How to Choose a School

Finding the right school for your child can feel like a big decision—but you’re not alone.

With the right tools and a few simple steps, you can find a school where your child can thrive.
Here’s a guide to help you through the process:

How to Choose a School - Washington School Finder

1. Know Your Child

Start by thinking about who your child is. What are their strengths? What do they enjoy learning about? Where might they need extra support? Every child is different, and understanding what makes your child unique will help you find a school that’s a good match.

2. Set Your Priorities

What matters most to your family when it comes to school? Maybe it’s smaller class sizes, a strong art or science program, or extra support for learning differences. Pick two or three things that are most important, and let those guide your search.

3. Discover Your Options

There are lots of great schools out there, and it helps to see what’s available. The Washington School Finder is a great place to start. You can search for schools near you, compare academic and climate data, and learn more about what each school offers.

4. Reach Out to Schools

Once you have a few schools in mind, take the next step. Visit the school, attend an open house, or call the office to ask questions. Talking to staff, teachers, or other families can give you a better feel for what each school is really like.

5. Apply and Decide

After gathering all the information, apply to a few schools that seem like a good fit. When you get your offers, think about which school matches your child’s needs and your family’s priorities. Trust your instincts and choose the one that feels right.

School Search Timeline

November

Think about whether your child will stay at their current school or switch to a new one next year. Talk it over as a family and decide what’s best for your child’s learning and growth.

December

Start exploring your options. We recommend using the Washington School Finder to look up schools near you and compare them to each other. Once you find a few schools you’re interested in, reach out to them! You can visit their websites, call the front office, or even schedule a tour. Try to visit your top two or three schools to get a better feel for what they’re like.

January-February

It’s time to apply! Most schools and districts have open application periods during these months. Be sure to check the deadlines and requirements for each school so you don’t miss your chance to apply.

March-May

Watch your email or mailbox for placement notifications. Once you find out where your child has been accepted, you’ll need to enroll. Choose the school that feels like the best match for your child and complete any final paperwork.

District Enrollment Information

Want to know exactly how enrollment works in your district? Visit the links below to learn more:

Bellevue
Public Charter Schools: Varies—check the specific schools websites for details
Federal Way
Highline
Issaquah
Lake Washington*
Mercer Island
Northshore
Vashon Island:

*The priority enrollment deadline for out of district applicants for Lake Washington Schools is Dec 1. If you do not live in the Lake Washington district but would like your child to attend school there, you need to start this process even earlier than our timeline suggests.

The WA School Finder is brought to you by Excellent Schools Washington (ESWA). ESWA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that every student has access to innovative, student-centered education options that drive academic success and long-term opportunities. By fostering a diverse ecosystem of high-quality public education choices, we can empower families and communities to find the best fit for their children’s educational needs.