The Little School

The Little School is a progressive independent school founded in 1959 in Seattle, Washington, dedicated to student-centered learning and individualized education. Established by Dr. Eleanor Siegl, the school was built on the conviction that each student should be treated as an individual at the center of their own learning experience, with active s... tudent involvement in the educational process, development of multicultural awareness, and respect for others as core principles. Originally operating as a preschool at the University Unitarian Church in Seattle, The Little School expanded to include elementary grades in 1964. As enrollment grew, the school relocated to a 10-acre campus in Bellevue, Washington, in 1968, following a generous donation that enabled the expansion. The Bellevue campus features dedicated classroom buildingsthe Meadows and Woods structureswhile preserving six acres of natural woods and the Big Field as outdoor learning environments designed to encourage imaginative play and firsthand exploration of nature. Over the decades, The Little School has continued to strengthen its programs through the creation of the Eleanor Siegl Library Learning Center and the Roush Family Library, as well as the acquisition of the Northup Schoolhouse and additional land. These expansions have reinforced the school's commitment to preserving its natural environment while supporting its progressive educational mission. Under the leadership of current Head of School Peter Berner-Hays, The Little School remains dedicated to the foundational ideals established by Dr. Siegl, building on the legacy of long-time Head of School Paul Brahce and the collective contributions of faculty, staff, trustees, families, and students throughout its history. The school's unwavering focus on progressive education principles, combined with its commitment to outdoor learning and individualized instruction, distinguishes it as a distinctive educational institution serving families in the Seattle metropolitan area.Read More