"The teachers here strike the perfect balance between providing boundaries and giving kids freedom to grow in all sorts of wonderful directions. Each child is honored for who he/she is without judgment or labels and this respect for the individual is modeled for and instilled in each child."

a Giddens parent

Who We Are

Giddens was founded in 1972 by Huda Giddens in the University District of Seattle. Seeking a more diverse setting, the school moved to the historic Central District in 1980. Giddens was originally a preschool, but, over the years, the school's creative, committed, and highly-trained staff developed a primary program that is a natural extension of the preschool program. The primary program reflects the values of the preschool and its founder, building a strong academic foundation infused with the energy and exploration that mark high-quality early childhood classrooms.

Today, Giddens is a member of the Pacific Northwest Association of Independent Schools. The school has been cited as a model of multicultural education by the Southern Poverty Law Center and featured in Starting Small, a book published by the Center that features success stories in anti-bias, socially responsible education.

The Seattle Times and The Seattle Weekly have also written about the school and the accomplishments of its students.

Fast Facts

Interim Head of School: Joan Beauregard
Enrollment: 200 students
Age Range: Older 2's through 5th grade
Class Size: 12 to 18 students
School Hours:

8:45 a.m. to 3 p.m. (preschool)
8:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. (primary)
Monday through Friday

Financial Aid: Awarded to 30% - 40% of families
Average amount = $5,000
Extended Care:

Before school from 7:30 a.m.
After school until 6:00 p.m.

Summer Programs: June to August
Tuition:  

Come See For Yourself

Our caring staff welcomes visitors, whether they be potential families, potential volunteers, potential donors or simply potential friends. Let us show you the difference an anti-bias, socially responsible education makes in the lives of our children. We would love to meet you.

To arrange a visit, please see our contact information .