. Alki Elementary School
- Address: 3010 59th Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116
- Enrollment: 314 students
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 18:1
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Located in West Seattle, Alki Elementary serves a larger student population while maintaining strong academic standards. The school is particularly praised for its inclusive environment and broad extracurricular offerings.
10. Adams Elementary School
- Address: 6110 28th Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107
- Enrollment: 359 students
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 18:1
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As one of the largest elementary schools in Seattle, Adams Elementary offers diverse programs and a vibrant school culture that supports creativity, collaboration, and academic success.
A Data-Backed Insight Parents Should Know
According to Washington State education benchmarks, students who attend high-performing elementary schools are significantly more likely to meet math and reading proficiency standards of some of the best middle schools in Seattle. Schools with lower student-teacher ratios—like several on this list—consistently show stronger outcomes in early literacy and numeracy, reinforcing why school selection at the elementary level matters so much.
Final Thoughts
Seattle offers an impressive range of elementary schools that combine academic rigor, innovation, and community support. Whether you prioritize class size, language immersion, or neighborhood culture, these top-ranked schools reflect the city’s commitment to quality education from the very first years of learning.
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