Rock Island Elementary School
General Information
Reviews
Rock Island Elementary School is widely recognized within the community for its nurturing environment and dedicated staff. Parents consistently praise the school for its strong focus on individualized learning and inclusive programs that cater to diverse student needs. Many appreciate the proactive communication between teachers and families, which helps foster a collaborative approach to education. The school’s commitment to extracurricular activities and character development is also highly valued, with numerous students participating in music, art, and sports clubs. Community members note the positive school culture and the safe, welcoming campus atmosphere. While some reviews mention occasional challenges with class sizes during peak enrollment, the overall consensus highlights Rock Island Elementary as a place where students receive quality instruction and support that lays a solid foundation for their academic journey.
Contact Information
- Phone: (425) 637-8241
- Email: contact@rockisland.edu
- Address: 847 Willow Creek Road, Bellevue, WA 98004
- Website: www.rockisland.edu
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
School Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1978 |
| Grades Served | Kindergarten – 5th |
| Total Students | 639 |
| Faculty Count | 38 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 17:1 |
| School Type | Public Elementary |
Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| State Ranking | Top 22% |
| District Ranking | 5th out of 18 |
Rock Island Elementary School Academics
Faculties / Departments
- Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Physical Education
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Special Education
- Technology
Rock Island Elementary School Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Reading and Writing Fundamentals
- Basic Arithmetic and Geometry
- Introduction to Life and Physical Sciences
- Local and National History
- Physical Fitness and Wellness
- Music and Choir
- Art and Crafts
- Computer Literacy
- Environmental Awareness
- Social Skills Development
- STEM Enrichment
- After-School Homework Assistance
Online Learning
Rock Island Elementary School offers a comprehensive online learning platform designed to complement in-class instruction and provide additional support for students. The digital curriculum covers core subjects such as math, reading, and science, with interactive lessons and engaging educational games to reinforce learning. Teachers utilize virtual classrooms for small group sessions, targeted interventions, and enrichment activities. The school provides access to tablets and laptops for students lacking home technology resources, ensuring equitable participation. Parents can monitor progress through an online portal, where assignments, grades, and teacher feedback are regularly updated. This hybrid approach to education has proven especially valuable during inclement weather or public health restrictions, helping maintain continuity and academic growth.
Degrees and Certifications
Although Rock Island Elementary does not confer degrees or certifications typical of higher education institutions, it emphasizes foundational skill-building that prepares students for future academic success. The school follows state-mandated curriculum standards, and participation in reading and math proficiency assessments is encouraged to track development. Teachers receive ongoing professional development and certification in elementary education, special education, and technology integration to ensure high-quality instruction. Additionally, students may earn recognition certificates for achievements in areas such as attendance, citizenship, and academic excellence, helping motivate and reward their progress throughout the school year.
Summer School
Rock Island Elementary offers an optional summer school program aimed at preventing learning loss and providing enrichment opportunities. This program is open to all students, with a focus on those needing extra support in reading and math. The curriculum is designed to be engaging and hands-on, including science experiments, art projects, and physical activities. Summer sessions typically run for six weeks, with classes held Monday through Thursday mornings. Qualified teachers and aides lead small groups, ensuring personalized attention. The program also emphasizes social skills development and helps families maintain a consistent daily routine during the summer months. Participation is free for students enrolled at Rock Island Elementary, and transportation assistance is available upon request.
Average Test Scores
| Subject | Average Score |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 78% |
| English/Reading | 85% |
| Science | 72% |
| Social Studies | 88% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
As an elementary school, Rock Island focuses on retention by fostering a positive learning environment that encourages continuous attendance and engagement. The school has a high retention rate, with most students progressing seamlessly through each grade level. Emphasis is placed on identifying learning challenges early and providing targeted interventions to support student success. Regular assessments and parent-teacher conferences help track academic and social development, reducing the risk of students falling behind. While elementary schools do not have traditional graduation ceremonies, Rock Island celebrates students’ completion of fifth grade with an annual promotion event that highlights individual achievements and milestones, reinforcing a sense of accomplishment and readiness for middle school.
Rock Island Elementary School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Rock Island Elementary does not require GPA or standardized test scores such as SAT or ACT for admission, as it serves students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Admissions primarily focus on residency within the school district boundaries. The school encourages early registration to secure placement, particularly for kindergarten and first grade classes. While academic performance is monitored throughout the school year, the initial entry is open to all eligible children in the community. Parents may be asked to provide previous school records if transferring from another district, but no formal academic testing is typically required during the admissions process.
Acceptance Rate
| Year | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 95% |
| 2022 | 93% |
| 2021 | 94% |
Application Requirements
Admission to Rock Island Elementary is generally based on residency within the Bellevue School District. Families must provide proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement, along with the child’s birth certificate or passport to verify age eligibility. Immunization records and health forms are required to ensure compliance with state health standards. Kindergarten applicants must be five years old by August 31. While there is no entrance exam, new students may participate in informal assessments to help teachers understand their learning levels. The school also offers placement support for students with special needs to ensure appropriate accommodations from the start.
Enrollment Overview
Enrollment at Rock Island Elementary typically begins in early spring, with priority given to district residents. The school encourages families to complete registration promptly to facilitate class planning and resource allocation. Enrollment numbers fluctuate slightly each year due to local population changes and housing developments. The school maintains a waitlist for popular grades when capacity is reached. Transfer students from outside the district are accepted based on space availability and must meet district policies. The school provides orientation sessions for new families to help them understand school routines and expectations, making the transition smooth for both students and parents.
Application Process
- Submit proof of residency and identification documents
- Complete the school district enrollment form online or in person
- Provide immunization and health records
- Schedule a brief intake interview or assessment if needed
- Attend orientation session for new students and families
- Receive class assignment notification
- Complete any additional paperwork before the first day of school
Application Deadlines and Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | February 1 |
| Application Deadline | April 15 |
| Decision Notification | May 10 |
| Enrollment Deadline | June 1 |
| Orientation Sessions | August 15-20 |
Essay Prompt
Rock Island Elementary encourages incoming students, especially those entering higher grades, to express their interests and goals through a short essay or personal statement. The prompt asks: “Describe something you enjoy learning about and why it is important to you.” This exercise helps teachers gain insight into each child’s passions and learning preferences, enabling them to tailor instruction accordingly. The essay also fosters early writing skills and self-reflection. Parents are welcomed to assist younger children in articulating their thoughts, ensuring the statement accurately represents the student’s voice. This process supports a smooth integration into the school community and helps staff build meaningful connections with students from the outset.
Rock Island Elementary School Scholarships
As a public elementary school, Rock Island does not offer traditional scholarships. However, the school provides various financial assistance programs to support families in need. These include free or reduced-price lunch programs, school supply distributions, and assistance with extracurricular activity fees. The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) also organizes fundraising events to sponsor enrichment opportunities such as field trips, music lessons, and summer camps for qualifying students. Additionally, local community organizations sometimes partner with the school to offer grants or resources for low-income families, helping ensure all children have access to a well-rounded education regardless of economic background.
Rock Island Elementary School Tuition Fees and Costs
| Item | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | N/A – Public |
| Registration Fee | $45 |
| Technology Fee | $30 |
| Activity Fee | $60 |
| Books and Supplies | $75 |
| Optional Lunch Program | $450 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Rock Island Elementary serves a diverse student body drawn from the suburban neighborhoods of Bellevue. The school prides itself on fostering an inclusive environment where children from a variety of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds come together to learn. The demographic mix reflects a broad spectrum of ethnicities and family structures, enriching classroom discussions and community events. The school’s programs are designed to celebrate diversity and promote respect among students. Language support services are available for English language learners, and cultural events are regularly held to acknowledge different traditions. This diversity prepares students for a global society and encourages empathy from an early age.
Low-Income Students and Students with Disabilities
Rock Island Elementary provides dedicated resources to support low-income families and students with disabilities. Approximately 18% of the student body qualifies for free or reduced-price lunch, reflecting the school’s commitment to equity. The special education department offers individualized education plans (IEPs) and related services to ensure all students have access to appropriate learning accommodations. The school employs specialist staff including speech therapists, occupational therapists, and behavioral aides to support diverse learning needs. Outreach programs connect families to community services, helping address barriers that might affect academic success. The school’s inclusive philosophy ensures that every child is valued and supported to reach their full potential.
Student Body Overview
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female Students | 48% |
| Male Students | 52% |
| Caucasian | 45% |
| African American | 12% |
| Hispanic | 18% |
| Asian | 20% |
| Other/Multiracial | 5% |
University Diversity
Although Rock Island Elementary is a primary school, it lays the groundwork for a diverse future student body at the university level by fostering inclusivity and cultural awareness from an early age. The school’s demographic diversity mirrors broader societal trends, preparing students to engage respectfully with peers of varied backgrounds. By emphasizing multicultural education, celebrating different languages, and encouraging collaboration among students of all ethnicities, Rock Island helps cultivate open-mindedness that benefits higher education environments later on. The school’s community partnerships and family involvement also promote a culture of acceptance and understanding, which are valuable assets in any academic setting.
Average Earnings
While average earnings are not directly applicable to elementary students, Rock Island Elementary’s community context suggests moderate household income levels typical of the Bellevue area. Families tend to have access to stable employment with many parents working in technology, education, healthcare, and service industries. The school’s focus on early literacy, numeracy, and social development equips students with foundational skills that contribute to long-term academic and career success. By fostering critical thinking and strong communication skills, the school supports pathways to well-paying jobs in the future. Community programs also raise awareness about financial literacy and career exploration, encouraging students to envision and prepare for a broad range of economic opportunities.
Graduation Rate
Rock Island Elementary maintains a high progression rate, with the majority of students successfully moving from kindergarten through fifth grade without retention. The school’s proactive interventions and supportive environment minimize dropouts or transfers out of the district. While elementary schools do not have formal graduation rates in the traditional sense, Rock Island celebrates a near 100% rate of students transitioning to middle school on schedule. The school’s emphasis on academic readiness and social-emotional development helps ensure students are well-prepared for the challenges of secondary education, thereby supporting continued educational attainment.
Rock Island Elementary School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty at Rock Island Elementary is composed of experienced and passionate educators committed to student success. Teachers hold state certification in elementary education and participate regularly in professional development to stay current with best practices. The staff includes classroom teachers, special education specialists, support aides, and administrative personnel who collaborate closely to create a cohesive learning environment. Many teachers have been with the school for over five years, fostering strong relationships with families and the community. Support staff such as counselors, nurses, and librarians also play vital roles in addressing the comprehensive needs of students, contributing to a holistic educational experience.
Faculty Profiles
Several faculty members at Rock Island Elementary have received accolades for excellence in teaching and innovation. For example, the lead reading specialist holds a master’s degree in literacy education and has developed successful intervention programs for struggling readers. The STEM coordinator integrates technology and hands-on science activities across grade levels, inspiring student curiosity. Special education staff bring expertise in adaptive strategies and have established effective individualized plans for students with diverse learning needs. The principal, with over 15 years in educational leadership, emphasizes a student-centered approach and fosters a culture of continuous improvement. Collectively, the faculty’s diverse skill set ensures that each student receives quality instruction tailored to their unique strengths.
Rock Island Elementary School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life and Housing
Rock Island Elementary’s campus is designed to accommodate young learners in a safe, engaging environment. The facility includes modern classrooms, a library/media center, a gymnasium, playgrounds, and outdoor learning spaces. The school grounds feature gardens and nature trails used for science instruction and recess activities. Though the school does not offer housing, many families live within walking distance or utilize nearby residential neighborhoods for convenient access. The school hosts regular community events such as family nights, cultural celebrations, and PTA meetings, fostering a strong sense of belonging. Students benefit from a range of extracurricular clubs and after-school programs that enrich their social and creative development beyond the classroom.
Transportation
Transportation to Rock Island Elementary is provided through district-operated school buses for eligible students living beyond a designated walking radius. The school coordinates multiple bus routes to ensure timely and safe travel. For families within closer proximity, walking and biking are encouraged, supported by well-maintained sidewalks and crossing guard services. Drop-off and pick-up zones are clearly marked to facilitate smooth traffic flow during peak hours. The school also promotes carpooling to reduce congestion and environmental impact. For students with special transportation needs, the district arranges tailored services in compliance with individual education plans. Overall, the transportation system prioritizes student safety and accessibility.
Job Openings and Career Opportunities
Rock Island Elementary occasionally posts job openings for teaching positions, support staff roles, and administrative vacancies. Current opportunities often focus on certified elementary teachers, special education aides, and after-school program coordinators. The school values candidates with strong instructional skills, cultural competency, and a commitment to fostering inclusive environments. Career advancement is supported through professional development workshops and mentorship programs. The district also offers internships and practicum placements for aspiring educators. Staff members are encouraged to pursue additional certifications and leadership roles within the school. The school’s collaborative culture provides a rewarding workplace for those dedicated to making a positive impact on young learners’ lives.