2023 Best Middle Schools in the Seattle Area

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  105 reviews

Senior: The education was amazing, and the teachers really care about each student's individual progress. There are so many opportunities to explore what you're interested in! Our electives are in-depth and curiosity-nourishing, and are taught by very qualified teachers who are clearly passionate about what they do. There are a million clubs (and ways to create your own club), plenty of sports, and an overall abundance of ways to make lifelong friends. Independent and self-driven students can really thrive here. The only thing I was not a fan of was the college counseling experience around financial aid specifically. I had to figure out how to manage the FAFSA and CSS profiles on my own, and I wish I had had more help picking out affordable schools.... Read 105 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 838

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Redmond, WA•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.36 out of 5  92 reviews

Freshman: It is an amazing experience to go to Overlake! Coming in as a new student, it was amazing how inclusive the students and faculty are. The teachers hold office hours and really want you to succeed. They even write extensive recommendations for outside school projects and applications. The teachers are honestly amazing and the coursework is challenging. For more advanced student they offer Honors and AP classes and the teachers will always push you regardless. The student body is amazing and since the campus is large you meet people from multiple different grades. A wide range of electives, clubs and hangout spots make the Overlake experience one to remember.... Read 92 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 529

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Kirkland, WA•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.52 out of 5  21 reviews

Parent: The teachers really care about each student's individual progress. The education is amazing, and there are so many opportunities to explore what are students interested in. They are taught by very qualified teachers who are clearly passionate about what they do. There are a lot of clubs ,plenty of sports you can try. Independent and self-driven students can really thrive here.my daughter loves and enjoy EPS.... Read 21 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 428

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  69 reviews

Parent: UPrep has been such a great place for our family. Our sons began in 6th grade and while they are very different students, they each found great friends and lots of ways to engage and learn at UPrep. UPrep’s fantastic teachers have created a culture where kids feel free to experiment with new things. Academics are both rigorous and collaborative so it feels really positive rather than overly competitive. The school embraces cutting edge curriculum like their intensives program where kids spend 3 weeks focusing completely on one area of study. The athletics program has an inclusive no-cut policy. The parent/guardian community is welcoming and we have enjoyed volunteering and making lots of lasting friendships. Finally, the outstanding college counseling office expertly guided our son successfully through the college search process! So clearly we love UPrep and highly recommend it!... Read 69 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 628

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  109 reviews

Junior: I am a junior at SAAS and I love it. I have been at SAAS since middle school. The amazing science and arts electives are something that is unique to here. I can take neuroscience right after ceramics right after psychology if I want! Theater and visual arts are particularly strong. All academic classes have different levels to them so that each student can choose how much they would like to challenge themselves. The most challenging classes are American Studies (joint Honors English/Honors History) and Advanced Chemistry. The teachers are great and have diverse teaching styles, so there's always someone who teaches the way you learn. While SAAS has excellent sports teams (soccer, volleyball, golf, and ultimate frisbee are the strongest), the school doesn't revolve around sports like a traditional high school. The college prep is amazing, they have answered all of my questions incredibly well and I have total faith in them going into college applications. I've enjoyed my time at SAAS!... Read 109 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,115

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Tacoma, WA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  115 reviews

Senior: Annie Wright has been such an amazing institution to study at for my high school career. As a full IB Diploma student, I found the courses challenging, thought-provoking, and fascinating! The small community and class sizes are very beneficial to creating the best learning environment. Additionally, community events and traditions build long-lasting connections and memories that you can carry with you through life. Lastly, as a 5-day boarding student, I can confidently say that the dorms added so much to my high school experience, being able to live with your friends across the grade levels.... Read 115 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 749

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Lake Washington School District, WA•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  94 reviews

Senior: As a rising senior, I know that my education at ICS has shaped me into the person I am. From 6th grade to the present, ICS has continued to challenge and engage me with its rigorous coursework (all honors classes). Each year builds upon what I have learned in the previous years, which has allowed me to excel in my classes. The teachers are amazing and dedicated to what they do. Although I may have missed out on some of the larger social aspects associated with a larger school, the small community at ICS is fun to be a part of, as you get to know everyone on an individual basis, including teachers, fellow students, and underclassman over the course of 6 years. There are lots of opportunities for mentorship and leadership with the clubs and activities here as well. ICS isn't the right school for everyone, but it definitely is for me and I'm glad I go here!... Read 94 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 412

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  81 reviews

Senior: Bush feels like a small liberal arts college in Seattle. And the academics feel like college too! Round table discussions, experience project learning, high teacher to student ratio.... Read 81 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 629

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Tacoma, WA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.34 out of 5  92 reviews

Parent: My two children have very different learning styles and needs and they are both challenged, supported, and thriving at Charles Wright. We are grateful for the school's commitment to caring for students and families and faculty who care deeply for their students. Charles Wright stands by and infuses the school's values of integrity, compassion, excellence, respect, and perseverance into the daily life and it is reflected in the school's culture. My children started in Lower School and I now have one in Middle School and one in Lower School and their experience has been transformational. We will stay through grade 12 and look forward to their educational journey ahead!... Read 92 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 557

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Bellevue School District, WA•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  93 reviews

Senior: International School was amazing! It being a very small school compared to others in the district, a sense of community was formed between each grade. Everyone knew each other and we were able to talk to anyone! It was an amazing 7 years!... Read 93 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 590

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.35 out of 5  68 reviews

Parent: Our youngest child is in the 4th year at NWS. Our oldest child is in a different school (senior) and that school has a very high rank with this site. The ranking is only as relevant as your child and family fit. NWS has a strong social justice and sustainability focus, integrated with a thoughtful curriculum. One distinction is their Humanities program. The curriculum integrates language arts, social studies, and geography in Middle School and history, English, philosophy, art history, and literature in Upper School. I did not realize the full meaning of the benefits until I was in a debate with my student with a very integrative argument! The real world is integrative, so why not educate our students that way. The teachers and administrators are passionate about building a whole child and cultivating a caring school culture. When a significant event happens in the real world, the teachers allow time for reflection. I love how they teaches through the child's eyes.... Read 68 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 452

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Bellevue, WA•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  62 reviews

Parent: My daughter has thrived in the middle school at Forest Ridge. Her teachers care deeply not only about her academic development and achievement, but also about her as a person. You won't find a team of teachers and administrators who are more caring and who know how girls learn and operate, especially during the difficult middle school years. While no one wants to be doing digital learning, this school was able to pivot seamlessly during this pandemic, and we have been beyond thrilled with level of academics that have continued at home, which is a testament to the wonderful teachers.... Read 62 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 300

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Redmond, WA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  81 reviews

Parent: This school has provided our three children an incredible foundation since preschool. Our children are now in 5th, 3rd and 1st grade and have developed a love for learning in all aspects of the curriculum. The community is incredibly special and the administration and faculty deeply cares for students and it show each & every day. Navigating school through this covid era is not easy, but the school has done an incredible job to continue the mission, education and social and emotional needs of students. Highly recommend!... Read 81 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 908

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Sammamish, WA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  139 reviews

Freshman: Eastside Catholic is a very welcoming school. I found the teachers very helpful, funny and kind. I understood concepts well and I enjoyed every day at school! The course selection is amazing and includes an array of subjects. I like the college readiness classes such as the UWHS classes. I found many classmates who were sweet and accepting of everyone. I liked Health class as it taught us many helpful strategies to tackle addiction, mental health, and improve overall wellbeing. I liked the fact that there were posters in the bathroom and on the walls which gave students information about mental health and how to seek help. I love school assemblies because they are filled with school spirit and fun games. I greatly appreciate the service opportunities given by Eastside Catholic because it really helps me find volunteer activities that I enjoy and love doing. I also appreciate how easy it is to talk to counselors and the staff at Student Services for whatever questions I might have.... Read 139 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 865

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Poulsbo, WA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.53 out of 5  17 reviews

Parent: Amazing before, during, and coming out of covid. This school knows how to talk the talk by leading with their hearts and heads and adapting to lead, not follow, excellence in education standards. This year has been off to a great start. West Sound is as magical in person as it has been remote. I have faith that West Sound will continue to lead and bring us back to a new normal. I would highly recommend considering West Sound. Academy. Our experience continues to exceed expectations.... Read 17 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 85

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Mercer Island School District, WA•

• 6-8

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  5 reviews

Middle School Student: This mostly an outstanding school, I am currently finishing my 7th grade at IMS. Most of the teachers are pretty amazing. This school offers a variety of accelerated classes, which I always try to utilize. IMS has some varsity teams, although not much, a track, and volleyball teams. The atmosphere and culture is definitely something I value at this school, a huge portion of students participate in spirit days, and most people are nice and welcoming. The cafeteria food definitely needs improvement. But honestly, so far I’m having a good middle school experience.... Read 5 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,029

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Bainbridge Island School District, WA•

• 7-8

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  2 reviews

Middle School Student: Woodward Middle School challenges it's students to do the best they possibly can do, and helps them as much as possible. Woodward provides a safe, fun, happy, and challenging environment. Woodward helped me change from a D student to a advanced A student. It gives students as many chances to help out around the school as possible, weather that be doing after school film projects, or leadership skills Woodward will cover it. So if you are looking for a amazing school that your child will thrive in, then look no further than Bainbridge Island.... Read 2 reviews

• grade A

• Students 515

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Lake Washington School District, WA•

• 6-8

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  3 reviews

Senior: EAS was a great way to push me out of my comfort zone, as it was easy to tell that each teacher cared about your growth and learning experience. The leadership skills and collaboration skills taught through amazing community service projects and many trips truly helped me many years after. Additionally, the difficult coursework prepared my peers well for high school and beyond.... Read 3 reviews

• grade A

• Students 140

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• University Place School District, WA•

• 5-7

• grade A

• Students 671

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Bainbridge Island School District, WA•

• K-8

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Alum: I went to Odyssey from 1st to 8th grade, and absolutely loved it. The community is strong, and my friends from Odyssey are still my closest friends today. I am currently a freshman in college, and Odyssey definitely prepares students well academically!! I was a valedictorian at Bainbridge High School and always curious because of the unique learning style at Odyssey. It really teaches kids to love learning most of all. The teachers are excellent as well and I still keep in touch with some of my teachers from all those years ago. I 100% recommend Odyssey. Such a special and wonderful place.... Read 1 review

• grade A

• Students 197

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Lake Washington School District, WA•

• 6-8

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  6 reviews

Niche User: I loved this school! The teachers were amazing, the students were kind and friendly, and the classes were diverse, entertaining, educational and fun.... Read 6 reviews

• grade A

• Students 87

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Lake Washington School District, WA•

• 6-8

• •
  Rating 4.5 out of 5  4 reviews

Middle School Student: Renaissance is a phenomenal school, and the connections I made will stay with me for the rest of my life. Classes are small, 32 kids a grade, so kids make friends very easily and get to know everyone in the school. The teachers are warm and inviting, helping out students that are having trouble in classes, and joking around with students. The art program is amazing, with students doing mosaics, water color, pastels, and learning about the color wheel and drawing techniques. The performing arts program is also great, with the first semester being focused on dance, and the second on acting. RSAR is the best school I've been to, and I've met my best friends there.... Read 4 reviews

• grade A

• Students 86

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Clyde Hill, WA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  73 reviews

Parent: We never dreamed our 3 kids (1st, 5th and 7th grades) would attend private school, but Covid quickly changed that, so we decided to look into it more. I would encourage others to do the same. You never know until you get all the details and take a tour what is possible. What do you have to lose? Now our eyes are opened to a new world that fits our family so well! We were fitting in less and less in the changing public school culture and academics, at BCS our family feels at home, equipped and cared for. It feels natural. Our kids are noticed, loved and guided by quality staff and teachers. They found friends quickly and now have less social anxiety and more focus. They keep asking if they can stay, and of course, our answer is YES!... Read 73 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,050

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Lake Washington School District, WA•

• 6-8

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  2 reviews

Middle School Student: This school is great! I currently am attending (8th grader) and couldn't have been happier! The teachers are kind, helpful, and cheerful. They are constantly looking to help students. The kids at the school are mostly helpful, and kind, though sometimes they MAY act mean. If this DOES happen, the teachers make sure it wont repeat. NOTE : I attended during the pandemic, so it was remote learning at the time.... Read 2 reviews

• grade A

• Students 950

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Lake Washington School District, WA•

• 6-8

• •
  Rating 2 out of 5  1 review

• grade A

• Students 548

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1