Orca @ Whitworth in Seattle, Washington

“Everyone in this school is very nice. There isn't one person that has been rude since I've came there”
This review was posted by a student.

“Range of teachers from some claiming to be alternative but lack in the academic rigor to those who are skilled at meeting needs for all students academically and socially. Overall they are dedicated and caring teachers that obviously adore children. I loved the idea of the garden (sad to hear that they were moving) and the amount of community involvement. I do have to say that some parents overstep their boundaries and there are attitudes of entitlement. For the most part, parents and community members are a positive force. The principal does a good job of providing a voice for the families. I wouldn't necessarily say the students are academically challenged however they do have a strong focus on the whole child's development as a responsible citizen in society. I personally needed my child to have stronger academic rigor and felt there were gaps in their curriculum or lack of.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Orca is an exceptional school. My child has thrived with the alternative approach which includes hands-on science learning in the garden and a 3-day camp for grades 1-5. Teachers are highly dedicated. This school is moving to the old Whitworth school building in the Lakeridge/Seward Park neighborhood in the fall of 2007 and expanding its program to K-8. Staff and parents are energized and engaged in these changes. It is an exciting time for Orca. The school is constructing a science lab/environmental learning annex to the school over the 2007-2008 school year. The school is highly diverse -- racially, culturally and in family style -- this quality creates both a dynamic and challenging environment at the school. Administrators, teachers and parents strive to respect and include input from the school community. The school holds race forums and is adding a new anti-bias curriculum in the 2007-2008 school year.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“One thing Orca really gets right is 'community'. ALmost everyone is involved! If you've got a skill or a connection, they will tap it. It is an exciting place! Kids are really stimulated and engaged in this non-tradtional learning environment. There are a few teachers who need to step up the academics and there needs to be more consistency in the curriculum. Orca is in flux in every way though (and seems to be changing for the better despite growing pains). There is tension between the more hardcore alternative parents vs. those who see the commitment to environmental and social consciousness, plus the many opportunities outside the classroom as untraditional in themselves. We love Orca, but it is not for everyone. It is committed to fairness & that is refreshing. You won't get your choice of teachers just because you spent $5000 at the auction. We also love the organic snacks!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Kindergarten was a great experience at Orca. This is an 'Alternative' school. My experience at Orca indicated that 'alternative' means that the parents have a very high level of influence in making decisions, even minor ones. I admire the principal for being able to handle this level of input from parents!”
This review was posted by a parent.