Each year, the frugal lunch reminded me of the true meaning of Thanksgiving. — Alumni Class of 2008
Our History
Pacific Crest was founded in 1985 by Jacquie Maughan. It began with one classroom in the basement of a church serving a group of 25 three to five year olds. Jacquie served as the school’s first teacher. Over the next four years, a second primary classroom and an elementary classroom were added. Pacific Crest Middle School was founded in 1989 with 19 students. In the spring of 1993, the two schools joined together to remodel the current facility. The schools formally merged to form Pacific Crest School in July 1994. In 2003, Pacific Crest acquired 16 acres of land on Vashon Island, Pacific Crest Farm, fulfilling a long held dream of linking a rural campus that offers experiences in agriculture and nature with the urban experience of the Seattle campus.
Pacific Crest has emerged as a school devoted to Montessori principles that cultivates a profound respect for children and human development.
Pacific Crest Traditions
The essential qualities of Pacific Crest are reflected in the entire community of students, staff, parents, grandparents and alumni. Our community traditions invite us to celebrate our history, our common purpose and the joy of learning together.
A glimpse at just a few of our favorite celebrations provides a window to the heart and soul of the school. These special events invite the participation of all the ages from the youngest three year old to the graduating 14 year old.
Frugal Lunch: Every year the children and families contribute to the University Food Bank in preparation for the Thanksgiving holiday. The children at the school mark this occasion with a simple lunch of bread and soup, prepared by the elementary children and served by the middle school students to the entire school community.
Solstice: Our winter break usually occurs near the time of the winter solstice. In this special ceremony of light, middle school students line the hallways holding candles as the children quietly process togather and reflect together. The older students tell the story of the solstice, students share their musical talents and representatives from each classroom relate their hopes and wishes for the next year.
Transitions: At the end of the year we celebrate transitions — marking the point when children move from one level to the next. We celebrate those students who are moving up and acknowledge those students who will now become the leaders in their classrooms. A symbol of community is passed on to commemorate the change in the leadership at each level.
Farm Celebrations: Each year the Farm hosts two all-school events: an autumn cider pressing and a spring celebration. These events invite all of our families to enjoy the harvest and celebrate a new year of growth.
Eighth Grade Graduation: Each year culminates with the passage of our eighth grade students on to high school. Our graduation is an inspirational farewell to the young people who have spent most of their years of development at Pacific Crest. It is a celebration of each of our graduates and features their talents and reflections.
