Sunset Elementary School

I can't imagine sending my children to a better school! The parental involvement is spectacular and the staff is incredibly dedicated. The classes sizes are good size (22-25) and they is such a strong sense of community among the Sockeyes. Any review without mention of Mr. Hamasaki would be shameful. I have never known a pricipal to give so much of his heart and soul to a school. He gives 200% to his kids and goes above and beyond. He is at every PTA activity and usually is dressed up. Every year the school celebrates Mr. Hamasaki day by wearing silly ties or WSU gear. Last year he hosted a reception at the district office for all the children who had artwork chosen to be displayed. He did that. He went out and bought cookies and punch, took their pictures and celebrated their success. He personally published a newsletter EVERY MONDAY with school news and pictures that he takes during the week. He knows every child by name and is a wonderful man!
—Submitted by a parent

We love the school . My daughter don't want to leve the school and go for another school for 6th grade. She said i wish i stay and study till 10th. Me and my wife will recomond this school .
—Submitted by a parent

I love this school! We may be moving to another state and I am heartsick over leaving Sunset. The principal, Mr. Hamasaki, is amazing and seems like he would do anything for his students. Parental involvement is incredible - 100% PTA participation for the school 9 years in a row. My first grade daughter has art, drama, library time, science and animal science (2 different programs that run simutaneously), computer lab, music, and P.E. as part of her regular curriculum. The teachers are amazing, supportive, talented and truly dedicated to their students. Reading the previous reviews from a few years ago, I don't recognize them as the school my daughter attends now. Kudos for the changes that have clearly taken place.
—Submitted by a parent

Math curriculum has been changed/improved but a weak staff makes it still a below average program. Academic excellence is not demonstrated from the school leadership and the weak standards are evident throughout.
—Submitted by a parent

Parental involvement is high because they are picking up the slack for a poor staff and curriculum. Math curriculum is very bad and Science is pitiful. School district pays lip service to not tolerating bullying, but there's no action.
—Submitted by a parent

Great educational program, however I wish they would add more ethnic diversity in their choice of history and literature to provide kids with a more global view.
—Submitted by a parent

I am the parent of a former student (now HS freshman) attending school in NYS- we moved in 3rd grade...The bilingual program @ Sunset was fantastic and gave my daughter the opportunity to finish her NYS language grad requirment by 9th gr. - Looking back on the work it was some of the most challenging work she'd been asked to do....would highly recommend the program.
—Submitted by a parent

Sunset has strong partent involvement is constantly seeking ways to improve education.
—Submitted by a parent

Sunset elementary employs great teachers as well as students. Many of the students do above average on the WASL and ITBS testing. After they graduate they go to Pine Lake Middle or Issaquah Middle.
—Submitted by Ktsl, a student

Great program and wonderful parental support. Great test scores as well
—Submitted by a parent

My son is in the special kids preschool program. The teachers are excellent. They have a diverse background and are well educated with different diagnosis and treatment options. I highly recommend.
—Submitted by a parent

This is a wonderful school. The students are all important to their teachers, there are myriad activities to get the parents and the community involved, and parent involvement is amazing. The art, drama, music and computer programs they've provided have been a perfect fit for my first grader.
—Submitted by a parent