Community
Giddens School is an intentional community of educators, children and their families, and other stakeholders who value and support school's mission, vision, and values.
Our community is one of our greatest strengths, and it includes everyone – students, faculty, staff, families, and other community partners – working, playing, and learning together and from each other. Our community is a focal point of cultural and civic engagement and celebration where we also tend to the work of relationship building, dialogue, and understanding. It is the collective work and effort of everyone.
Board of Trustees
Giddens School is a Washington non-profit, section 501 (c) (3) corporation. A self-perpetuating Board of Trustees governs the school and holds it “in trust” for future generations of students.
Our Board of Trustees is composed of current and alumni parents, alumni, and professionals from the education and business communities. Trustees serve as volunteers and are committed to fulfilling the school's mission and the long-term sustainability of the school. The Head of School is an ex-officio, non-voting, member of the board.
Partnering closely with the Head of School, the board sets long-range policies to fulfill the mission of the school and lead it successfully into the future. The Head of School is the board’s only employee. The Head of School controls all of the operational and educational affairs of the school, administers policies, hires, evaluates and dismisses all school employees, and guides the day-to-day operation of the school.
Selection of trustees is a multi-step process that is led by the board's Governance Committee, which evaluates the professional and personal skills that are needed on the board to best serve the school. Potential trustees must be voted in by a two-thirds majority of the current board. Trustee terms are three-year commitments and trustees may be re-elected for one additional term.
Faculty and Staff
Giddens School’s faculty and staff are the heart of our community, bringing a wealth of experience, creativity, and compassion to every classroom and program. Our team is composed of dedicated educators, specialists, and support staff, each committed to fostering an inclusive, engaging, and supportive environment for all students.
Our teachers are skilled professionals who model lifelong learning and inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence in their students. Beyond classroom instruction, faculty and staff build strong relationships with families and collaborate to nurture the social, emotional, and academic growth of every child.
Faculty and staff are selected for their expertise, dedication to progressive education, and commitment to the mission and values of Giddens School. Ongoing professional development, collaboration, and open communication are core to our culture, ensuring that our team is equipped to meet the needs of a dynamic and diverse community.
Together, the faculty and staff at Giddens create a vibrant learning environment where each child is known, supported, and encouraged to become their best self.
Giddens Community Association
Our students and families are at the heart of what we do. Giddens School is a community where student and family engagement is valued, encouraged, and supported.
All of our students grades kindergarten-5th participate in student council, which promotes civics and positive engagement in community life. Students regularly prepare and present learning opportunities for our bi-weekly school assemblies, practice democratic values, and participate in school traditions.
Giddens families give of their time, talents, and resources to cultivate a vibrant and active community. Our Giddens Family Association (GCA) organizes family nights and playdates, lead staff appreciation efforts, and support class reps to build connection and community within their classrooms. Giddens families promote the value of a Giddens education by cultivating interest in the school and serving as ambassadors of our program. Our Board of Trustees, is made up of mostly Giddens Families, ensuring that Giddens School is thriving now and into the future.