Since 2001, The Center School's rigorous, college-prep, academic curriculum has attracted attention. Located in the Center House, the school utilizes resources in the heart of Seattle's cultural, civic and arts communities. There is an effort to extend learning behond the classroom walls by using professional venues for drama classes, creating partnerships with local artists, and involving ourselves in the city. A focus on social justice issues also provides opportunities for students to have an impact on the world outside the schoolhouse.

In 2001, Seattle Public Schools opened The Center School, focusing on integrating the arts into the curriculum. Arts integration can significantly advance students' academic and creative abilities and cognitive functioning. It can strengthen all areas of visual, oral, and written communication and provide more opportunities for creative problem-solving and analytical thinking necessary for the 21st century.

 

Highlights of The Center School

  • Small learning community of 300 students
  • Purposeful integration of arts across the curriculum
  • Increased graduation requirements in core academic classes
  • Block scheduling
  • Later start to school day
  • Performance-based assessments
  • Inquiry-based curriculum for math and science
  • AP offerings in language arts and biology
  • Four-year integrated humanities program
  • Two-year integrated science program
  • Drama partnership with the Seattle Repertory Theater
  • Digital film/video program
  • Creative writing - poetry
  • Clubs and groups: Student Senate (ASB), Model United Nations, Theater Sports, Yearbook, Earth Now!, Gay/Straight Alliance (GSA), Ultimate Frisbee, Soccer

 

With fewer than 300 students in grades 9-12, the school offers personalized instruction. Courses of study are designed with the expectation that all students will continue on to post-secondary education. While some students may pursue a career in performing or fine arts or technical work, all students will graduate with an appreciation for the contribution of the arts to our culture.

The Center School is open to any student, grades 9-12, in Seattle. Students come from all over the city (via a free Metro pass) to create a close-knit, diverse community. Located just north of downtown, TCS is convenient to the residential communities of Queen Anne/Magnolia, Fremont/Wallingford, West Seattle/Beacon Hill, and the commercial and business centers of South Lake Union, Belltown, and Downtown Seattle. The urban community, just a few blocks from the waterfront, is rich in educational and cultural opportunities. Partnerships with neighboring corporate and arts organizations provide enrichment for students with performances and internships. Parent involvement is evident and welcomed in every facet of the school.