Update: This article was last updated on 14th October 2023 to reflect the accuracy and up-to-date information on the page.
Washington boasts 306 school districts, housing 2,474 schools. This can present an overwhelming challenge for parents on a mission to secure the finest education for their little ones.
We understand pursuing the ideal school can be daunting, especially for busy working parents like yourself. That’s precisely why we’ve done the legwork for you!
In this carefully curated guide, we unveil the ten best school districts in Washington to help you find that perfect educational haven for your child.
| School Districts | Maths Proficiency | Reading Proficiency |
|---|---|---|
| Mercer Island School District | 83% | 87% |
| Bellevue School District | 73% | 79% |
| Lake Washington School District | 79% | 85% |
| Bainbridge Island School District | 81% | 88% |
| Northshore School District | 69% | 78% |
| Issaquah School District | 77% | 81% |
| University Place School District | 70% | 77% |
| Pullman Public Schools | 63% | 76% |
| Shoreline School District | 67% | 77% |
| Camas School District | 73% | 80% |
1. Mercer Island School District
Website: mercerislandschools.org
Location: 4160 86TH AVE SE, MERCER ISLAND, WA 98040
Phone: 206-236-3300
With a mission statement of “Students are the priority,” Mercer Island School District has been a top choice for parents looking for a school that focuses on integrated learning. The school district serves the entire island.
Total schools: 6
Elementary: 4
Middle school: 1
High school: 1
Number of Students Served: 4,192
Average graduation rate: 93%
Student-teacher ratio: 18:1
Average math
proficiency score: 83%
Average reading
proficiency score: 87%
Average SAT
Score: 1360
Average ACT
Score: 31
2. Bellevue School District
Are you seeking a school district that values diversity and embraces cultural richness? Look no further than the Bellevue School District, where a tapestry of 103 languages is spoken across its schools. It serves the majority of Bellevue, WA, and the neighbouring communities of Clyde Hill, Medina, Hunts Point, Yarrow Point, and Beaux-Arts.
Total schools: 35
Elementary: 19
Middle school: 8
High school: 8
Number of Students Served: 20,191
Average graduation rate: 93%
Student-teacher ratio: 19:1
Average math proficiency score: 73%
Average reading proficiency score: 79%
Average SAT Score: 1350
Average ACT Score: 30
3. Lake Washington School District
The Lake Washington School District (LWSD) serves the cities of Kirkland, Redmond, and about half of Sammamish. Their mission is to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in tomorrow’s global workforce.
Total schools: 60
Elementary: 35
Middle school: 15
High school: 10
Number of Students Served: 30,964
Average graduation rate: 93%
Student-teacher ratio: 18:1
Average math proficiency score: 79%
Average reading proficiency score: 85%
Average SAT Score: 1340
Average ACT Score: 30
4. Bainbridge Island School District
Have a purpose-driven child? Bainbridge School District could be the best place to nurture your child’s innate need to make a difference. It serves the entire Bainbridge Island, including Winslow, Rolling Bay, Manitou Beach, Seabold, Ferncliff, and Eagledale.
Total schools: 14
Elementary: 6
Middle school: 5
High school: 3
Number of Students Served: 3,604
Average graduation rate: 93%
Student-teacher ratio: 17:1
Average math proficiency score:81%
Average reading proficiency score: 88%
Average SAT Score: 1300
Average ACT Score: 30
5. Northshore School District
The district serves a significant portion of the Northshore area, including Bothell, Woodinville, and Kenmore. In addition to these cities, the section also covers parts of unincorporated King County, such as Cottage Lake and Kingsgate.
What sets it apart from the rest? The school’s Adult Transition Program equips the child with all the tools and resources they need to thrive as adults..
Total schools: 42
Elementary: 24
Middle school: 9
High school: 9
Number of Students Served: 23,310
Average graduation rate: 94%
Student-teacher ratio: 19:1
Average math proficiency score: 69%
Average reading proficiency score: 78%
Average SAT Score: 1290
Average ACT Score: 29
6. Issaquah School District
Issaquah has one of the highest concentrations of top-ranked public schools in Washington. The district serves the city of Issaquah and its surrounding areas, including areas such as Issaquah Highlands, Talus, Montreux, Klahanie, Providence Point, and Cougar Mountain. It also extends its reach to Sammamish, Renton, and Bellevue parts.
Total schools: 30
Elementary: 17
Middle school: 7
High school: 6
Number of Students Served: 20,164
Average graduation rate: 92%
Student-teacher ratio: 19:1
Average math proficiency score: 77%
Average reading proficiency score: 81%
Average SAT
Score: 1330
Average ACT
Score: 30
7. University Place School District
Known as “the best school in the country,” according to George R. Curtis, the University Place School District in Washington holds an exceptional reputation. This district covers the city of University Place.
Total schools: 8
Elementary: 4
Middle school: 3
High school: 1
Number of Students Served: 5,661
Average graduation rate: 90%
Student-teacher ratio: 18:1
Average math proficiency score: 70%
Average reading proficiency score: 77%
Average SAT Score: 1240
Average ACT Score: 29
8. Pullman Public Schools
It covers the city of Pullman, known for being home to Washington State University. With a commitment to providing comprehensive education, the district offers a diverse range of academic programs and abundant opportunities for students to broaden their learning through curricular and co-curricular enrichment activities.
Total schools: 6
Elementary: 4
Middle school: 1
High school: 1
Number of Students Served: 2,615
Average graduation rate: 95%
Student-teacher ratio: 16:1
Average math proficiency score: 63%
Average reading proficiency score: 76%
Average SAT Score: 1280
Average ACT Score: 26
9. Shoreline School District
With a shared belief that “all students can achieve,” Shoreline School District is dedicated to preparing students for success in their academic pursuits and beyond. The district serves the Shoreline community and portions of nearby cities.
Total schools: 21
Elementary: 13
Middle school: 5
High school: 3
Number of Students Served: 9,522
Average graduation rate: 90%
Student-teacher ratio: 20:1
Average math proficiency score: 67%
Average reading proficiency score: 77%
Average SAT Score: 1240
Average ACT Score: 29
10. Camas School District
Rated highly on compassion and care, Camas School District has the highest number of above-average school rates. The district educates students residing in Camas, in Clark County, Washington.
Total schools: 14
Elementary: 8
Middle school: 3
High school: 3
Number of Students Served: 7,542
Average graduation rate: 92%
Student-teacher ratio: 18:1
Average math proficiency score: 73%
Average reading proficiency score: 80%
Average SAT Score: 1250
Average ACT Score: 28
Conclusion
Now armed with insights into Washington’s ten best school districts, it’s time to take action! Take your time with the overwhelming task of school research. Dive into our curated guide and find the best school that will nurture and shape your child’s bright future.
Best of luck 🙂
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Any unique programs or initiatives Pullman School District offers that set it apart from other districts in Washington state?
The Pullman School District in Washington stands out for its innovative STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) curriculum, fostering hands-on learning and critical thinking. Moreover, their emphasis on community engagement through service-learning projects truly enriches the educational experience, setting Pullman apart as a district committed to holistic growth.
Spokane Public School is a good school too, I’ve enrolled my child in this school and since then he’s been actively participating in extracurricular activities too, earlier he never used to take part in these things. I feel happy that I took this decision.