Developing a Lifelong Passion for Learning
Welcome to Eton School
An Independent School Serving Students Age 3 Through Grade 8
Eton School’s Mission
In educating the whole child, Eton School inspires creative, confident thinkers who have an enduring passion for learning and are poised to contribute to the world.
A Note from the Head of School
Welcome to Eton School, an independent school serving children age three through eighth grade located in Bellevue, Washington. At Eton School, you find students smiling, learning, and engaged. You see teachers committed to the education of children intellectually, socially, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. As our Mission Statement and Core Values declare, our community is committed to the education of the whole child.
Firmly rooted in Montessori, our Pre-elementary (age 3–Kindergarten) and Lower Elementary (grades 1–3) programs serve as an ideal preparation for our Upper Elementary and Middle School. It is through these programs that the seeds of life-long learning are sown. Developmentally appropriate activities are introduced to each student by a teacher who acts not as a “sage - on-a -stage,” but as a facilitator or guide to develop a passion for learning permeated with independence and self-confidence.
The Upper Elementary and Middle School (grades 4–8) programs are Montessori-inspired and designed to offer students a challenging academic program in an age-appropriate learning environment that addresses their developmental needs and personal learning styles. At the same time, students experience leadership opportunities that do not exist in an isolated middle school or in a 6–12 setting.
Eton graduates are ready for the next step. They are academically prepared for any high school program, confident in their abilities, and sure of themselves as individuals.
The information in this folder is just a glimpse into the Eton School program and community. Please take time to explore our website to learn more about our programs, curriculum and community. Then, if you have not done so yet, schedule a tour or attend an open house to see the joyful learning that happens here every day.
Russell Smith Ph.D. Head of School
Eton graduates are ready for the next step. They are academically prepared for any high school program, confident in their abilities, and sure of themselves as individuals.
Core Values and Diversity
Developing A Lifelong Passion For Learning
At Eton School, every student develops a voice and learns to self-advocate.
We at Eton School commit to educate the whole child and honor the diversity of each individual.
Intellectually by
• Facilitating collaborative and independent learning
• Teaching academic skills in the context of cosmic education
• Developing higher order thinking through a vigorous curriculum
• Giving meaningful evaluation
Emotionally by
• Promoting unconditional acceptance of self
• Assisting personal growth
• Supporting the partnership between school and home
• Providing a nurturing environment
Socially by
• Promoting unconditional acceptance and respect of others
• Teaching communication and cooperation skills
• Fostering positive group interaction
• Cultivating a sense of responsibility and empathy
Physically by
• Recognizing the interdependence of mind and body
• Teaching respect and care for the body
• Assisting in the refining and strengthening of physical skills
• Valuing the need for purposeful movement
Spiritually by
• Inspiring a love of learning
• Encouraging self-determination
• Developing and nurturing global awareness
• Sharing joy, beauty and a reverence for life
We support these core values by providing developmentally designed programs and methodologies based on Montessori philosophy and educational research. We dedicate ourselves to lifelong learning.
Statement on Diversity
We believe in the worth and dignity of all people.
We learn, reflect, grow, and effect change through dialogue, education, and action.
We foster a community that acts with compassion, embraces discomfort, thinks critically, questions norms, and welcomes the world’s multiple perspectives.
We use our voices, challenge ourselves and others, and stand up for ourselves and others against injustice.
We champion, cultivate, and celebrate all members of our community so that we all participate as our full authentic selves, and thereby become stronger in our shared diversity.
A Developmental Journey
From Pre-elementary through Middle School
Eton School encourages the innate desire for learning.
We believe that learning is driven by the needs of students at different planes of development.
Students learn best and are motivated most when constructing their own knowledge as active participants, instead of passive receivers. At Eton School, every student develops a voice and learns to self-advocate.
Pre-elementary (Age 3-K) and Lower Elementary (Grades 1-3)
In Pre-elementary and Lower Elementary, students learn in mixed-age classrooms over a three -year period. The carefully designed Montessori environments offer learning opportunities where
students are able to respond to their natural need to work through experiences, individual and small group lessons, hands-on materials, peer interactions and immersion in a comprehensive, multi-layered and integrated curriculum.
In addition, each student’s innate desire for learning is encouraged as we provide opportunities to engage in spontaneous, purposeful activities with guidance from the teacher. The structure and depth of the program lends itself to a unique and rich learning experience for each student.
“Children acquire knowledge through experience in the environment.”
~Maria Montessori
The 1946 London Lectures
It’s our goal to bridge academics from childhood to adolescence and lay a foundation for knowledgeable global citizenship.
Upper Elementary (Grades 4–5)
Our Upper Elementary program continues the path to becoming confident, independent learners, nurturing intellectual curiosity and a love of learning. Using an inquiry and project-based curriculum, students in multi-grade classrooms deepen their understanding and are challenged and supported to reach their full potential, preparing for the social and intellectual demands of middle school.
Middle School (Grades 6–8)
While providing a solid bridge from the Upper Elementary to high school, our Middle School extends the opportunity for individual growth within a close-knit community that is developmentally responsive to individual needs and personal learning strengths. Teachers specialize in content areas and work together to integrate learning. Students work to attain their highest academic and creative potential, preparing them for scholastic success and responsible citizenship.
I attended Eton School through eighth grade, and when I left, I was a well-rounded student in every area. I was curious to learn more, curious to move forward into high school, to take the things that I had learned, and to continue to excel.
~ Eton Alumna
Student Life
Enrichment and Student Activities
The value of an Eton education is not merely knowledge; it is the relationships formed with teachers and peers that create a lasting passion for learning.
Eton School Offers
Enrichment
Earth Education
• Outdoor Science and Nature Studies
• Care for Habitat and Garden Areas
• Connections with Natural World
• Respect for and Care of Nature
Language
• Spanish (K-Grade 8)
Library
• Storytime and Book Check Out
• Information Literacy
Performing Arts
• Singing, Rhythm, Dance, and Drama
• Una Voce: All-School Choral Concert
• Grades 1-3 perform musicals such as Jungle Book and Frog and Toad.
• Grades 4-6 perform musicals such as Shrek and Wizard of Oz.
• Grades 7-8 perform plays such as Axe of Murder, Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Much Ado About Nothing
Physical Education
• Development of Gross Motor Skills
• Sportsmanship and Collaboration
• Martial Arts, Capoeira, Yoga, Dance and Basketball
Social and Emotional Learning
• Promote Positive Relationships
• Respect for Diversity
• Problem-Solving Skills
• Self Identity and Advocacy
STEAM
• Engineering Projects
• Integrated Science and Math
• Computer Programming
• Technology and Design
Visual Arts
• Expression of Creativity
• Art History
• Studio Art
• Refining of Physical Skills
Leadership
• Kindergarten Ambassadors
• Service Learning and Collaborative Cross Grade Projects
• Student Leadership Team (Grades 4-8)
Outdoor Education
• Grades 4-5: IslandWood
• Grade 6-8: Three Year Rotation
◉ Mt. Rainier Institute
◉ North Cascade Institute Mountain School
◉ NatureBridge Olympic National Park
• Grade 8: Salish Sea Expeditions
Assemblies and Activities
• Professional Artists and Authors
• Ballet and International Dance
• Symphony and Opera
• Book Clubs and Storytellers
• Science and Engineering
• Theatre Productions
• Computer Programming and Design Field Trips
• Museum of History and Industry
• Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center
• Pacific Science Center
• The Museum of Flight
• University of Washington
• Virtual Field Trips
After-School Classes and Clubs
• Art
• Carpentry
• Cooking
• Yoga
• Math Club
• Sewing
• Sports
• Ultimate Frisbee
Sharing Knowledge
• Montessori Moments
• Cosmic Fair
• Fifth Grade Fair
• Eighth Grade Projects
• Eighth Grade Graduation Community Spirit
• Parent and Guardians of Eton School (PAGES)
• Welcome New Parent/Guardian Coffee
• PAGES Coffees
• Classroom Potlucks
• Grade Level Family Gatherings
• DEIB: Lunch with Laurren
• DEIB: Community Conversations
• World of Eton (Community Celebration)
• Online School Store for Clothes and Swag with Eton's Name and/or Logo
• PAGES Learning Events
• Eton Community Education
• Equity & Inclusion Virtual Speakers
• Board Game
• Chess
• Dance
• Martial Arts
• Music
• Snow Sports
• Technology
• Writers Club
• Black & Multiracial Black Families Social
• Book Fairs
• Family Game Time
• Una Voce: All-School Choral Concert
• All-School Ice Skating
• Founder's Day
• End-of-Year Family Picnic
• Juneteenth Community Celebration
Eton School Annual Fund
Supporting the Educational Journey of Every Student
One thing that sets Eton School apart from other schools is the strength and commitment of its community.
A Passionate Community Working Together
The magic of an Eton education develops from the ongoing partnership amongst its parents, guardians, faculty, staff, board, alumni, and friends.
As an independent, non-profit school, Eton School does not receive public funding.
Instead, every year, faculty, staff, trustees, current families, alum families, and friends of Eton, through their collective generosity, support
the exceptional educational journey that results in inspired, prepared, and empowered students.
Every gift to Eton School’s Annual Fund is an investment that makes a meaningful difference, and participation reflects the strength of the community and the shared commitment to the students.
Eton School is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
The lasting effects of support continue for years and are demonstrated in the faces of the students.
Parents and Guardians of Eton School (PAGES)
Fostering Community Partnership, Cooperation, And Education
Sharing Strengths In Support Of Students
Mission Statement
Parents and Guardians of Eton School (PAGES) supports the school’s philosophy, programs and activities for the benefit of all Eton School students. PAGES fosters a spirit of inclusion and partnerships among the entire school community, and facilitates communication, parent/guardian education, and volunteerism.
Membership
All parents/guardians of students enrolled at Eton School are members with equal voting privileges at general and annual meetings.
Executive Committee
President (Previous Vice President)
Vice President (Next Year’s President)
Treasurer
Secretary Volunteer Coordinator
Community Coordinator for each Grade Level (Ex Officio, Non-Voting)
Meetings
PAGES holds monthly Executive Committee meetings and three business meetings each year which are open to everyone.
Learning
Events
In connection with the business meetings, PAGES hosts Learning Events with professional guest speakers on topics of interest to its members.
Ways to Get Involved
Eton School values the partnership between school and home. There are many opportunities to get involved such as:
• Coming to PAGES Coffees
• Volunteer as a Room Rep
• Attending PAGES Meetings and Learning Events
• Volunteering for All-School Event such as the World of Eton, Family Game Time, All-School Ice Skating, Book Fair, and Spring Fling
The Parents and Guardians of Eton School (PAGES) fosters a spirit of inclusion, partnership and cooperation among the entire school community.
At A Glance
Quick Facts About Eton School
The Administration and Faculty at Eton have an average of 10 years at the school.
Founded 1978
Dual Accreditation
Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS) (Grades P3-8)
American Montessori Society (AMS) (Grades P3-3)
Non-Profit
501(c)(3) organization
Head of School
Dr. Russell Smith
Location
North East Bellevue, WA Near Microsoft’s Main Campus
Financial Aid (3 Year Average)
1:9 Students Received Need-Based Financial Aid
$510,000 Total Need-Based Financial Aid Awarded
Students by Grade Levels
144 Pre-elementary: Age 3–Kindergarten
110 Lower Elementary: Grades 1-3
48 Upper Elementary: Grades 4-5
40 Middle School: Grades 6-8
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Faculty and Administration
52% Master’s and/or Doctorate Degree
18 Years Average in Education
10 Years Average at Eton School
62% of the Administrators have Taught in a Classroom
Clubhouse (Childcare)
Before School: 8:00 a.m. to Arrival
After School: Dismissal to 6:00 p.m.
Hourly Rate (By Minutes Attended)
Clubhouse Camp Offered:
Midwinter and Spring Breaks
Set Price Paid with Registration Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
After Eighth Grade
After graduating from eighth grade, students attend top private and public high schools including:
Annie Wright
Bellevue School District
Downtown School
Eastside Catholic
Eastside Preparatory Academy
Forest Ridge
Holy Names Academy
Lakeside
Lake Washington School District
Standford Online High School
The Overlake School
The Northwest School
Seattle Academy (SAAS)
University Prep
Beyond High School
Following graduation from high school, Eton School alumni continue on to top colleges such as:
Carnegie Mellon University
Franklin University, Switzerland
George Washington University
Juilliard
Seattle University
Stanford University
Syracuse University
University of Denver
University of Portland
University of San Francisco
University of Washington
Willamette University
Enrollment Details
Eton School’s financial aid program ensures access for all students and families.
Tuition is subject to review and set every January.
2024–2025 Tuition
Pre-elementary (Ages 3–4)
5 Half Days or 3 Full Days
$17,820
Pre-elementary (Age 3–Kindergarten)
Lower Elementary (Grades 1-3)
Full Days
$30,324
Upper Elementary (Grades 4–5)
Middle School (Grades 6–8)
Full Days
Financial Aid
$32,823
Eton School offers financial aid to ensure that financial constraints do not stand in the way of anyone’s educational journey. To apply for financial assistance, simply complete the Financial Aid application available on our Tuition web page. This application provides a personalized need‑based financial aid analysis, helping to make an Eton School education within reach for your family.
Tuition Payments
The nonrefundable Enrollment Fee (1/12 of the tuition) is due with the Enrollment Agreement and serves as the first tuition payment. The remaining Tuition Balance is due according to the plan chosen on the Enrollment Agreement.
Plan 1: A single final payment based on the Net Tuition and due date.
Plan 2: 11 equal monthly installments due the first of each month, starting April 1 and ending February 1.
Tuition Payment Methods
Payment method is chosen on the Enrollment Agreement and then invoiced online.
ACH (Bank Account): No fee
Credit Cards (Fees Per Transaction): Visa, MasterCard, Discover and Diners:
$0.30 plus 2.85 %
American Express and JCB: $0.30 plus 2.95%
Admission Checklist
All Candidates
g Schedule a Tour
g Submit Online Admission Application with $75 Application Fee
g Schedule the Family Interview and Student Assessment
Pre elementary (Age 3 K)
g Submit Teacher Questionnaire
Elementary and Middle School (Grades 1 8)
g Submit Request for Records
g Submit Teacher Questionnaire
g Schedule Student Visit (Grades 4 8)
Key Dates
Application Deadline
All Grades 3 February 2025
Financial Aid Deadline
All Grades 3 February 2025
Decision Notification
Pre elementary 28 February 2025
Elementary and Middle School 14 March 2025
Response Deadline
Pre elementary 14 March 2025
Elementary and Middle School 28 March 2025
After the above dates, applications for Admission and Financial Aid are considered as long as space permits.
Inquire Apply
