Charles Wright Academy

I can not say enough great things about this school. I have been in the upper school for two years after transferring from public schools. I was nervous at first about the small size of the school due to the fact that I didn't know if I would find people I liked there, however, this turned out to be a blessing. All the kids in all classes know each other on a personal basis. After a week there, the receptionist, the head of the upper school, head of the school, and both of the deans of students knew me by name. The kids here are extremely inclusive and inviting. I was frustrated at my last school because it was viewed as "uncool" to try and do well in school and wanting to succeed academically. Here the kids all care about how they do academically. However, they still have social lives just like normal teenagers. The teachers are exceptional. They make lessons very informative and interesting and always have time to help with things you don't understand. They even give out their home phone numbers to call if you need help after school! In two years, I can not find anything negative to say about this school.

Charles Wright Academy is the best. My son started at CWA in the 6th grade and will continue through the Upper School. Within CWA, there is a culture among students, parents, and staff that places a high value on learning and acheivement. We surveyed other schools in the South Sound and are very glad to be associated with CWA.
—Submitted by a parent

Charles Wright Academy is the finest private school in the south sound region of Washington State. My two children joined CWA in Middle School. Their transition from a much smaller private school was seamless. The school offers a challenging academic environment which is balanced by an array of sports, music, theatre, arts, outdoor ed, clubs, organizations, etc. There is something for everyone at Charles Wright Academy, including parents. If you want to be involved at your children's school and if you want to be a part of a "community", then CWA is the school for you and your family. I would highly recommend Charles Wright to any family who wants to provide their child/children with the best possible, most well-rounded education available in the greater Tacoma area. CWA's students come from all over the south sound, because it's worth it and that speaks volumes!
—Submitted by a parent

I ve had a lot of experience in teaching (43 years). Charles Wright gives each student/parent a chance to become involved in an incredible learning environment. After spending 25 years in the public schools, I find it truly enriching and up lifting that I m able to spend quality time with each of my students as they have need. If a better learning opportunity exists, I don t know where you would find it. Administrators, teachers, and staff work together as a cohesive unit with the goal being to educate our students. We have set and reached a very high level competency for our students. The results on national tests (AP Calculus 40% above the national average) and in college performance (The grades students get at CWA compare very favorably to the grades they get in college) speak to the level of preparation each student attains. I came here to complete my 30-year teaching career and can t get myself to quit. What a wonderful place to teach.
—Submitted by a teacher

One of the most impressive things about Charles Wright Academy is that teachers have the flexibility to teach about subjects in ways that best meet the students' needs. Classrooms are filled with hands-on learning, laughter, discussion, reading, writing, and problem solving. We foster in students the skills to become lifelong self-directed learners who are interested in the world, through making learning fun and pulling back the curtain on what it means to learn.
—Submitted by a teacher

There are a lot of great public schools out there, but let's face it: Our public education system is broken. Public schools are suffering: overcrowded classrooms, inadequate facilities, not enough funding for textbooks, too much emphasis on tests, budget/staff cuts, a decrease in the arts, science, social studies, PE and computers. What draws many parents to CWA is what also drew me to work there. If parents need me, they call me up. If I need to talk to a parent, I can likely find them milling around after school - that's how involved our parent community is. Parents know their child is getting individualized attention with CWA's small classes. They know they are getting a well-rounded education with healthy exposure to the arts, science, technology, physical education -- things that are being cut back in other schools as emphasis has shifted to reading, writing and raising test scores. Yes, I teach there. So don't take my word. Schedule a visit, a tour. See for yourself. At CWA students work hard and develop habits that prepare them for high school, college and the "beyond" of adulthood. It's a place where genuine learning takes place for the sake of learning.
—Submitted by a teacher

We are the parents of two children at CWA and I am an alum, our affiliation with the school has been nothing short of spectacular. The kind of attention our lower schoolers have received have been of the highest quality. The administration and teachers are top notch. I highly recommend you taking a hard look at CWA.
—Submitted by a parent

Exclusive and elitist? Hardly! I attended Charles Wright for my high school years and the majority of my tuition was paid by scholarship monies. I know many other students who also received assistance. It's true that there are many families with children at CWA who are well off, but that by no means indicates that ALL of them are rolling in money. CWA taught me to think critically, too look beyond the obvious answers, and to continually challenge myself to do more. I know that my life would be significantly different without these skills, and I am eternally grateful to CWA.

Academically excellent but very exclusive and elitist.
—Submitted by a student

this is a great school it keeps its kids well rounded and hardworking, it also has extra activites for kids to have fun!

I have had 2 children enrolled at Charles Wright Academy since 2004. I removed my Kindergartner after he was put in time out for 2hrs with no phone call to me or his mother. I have decided not to enroll my eldest son in Middle school due to the lack of consistent teaching methods and discipline. I caution any parent considering CWA to look beyond the pretty new buildings and ask why parents in record numbers are moving there children out of Charles Wright.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter joined CWA in pre-school. Initially, we were a bit worried about full day school for 4 year olds. However, after just a few days, I was amazed at how well thought out the curriculum really was. You could really see how well these little kids were being mentored. Yes the academics are important, but the CWA is more than just about academics. Its about personhood.
—Submitted by a parent

My son was at Charles Wright for his high school years. I can't say enough good things about the quality of the teachers he had there, or the value of the entire experience. CWA completely prepared him for Whitman College. Although his attendance at CWA meant a long daily commute for us, we found it completely worth it.
—Submitted by a parent

it is the best school in the state hands down
—Submitted by a parent

I am so happy that my son attends Charles Wright. He enjoys his classes and he finds the work both challenging and rewarding. He feels the teachers are engaging and really care about the students
—Submitted by a parent

Our son began at CWA as a seventh grader and was immediately welcomed by his peers, challenged by top-rate teachers, and encouraged to take risks - trying new ways of thinking and new sports, opportunties we don't believe he would have had (or felt safe taking advantage of) in our local public school. We especially appreciate the strong connections he and other students make with faculty; teachers' involvement in students' extra-curricular activities such as sports and clubs; their frequent and timely communications with parents; and the community service projects. Our middle schooler has blossomed in this environment that values diversity of all kinds, including economic. Although we had planned to have him attend a public high school, his academic and emotional growth have convinced us to allow him to continue into the Upper School, grades 9-12, although this will mean financial sacrifices on our part.
—Submitted by a parent

Simply put, Charles Wright is a second-rate private high school in a third-rate town. Because of its location, it can't attract a top-tier student body. But, who cares! The people in the top 25% of the class are as bright as the kids at any first-rate private school (boarding or day), and its Tacoma location keeps it down-to-earth and able to attract and retain some really special teachers that want to live in the Pacific Northwest.
—Submitted by a student

This is a fantastic school! the curriculum is rigorous and the teachers very impressive. They make a great effort to help and get to know students. The small size encourages self actualization into drama, music , art or sports. Pricey but so worth it. Great assistance with college searching.
—Submitted by a parent

Amazing teachers and wonderful curriculum. My son came home from public school saying 'my teachers are stupid and my classes are boring.' Never such a complaint from him at CWA. College entrance help is outstanding with two full time staff devoted to this difficult process. Small classes, nice kids, great teaching.
—Submitted by a parent