Explorer West Middle School embraces the energy and enthusiasm of diverse young people on the journey to adulthood by fostering confidence and discovery. Offering the benefits of a small learning community, Explorer West views adolescence as a unique window of opportunity to build a community with strong academic skills, creative expression, and character development for high school and beyond.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Grades: 6-8
- Enrollment: 109 students
- Yearly Tuition: $20,580
- Average class size: 16 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 13 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 6-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Year Founded
1996
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
109 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
22%
State avg.: 30%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
13 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
8:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
60%
Average Class Size
16 students
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Jan. 13 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$20,580
Tuition Notes
6th Grade: $21,700
7th Grade $212,900
8th Grade $24,200
% on Financial Aid
32%
Admissions Director
Dawn Fornear
Sports
Total Sports Offered
6 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
10 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Arts Club, Coding Classes, Debate Club, Dungeons and Dragons, Fiber Arts Club, Gender Sexuality Alliance, Improv Club, Language Lab/English and Latin Support, Pi Eaters Math Support Club, Student Government
Arts Club, Coding Classes, Debate Club, Dungeons and Dragons, Fiber Arts Club, Gender Sexuality Alliance, Improv Club, Language Lab/English and Latin Support, Pi Eaters Math Support Club, Student Government
School Notes
- Accredited through NWAIS.
- Our small class size allows teachers to focus on each student, supporting their individual challenges and strengths.
- Teachers who are committed to and experienced in working with middle school-aged students.
- Every Student, Every Subject: our curriculum includes math, social studies, science, English, Latin, drama, visual arts, music, PE, and outdoor education for all students.
- Financial aid is available.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Explorer West Middle School cost?
Explorer West Middle School's tuition is approximately $20,580 for private students.
What sports does Explorer West Middle School offer?
Explorer West Middle School offers 6 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Soccer, Tennis, Track and Field, Ultimate Frisbee and Volleyball.
When is the application deadline for Explorer West Middle School?
The application deadline for Explorer West Middle School is Jan. 13 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 13 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is Explorer West Middle School located?
Explorer West Middle School is located in the Highline neighborhood of Seattle, WA. There are 3 other private schools located in Highline.
School Reviews
Endorse Explorer West Middle School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

A Parent's Guide To Understanding High School Teaching Methods
This comprehensive guide helps parents navigate the various teaching methods used in today's high school classrooms. By understanding these approaches, you'll be better equipped to support your teen's learning journey, communicate effectively with teachers, and create a complementary learning environment at home.

February 08, 2025
Social Emotional Learning: Education's Hidden SymphonyA musician's perspective on Social Emotional Learning reveals how this educational framework orchestrates success through five essential emotional competencies.

January 24, 2025
A Roadmap For Starting A Private SchoolUse this roadmap as a set of talking points with your trusted mentors and professionals to start the private school of your dreams. You're not alone. Over the years, hundreds of folks like you have had the same dream. From Quintilian to Maria Montessori to Lucy Madeira Wing, visionary educators have established schools to teach according to their beliefs and methodologies.