Loyal Heights Elementary School
General Information
Loyal Heights Elementary School is a public elementary school located in Seattle, Washington, serving students from Kindergarten through 5th grade. Situated in the Loyal Heights neighborhood, the school is part of Seattle Public Schools District No. 1 and is well-known for its strong academic performance and community involvement. The school’s historic building, designated a landmark by the City of Seattle’s Landmarks Preservation Board, reflects its longstanding presence in the community with origins dating back to the early 20th century. Renovations completed in 2018 preserved historic architectural elements while adding modern learning spaces, expanded classrooms, a gymnasium, art and music facilities, and a larger covered playground, addressing growth and enhancing student learning environments. Loyal Heights emphasizes continuous school improvement through its School Improvement Plan, setting specific performance goals and collaborative strategies to support student learning and success across all grade levels. With a student population of over 500 and a student-teacher ratio below many state averages, the school typically demonstrates above-average proficiency on standardized assessments, making it a sought-after choice for local families. School leadership, staff, and a proactive Parent Teacher Association contribute actively to fostering a supportive and inclusive educational culture. (SchoolDigger)
Reviews
Loyal Heights Elementary School consistently receives positive evaluations from school performance data and parent review sources, often ranking among the top 10 % of public elementary schools in Washington state for overall test scores. Standardized proficiency scores indicate a high level of achievement in both math and reading, with math and reading proficiency percentages significantly exceeding state averages. Academically, the school is lauded for its strong performance relative to other elementary schools statewide, contributing to its high ranking and overall rating in public school review platforms. Parents and community observers often highlight the supportive and involved atmosphere, with active collaboration between teachers, staff, and the PTA enhancing the educational experience. The relatively low student-teacher ratio supports individualized attention and fosters an environment conducive to learning and academic growth. Reviews also emphasize the benefits of updated and expanded facilities resulting from recent modernization efforts, providing improved spaces for instruction and student activities. While standardized test scores are one aspect of evaluation, the broader community recognizes the school’s role in holistic child development through extracurricular engagement and family involvement opportunities. (SchoolDigger)
Contact Information
- Phone: 206-252-6000 (Seattle Public Schools)
- Fax: 206-252-6001 (Seattle Public Schools)
- Attendance Line: 206-252-6004 (Loyal Heights PTA)
- Email (attendance inquiries): loyalheights.attendance@seattleschools.org (Loyal Heights PTA)
- Address: 7735 25th Avenue NW, Seattle, WA 98117 (Loyal Heights PTA)
- Principal: Michael Berkenwald, mlberkenwald@seattleschools.org (Seattle Public Schools)
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | Early 20th century origins (first buildings 1919, brick building 1932) |
| School Type | Public Elementary School |
| Grades | Kindergarten – 5 |
| District | Seattle Public Schools No. 1 |
| Enrollment | ~533 students |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | ~17:1 |
| Historic Status | Designated Historic Landmark |
| PTA | Active Parent Teacher Association |
| Recent Renovation | Addition & Modernization completed 2018 |
Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position |
|---|---|
| Washington State Test Score Rank | Top 10 % |
| Math Proficiency | Top 10 % |
| Reading Proficiency | Top 20 % |
| Science Proficiency | Top 20 % |
Loyal Heights Elementary School Academics
Faculties / Departments
- Early Childhood Education (Kindergarten)
- Lower Elementary (Grades 1–3)
- Upper Elementary (Grades 4–5)
- Special Education Support
- Reading and Language Arts Department
- Mathematics Department
- Arts and Music Department
- Physical Education and Wellness
Loyal Heights Elementary School Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Core Curriculum: English Language Arts
- Core Curriculum: Mathematics
- Core Curriculum: Science
- Core Curriculum: Social Studies
- Art and Visual Arts Education
- Music Education
- Physical Education and Health
- Special Education Services
- English Language Learner Support Programs
Online Learning
Loyal Heights Elementary School participates in district-wide digital learning initiatives that supplement in-class instruction with online educational tools and resources. These platforms provide homework support, reading and math practice, and interactive lessons aligned with curriculum standards. Online resources are utilized as extensions of classroom teachings rather than full remote learning programs, emphasizing blended learning applications that reinforce student engagement and adaptability. Tools may include learning management systems adopted by Seattle Public Schools, enabling families to access grades, assignments, and feedback, thereby supporting continuity of learning both inside and outside school hours.
Degrees and Certifications
Unlike secondary or higher education institutions, Loyal Heights Elementary School does not confer degrees or certifications. Academic progress is marked by grade promotion annually from Kindergarten through 5th grade, with students developing foundational literacy, numeracy, scientific thinking, and social skills aligned with district and state learning standards. Completion of grade 5 serves as the transition point to middle school education within the Seattle Public Schools system.
Summer School
Loyal Heights Elementary School typically offers or facilitates summer learning opportunities through district programs designed to support academic enrichment and skill reinforcement. These programs focus on core subjects such as reading and math and may include enrichment activities that foster creativity and engagement. Summer offerings aim to help students maintain academic momentum, address learning gaps, and prepare for the upcoming school year.
Average Test Scores
| Subject | Proficiency % |
|---|---|
| Math | ~70 % (higher than state average) |
| Reading/Language Arts | ~72 % (higher than state average) |
| Science | ~65-69 % (above average) |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Retention and graduation metrics typical to high schools or universities are not applicable to Loyal Heights Elementary School. Academic progression is structured by grade advancement, with most students advancing yearly after demonstrating mastery of key learning objectives appropriate to their grade level.
Loyal Heights Elementary School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Assessment metrics such as GPA ranges or SAT/ACT scores are not applicable to elementary school admissions. Enrollment is determined by district policies, attendance boundaries, and local residency requirements within the Seattle Public Schools system.
Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Enrollment Acceptance | Based on local school boundary and district placement |
| Lottery Enrollment | Not typical for neighborhood elementary placement |
Application Requirements
Enrollment at Loyal Heights Elementary School is guided by Seattle Public Schools district procedures. Families seeking to enroll a student must provide proof of residence within the school’s attendance zone, birth certificate or proof of age for Kindergarten eligibility, immunization records in compliance with state health requirements, and completed district registration forms. Additional documentation may include emergency contact information and custody documentation if applicable. The school district may also require completion of data verification annually to maintain accurate student records. As a neighborhood school, placement priority is given to students whose families reside within designated boundaries, while out-of-area enrollment requests are subject to district approval based on capacity and policy.
Enrollment Overview
- Provide proof of residency within attendance boundary
- Birth certificate or age documentation
- Immunization and health records
- Completed district registration forms
Application Process
- Complete Seattle Public Schools enrollment packet
- Submit required residency and health documents
- Attend orientation or meet with school registrar
- Confirm class placement and start date
Application Deadlines and Important Dates
| Deadline / Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Annual Enrollment Opens | Varies per school year (typically early spring) |
| First Day of School | August/September |
| Registration Verification | Annually prior to school year |
Essay Prompt
Not applicable for elementary school enrollment; no essay prompt is required.
Loyal Heights Elementary School Scholarships
Elementary schools do not typically offer scholarships. Financial support may be available through district programs for activities, school materials, or community partnerships, especially for eligible low-income families.
Loyal Heights Elementary School Tuition Fees and Costs
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Public school; no tuition for in-district students |
| Materials & Supplies | Standard school supplies required (parent-provided) |
| Optional Activities | Vary by program (field trips, extracurriculars) |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Loyal Heights Elementary School’s student population is diverse, with representation from multiple racial and ethnic backgrounds. In recent data, the majority of students identify as White, with significant representation from students identifying with two or more races, Hispanic, Asian, and African American backgrounds. Minority enrollment typically accounts for over a quarter of the student body, reflecting a moderately diverse learning community. Efforts to support equitable learning outcomes include tailored instructional strategies and inclusive curriculum resources that acknowledge cultural differences and promote academic success for all students.
Low-Income Students and Students with Disabilities
Like many public schools, Loyal Heights Elementary School serves students from a range of socio-economic backgrounds, including families eligible for free or reduced-price lunch programs. Support services for students with disabilities are provided through the district’s Special Education department, which collaborates with school staff to implement individualized education programs (IEPs) and accommodations that ensure equitable access to learning. These services focus on fostering growth in academic, social, and functional skills by adapting instruction to meet diverse needs.
Student Body Overview
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | ~533 students |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | ~17:1 |
| Minority Enrollment | ~27 % |
| Grades Served | K-5 |
University Diversity
Loyal Heights Elementary School demonstrates a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that embraces students from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The school community reflects the broader demographic composition of Seattle Public Schools, with students from various racial and socio-economic groups learning side by side. Diversity initiatives within the school focus on creating equitable opportunities for all students, incorporating multicultural perspectives into classroom discussions, and ensuring that instructional materials represent a wide range of voices. Teachers and staff engage in ongoing professional development to better understand cultural competency, reduce bias, and implement practices that address the needs of diverse learners effectively. Family engagement programs further contribute to a culturally responsive school climate, encouraging collaboration between families and educators to support student success.
Average Earnings
As an elementary school, data on average earnings isn’t applicable in the traditional sense. However, long-term benefits associated with attendance often correlate with successful academic preparation that contributes to future educational attainment. Strong foundational learning at this stage supports students’ readiness for subsequent educational levels, which can influence lifelong learning trajectories and future career opportunities.
Graduation Rate
Elementarily schools do not report graduation rates as they are not degree-granting institutions; students advance by grade level upon meeting academic and developmental goals.
Loyal Heights Elementary School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Loyal Heights Elementary School employs a dedicated team of educators and support personnel committed to fostering a nurturing and academically rigorous environment. Teachers hold appropriate state certification and engage in continuous professional development aligned with district priorities. In addition to classroom teachers, the staff includes specialists in art, music, physical education, and special education, ensuring a broad range of instructional support. Administrative personnel, including the principal and support staff, work collaboratively with families and community partners to address student needs, maintain school operations, and implement school improvement initiatives.
Faculty Profiles
Profiles of faculty and staff at Loyal Heights reflect a diverse array of teaching experience and subject expertise. Classroom teachers often bring years of experience in elementary education, with specialized training in differentiated instruction, literacy development, and student engagement techniques. Support personnel include instructional aides, counselors, and specialists who contribute to student well-being and academic enrichment. Leadership from the principal and administrative team emphasizes collaboration, data-driven instruction, and creating a school culture that prioritizes respect, inclusivity, and high expectations for all learners.
Loyal Heights Elementary School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life and Housing
Loyal Heights Elementary School’s campus includes modernized educational facilities alongside historic architectural features. The school provides welcoming learning spaces, outdoor play areas, a gymnasium, art and music rooms, and collaborative common areas that support varied instructional activities. While the school itself does not provide housing, families reside in the surrounding Loyal Heights neighborhood, which offers residential options ranging from single-family homes to apartments, contributing to a stable and engaged community ecosystem that supports student life beyond the classroom.
Transportation
Students attending Loyal Heights Elementary School typically access the campus through district-provided transportation services, walking, biking, or being dropped off by families. Seattle Public Schools coordinates bus routes and safety protocols for eligible students based on distance from the school and district guidelines. The neighborhood setting also enables many families to leverage pedestrian and bicycle routes, enhancing safe and active travel to and from school.
Job Openings and Career Opportunities
Career opportunities at Loyal Heights Elementary School may arise within the framework of Seattle Public Schools employment needs. Positions may include classroom teachers, instructional aides, specialists in curriculum areas, administrative support, and custodial staff. Interested applicants typically apply through the district’s central human resources portal, which lists current job openings, application instructions, and qualification requirements. Employment at the school or district level often includes benefits, professional development opportunities, and a commitment to serving diverse student populations.