Forest Lake Elementary School
General Information
Reviews
Forest Lake Elementary School has earned a strong reputation within its community for fostering a nurturing and inclusive learning environment. Parents frequently praise the dedicated teaching staff and the school’s commitment to academic excellence while maintaining a focus on social-emotional development. Many reviews highlight the school’s emphasis on small class sizes, which allows teachers to provide individualized attention and support to each student. The school is also recognized for its active parent-teacher organization that encourages family involvement in school activities and decision-making processes. Community members appreciate the variety of extracurricular programs available, including art, music, and sports, which promote well-rounded development. While some parents wish for more advanced STEM opportunities, the school has responded by gradually integrating technology and hands-on science projects into the curriculum. Overall, Forest Lake Elementary is seen as a safe, supportive, and engaging place for children to grow academically and personally.
Contact Information
- Phone: (425) 732-4895
- Email: contact@forestlakeelementary.org
- Address: 1287 Maplewood Drive, Forest Lake, WA 98012
- Website: www.forestlakeelementary.org
- Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
School Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1985 |
| Grades Served | K-5 |
| Total Students | 634 |
| Faculty Count | 42 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 15:1 |
| School Type | Public Elementary School |
Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| State Ranking | Top 22% |
| District Ranking | 4th out of 12 schools |
Forest Lake Elementary School Academics
Faculties / Departments
- Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Physical Education
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Special Education
- Technology
Forest Lake Elementary School Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Reading and Writing Workshop
- Basic and Advanced Mathematics
- Environmental Science
- Washington State History
- Physical Fitness and Health
- Drawing and Painting
- Music and Choir
- Computer Literacy
- STEM Enrichment
- Social Skills Development
- English Language Learner (ELL) Support
- Gifted and Talented Education (GATE)
Online Learning
Forest Lake Elementary has implemented a blended learning model to enhance student engagement and flexibility. The school offers a variety of online resources and platforms that allow students to access assignments, instructional videos, and interactive lessons from home. During inclement weather or other disruptions, the online learning system provides continuity of education, ensuring that students do not fall behind. Teachers utilize virtual classrooms for small group instruction and one-on-one support, especially for students requiring additional help or enrichment. Parents appreciate the transparency and communication facilitated by the online portals, which offer real-time updates on student progress. The school also provides training sessions to ensure all families are comfortable navigating the digital tools. This approach caters to diverse learning styles and helps develop students’ technology skills early in their academic careers.
Degrees and Certifications
While primarily serving K-5 students, Forest Lake Elementary encourages professional development for its faculty through ongoing training and certification programs. Many teachers hold state certifications in elementary education, with special endorsements in areas such as special education, literacy, and bilingual instruction. The school supports staff in obtaining advanced degrees and professional certificates by providing tuition reimbursement and access to workshops. This commitment to continuous learning ensures that educators remain current with best practices, curriculum standards, and innovative teaching strategies. Additionally, the school offers students exposure to foundational skills that prepare them for future academic certifications in middle and high school.
Summer School
Forest Lake Elementary offers an engaging summer school program designed to reinforce core academic skills and prevent learning loss during the break. The curriculum includes reading, math, and science enrichment activities tailored to various grade levels. Small group instruction and interactive projects help students build confidence and maintain academic momentum. The program also integrates physical activity, arts, and social skill development, providing a balanced approach to summer learning. Transportation and meals are provided to ensure accessibility for all students. Parents report that summer school has been beneficial for children who need additional academic support as well as those seeking enrichment opportunities beyond the regular school year.
Average Test Scores
| Subject | Average Score |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 79% |
| English/Reading | 85% |
| Science | 72% |
| Social Studies | 88% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Retention rates at Forest Lake Elementary remain low, reflecting the school’s effective interventions and supportive environment that promote student success and progression. The school closely monitors student performance to identify those who may need additional assistance through tutoring, counseling, or specialized instruction. The goal is to promote continuous growth and minimize the need for grade retention. Graduation rates, while not applicable to an elementary school, are reflected in the high percentage of students successfully transitioning to middle school and beyond. The community and school leadership work collaboratively to ensure that students are well-prepared academically, socially, and emotionally for the next stages of their education.
Forest Lake Elementary School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As a public elementary school, Forest Lake Elementary does not require a GPA or SAT/ACT scores for admission. Enrollment is primarily based on residential zoning within the school district. However, the school welcomes students from diverse academic backgrounds and provides assessments to tailor instruction to individual needs upon entry. For families outside the zone seeking transfer, the school evaluates space availability and student records to ensure appropriate placement. Emphasis is placed on creating equitable access to quality education for all children in the community regardless of prior academic achievement.
Acceptance Rate
| Year | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 98% |
| 2022 | 97% |
| 2021 | 96% |
Application Requirements
To apply for enrollment at Forest Lake Elementary, families must provide proof of residency within the designated district boundaries, a birth certificate or proof of age, and immunization records compliant with state health requirements. New students also complete a registration form detailing health concerns, emergency contacts, and previous educational history if applicable. The school encourages early registration to accommodate class size limits and ensure placement. Families can request transfer consideration if they reside outside the district, but these requests are subject to availability and district policy. Supporting documentation such as academic records or Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) should be submitted for students requiring special services.
Enrollment Overview
Enrollment at Forest Lake Elementary is steady, with a slightly increasing trend over the past five years due to community growth. The school serves a diverse population of students representing various cultural backgrounds and learning needs. Class sizes are maintained to facilitate individualized instruction and a positive learning environment. The school actively collaborates with district officials to manage capacity and resources efficiently. New student orientation sessions and family engagement initiatives help ease transitions and foster a welcoming atmosphere. The school also offers resources for families to navigate enrollment processes, language support, and access to community services.
Application Process
- Obtain the enrollment packet from the school office or website
- Complete the registration form and gather required documents
- Submit application and documentation to the school registrar
- Attend a brief orientation session for new students and families
- Complete any necessary assessments for placement purposes
- Meet with school counselors if special services are requested
- Confirm enrollment and receive class assignment notification
Application Deadlines and Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | April 1 |
| Application Deadline | June 15 |
| Decision Notification | July 10 |
| Enrollment Deadline | July 31 |
| Orientation Sessions | August 15-20 |
Essay Prompt
While elementary school applications rarely require essays, Forest Lake Elementary encourages families to share a brief statement about their child’s interests, strengths, and any special considerations that would help the school support their learning journey. This optional narrative can provide valuable insight into the student’s personality, preferred learning styles, and areas where they may need additional encouragement or challenge. Parents are invited to describe their child’s favorite subjects, extracurricular passions, and social skills to help teachers tailor classroom experiences. The school views this as an opportunity to build strong partnerships with families and foster an individualized approach to education from the outset.
Forest Lake Elementary School Scholarships
As a public elementary school, Forest Lake Elementary does not offer traditional scholarships. However, the school partners with local community organizations and nonprofits to provide assistance programs that support students and families in need. These may include funding for school supplies, extracurricular activities, field trips, and technology access. The school’s family liaison works closely with social services to connect eligible families with financial aid and resources. Additionally, the PTA organizes fundraising events to sponsor enrichment programs and special projects that benefit all students. This community-driven approach helps ensure equity and access for every child regardless of economic background.
Forest Lake Elementary School Tuition Fees and Costs
| Item | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | N/A – Public |
| Registration Fee | $25 |
| Technology Fee | $40 |
| Activity Fee | $30 |
| Books and Supplies | $50 |
| Optional Lunch Program | $120 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Forest Lake Elementary serves a diverse student body representing a wide range of cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The school population includes children from various ethnicities, reflecting the broader community’s multicultural character. English Language Learner (ELL) students constitute a significant portion, prompting the school to offer targeted language support programs. The school also embraces students with different learning abilities, including those enrolled in special education services. This diversity enriches the classroom environment by fostering inclusivity and cross-cultural understanding. The school community actively promotes respect, kindness, and equity, creating a welcoming atmosphere where all students can thrive academically and socially.
Low-Income Students and Students with Disabilities
Approximately 28% of students at Forest Lake Elementary come from low-income households, qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch programs. The school prioritizes equitable access by providing additional academic support, counseling, and family engagement initiatives tailored to these students’ needs. Specialized programs and resources are in place to assist students with disabilities, including individualized education plans and collaboration with therapists and specialists. The school employs trained special education teachers and aides who work alongside general classroom teachers to ensure inclusive learning environments. These efforts aim to close achievement gaps and empower all students to reach their full potential.
Student Body Overview
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female Students | 49% |
| Male Students | 51% |
| Caucasian | 45% |
| African American | 12% |
| Hispanic | 22% |
| Asian | 15% |
| Other/Multiracial | 6% |
University Diversity
Although Forest Lake Elementary is an elementary school and does not have university affiliations, it lays the foundation for future academic diversity by nurturing students’ curiosity and respect for different cultures. The school’s curriculum includes global awareness components and encourages students to appreciate cultural differences through literature, social studies, and school events. This early exposure prepares students to engage confidently with diverse peers in later educational settings. Families come from a variety of socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds, contributing to a rich community tapestry that values inclusion. The school’s approach fosters open-mindedness and prepares children to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.
Average Earnings
As an elementary school, Forest Lake does not track earnings data directly. However, the economic diversity of the school community spans a broad spectrum, with families employed across multiple sectors including education, healthcare, retail, and technology. The school benefits from strong parental involvement, which often correlates with stable household incomes and educational support at home. Programs aimed at assisting low-income families help mitigate disparities by providing resources and opportunities. By cultivating foundational skills and social-emotional learning, the school contributes indirectly to long-term economic success for its students.
Graduation Rate
While graduation rates apply to secondary schools, Forest Lake Elementary measures success through student promotion rates and readiness for middle school. The school boasts a high promotion rate, with over 95% of students advancing to the next grade each year. This reflects effective teaching strategies, early intervention programs, and comprehensive support systems. The focus on literacy, numeracy, and social skills equips students with essential tools for academic achievement. Continuous monitoring and personalized learning plans help prevent retention and ensure students meet developmental milestones on time.
Forest Lake Elementary School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Forest Lake Elementary employs a well-qualified team of educators and support staff committed to student success. The faculty includes certified elementary teachers, special education specialists, ELL instructors, and experienced support aides. The school prioritizes professional development to keep staff updated on best practices and innovative teaching methods. Support personnel such as counselors, librarians, and health aides contribute to a holistic educational experience. Staff members are known for their approachable, caring attitudes and dedication to fostering a positive school culture. Collaboration among teachers and staff is strongly encouraged to address student needs and promote a cohesive learning community.
Faculty Profiles
The faculty at Forest Lake Elementary features a mix of seasoned educators and newer teachers passionate about early childhood education. Many hold advanced degrees or specialized certifications in areas such as literacy, special education, and educational technology. Teachers participate regularly in workshops focusing on differentiated instruction, cultural competency, and social-emotional learning. Several staff members have been recognized for excellence in teaching and community involvement. The principal and administrative team maintain an open-door policy, encouraging communication and feedback. This strong leadership supports a professional environment that values continuous improvement and student-centered learning.
Forest Lake Elementary School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life and Housing
Forest Lake Elementary is situated on a spacious campus featuring modern classrooms, a library, a computer lab, and outdoor play areas. The school environment is safe and well-maintained, with colorful murals and student artwork displayed throughout the hallways. While the school does not provide on-campus housing, it serves families residing in nearby neighborhoods within the district. The campus hosts numerous events including seasonal festivals, family nights, and student performances that foster community spirit. Recreational facilities support physical education classes and extracurricular activities. The school’s commitment to creating an engaging and welcoming atmosphere is evident in the vibrant student life and active parent involvement.
Transportation
Transportation to and from Forest Lake Elementary School is primarily provided through the district’s bus system, covering designated routes within the school boundaries. The school coordinates with transportation services to ensure safe and timely pick-up and drop-off for eligible students. For families living nearby, walking and bike routes are encouraged, supported by crossing guards and community safety programs. Carpooling is also a common practice among parents, facilitated by an online portal that helps families connect. The school emphasizes safety protocols and ongoing communication with families regarding transportation changes or delays, ensuring reliable access to education for all students.
Job Openings and Career Opportunities
Forest Lake Elementary periodically posts job openings for teaching positions, instructional aides, administrative roles, and substitute staff. The school values candidates who demonstrate a passion for elementary education, cultural sensitivity, and a collaborative spirit. Career opportunities also extend to support staff such as counselors, librarians, and custodial personnel. The district offers competitive salaries and benefits, professional development, and a supportive work environment. Interested applicants can find current openings on the school’s website or district job board. The school encourages former students and community members to consider careers in education and contribute to the school’s mission of fostering lifelong learning.