Gatewood Private School

We love the positive and inclusive climate at this school. The class sizes are small (~15-16), the building is new, and the teachers and staff we've gotten to know have been kind and skilled, with excellent understanding of their students and the motivation to support them on their individual journeys. If you read the OSPI statistics you will see how this title 1 school stands out as a positive amongst others. There is a PTO too!

My child has been at roxhill since kindergarten and is now in 4th grade. It is a warm, supportive and diverse school. I appreciate the small size (about 2 classes per grade) which means all teachers and principal seem to know all students by name. It has a well curated library, a very passionate art teacher and weekly music class plus the addition of instrumental music in 4th and 5th grade which not all sps schools have. We have a new principal this year and she has been very available and communicative with parents. The teachers have been very consistent with many teachers having been at roxhill for 10+ years and are all passionate educators who are very invested in the kids they teach. I know parents often use this website to look at test scores. One of the things I love about roxhill is its diversity, there is not one majority minority culture but many different cultures and languages spoken and teachers encourage kids to share about their cultures. I think the test scores likely reflect the many ESL students who, as is the nature of public school, can join at any time in any grade and the ways that standardized testing may not capture a these students abilities. My child’s test scores have consistently been above grade level in reading and math without any extra support given at home so I feel confident the teachers are teaching the curriculum thoroughly and that the benefits of being at a school that supports kids social emotionally in a diverse setting cannot be captured in test scores.

As both an alumna and current parent, Holy Rosary has been such a meaningful part of our family’s life. The school offers a strong academic foundation while creating a truly supportive, values-driven community where students and families feel known and cared for. We’ve especially appreciated the dedicated teachers, welcoming environment, and the lasting friendships and sense of belonging the school fosters.

My daughter has had a very positive experience. She has built a strong foundation in core academic areas, and has also learned about art, gardening, forestry, and so many other areas of interest. Strong communication from teachers, principal and PTA. Lots of opportunities for families to get involved.