University Cooperative School

Our family has enjoyed this school for 7 years. Students at this school are able to develop their strengths under the watchful eyes of caring teachers. The culture is kind, energetic, fun, and respectful. No meaningless busywork here! We will miss this school when we graduate and have to move on.
--Submitted by a parent

This is a wonderful school. The teachers are outstanding and we are very much looking forward to moving up to the next pod - our daughter is ready for it. The children genuinely care for each other and are very inclusive and welcoming. I think academics are good but what I think is better is all the discovery these kids get to do every day on who they are and how they fit into this giant world we live it.
--Submitted by a parent

I would have my kids attend no other school in Seattle. Each of my three children has attended UCoop, and each has become smart, creative, thoughtful, independent, and very successful, beyond my wildest dreams. The creativity of the teachers, specialists, and parents is inspiring, not just for the kids but for the community as well. The awareness that all of us develops toward social justice and thoughtful parenting is heartening, and strengthens our commitment to this wonderful place. To be sure, like any school, UCoop is not for every child. That's not to say it is an exclusionary/exclusive school: Each child has different needs. And it may not be for every family-- the commitment made and maintained by UC parents is a remarkable testament to the care and love we have for our kids and community, and requires effort and a willingness to support a largely volunteer operation, pitching in and "doing the right thing" sometimes without the kind of leadership and direction that larger, better funded schools offer. And that,. my friends is the UCoop Way.
--Submitted by a parent

U-Coop has it's share of academics but more to its core values, it is about experiential learning. I sooo wish that I could have gone here as a child. Both of my kids get that it is better than anything they hear their neighborhood friends chat about. I know all the parents because we run the school and take an active role.
--Submitted by a parent

University Cooperative is more than a school, it is a community. The teachers are amazing, dedicated, and invested, as are the parents. I had two kids that went through the program and came out strong in who they are, academically capable, and happy enthusiastic learners. I can not recommend it more highly.
--Submitted by a parent

Great school. We are new and our son loves school again! He is challenged and inspired by the great faculty. We were WARMLY welcomed by all of the fabulous parents. We were very surprised at all of this and love the program.
--Submitted by a parent

The dynamic, student centered learning left my daughter well prepared for middle school. At the same time, the school helped her learn to manage the complex dance of friendship and teamwork. Additionally, the co-op environment provides a warm and supportive environment for both student and parent to navigate the difficult task of being a family.
--Submitted by a parent

University Cooperative has been nothing short of fantastic. The teachers are not only caring, but truly passionate about teaching. We had our son overseas with us for several years, and attended what many believe to be "the best schools," one in Paris and the other in Munich. While the academics were very good and super competitive, we always felt something was missing. University Cooperative has filled that void. My unique, smart, and passionate child is honored as an individual, fully active in his own learning process by way of hands-on-learning, and above all, supported in a community as he strengthens his social and emotional skills along the way. University Cooperative is a special place and we are fortunate to be a part of this true work of art.
--Submitted by a parent

I agree with the last reviewer except my child is in the 3-5 class. The negative reviews are the exact opposite of our experience and I feel this school is exceptional. There is absolutely no "after thought" to academics. y child actually is extremely challenged and receives a fair share of homework. The teaching staff is incredible and the activities in school and out of school are nothing but amazing. In my honest opinion, it's a dream school for any child. Parents are committed and staff are top notch. The teacher who wrote the program for the 3-5 grades did an outstanding job. My child started mid-year and you would never know it. He was accepted with open arms by staff and classmates. There is not one bad thing I can say about this place. Very nurturing environment!
--Submitted by a parent

All schools have times of challenges. It sounds like 2009/10 was a year for the k2 side of the school. This year as a 1st grader- I am thrilled all those parents left and my child was able to get in to ucoop, there is very little school room chaos, the kids are caring, the academics are taught every day. There are many wonderful field trips, the Spanish program is terrific. The kids are taught to enjoy the outdoors in all weather conditions. And most importantly they are taught to be confident in who they are.
--Submitted by a parent