Ward Highlands Elementary School
General Information
Reviews
Ward Highlands Elementary School has garnered positive feedback from both parents and students within the local community. Many praise the school’s nurturing environment and dedicated teaching staff who foster a love for learning from an early age. Parents often highlight the school’s commitment to individualized attention, which is evident in the reasonable student-teacher ratio. The school’s emphasis on holistic development, including arts and physical education, has also been noted as a strong point. Students appreciate the variety of extracurricular activities available, which help them develop skills beyond the classroom. While some reviews mention occasional concerns about limited parking during drop-off and pick-up times, the majority agree that the administration is responsive to feedback and continuously works to improve the school experience. Overall, Ward Highlands is recognized for its strong community involvement and efforts to create a safe, inclusive environment where children feel supported both academically and socially.
Contact Information
- Phone: (425) 783-4912
- Email: contact@wardhighlands.edu
- Address: 673 Maple Avenue, Bellevue, WA 98004
- Website: www.wardhighlands.edu
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
School Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1989 |
| Grades Served | Kindergarten – 5th |
| Total Students | 587 |
| Faculty Count | 38 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 15:1 |
| School Type | Public |
Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| State Ranking | Top 22% |
| District Ranking | 5 |
Ward Highlands Elementary School Academics
Faculties / Departments
- Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Physical Education
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Special Education
- Technology
Ward Highlands Elementary School Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Reading and Writing Fundamentals
- Basic and Advanced Mathematics
- Earth and Life Sciences
- U.S. History and Geography
- Music and Choir
- Art and Crafts
- Physical Education and Health
- Computer Literacy
- Foreign Language Introduction (Spanish)
- Library and Research Skills
- Social Emotional Learning
- Environmental Studies
Online Learning
Ward Highlands Elementary School has integrated online learning tools to complement traditional classroom instruction, especially useful during inclement weather or special circumstances requiring remote education. The school uses a secure platform where students can access assignments, participate in virtual lessons, and communicate with teachers. This online system supports individualized learning plans and allows parents to monitor progress easily. Teachers use interactive videos, educational games, and virtual classrooms to keep students engaged. While primarily designed as a supplemental tool for in-person learning, the online program has proven essential in maintaining continuity of education. The platform is user-friendly and includes training sessions for both students and parents to ensure smooth adoption. Overall, the online learning program at Ward Highlands enriches the school experience and provides flexibility for families.
Degrees and Certifications
As an elementary school, Ward Highlands does not confer degrees but ensures that all faculty members hold appropriate state certifications in elementary education. The school supports ongoing professional development, with many teachers obtaining additional endorsements in special education, ESL (English as a Second Language), and advanced literacy instruction. Staff members frequently participate in workshops and training sessions to stay current with educational best practices and technology integration. The school also encourages certification in social-emotional learning and trauma-informed teaching to better meet the diverse needs of its student body. These certifications contribute to a high-quality educational environment and ensure compliance with state education standards.
Summer School
Ward Highlands offers a summer school program designed to reinforce core skills and prevent learning loss during the break. The program runs for six weeks and focuses on literacy and math enrichment, with additional activities that foster creativity and physical fitness. Summer school is open to all students but is particularly recommended for those needing extra support or wishing to advance their skills. Classes are smaller to allow for personalized attention and include project-based learning, outdoor exploration, and team-building exercises. The school also provides access to counseling and social-emotional support during the program. Transportation and meals are available to ensure accessibility for all families. The summer school initiative reflects the school’s commitment to continuous learning and student success.
Average Test Scores
| Subject | Average Score |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 74% |
| English/Reading | 81% |
| Science | 69% |
| Social Studies | 87% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Ward Highlands Elementary School has a strong retention rate, with most students progressing through each grade level without delays. The school’s supportive environment and early intervention programs contribute significantly to this positive trend. While elementary schools do not have traditional graduation rates, readiness for middle school is a key success indicator. Teachers and counselors work closely with families to ensure students are well-prepared academically and socially to transition to the next stage. The school monitors student progress carefully and offers tutoring or specialized programs as needed. The high retention and promotion rates reflect the school’s effectiveness in addressing diverse learning needs and fostering student growth.
Ward Highlands Elementary School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As an elementary school, Ward Highlands does not require GPA or standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT for admissions. Instead, the school uses a combination of residency verification, age eligibility, and placement assessments to ensure students are enrolled in appropriate grade levels. Incoming students may participate in brief readiness assessments to identify any learning support needs. The school maintains an open enrollment policy for families residing within the district boundaries, prioritizing neighborhood proximity. For families outside the district, transfer applications are considered based on space availability. The focus is on creating a diverse and inclusive student body that benefits from the school’s comprehensive educational programs.
Acceptance Rate
| Year | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 95% |
| 2022 | 94% |
| 2021 | 93% |
Application Requirements
To apply to Ward Highlands Elementary School, families must provide proof of residency within the district, submit a completed enrollment form, and present the child’s birth certificate or legal guardianship documentation. Immunization records are required to comply with state health regulations. For kindergarten applicants, the child must be five years old by September 1. New students may be asked to complete a simple screening to help place them in the correct grade and to identify any special education or language support needs. Families transferring from other schools should provide previous report cards and any Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Enrollment is contingent on available space and completion of all documentation.
Enrollment Overview
Ward Highlands Elementary serves a diverse population of students from the local community. Enrollment is steady, with occasional fluctuations due to families moving in or out of the district. The school actively works to maintain balanced class sizes and equitable access to resources. Enrollment typically begins in the spring for the upcoming school year, with priority given to residents within the attendance zone. The school offers support throughout the enrollment process, including translation services and assistance for families unfamiliar with school procedures. Enrollment data is used to plan staffing, resources, and classroom assignments, ensuring a smooth start to the school year for all students.
Application Process
- Complete the online or paper enrollment form
- Submit proof of residency and identification documents
- Provide up-to-date immunization records
- Attend a brief placement screening if required
- Submit previous school records for transfer students
- Review and sign the school’s code of conduct and policies
- Confirm enrollment with the school office
Application Deadlines and Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | March 15 |
| Application Deadline | May 1 |
| Decision Notification | June 1 |
| Enrollment Deadline | June 15 |
| Orientation Sessions | August 10-14 |
Essay Prompt
As an elementary school, Ward Highlands does not require an essay for admission. However, parents are encouraged to write a brief statement about their child’s interests, strengths, and any special needs or considerations they would like the school to know. This helps the staff better understand each student’s background and tailor support accordingly. The school values open communication and considers these statements as part of the holistic approach to student placement and support. Families may also use this opportunity to express their goals for their child’s education and involvement in school activities.
Ward Highlands Elementary School Scholarships
As a public elementary school, Ward Highlands does not offer scholarships. However, the school actively facilitates access to community resources for families in need, such as free or reduced-price lunch programs, school supply assistance, and extracurricular fee waivers. The school partners with local nonprofits to provide support for low-income families and children with special needs. Additionally, grants and donations help fund enrichment activities and after-school programs at no cost to students. Families are encouraged to reach out to the school’s counseling office for information about financial aid opportunities related to educational enrichment.
Ward Highlands 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 | $60 |
| Optional Lunch Program | $150 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Ward Highlands Elementary boasts a richly diverse student population that reflects the broader community’s multicultural character. Students come from various ethnic backgrounds, with many bilingual households contributing to a vibrant school culture. The school actively promotes inclusivity and cultural awareness through its curriculum and extracurricular programs. Socioeconomic diversity is also present, with the school providing resources to support families from different income levels. This diversity fosters a learning environment where students develop empathy, global awareness, and social skills. Efforts to engage parents from all backgrounds help create a strong home-school partnership that benefits student learning and well-being.
Low-Income Students and Students with Disabilities
The school serves a notable percentage of low-income students, many of whom qualify for free or reduced-price lunch programs. Ward Highlands is committed to ensuring these students receive equitable access to educational resources and extracurricular activities. Support programs include tutoring, counseling, and collaboration with social services to address broader family needs. Additionally, the school provides specialized services for students with disabilities, including individualized education plans (IEPs), speech therapy, and occupational therapy. Classroom aides and resource teachers work alongside general education teachers to create an inclusive environment where all students can thrive academically and socially. The school’s emphasis on early identification and intervention helps students overcome challenges and succeed.
Student Body Overview
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female Students | 48% |
| Male Students | 52% |
| Caucasian | 40% |
| African American | 15% |
| Hispanic | 25% |
| Asian | 12% |
| Other/Multiracial | 8% |
University Diversity
While Ward Highlands is an elementary school, its commitment to fostering diversity among its student body lays a foundation for future educational success in diverse university settings. The school actively promotes cultural competence and respect for different backgrounds. This early exposure to diversity helps students develop strong interpersonal skills and adaptability, traits that benefit them in higher education environments. Ward Highlands collaborates with community organizations to celebrate multicultural events and encourages students to appreciate different perspectives. The school’s curriculum incorporates diverse authors and historical figures to broaden students’ understanding of the world. By nurturing inclusive attitudes early on, the school prepares students for the increasingly globalized society and diverse academic institutions they will encounter in the future.
Average Earnings
As a public elementary school, Ward Highlands does not track average earnings of graduates. However, the school’s focus on foundational skills and social-emotional development aims to equip students for long-term success. Early literacy and numeracy proficiency are predictors of higher educational attainment and future earnings potential. The school partners with the district to align curriculum with college and career readiness standards, fostering skills that will benefit students in their lifelong learning journeys. By instilling critical thinking, collaboration, and perseverance, Ward Highlands lays the groundwork for students to pursue higher education and rewarding careers, contributing positively to their economic futures and community well-being.
Graduation Rate
While Ward Highlands Elementary does not have a traditional graduation rate, the school measures success by student readiness for middle school. The vast majority of students transition smoothly to the next educational level, demonstrating proficiency in core academic subjects and social skills. The school monitors individual progress closely and intervenes when students show signs of struggling. Parent involvement, teacher support, and specialized programs contribute to high promotion rates. The school’s efforts to create a safe and supportive environment also promote consistent attendance and engagement. These factors combine to ensure that students are well-prepared for the challenges of middle school and beyond.
Ward Highlands Elementary School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Ward Highlands employs a dedicated team of 38 educators and support staff who are committed to fostering a caring and effective learning environment. Classroom teachers hold appropriate state certifications and many pursue advanced training in areas such as differentiated instruction and technology integration. Support staff includes special education aides, counselors, librarians, and administrative personnel who work collaboratively to meet student needs. The school values professional growth and provides regular opportunities for staff development. Teachers are known for their approachability and willingness to engage with families, creating strong partnerships. The collaborative culture among staff promotes sharing of best practices and innovative teaching strategies, enhancing overall educational quality.
Faculty Profiles
The faculty at Ward Highlands includes experienced educators with diverse backgrounds and specialties. Many teachers have been with the school for over a decade, contributing to a stable and knowledgeable staff. The school’s leadership team includes a principal and assistant principal who prioritize student success and staff development. Faculty members often have additional certifications in special education, ESL, or STEM education, enriching the curriculum. Teachers incorporate a variety of instructional approaches to meet different learning styles and abilities. The staff also includes specialists in art, music, and physical education who provide well-rounded opportunities for students. The school fosters a culture of mentorship, where veteran teachers support new educators to maintain high standards.
Ward Highlands Elementary School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life and Housing
Ward Highlands Elementary is situated on a spacious, well-maintained campus featuring modern classrooms, a library, computer labs, and outdoor play areas. The campus includes a gymnasium and dedicated spaces for art and music instruction. Students enjoy access to playground equipment, sports fields, and garden areas used for science and environmental studies. The school hosts regular events such as family nights, cultural celebrations, and student showcases that foster community spirit. While there is no on-campus housing, the school’s location in a family-friendly neighborhood means many students walk or bike to school. The campus is designed to be safe and accessible, with secure entry points and staff supervision during arrival and dismissal times.
Transportation
Ward Highlands provides school bus transportation for eligible students residing beyond walking distance or in designated zones. The bus system operates a reliable schedule with trained drivers and monitors to ensure student safety. For families within walking or biking distance, the school encourages active transportation through supervised walking groups and bike racks on campus. Drop-off and pick-up zones are clearly marked to maintain traffic flow and safety. The school also coordinates with the district for transportation accommodations for students with special needs. Parents appreciate the school’s efforts to provide safe and convenient options for commuting to and from school.
Job Openings and Career Opportunities
Ward Highlands Elementary occasionally posts job openings for teaching positions, support staff, and administrative roles. The school values candidates committed to educational excellence and student well-being. Career opportunities often include positions for certified teachers in core subjects, special education aides, and counselors. The school also seeks candidates with skills in technology support, library services, and extracurricular program leadership. Ward Highlands supports professional growth and encourages staff to participate in district-wide training and leadership development. Interested applicants can contact the school office or visit the website for current job listings and application instructions. The school’s collaborative work environment and commitment to diversity make it an attractive place for education professionals.