Freedom Shores Elementary School
General Information
Reviews
Freedom Shores Elementary School has earned a reputation for its strong commitment to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student can thrive. Parents often praise the school for its attentive and caring faculty, who work diligently to recognize each child’s unique strengths and challenges. Many commend the school’s focus on creating a balanced curriculum that emphasizes both academics and social-emotional development. Community feedback highlights the school’s active involvement in local events and the consistent communication parents receive through newsletters and meetings. Several families appreciate the diversity of extracurricular activities available, including arts, music, and sports, which contribute to a well-rounded education. While some parents have expressed desires for more advanced technology integration, overall satisfaction remains high, with many noting the school’s dedication to continuous improvement. The school’s reputation in the district is strong, and it is often recommended by families seeking a supportive elementary education that encourages curiosity, creativity, and respect among peers.
Contact Information
- Phone: (425) 374-9821
- Email: contact@freedomshores.edu
- Address: 1209 Seaside Boulevard, Bellevue, WA 98004
- Website: www.freedomshores.edu
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
School Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1986 |
| Grades Served | K-5 |
| Total Students | 589 |
| Faculty Count | 38 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 15:1 |
| School Type | Public Elementary |
Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| State Ranking | Top 22% |
| District Ranking | 5th out of 14 schools |
Freedom Shores Elementary School Academics
Faculties / Departments
- Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Physical Education
- Art
- Music
- Special Education
Freedom Shores Elementary School Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Reading and Writing Fundamentals
- Basic Mathematics
- Introduction to Science
- Social Studies and Community Awareness
- Physical Fitness and Health
- Visual Arts
- Music and Choir
- Computer Literacy
- Environmental Education
- Character Education Program
- ESL Support
- STEM Enrichment
Online Learning
Freedom Shores Elementary School has embraced online learning platforms to complement in-person education, especially for students who benefit from flexible schedules or additional support. The school uses a combination of interactive learning tools and virtual classroom sessions that allow students to engage with content at their own pace while maintaining communication with teachers. Online resources include educational games, reading programs, and math tutorials designed to reinforce classroom lessons. Parents have access to portals where they can monitor progress and communicate with educators. This hybrid approach ensures continuity of learning during inclement weather or unforeseen closures and supports differentiated instruction, enabling teachers to tailor lessons to individual student needs. The school continues to expand its digital infrastructure, aiming to provide equitable learning opportunities for all students in the community.
Degrees and Certifications
While Freedom Shores Elementary serves younger students who do not pursue degrees, the teaching staff holds various certifications to ensure high instructional quality. Most educators possess state teaching licenses with endorsements in elementary education, special education, or subject-specific areas such as reading or math instruction. The school encourages ongoing professional development, requiring teachers to attend workshops and earn continuing education credits regularly. This commitment to certification and training ensures that staff members remain current with best practices and innovative teaching strategies, thereby enhancing student outcomes. Additionally, several teachers have obtained National Board Certification, signifying advanced teaching expertise. The school also supports teachers’ pursuit of additional credentials in areas like ESL instruction and technology integration to meet diverse student needs.
Summer School
Freedom Shores Elementary offers a summer school program focused on reinforcing core academic skills and providing enrichment activities. The program is designed for students requiring extra support in reading, math, or science, allowing them to catch up and enter the next grade with confidence. Additionally, enrichment classes in arts, physical education, and STEM encourage creativity and physical activity during the summer months. The program runs for six weeks, Monday through Thursday, with small class sizes to promote individualized attention. Many families appreciate the summer school as a way to maintain learning momentum and prevent the “summer slide.” Transportation and meals are provided to eligible students, making the program accessible to a broad range of families. Registration opens in late spring, and scholarships are available for qualifying students to participate free of charge.
Average Test Scores
| Subject | Average Score |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 78% |
| English/Reading | 82% |
| Science | 74% |
| Social Studies | 85% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
At the elementary level, retention typically refers to the promotion rate to the next grade. Freedom Shores Elementary maintains a high promotion rate, with over 95% of students advancing each year. The school’s emphasis on early intervention for students struggling academically or socially has contributed to this success. Frequent assessments allow teachers to identify areas needing support and provide targeted assistance before students fall behind. The school also collaborates closely with families to develop individualized plans for students requiring additional help, including those with learning disabilities or language barriers. Though formal graduation is not applicable at this level, the school is proud of its track record in preparing students for middle school. The supportive environment and well-rounded curriculum help ensure students are confident and ready for the next phase of education.
Freedom Shores Elementary School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Freedom Shores Elementary School does not use GPA, SAT, or ACT scores as part of its admission process as it serves kindergarten through fifth grade. Instead, the admissions team focuses on residency verification within the district boundaries and prioritizes enrollment based on available space. For kindergarten applicants, readiness assessments and developmental screenings are sometimes conducted to help place students in appropriate programs, but these do not impact admission decisions. The school values inclusivity and ensures that all children living within the attendance area have access to education. Families outside the district may apply for transfer, but acceptance depends on capacity and is subject to a lottery system if applications exceed available seats.
Acceptance Rate
| Year | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 92% |
| 2022 | 90% |
| 2021 | 88% |
Application Requirements
Admission to Freedom Shores Elementary primarily requires proof of residency within the designated school district boundaries. Families must provide documents such as utility bills, lease agreements, or home purchase papers to confirm residency. For kindergarten enrollment, children must meet the age requirement by September 1 and submit birth certificates and immunization records. The school also requires completion of an enrollment form and emergency contact information. Transfer applications from outside the district are subject to availability and require similar documentation. Immunization compliance is strictly enforced to ensure student health and safety. While readiness assessments may be conducted, they are used solely to tailor educational support and not as admission criteria. The school strives to maintain an open, welcoming process and provides assistance to families who need help with paperwork or language translation.
Enrollment Overview
Freedom Shores Elementary serves a diverse population of approximately 589 students across kindergarten through fifth grade. Enrollment has remained steady over recent years, reflecting the stable residential community surrounding the school. The school prioritizes in-district students while also accommodating a limited number of transfer requests based on space availability. The enrollment process is streamlined to ensure families can register their children quickly and begin school on time. The school offers support for English language learners and students with special needs, ensuring that enrollment includes provisions for necessary accommodations. Enrollment trends show a balanced distribution across grade levels, with a slight increase in kindergarten applications as the community grows. The school’s administrative team works closely with families to ensure smooth transitions, especially for incoming students.
Application Process
- Submit proof of residency documents and completed enrollment form
- Provide child’s birth certificate and immunization records
- Attend kindergarten readiness screening, if applicable
- Complete emergency contact and medical information forms
- Submit transfer application (if applicable) for out-of-district students
- Await notification of acceptance or placement
- Confirm enrollment by submitting required forms and attending orientation
Application Deadlines and Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | February 15 |
| Application Deadline | April 30 |
| Decision Notification | May 20 |
| Enrollment Deadline | June 10 |
| Orientation Sessions | August 10-15 |
Essay Prompt
Freedom Shores Elementary encourages incoming students to express their interests and goals through a simple personal essay or drawing, especially for kindergarten applicants. The prompt invites children to share what they are most excited about learning at school and what makes them unique. This creative exercise helps teachers understand each student’s personality and learning style. For parents, the prompt provides an opportunity to describe their child’s strengths, interests, and any areas where additional support may be helpful. This holistic approach to admissions fosters a welcoming environment and ensures that educators can tailor early learning experiences. The school values diversity and individual expression, viewing the essay as a chance to celebrate each child’s voice as they begin their educational journey.
Freedom Shores Elementary School Scholarships
While Freedom Shores Elementary is a public school with no tuition fees, it offers various financial assistance programs for families in need, particularly for extracurricular activities and summer school enrollment. The school partners with community organizations to provide scholarships covering costs for field trips, art supplies, and after-school programs. Families experiencing financial hardship can apply for these scholarships confidentially through the school’s social worker or counseling office. Additionally, the school offers free and reduced-price lunch programs to eligible students, ensuring that all children receive nutritious meals. These efforts are designed to remove economic barriers and promote equal participation in all aspects of school life. The administration actively seeks grants and donations to expand available resources and support low-income families.
Freedom Shores Elementary School Tuition Fees and Costs
| Item | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | N/A – Public |
| Registration Fee | $35 |
| Technology Fee | $15 |
| Activity Fee | $40 |
| Books and Supplies | $50 |
| Optional Lunch Program | $180 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Freedom Shores Elementary serves a culturally and socioeconomically diverse student body. The school community reflects the broader Bellevue area, with families from various ethnic backgrounds and multiple languages spoken at home. This diversity enriches the school environment, promoting multicultural understanding and respect. The school provides targeted support for English language learners and emphasizes inclusive practices to ensure equitable participation. Socioeconomic diversity is also present, with the school committed to supporting students from different income levels through various assistance programs. The demographic mix influences the curriculum and extracurricular offerings, encouraging students to learn about global cultures alongside core academic subjects. Parents and staff work collaboratively to maintain a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates differences and fosters unity.
Low-Income Students and Students with Disabilities
Approximately 18% of students at Freedom Shores Elementary qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, indicating a notable proportion of low-income families. The school provides additional resources such as counseling, academic support, and community referrals to assist these students and their families. Students with disabilities make up around 12% of the population, including those with learning, physical, and developmental challenges. The school employs a dedicated special education team that collaborates with classroom teachers to create Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to each student’s needs. Inclusive classrooms and specialized support services help ensure all students have access to a meaningful education. Regular training enables staff to implement accommodations effectively. The school’s commitment to equity is evident in its proactive approach to meeting diverse student needs.
Student Body Overview
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female Students | 49% |
| Male Students | 51% |
| Caucasian | 42% |
| African American | 13% |
| Hispanic | 18% |
| Asian | 22% |
| Other/Multiracial | 5% |
University Diversity
Although Freedom Shores Elementary is an elementary school and does not confer university degrees, the diversity within its student body lays a strong foundation for future academic success and global citizenship. The school’s inclusive culture encourages students from all backgrounds to appreciate different perspectives and develop empathy, traits that are vital for success in higher education environments. Exposure to diverse cultures and languages enhances students’ adaptability and communication skills, which are essential in increasingly diverse university settings. The school’s focus on equitable access to resources and individualized support prepares students to thrive in competitive academic environments. By fostering respect for multiculturalism from an early age, Freedom Shores Elementary contributes to a future generation of learners who value diversity and inclusivity in their educational journeys.
Average Earnings
As an elementary school, Freedom Shores Elementary does not track earnings data for its students. However, the school’s focus on strong foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking equips students with essential tools for lifelong success. This solid academic base is crucial for future educational attainment, which correlates strongly with higher earning potential in adulthood. The school’s encouragement of curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving fosters skills that are highly valued in the workforce. By supporting socio-emotional development and community engagement, Freedom Shores Elementary also helps students build soft skills necessary for career success. While direct earnings data is not applicable, the school’s role in early education is critical in shaping future economic opportunities for its students.
Graduation Rate
While Freedom Shores Elementary does not have a graduation rate typical of secondary schools, it boasts a high retention and promotion rate, with nearly all students advancing through the grade levels on schedule. The school’s comprehensive support systems, including early intervention and individualized assistance, contribute to this strong record. Parents and teachers collaborate to address academic or behavioral challenges promptly, preventing extended delays in student progress. The emphasis on a well-rounded education that includes social-emotional learning helps students develop resilience and motivation. Each year, the majority of students successfully transition to middle school prepared academically, socially, and emotionally. This effective groundwork supports continued success throughout their educational careers.
Freedom Shores Elementary School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Freedom Shores Elementary employs a dedicated team of 38 faculty members, including classroom teachers, special education specialists, counselors, and support personnel. The staff is known for their collaborative spirit and commitment to student-centered education. Teachers participate actively in professional learning communities and ongoing training to refine instructional techniques. Support staff, including aides and administrative personnel, provide essential services that keep the school running smoothly and ensure a positive environment. The school values open communication and teamwork, encouraging staff to share ideas and innovations. Many educators have worked at Freedom Shores for several years, fostering continuity and strong relationships with families. The administration maintains a supportive culture that prioritizes well-being and professional growth.
Faculty Profiles
The faculty at Freedom Shores Elementary boasts a diverse range of expertise and experience. Many teachers hold advanced degrees in education or specialized certifications, such as ESL endorsement or special education credentials. Several staff members have been recognized for excellence in teaching by district and state organizations, reflecting their dedication to student achievement. Teachers often bring creative instructional methods into the classroom, integrating technology and project-based learning. The special education team includes licensed specialists who collaborate closely with general educators to support students with diverse learning needs. Counselors provide social and emotional support, helping students navigate challenges and build resilience. Faculty members are actively involved in extracurricular programs, leading clubs, coaching sports, and organizing community service projects that enrich the student experience.
Freedom Shores Elementary School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life and Housing
Freedom Shores Elementary’s campus is situated in a residential neighborhood and features modern facilities designed to support a range of academic and extracurricular activities. The campus includes spacious classrooms, a well-equipped library, computer labs, art and music rooms, and outdoor play areas. Students enjoy a safe and welcoming environment with landscaped grounds that encourage outdoor learning and play. Although the school does not offer on-campus housing, the surrounding community provides safe and family-friendly neighborhoods. Many students walk or bike to school, fostering a sense of community among families. The school hosts regular events such as family nights, cultural celebrations, and school fairs that promote engagement and a strong community spirit. The campus is accessible and designed to accommodate students with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity in all areas.
Transportation
Transportation services at Freedom Shores Elementary include a fleet of school buses serving students who live beyond walking distance or in designated hazardous zones. The district provides bus routes with morning and afternoon schedules to accommodate families. Additionally, the school encourages walking and biking, with supervised crossing guards and bike racks available on campus. Carpooling is popular among families, reducing traffic congestion during drop-off and pick-up times. The school works closely with district transportation officials to ensure safety and punctuality. For students with special needs, specialized transportation arrangements are in place to provide door-to-door service when necessary. Clear communication about transportation policies and schedules is maintained through newsletters and the school website.
Job Openings and Career Opportunities
Freedom Shores Elementary periodically offers job openings for certified teachers, instructional aides, administrative staff, and support roles such as custodians and cafeteria workers. Candidates with experience in early childhood education, special education, and ESL instruction are highly valued. The school promotes professional development and career growth opportunities within the district, encouraging staff to pursue additional certifications and leadership roles. Seasonal and part-time positions may also be available for extracurricular program coordinators or summer school instructors. Prospective employees are encouraged to check the district’s online job portal regularly and submit applications through the official channels. The school values a diverse workforce and seeks candidates who are passionate about working with children in a collaborative, supportive environment.