Best Preschools in Seattle: Top Programs for 2025
Seattle offers a wide array of high-quality preschool options for families seeking early education for their children. The city's commitment to early childhood education is evident in its award-winning Seattle Preschool Program (SPP) and the diverse range of private institutions available.
While the best preschools in Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Jose often get more attention, Seattle's institutions are up there with any in the country.
While this guide will broadly discuss Seattle's best preschools, if you want a school specifically tailored to your child's particular needs, the Preschools Near Me AI can offer a personalized recommendation.
Seattle Preschool Program (SPP)
The Seattle Preschool Program (SPP) is a nationally recognized initiative that provides high-quality and accessible preschool education. In 2023, SPP received its second consecutive gold medal award from CityHealth and the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) at Rutgers University. This recognition places Seattle among the top 22 cities out of 75 rated for preschool programming excellence.
SPP offers a full-time, research-based curriculum taught by certified staff in inclusive early childhood learning environments. The program serves nearly 2,000 children and plays a key role in Seattle’s strategy to eliminate race-based opportunity gaps in education. With 73 percent of enrolled families coming from BIPOC communities, SPP demonstrates a strong commitment to equity in education.
SPP Locations
SPP is available at various elementary schools across Seattle, including:
Dearborn Park
Highland Park
Sand Point
Additionally, the Seattle Preschool Program Plus (SPP Plus) offers inclusive opportunities for students with and without disabilities at locations such as:
Arbor Heights Elementary
Bailey Gatzert Elementary
BF Day Elementary
Magnolia Elementary
North Beach Elementary
Olympic Hills Elementary
Rising Star Elementary
South Shore Elementary
Top-Rated Private Preschools
While the Seattle Preschool Program offers excellent public options, many families also consider private preschools for their children. Here are some highly regarded private preschools in the Seattle area.
Annie Wright Schools
Located in Tacoma, Annie Wright Schools consistently ranks as one of the best private K-12 schools in the Seattle area. While it is not exclusively a preschool, it offers programs starting from pre-kindergarten. The school is praised for its supportive environment and comprehensive education.
Charles Wright Academy
Another top-rated private school offering preschool through 12th grade is Charles Wright Academy. The school is known for fostering a strong sense of community and preparing students for future academic challenges.
The Bear Creek School
Located in Redmond, The Bear Creek School offers programs from preschool through high school and is highly regarded in the Seattle metro area.
Specialized Preschool Programs
Seattle also has several specialized preschool programs that cater to different educational philosophies and needs.
Seattle Waldorf School
For families interested in Waldorf education, the Seattle Waldorf School offers programs starting from nursery school. The curriculum focuses on a holistic approach to learning by integrating arts and nature.
Discovery Montessori School
Located in West Seattle, Discovery Montessori School provides Montessori education for children from preschool to kindergarten. Montessori methods focus on child-led learning and hands-on experiences to foster independence and curiosity.
Highly Rated Public Elementary Schools with Preschool Programs
Several public elementary schools in the Seattle area offer high-quality preschool programs as part of their early childhood education curriculum.
Capt. Charles Wilkes Elementary School
Part of the Bainbridge Island School District, this school offers pre-K to 4th grade education and is highly rated for its strong academic foundation.
Laura Ingalls Wilder Elementary School
Located in the Lake Washington School District, this school provides pre-K to 5th-grade education and receives positive parent reviews for its engaged teachers and diverse curriculum.
Lockwood Elementary School
Part of the Northshore School District, Lockwood Elementary offers pre-K to 5th-grade education and is known for its passionate teachers, diverse programs, and specialized learning tracks like EAP and PACE.
Choosing the Right Preschool
When selecting a preschool in Seattle, parents should consider the following factors.
Location – Look for schools in North Seattle, from upper Queen Anne to Northgate, or consider options in Madison or Shoreline if willing to drive.
Educational philosophy – Decide whether you prefer traditional, Montessori, Waldorf, or other specialized approaches.
Schedule – Consider whether you need full-day or part-time programs to fit your family's needs.
Curriculum – Look for schools with research-based curricula that help prepare children for kindergarten.
Inclusivity – Consider programs like SPP Plus, which offer inclusive environments for children with and without disabilities.
Cost – Compare tuition costs and look into financial assistance options, especially for public programs like SPP.
Parent involvement – Some parents prefer co-op preschools, which involve parents in the classroom and school operations.
Application Process
For the Seattle Preschool Program (SPP), families can apply online at seattle.gov/applyspp or call 206-386-1050 for more information. Enrollment for the upcoming school year typically opens in the preceding fall or winter.
For private preschools, application processes and deadlines vary. It is recommended to start researching and applying at least a year in advance, as some popular programs have waiting lists.
Conclusion
Seattle offers a rich variety of preschool options to fit different needs, learning styles, and family preferences. From the nationally recognized Seattle Preschool Program to highly rated private schools and specialized programs, families have many excellent choices for their children's early education.
The city's commitment to high-quality, accessible preschool education is evident in the continued success and expansion of SPP. This initiative, combined with the diverse range of private and specialized options, ensures that Seattle families can find the best preschool for their child's early learning journey.
As you explore these options, consider factors like location, teaching philosophy, curriculum, and cost. Visit multiple schools, talk to teachers and parents, and trust your instincts about what feels best for your child. With careful research and planning, you can find a Seattle preschool that provides a strong foundation for your child’s educational success.