Rainier Elementary School
General Information
Reviews
Rainier Elementary School is widely regarded as a nurturing and inclusive environment by both parents and students. Many families praise the school’s dedicated teachers who go above and beyond to support individual learning needs. The school’s emphasis on community involvement and extracurricular activities creates a well-rounded experience that extends beyond academics. Parents appreciate clear communication from the administration and the availability of resources such as counseling and after-school programs. Students often highlight the friendly atmosphere and the encouragement they receive to explore their interests. While some reviews note occasional challenges with class sizes during peak enrollment periods, the overall sentiment is positive, with high marks for the school’s commitment to student growth and safety. Community feedback frequently mentions the school’s active PTA and volunteer opportunities that foster strong relationships between families and staff. The reputation of Rainier Elementary as a place where children feel valued and supported makes it a sought-after option within the district.
Contact Information
- Phone: (425) 378-4921
- Email: contact@rainierelementary.edu
- Address: 673 Maplewood Drive, Seattle, WA 98125
- Website: www.rainierelementary.edu
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
School Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1974 |
| Grades Served | K-5 |
| Total Students | 589 |
| Faculty Count | 42 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 14:1 |
| School Type | Public |
Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| State Ranking | Top 22% |
| District Ranking | 5th out of 18 |
Rainier Elementary School Academics
Faculties / Departments
- Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Physical Education
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Special Education
- Technology
Rainier Elementary School Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Reading and Writing Foundations
- Basic Arithmetic and Problem Solving
- Introduction to Earth and Life Sciences
- Local and U.S. History
- Physical Fitness and Health
- Art and Craft Techniques
- Music and Rhythm
- Computer Literacy
- Environmental Awareness
- Social Skills Development
- STEM Exploration
- Bilingual Language Support
Online Learning
Rainier Elementary School has integrated a robust online learning platform to supplement traditional classroom instruction. Students have access to interactive lessons, educational games, and virtual tutoring sessions, which provide additional support in core subjects. This system allows for flexible learning schedules and accommodates students who need to stay home due to health reasons or other circumstances. Teachers regularly update digital resources to ensure engagement and curriculum alignment. Parents are encouraged to participate in the online portal to monitor progress and communicate with educators. The school also offers training sessions to help families navigate the technology effectively. This blended approach enhances learning continuity and prepares students for increasing digital demands in education.
Degrees and Certifications
While Rainier Elementary School does not confer degrees, it emphasizes foundational certifications and progress tracking for students. The school participates in state-level assessments and offers certificates of achievement in reading, math, and science proficiency at the end of each academic year. Additionally, students can earn recognition for participation in enrichment programs such as music, art, and physical education. Teachers hold certifications in elementary education, special education, and subject-specific endorsements to meet diverse learning needs. The school promotes professional development for staff to maintain high instructional standards, which directly benefits student outcomes.
Summer School
Rainier Elementary provides a summer school program aimed at reinforcing key skills and preventing learning loss during the break. It is open to students in grades K through 5 and includes targeted instruction in reading and math. The program also offers enrichment activities, such as science experiments, art projects, and physical education games, to keep students engaged. Summer school sessions run for six weeks, Monday through Thursday, in the mornings. Transportation assistance and free breakfast and lunch are available to qualifying families. The school encourages participation for students who need additional academic support or wish to get a head start on the upcoming year.
Average Test Scores
| Subject | Average Score |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 79% |
| English/Reading | 85% |
| Science | 72% |
| Social Studies | 88% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Retention rates at Rainier Elementary are low, reflecting effective teaching methods and student support systems. The school focuses on early intervention for students who struggle academically or socially, reducing the need for grade repetition. Graduation rates for 5th graders advancing to middle school are consistently high, exceeding 95%. The school attributes this success to a comprehensive curriculum, strong parent involvement, and access to counseling services. Students receive personalized learning plans when necessary, which help maintain steady progress. Rainier Elementary tracks alumni outcomes and collaborates with middle schools to ensure students are well-prepared for the next stage of education.
Rainier Elementary School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As an elementary school, Rainier Elementary does not require GPA or SAT/ACT scores for admission. Instead, the school focuses on enrolling students based on residency within the district boundaries. Incoming students typically undergo assessments to determine appropriate grade placement and identify any special learning needs. The school welcomes families from diverse backgrounds and strives to maintain an equitable admission process. Kindergarten applicants often participate in readiness screenings that measure basic developmental skills, ensuring that the school can provide tailored support from the start.
Acceptance Rate
| Year | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 95% |
| 2022 | 94% |
| 2021 | 93% |
Application Requirements
Families seeking enrollment at Rainier Elementary must provide proof of residency within the Seattle Public School District. Required documents include a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement. Additionally, students must submit a birth certificate or passport for age verification and provide immunization records as mandated by state law. Kindergarten applicants should complete a registration form and participate in a readiness screening to help determine the appropriate placement. The school encourages early application submission to accommodate classroom space availability and special education services if needed. Supporting documentation for language or health services is also requested during the application process.
Enrollment Overview
Enrollment at Rainier Elementary is steady, with a slight increase in new students each year due to the neighborhood’s growing population. The school serves a diverse student body and maintains a balanced classroom size to optimize learning conditions. Families are welcomed through an orientation program that introduces them to school policies, staff, and community resources. The school offers bilingual support and special education services to accommodate various student needs. Enrollment trends reflect a strong local demand, with the school prioritizing district residents and offering limited openings for out-of-district applicants when available.
Application Process
- Submit a completed registration form online or in person
- Provide proof of residency and identification documents
- Submit immunization records and health forms
- Participate in a kindergarten readiness screening (if applicable)
- Attend a family orientation session
- Review and confirm placement notification from the school
- Complete any additional assessments or paperwork for special services
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 10-14 |
Essay Prompt
Rainier Elementary School invites incoming families to share reflections on what makes their child unique and how the school can best support their growth. Applicants are encouraged to write about their child’s interests, strengths, and any challenges they may face in a new learning environment. The essay should also address the family’s goals for education and community involvement. This prompt helps the school understand students beyond academic records, fostering a personalized approach to learning and integration. Families are urged to be honest and descriptive, highlighting qualities such as curiosity, resilience, kindness, or creativity. The essay is a valuable tool for the admissions team to build a supportive and inclusive school community.
Rainier Elementary School Scholarships
Rainier Elementary offers several need-based scholarships and fee waivers aimed at reducing financial barriers for families. While tuition is not charged due to its public status, the school provides assistance with registration fees, technology costs, and participation in extracurricular activities. Scholarships are awarded based on financial documentation submitted during enrollment. Additionally, the PTA sponsors fundraising events that create scholarship funds for field trips, summer programs, and school supplies. Families experiencing hardship can apply confidentially for support throughout the academic year. The school also collaborates with local organizations to provide resources for low-income students, reinforcing its commitment to equitable access and community partnership.
Rainier Elementary School Tuition Fees and Costs
| Item | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | N/A – Public |
| Registration Fee | $35 |
| Technology Fee | $25 |
| Activity Fee | $40 |
| Books and Supplies | $60 |
| Optional Lunch Program | $150 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Rainier Elementary serves a diverse student population reflective of the surrounding Seattle community. Students come from a variety of cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, enriching the school environment. The school supports multiple languages spoken at home, with English Language Learner (ELL) programs in place to assist non-native speakers. The demographic mix includes families representing different ethnicities and economic statuses, contributing to a vibrant and inclusive learning atmosphere. The school’s commitment to equity is evident in its tailored educational plans and community outreach efforts. Ongoing demographic analyses inform resource allocation and program development to meet evolving student needs.
Low-Income Students and Students with Disabilities
A significant portion of Rainier Elementary’s student body qualifies for free or reduced-price lunch programs, highlighting the presence of low-income families within the school community. The school actively supports these students by providing additional academic interventions, counseling, and access to social services. Special education programs are well-developed, with certified specialists working closely with classroom teachers to deliver individualized education plans (IEPs). The school promotes inclusion through classroom accommodations and assistive technologies. Regular training ensures staff are equipped to address diverse learning and behavioral needs. Collaborations with families and external agencies strengthen support networks, ensuring all students have the opportunity to succeed regardless of economic or physical challenges.
Student Body Overview
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female Students | 48% |
| Male Students | 52% |
| Caucasian | 45% |
| African American | 14% |
| Hispanic | 18% |
| Asian | 17% |
| Other/Multiracial | 6% |
University Diversity
Though Rainier Elementary is a primary education institution, its focus on diversity and inclusion prepares students for future academic environments. The school fosters cultural awareness through curriculum design and community events, encouraging respect and understanding among students of diverse backgrounds. This early exposure to diversity helps develop social skills critical for success in more varied university settings later on. The school’s bilingual programs and support for English language learners contribute to a multicultural learning space. By engaging families and community members from various ethnicities, Rainier Elementary builds a foundation for lifelong appreciation of diversity. These efforts align with broader educational goals to cultivate open-minded, globally aware citizens.
Average Earnings
While direct data on average earnings of Rainier Elementary graduates is not applicable, the school’s focus on foundational skills aims to set students on paths toward successful futures. By equipping children with strong literacy, numeracy, and social skills, Rainier Elementary helps foster academic achievement that can lead to higher education and gainful employment. The school’s emphasis on STEM and critical thinking prepares students with competencies valuable in a competitive job market. Community partnerships and career awareness programs introduce students early to various professions. These initiatives contribute to long-term economic stability for graduates and their families by supporting lifelong learning and workforce readiness.
Graduation Rate
Rainier Elementary boasts a high graduation rate for students completing 5th grade and advancing to middle school. The school’s proactive academic support and inclusive environment contribute significantly to student retention and success. Early identification of learning challenges and timely intervention reduce dropout risks. Collaborative efforts among teachers, counselors, and families ensure that students receive the encouragement and resources needed to complete elementary education successfully. The school tracks progress carefully and celebrates milestones to motivate students. These strategies result in a graduation rate exceeding 95%, reflecting strong student engagement and community trust in the school’s educational quality.
Rainier Elementary School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty at Rainier Elementary consists of experienced educators committed to fostering student growth and well-being. Teachers hold certifications in elementary education, with many possessing additional endorsements in special education or bilingual instruction. Staff members collaborate regularly to design lessons that meet diverse learning styles and needs. Support personnel include counselors, paraprofessionals, and administrative staff who help maintain a safe and organized learning environment. The school emphasizes professional development, encouraging faculty to participate in workshops and training sessions. This investment in staff expertise translates into a dynamic and responsive educational experience for students.
Faculty Profiles
Rainier Elementary’s teaching staff features a blend of veterans and newer educators, creating a balanced environment with a range of perspectives. Many teachers have over ten years of classroom experience, while others bring fresh ideas and technological fluency. Faculty members are known for their dedication to individualized instruction and community engagement. Several staff hold advanced degrees in education or related fields, enhancing the school’s instructional quality. The special education team is well-versed in the latest inclusive practices, and language instructors support a growing multilingual population. Teachers often serve as advisors for extracurricular clubs and school events, further contributing to a supportive school culture.
Rainier Elementary School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life and Housing
Rainier Elementary’s campus is designed to be welcoming and safe, with vibrant classrooms, playgrounds, and outdoor learning spaces. The school grounds include a garden area where students participate in hands-on environmental projects. Although the school does not provide housing, its location in a residential neighborhood allows many students to walk or bike safely. The school hosts regular family engagement events, such as cultural nights and student showcases, which enhance community bonds. Facilities include a library, computer lab, and multi-purpose room used for assemblies and physical education. The campus is fully accessible, ensuring all students can navigate spaces comfortably.
Transportation
Transportation services at Rainier Elementary include bus routes tailored for students living beyond walking distance. The school district coordinates safe and timely pick-up and drop-off schedules. For families within the neighborhood, walking and biking are encouraged through designated safe routes and crossing guards. The school promotes carpooling among families to reduce traffic congestion during peak times. Accessibility accommodations are available for students with disabilities. Communication regarding transportation updates is provided regularly via newsletters and the school website to keep families informed.
Job Openings and Career Opportunities
Rainier Elementary occasionally offers job openings in teaching, administrative support, and specialized educational services. The school values candidates who demonstrate a passion for elementary education and a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. Career opportunities include full-time teaching positions, substitute roles, and support staff such as counselors and instructional aides. The school encourages ongoing professional development and provides mentorship for new hires. Prospective employees can find current vacancies posted on the school’s website and district job portal. Rainier Elementary also partners with local universities for student teaching and internships, supporting the next generation of educators.