Pioneer Elementary School

We have loved our experience with Artondale. The teachers are wonderful and communicative and there is a great community of parents and families.

Overall good school. High turnover in principals over the past several years, new 4th principal since 2019 is starting this year. Seems to effect loyal teachers who have been there through transitions. Great teachers. Low diversity. VPO is active but no where in comparison to neighboring schools. Small group of parents spear community events and there seems to be a pattern of disconnect in overall family involvement with the VPO.

Apparently, this school is NOT a state approved private school. You can check the website for the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to verify this, or send OSPI an email. Also, when we originally enrolled our child in this school, several parents and the office person told us that the school was accredited, but it is not.

We had a wonderful experience at Harbor Montessori School, where all four of our children attended over 14 years. The staff are professional, highly trained/educated, and dedicated to nurturing each child by creating a positive and prepared learning environment following the Montessori pedagogy. The school grounds and classrooms are beautiful and the school community, as a whole, takes great pride and care in their school. The administrative staff and Head of School are warm and welcoming. They are essential in fostering a supportive and effective educational environment for staff and families. They work collaboratively to implement policies and ensure that the needs of both students and faculty are met. Their leadership promotes an inclusive school culture that encourages the holistic development of young individuals, guiding them academically, socially, and emotionally. With strategic vision and day-to-day management, they play a key role in supporting the school's mission and vision, ultimately supporting the growth and success of each student. Harbor Montessori School truly embodies its "Learn, Connect, Grow" core values. These three words beautifully exemplify the essence of a nurturing educational experience for children and supportive partnering with families and staff.Alumni parent and continued supporter since 1998

My son attended this school from 2nd grade through 8th grade after we found he was not getting academic and social support in our local public school. He was well-above average academically but struggled making friends socially. St. Nicholas was a breath of fresh air for both he and our family!! He blossomed socially because the classes are small and the school culture promotes love, caring and support to each other. He grew even further academically because the classes were small and the teachers could challenge him with higher level work. He graduated from this school and was admitted to Bellarmine Prep starting in advanced classes his Freshman year. We love St. Nicholas. Four years later and I still volunteer in many ways to support St. Nicks!