2023 Best Schools for STEM 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 876

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Lake Washington School District, WA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  102 reviews

Senior: I am currently a senior at Tesla STEM High School and will have spent all four years here. I love this school for several reasons. The small class size makes you feel at home and forms a strong communal bond. In addition, there are so many opportunities available at this school. Through STEM, I have competed in clubs at the national level, interned at Fortune 500 companies, and had the opportunity to publish my research. I will say though, this is a very competitive school, which can be detrimental to one's mental health. However, this competitive nature drives students to be better and to be smarter. The several AP and Honors classes available to our disposal are both interesting and engaging. In addition, the teachers are phenomenal! They are always available for additional support and help. Overall, this school gets a 5 star rating from me!... Read 102 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 606

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• 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

• 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

• Bellevue School District, WA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  350 reviews

Senior: Overall, I have had a great experience at Newport! We are extremely academically-focused, and we are known for our excellent work ethic. We have neat educational opportunities and programs like Aids Student Peer Educators at Newport (ASPEN), DECA, CISCO, Teaching Academy, Culinary Arts classes, and many more. Students are also very involved in student leadership and clubs which I love. Last year, there were complaints that the administration did not care for the well-being of the student body and instead only cared about our grades and how well our test scores made the school look. There have been fewer complaints this year, but I have not seen any real changes in the administration's attitude towards students.... Read 350 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,766

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Bellevue School District, WA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  407 reviews

Senior: The IB program adds lots of competition to this school. There is a lot of competition for being the best. Students are very exhausted because of IB and AP classes, especially the AP and IB tests in May. There are a couple teachers I really like, their personalities are friendly, but some have good personalities but not the best qualities in a teacher. They get easily distracted with other students and it is hard to stay focused in that learning environment. One of my favorite parts of Interlake High School is the Horticulture program. We host plant sales 3 times a year and students get the opportunity to have work experience by picking up shifts at the plant sales. We complete work orders every week, and it is a great way to contribute to our community and learn about our earth and gardening, especially the business side of the horticulture industry. Our teacher is supportive and she makes the learning environment enjoyable.... Read 407 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,654

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Bellevue School District, WA•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  94 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 94 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 590

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Lake Washington School District, WA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  445 reviews

Senior: My experience overall at Redmond High School was relatively good. There are some very qualified and inspiring teachers and staff who made my four years easier and pushed me to try my best. However, there are definitely some teachers at RHS who should not be teaching and who waste their students time and effort by teaching with low quality and self-centered motivations. The social climate at Redmond High is satisfactory at best, it can be very cliquey and dramatic but overall I do not have as many complaints, though there are some people at this school who should be held responsible for their actions instead of coddled like RHS tends to do.... Read 445 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,146

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• 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

• Bellevue School District, WA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  204 reviews

Senior: I found Bellevue High to have many strong characteristics such as a strong sports teams, high achieving peers, and engaging teachers. My experience has been an overall pleasant experience. However, I would like to highlight the slow response the school had to a counselor who was not very engaged with her students: se had often provided inaccurate information to some students which costed them a lot of time and money. Eventually, the problem was dealt with and now the school continues to hold its promises of strongly preparing its students for college, sparking interests in students, and just being an overall inclusive school.... Read 204 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,526

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Highline School District, WA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  165 reviews

Senior: My favorite thing about Raisbeck Aviation High School is the diversity and the resources that my teachers provide. Their are kids from all over the area whether they live on an island or right in the school area. They are all welcome here. I see kids from from so many cultures and environments in school, but no matter the differences we all get along. And if someone is being picked on then they are free to tell a teacher and that teacher will help them work it out. At Raisbeck, the students are given so many opportunities to expand their minds and hearts. And our teachers are a great recourses to go to. Just ask for help on anything that a student might me having trouble with and they will answer any questions you may have. And if they specifically don't have that answer then they will direct you to another recourse that will. Here at my school everyone is welcome here. We have clubs and activities to join. We have a sports team. We even have our own mascot, a Friday the Phoenix. Bye!... Read 165 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 410

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• 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

• 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

• Lake Washington School District, WA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  488 reviews

Junior: There are many nice teachers and staff members who are willing to give extra help and advice when needed. There are also many students, so many opportunities to make friends and meet new people as well. Because of the number of students, the hallways do get crowded, as well as the parking lots directly before and afterschool. There are a variety of clubs and sports facilitated by the school that give students many activities and extracurriculars to choose from. The school community is welcoming overall and the school is a safe and fulfilling place for education!... Read 488 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,233

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Mercer Island School District, WA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  241 reviews

Senior: Extracurricular offerings, including sports, music, and clubs, are great! Would like to see more diversity overall. STEM and science courses aren't as strong as English and history.... Read 241 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,551

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Issaquah School District, WA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  381 reviews

Alum: Issaquah High School has a wide variety of elective and CTE courses that students can take. The school gave many opportunities for students to explore their interests and hobbies. Issaquah High School students formed a close-knit community through athletics, clubs, and other social events. Teachers and staff are extremely supportive and look forward to helping students throughout their high school education. IHS prepares students for their college education through rigorous courses and valuable teachings. Students are extremely spirited and school events are filled with lively students who support their school's athletic teams.... Read 381 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,504

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• 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

• Tacoma, WA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.37 out of 5  113 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 113 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 749

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Tacoma, WA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  96 reviews

Parent: We have only been at CWA for the last two years, but WOW what a find for a family new to the area. The other schools we looked at were pretentious with strict dress code and a canned IB approach that we could have gotten at the local public middle school. At CWA, it's all experiential, hands-on, and super fun. My son gets tons of opportunity to pursue his interests like robotics, soccer, and band while learning the curriculum lots of extra-curricular programming right on campus (mine takes his private music lessons during and right after school), all the major sports are offered even in MS. They even manage an amazing Outdoor Education program and are taking the kids to Puerto Rico next year in grade 8. We absolutely love Charles Wright and whether you are a full pay family or need financial aid (which they give generously) we feel strongly that everyone should learn more about this hidden gem of a school. Check it out!... Read 96 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 557

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Bainbridge Island School District, WA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  262 reviews

Senior: Most of the teachers all care about their students and there are incredible art as well as materials classes. The facilities that this school has with an industrial kitchen, two wood shops and a metal shop, full ceramic studio with 6 kilns and 8 wheels and a well stocked art room is just amazing. All of the teachers are willing to help out if special attention is needed such as extra help and things like that. The social situation is very different in an island community where people have grown up here their whole lives and all seem to know each other which is fun to see but hard to break into as a new student. Overall very good school academically and with resources.... Read 262 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,308

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Northshore School District, WA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  52 reviews

Junior: North Creek High School is an excellent school! My experience with North Creek High has been great with many events and awesome clubs. There are events like Homecoming, the Spring Fling, and our yearly Jag Day, where we set up games and celebrate school spirit. The clubs are diverse, from DECA, HOSA, and even Book Club, you can join any club! It's a good way to make new friends and to find out what you like. You can even start your club! The sports are great as well. The football games are perfect to show off school spirit and cheer on our team. North Creek has a beautiful campus, with great classes and teachers. The staff is helpful, and if you have any problems, there is always someone to help. My two favorite places are the Library, which has 2 levels, and a great selection of books, and the Commons, where Nutrition Break and our Lunches take place. If you are looking for a good high school, North Creek is the place to be!... Read 52 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,763

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Issaquah School District, WA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  501 reviews

Senior: Skyline High School has provided a mostly well-rounded education. The teachers at this school are passionate about the content that they discuss, and they make sure that students at the institution care just as much as them. Overall, the school provides an excellent system of preparation for college. Most classes center around being "future ready," as well as enthusiastic about your career choice. As someone in Skyline's IB Career Path program, I value this experience heavily, as it teaches me how to be ready for any turns my future may take. The school's culture can sometimes prove overwhelming, with competition as a high value. This competition is exciting in terms of extracurriculars, like sports. But sometimes it promotes unhealthy habits to its students like pulling all-nighters or studying the least for a test. At the end of the day, my experience at Skyline was very nice.... Read 501 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,202

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Seattle Public Schools, WA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  502 reviews

Senior: Garfield's sports programs overall are very competitive and usually perform well. During my freshman year the girls and boys basketball teams won state, and the girls won state again during my junior year. In the past Garfield's school lunch was terrible, but recently the school lunches have been very good, and school lunch is free for everyone at Garfield. But if you decide you don't want school lunch, there is an Ezelle's directly across the street and a convenience store a block away. Garfield's music programs are also very good. The advanced ensembles and the jazz bands get to go on lots of fun trips. The bathrooms, however, smell horrible. There is also graffiti on almost every single bathroom stall. There are a few bathrooms that are almost always closed for repairs. The field at Garfield used to look nice, but ever since people started eating on the field there has been a ton of garbage covering it, and the garbage attracts crows.... Read 502 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,729

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  260 reviews

Parent: My daughter grew from a fourth grader wanting to attend Holy Names Academy because its building looked like Hogwarts, to a rising ninth grader wanting to attend for the all-girls academic excellence, to now a high school senior with a nuanced understanding of an all-girls high school experience. Her confidence and sense of self as a young woman has grown impressively. The faculty and staff transitioned to 100% online during the pandemic without skipping a beat, and bent over backwards to accommodate the students during the many months of online school. Our experience has been wonderful!... Read 260 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 570

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1