University Child Development School

5062 9th Avenue Northeast

Seattle, WA 98105

37 Reviews

School District
Grade

PK-5
Type

private

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Reviews

Submitted by parent on November 22, 2024

We had had our kids at UCDS and loved every aspect of the education and community. It is a welcoming, caring, loving school that allows kids to be kids, challenges kids in many ways, supports social-emotional growth and provides a group of diverse teachers that set examples of empathetic adults we want our kids to be. This is not a school for Tiger Parents. This is not a school that pushes kids to be grade levels ahead in one area. This school values being well rounded and helping kids see challenges as opportunities, which we believe will serve our child SO MUCH more in the long run in life than having them know long division in 2nd grad. As a parent, it is your responsibility to be honest about you want for your child's education and know that not all independent schools are the same; find one that fits your values.
Submitted by parent on January 09, 2024

When I chose UCDS for my child I was assured a robust academic experience would be provided. It was an unfortunate misstep. They claim an “individualized” curriculum yet their curriculum is inflexible and does not allow for advanced study. Any suggestion that a child would benefit from elements of a more traditional approach are staunchly rejected. Their “deep dive” for a 2nd grader advanced in math consists of adding longer columns of single digit numbers. A third grader will be asked to read during math class once their multiplication tables are memorized. Many teachers lack proficiency manipulating fractions and with long division algorithms. Administrators publicly admit to struggling with elementary level math. Apparently they enjoy poetry so if your child is a budding poet I suppose cling to that. The school is designed for gregarious kids who lack preferences. Introverted personalities who prefer more intimate relationships feel like they have been placed in a blender. The school dynamic is isolating for these students. Many developmentally appropriate children are labeled as anxiety ridden and therapy is recommended when small modifications to the schools’ model would appease their apprehension.UCDS was absolutely the wrong choice for my child. I deeply regret the time we spent there. The elementary years should be stimulating and enjoyable. Families should feel welcome. Administrators should not be feared. The memories should be fond ones. It’s harder than it needs to be at UCDS. The school is very comfortable (perhaps enjoys) imparting unnecessary worry and hardships onto the students and families they should be trying to serve. Parents are constantly trying to read between the lines of their verbal and written communication (or lack thereof). We have fortunately moved on from this bizarre place and the dark days of UCDS are behind us.
Submitted by parent on October 16, 2023

Our family's experience with UCDS has been nothing short of outstanding. This independent elementary school truly stands out for its commitment to individualized instruction.The personal teachers at UCDS are exceptional. They not only possess a deep understanding of their subjects but also take the time to know each student personally. This personalized approach creates an environment where children feel seen and valued, fostering a love for learning.What sets UCDS apart is the presence of specialist teachers who bring a wealth of expertise to the students. From art and music to physical education and language specialists, the school ensures a well-rounded education that goes beyond the standard curriculum.In my experience, the commitment of the staff to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment is evident. The school not only imparts knowledge but also instills essential values and life skills in students, preparing them for a successful future.I wholeheartedly recommend UCDS to any parent seeking an exceptional and individualized education for their child. It's a place where every child's unique potential is recognized and nurtured.
Submitted by parent on September 25, 2023

When we took our child for cognitive testing before applying to UCDS, the evaluator warned us that most kids there end up with tutors after they take their first standardized tests in 3rd grade and parents start to see the gaps in their knowledge. It turned out to be so true. So, so many tutors. If you decide to send your child to UCDS, go in with your eyes open knowing you'll eventually need a tutor too.
Submitted by parent on August 30, 2023

We are officially a UCDS alum family! Today is my son's first day of middle school, and as I watched him walk through the front doors, I couldn't help but think about the wonderful years he spent at UCDS. It was an enriching environment, and the teachers were all very supportive. It's true that the Labyrinth is a magical place, and it's usually what sells parents when they first tour the school; nevertheless, the magic continues as they move on to the Tower school (for students in grades 1-5). UCDS is not a conventional school with a defined curriculum, therefore if you are looking for a traditional school where the teacher does all the talking and the children listen, this may not be the right choice for your family. At UCDS, the children do the majority of the talking, and they contribute their insights and ideas to the curriculum as they go. It's a school where your children wake up every day with an insatiable curiosity and skip (not walk) to school! If you want happy children who have fun learning, this is the school for you. There's no such thing as a perfect school, and it's possible that some subjects are inadequately covered; however, it's important to remember that efforts from home are equally important for getting the results you want. Overall, it has been a terrific school for us, and I would recommend it to families who value thinking above memorizing facts. You'll have to wait until 5th grade to see how everything comes together, and you'll be pleasantly amazed by how confident and articulate each and every 5th grader is! Tami, who welcomed us to UCDS and then guided our family with her honest advice to get us into our choice middle school, made middle school applications a breeze. We are grateful to have been a part of the UCDS community and for the kindness seed that they helped plant in our son.
Submitted by parent on June 26, 2023

As a parent, I cannot speak highly enough of UCDS and the exceptional educational experience it offers. This innovative institution has truly revolutionized the way our children learn, fostering individualized, fun, and meaningful learning that has exceeded our highest expectations.One of the most remarkable aspects of UCDS is its commitment to individualized learning. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all education. At UCDS, the dedicated educators understand that every child is unique, with their own strengths, interests, and learning styles. They tailor their teaching approaches to suit each student's needs, allowing them to thrive and reach their full potential.The emphasis on individualized learning at UCDS ensures that every child is challenged at their appropriate level, providing the necessary support or acceleration when required. This personalized approach instills a sense of confidence and empowerment in our children, as they are encouraged to take ownership of their education and pursue their passions with enthusiasm.Furthermore, UCDS has mastered the art of making learning fun. Gone are the days of monotonous lectures and rote memorization. Instead, the school employs innovative teaching methods that engage and captivate young minds. UCDS cultivates a love for learning that is both enjoyable and enduring.By integrating play, exploration, and real-world applications into their thematic curriculum, UCDS ensures that learning becomes an exciting adventure for our children. This approach not only ignites their curiosity but also fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and a genuine desire to seek knowledge.UCDS goes beyond mere academic pursuits by focusing on meaningful learning experiences. The school understands that education is not just about acquiring facts and figures but also about developing well-rounded individuals with strong values and a sense of social responsibility.Moreover, UCDS understands the importance of fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment. The teachers and staff create a warm and supportive atmosphere that promotes collaboration, respect, and a sense of belonging. Our children feel safe to express their ideas, take risks, and grow both academically and personally.
Submitted by parent on March 18, 2023

The whole UCDS story. During the last decade some well known, extremely affluent families sent their children to UCDS. They were exceptionally generous. They all eventually left the school and enrolled their children at other independent elementary schools in the Seattle area. Being chosen by such influential people inappropriately skyrocketed the school’s reputation, facilities and fate. Now over a decade has passed. Meanwhile the school has sat on its laurels; riding the wave of the fame that once crossed its path. They got lucky and they continue to benefit from the booming Seattle population and economy coupled with a failing public school system. As a result of this perfect storm the gene pool they are able to enroll is better than it should be. They are not serious educators. Their educational model is lackluster at best-smoke and mirrors at its core. If you’re seeking a competent educational model and a warm, welcoming community (or just hoping to meet someone famous) continue your search.
Submitted by parent on March 10, 2022

The innovative UCDS model is intriguing. Unfortunately in practice it serves as a marketing tool and is merely a clever way of skirting structure and accountability. The results and test scores they release are not an accurate reflection of their curriculum. They are the result of capable students, parented by motivated professionals who bridge the many curricular gaps via their own efforts and private tutoring. Many, many hours of private tutoring.UCDS commends itself for its novel math curriculum yet UCDS students are known to be unprepared for middle school math. The sole purpose of the math curriculum is to expose rotating educators to alternative math methods. As a result, they are staunchly opposed to different didactics that would benefit students. Neither the curriculum, the teachers or the students are held accountable to any metrics or compared to any recognized benchmarks. The faculty and administration are above being held accountable. They scoff at the concept. The social/emotional component of their program is admittedly initially a highlight. Unfortunately it also falls off during the elementary years. There’s simply not enough consistency in their approach to meet (or care about) their students’ overall development. It’s not the institute’s focus or mission. Their intellectual capital is not in the classroom, but rather involved in promoting their other non student centric endeavors. Their mission is focused on the professional development of educators. Simply put, the outcomes they are interested in are not student centric. Once again, the outcomes they are interested in are not student centric. Intuitively, investing in teachers and mentoring the next generation of educators is a noble, commendable concept. It has the potential to benefit UCDS students and the broader educational community. It could instill faculty members with desirable mentor ship skills. It could enhance students’ development. UCDS however fails to connect these endeavors. The students comprise their B team (at best) and do not benefit from these initiatives. UCDS is worth a consideration if your goal is to enroll your child in an ever changing, social and academic experiment focused on the greater good rather than your child. If your goal is for your child to be consistently supported and to receive an adequate education UCDS will fall far short of your expectations.
Submitted by parent on November 08, 2021

A teacher locked my child outside when he was 3 for having normal separation anxiety. Another teacher bullied my child for being an introvert. Parents can take no action on behalf of their children and it’s just not that great academically to put up with the horrific treatment of kids and their families.
Submitted by parent on October 20, 2021

We could not have chosen a better school! I hear "I LOVE school" daily. Curriculum is innovative and the teachers and staff are supportive with great communication. Kids have access to resources that foster creativity and a teach broad set of skills. Strong COVID-19 protocols and we feel comfortable attending in person. Great fit for our family.
Submitted by parent on September 14, 2021

UCDS purports to welcome diversity and foster inclusiveness. They are theoretically open to diversity of thought, unless their ideas are questioned, or their pedagogy is challenged. The school administration is akin to the most conservative, non-secular institutions. It is unequivocally a top down approach. They claim to be progressive, innovative and collaborative yet if you expect UCDS to partner with your family so your child can meet their academic and social potential you will ultimately be disillusioned. Laissez faire observer is the expected parent role. The administration aspires to unconditional compliance from an identity diverse group. A culture of bleak conformity under which it is impossible for students to develop intellectual openness and critical thinking skills is enforced and rewarded. Questions and feedback are synonymous with dissent and are for other institutions, not the esteemed University Child Development School. The early years are grand. Parents are thrilled with their students’ experiences. Teachers are positively adored. However, as your student progresses through their elementary school years it becomes apparent the school cannot be bothered with curricular fundamentals much less rigorous academics. If your child is academically inclined (or simply wants to learn their math facts, spell or write) a tutor is needed. It’s a known, necessary component of a UCDS education. The faculty are diverse in that some are bright with positive intentions, yet others are impassive, incapable of speaking or writing with correct grammar, and struggle with basic mathematical concepts. Ultimately even the faculty members of seemingly upstanding character are submissive, faithful disciples of The UCDS Word. If you’re considering UCDS, do so with your eyes WIDE open. The school’s rigid culture is not compatible with fostering diversity and inclusion in a meaningful way. The administrators are toxic. Their inflexibility and unwillingness to welcome any diversity of thought results in an intellectual homogeneity which effectively obstructs the free inquiry they claim to promote. This administrative style is supported by the board. Their selection is contingent upon pledging one’s unwavering allegiance to the woefully inadequate status quo. The education, personal development and intellectual growth of students is not the priority at UCDS. Their mission trumps your student. They are the omniscient University Child Development School.
Submitted by parent on February 06, 2019

When we were deciding between schools, we were struggling between a more traditional classroom environment and UCDS's thematic process based program. What I've realized in our short time at UCDS is the UCDS is to liberal arts education as traditional classroom approaches are to larger universities with lecture style classes. That is, UCDS focuses on core skills, like critical thinking, advocacy, leadership, and applied learning rather than memorization and regurgitation. It was a shift from our achievement mindset but the results for our child have been amazing. Speaking with other parents we keep looking for the holes but can't seem to find them as the curriculum is so well thought out. Every day I am impressed by our child's growth in understanding the world, and bringing new skills home (i.e. I don't think I was introduced to division until 3rd grade but our child can cut recipes without second thought at 4) or emotional and social growth (i.e. explaining why it's ok when baby brother knocks down a creation even though he feels frustrated.) Our experience in early elementary so far is that the individualized curriculum ensures our child is constantly challenged (not bored) and absolutely loves school and learning. That said, we recognize that with the school not being a "product" school, that we have committed to supplement some of the more traditional academics outside of school in our own time with our child. However I have no doubt that this school produces thoughtful well rounded children able to advocate for themselves.If there's one thing I do wish is that I do wish that the school administration did more to facilitate a closer knit community for families. Perhaps this will change as we spend more years at UCDS but with UCDS not requiring parent participation, at times, it can feel more like a commuter school at times.All in all, UCDS had been great for us. It's not for every child or family but for our energetic enthusiastic child who talks a mile a minute, it has been the perfect fit.
Submitted by parent on May 16, 2018

An amazing school focused on the strengths and development of the individual students as well as the community. Project based individualized education provided by the most amazing teachers
Submitted by parent on November 15, 2017

Our family experience at UCDS has been amazing! We have 2 children, one in the Early Elementary and the other in Elementary and our experience through the years in different levels has been beyond our expectations. We were looking for a school that provided a learning environment that would support their social emotional growth and encourage them to love learning! UCDS is that and MORE! Aspects of the school that are highlights for our family are the teachers, the thematic curriculum and how the social emotional development is woven into every part of their day! The teachers are essential into the education of our children and to see how the teachers are able to individualize to exactly the right stretch for each of my children is amazing! We also appreciate that the class sizes are small (18) and with 2 teachers per classroom, we know that our kids are getting their individualized needs met. Also, we love how the teachers make learning fun, engaging and the kids are invested in their learning and are hooked! We love that teachers don't limit themselves to a single boxed curriculum, but they use a broad theme to teach within each subject area. It always amazes us when we hear our kids come home excited to talk about a math concept that was wrapped up in a fun problem solving story! Our kids are truly loving learning! Finally, something our family values is developing our children into thoughtful, kind community members. UCDS core values also support this and we appreciate how they create learning environments that encourage kids to take risks, to celebrate mistakes and to be advocates for themselves and for their community. We notice how empowered and confident our kids feel in their learning as well as making a difference in their community. We highly recommend UCDS!!!
Submitted by other on November 17, 2015

As a parent of two current students, I have to respectfully disagree with the previous review, and I hope that family has found a school that better aligns with their educational goals and values. UCDS is not for everyone. Don't come here just because your friends send their kids here. Don't come here because of the name or the reputation of a challenging but nurturing learning environment. It's a different kind of place. One that is very unlike how many of us were taught in our elementary school days. It's a little edgy. It is non-traditional. It is experimental. It is wonderful. You might not agree with everything you come to know about the school. Heck, there are aspects I don't agree with. But I do know this. After being here for three years and seeing how much my kids love to go to school every day, I wouldn't want them anywhere else. As for the previous reviewer, I know that kind of parent. Many of us at UCDS know that kind of parent. We wish you well elsewhere.
Submitted by parent on November 12, 2015

There are some wonderful families and caring staff at this school but the administration is so dysfunctional and unhealthy that it permeates the entire community. Don’t be distracted by the glitz or by the magnetism of status when deciding on a school for your child. Maybe you have already toured the school and, like us, after seeing the Labyrinth you were sold. We were believers as well, we thought the school was magical but magic is all about illusion and at UCDS they are masters at it. Parents are expected to have an unquestioning obedience and loyalty to the administration. As a parent your role in your child's education will be marginalized and your input unwelcome. You will accept it at first because, after all, they are the “experts”. Over time you will start to hear stories about parents who spoke up to the administration and were admonished, but you've bought into the illusion of UCDS so you assume that the parent just “stepped out of line”. But then it happens to a friend who you like and trust, and then maybe it happens to you and now you see this school for what it truly is. This insular school selects families and staff that they feel will follow the UCDS way with few, if any, challenges. In most cases if you express a concern about how the school operates you will be seen as questioning the administration and will either feel their wrath or be led to believe that your concerns will be addressed when in fact they have no intention of doing so. How can they teach children to be critical thinkers when they are not open to critical thinking themselves? The administrators are so invested in message control and maintaining the reputation of the school that they will do and say just about anything to curtail dissent. Intimidation, isolation, manipulation, and implicit threats, are all employed to keep parents in line. Parents often limit what they say and with whom they will share for fear of retribution. Most teachers are kind, caring, and capable but don’t necessarily represent the best and the brightest. As for previous posts on lagging academics, diversity, social-emotional concerns, they ring true. You will likely see posts refuting this one but know that though the details and experiences may differ there are many more UCDS families, both current and past, with whom these comments will resonate. You decide if some day that family will be yours.
Submitted by parent on May 09, 2015

Hey, March 7th, faster isn't better. Deep understanding of subjects through cross-curricular study will serve you much better than working through the concepts as quickly as possible.
Submitted by parent on March 07, 2015

Not a school for the highly capable student. No acceleration in studies and poor hands-on teaching of the fundamentals. Any issues get referred to outside specialists. Not worth the money in my opinion.
Submitted by parent on March 02, 2015

I believe UCDS has a highly constructed education system, and students are having great fun in school whether it is in the classrooms or after school activities. All of our child s teachers have been very enthusiastic and generous, they teach students with their whole heart. And above all, the UCDS spirit presents in every corner of the school, parents, students and teachers are loving and willing to help each other. We have already had a memorable four-year journey at UCDS and have made lots of life-lasting friends in many different aspects of life.
Submitted by parent on February 04, 2015

I feel so fortunate to have my kids at this amazing school. I chose the school because it was one that I wish that I had attended! They have been there over 2 1/2 years and are thriving. From our very first parent interview UCDS has given me great techniques on how to help my children succeed academically and insightful ideas to help their social and emotional progression. It is very clear to me that they are deeply invested in their development as engaged, skillful and reflective thinkers. I have heard some gossip (perhaps by a disgruntled parent) that the school does not prepare children for middle school and for me the exact opposite is true. Almost all UCDS kids get their first or second choice of schools and many middle school teachers find that they are incredibly thoughtful, dedicated and strong students. I also am a huge fan of the inclusive parent community. I have met many dynamic individuals. I am unequivocally confident that we chose the right school for our kids and for our family and thank my lucky stars that we were given the opportunity to attend.