Matheia School

I was a student at Mathiea, and it was the greatest school I think I'll ever go to. It made even my least favorite subjects seem almost fun, and my favorite subjects that much better. The only thing that would make this school better is if it didn't stop at 5th grade!

We have a five year old in Kindergarten at Matheia, and there is not a day that goes by that we don't realize how fortunate we are to be a part of this gem of a school. Small class size, incredible teacher focus and commitment, and a strong spirit of community involvement characterize Matheia. Add to that a strong academic curriculum, and an hour of play time for the kids at the nearby park everyday, rain or shine. Run, don't walk, to register!
--Submitted by a parent

Matheia is more than JUST a school! They are a tight knit community. The teachers want what is best for each and every student. Their low student to teacher ratio allows them the time to attend to the individual needs of each child. Matheia has been a wonderful fit for both of my children! They have nurtured, challanged and encouraged them academically, emotionally and socially. The attention that they have received, allows them to grow and learn individually. They have encouraged my shy cautious daughter out of her shell, to share her opinions and knowledge with her schoolmates. She has blossomed into a leader! Matheia has taught my outgoing son to slow down and take problems one step at a time. He has become a veracious reader, devouring books left and right. Matheia has taught them to advocate for themselves and those around them. Teaching them analytical problem solving skills that can be used for academic purposes or for problems that crop up with friends (and parents). Matheia is more than JUST a school, they have been partners in raising my children.
--Submitted by a parent

This is an amazing and loving school. The art program alone is phenomenal - our first grade daughter comes home and teaches us about artists with such passion, things we didn't even learn in art class in college! On top of that, the emphasis on reading is our favorite part of the school. Our daughter entered their pre-k class already knowing how to read and they quickly moved her up into a reading group with peers, even though they were older than she was. The reading groups are formed by ability, not age, which is fantastic. Each child is able to grow in their reading ability at their own pace. After reading is over, the children return to their age-group/grade level for the rest of their classes. Each subject is taught by a specialist (i.e. science teacher, math teacher, language arts teacher, etc) so you get teachers who are passionate about their subject matter and that translates into fun & fascinating classes. Because each class is so small (10 kids max) the work can be customized for each student based on what kind of help the child needs. There are so many little "touches" that make this school feel like a 2nd home. Parents are VERY warm & friendly to ea other.
--Submitted by a parent

We have been a Matheia family for 4 years - with 2 kids currently enrolled. We looked at many private and public school options and are so happy with our decision to place them both at Matheia. Small class size (10 students per class), amazing faculty, experiential learning and strong school community all contribute to what I feel has been a phenomenal educational and personal growth experience for my children. Each day, in addition to very strong Math (Singapore method) and Language Arts programs, the students also participate DAILY in Science, Social Studies and Art you won t find this in many schools.... There are also daily electives (student-chosen and very creative) as well as a Spanish program. They also spend an hour out-of-doors, rain or shine, 5-days a week throughout the year. Tuition is reasonable (in comparison to other private school institutions in Seattle) and has been worth every penny to our family. The school's mission (and they truly exceed this) is: To spark the imagination, intellect and community spirit of children in order that they will carry the joys of learning and social involvement well beyond the classroom.
--Submitted by a parent

Excellent school with very small class size. Teachers are dedicated, experienced and passionate. Classes are taught by specialists and students have science, art, language arts, math, P.E. and an elective everyday. There is a strong emphasis on developing the emotional and social developmnt of the kids. The core teachers remain the same. Truly a special school on all levels.
--Submitted by a parent

What a fabulous school! I feel such gratitude to the teachers and staff- my son has regained his love of learning after a very rough start at another private school. His academics were assessed and he was given specific help to catch up with his peers. It truly is a program capable of addressing each student's abilities and challenging them positively and constantly. The art and science classes are absolutely fabulous, such a gift to our students; social studies is super fun (imagine!); math is engaging and language arts is rigorous with very creative projects. The governance structure is clear and entirely child focused, the logistics are simple and supportive (one go to person who is friendly and knows everything, free childcare for meetings). There is a tradition of only ONE super fun, low key, fundraiser a year. Parents are welcoming. Wow!
--Submitted by a parent

Our son spent three early years in the Seattle School District's blended pre-school programs - kids with IEP's (individualized education plans) in small sized classes, mixed with typically developing kids. It was a good start, but going into first grade meant being mainstreamed into a class with 27+kids. I went into a panic, knowing he would be the one to fall through the cracks. On Labor Day week-end I called Matheia and spoke with Donna, the gatekeeper extraordinare, who set up a time for my husband and I to come in. Allison and Donna graciously met with us the next day and were nothing but encouraging. A big difference from another private school, which wanted to put our son on probation to see if he would be a 'good fit'. Two and half years later,he's a happy, healthy, well liked 3rd grader and the fit at Matheia has been just right.
--Submitted by a parent

This is a lovely little school. Our son is energized by school every day. Matheia offers small class sizes (ten or fewer kids) and an environment that is fun and engaging and solidly academic, yet as warm and comfortable as a cup of hot cocoa on a snowy day. Seriously. Art, Science, Social Studies, Math, Writing, PE every day. Reading every morning in small groups based on ability, rather than age or grade. Games of strategy to learn math (in addition to a solid curriculum). The families are warm and inclusive. The teachers and staff are the real deal and love engaging children across a range of abilities. Their small class size and dedication mean that all the children thrive here. For a private school in Seattle - and we looked at several - Matheia is an incredible bargain.
--Submitted by a parent

I have 2 boys at Matheia, in KG and 1st grade. I have been amazed at the transformation in my 1st grader who has transformed into a voracious learner, science enthusiast and is now reading at a 3rd grade level. My younger son loves art and I feel so lucky that his artistic interests are just as encourages as academic ones. The parent community has been very inviting. I am proud to be part of the school and would recommend it everyone!
--Submitted by a parent