Schools in Kirkland: What Families Should Know

by Jason Mesnick

When families think about moving to Kirkland, schools are often at the top of the priority list. Education plays a huge role in home-buying decisions, and for good reason—schools not only shape children’s experiences but also influence long-term property values. If you’re considering Kirkland as your next home, here’s what you should know about the local schools and what makes them stand out.

The Lake Washington School District

Kirkland is part of the highly regarded Lake Washington School District (LWSD), the second-largest district in Washington. LWSD serves more than 30,000 students across Kirkland, Redmond, and Sammamish, and is consistently ranked among the top districts in the state.

Parents appreciate the district’s commitment to high academic standards, technology integration, and preparing students for college and careers. Many Kirkland schools earn strong marks on platforms like GreatSchools.org, which is often one of the first places relocating families turn when comparing neighborhoods.

Elementary Schools in Kirkland

Kirkland is home to a variety of elementary schools, each serving different neighborhoods. A few that stand out include:

Peter Kirk Elementary – Located near downtown, this school is highly rated and beloved for its strong parent community and extracurricular opportunities.
Juanita Elementary – Serving the Juanita neighborhood, this school emphasizes inclusive programs and a welcoming culture.
Lakeview Elementary – Near the waterfront, Lakeview combines great academics with a small, community feel.

For families with young children, choosing a neighborhood often goes hand-in-hand with finding the right elementary school. Walking or biking to school is a big plus in many Kirkland neighborhoods.

Middle and High Schools

For older students, Kirkland continues to shine.

Kirkland Middle School and Finn Hill Middle School both prepare students with strong academic programs and diverse extracurriculars.
Lake Washington High School – Located near downtown Kirkland, “LWHS” is well-known for its college readiness, AP programs, and active athletics.
Juanita High School – Serving northern Kirkland, Juanita offers robust STEM and arts programs and recently underwent a major remodel, giving it state-of-the-art facilities.

On a personal note, I went to Lake Washington High School myself, and now my kids do too. It’s been really meaningful to see the school grow over the years, and I can say firsthand that it provides not only strong academics but also a supportive community that prepares students well for what’s ahead.

Choice Schools and Programs

Another thing families appreciate about LWSD is its choice schools and programs. These are schools you can apply to outside of your neighborhood assignment, often focusing on specific learning styles or subject areas.

Examples include:

International Community School (ICS) – A 6–12 school with a rigorous, globally focused curriculum.
Emerson K-12 – Blends classroom and at-home learning for a flexible approach.
Tesla STEM High School (in nearby Redmond) – A magnet program specializing in science, technology, engineering, and math.

These schools do require an application, and spaces are limited, but they provide excellent options for families looking for something beyond traditional programs.

Private and Alternative Schools

In addition to public schools, Kirkland offers several private school options.

Eastside Preparatory School – An independent middle and high school with a focus on innovative, inquiry-based learning.
Chestnut Hill Academy – A private elementary option in the area.
Several Montessori and faith-based schools also serve Kirkland families.

How Schools Impact Real Estate

Strong schools don’t just matter for families—they also influence the local housing market. Homes within the boundaries of highly rated schools tend to hold value better and often sell faster. Buyers relocating from outside the Seattle area frequently ask about Kirkland schools first, before they ask about specific homes.

Final Thoughts

So—what should families know about schools in Kirkland? The takeaway is simple: you’ll find high-quality options no matter where you land. With the strength of the Lake Washington School District, innovative choice programs, and respected private school alternatives, Kirkland offers something for every learning style and family priority.

Speaking from experience as both a former student and now a parent, I can confidently say that Kirkland schools provide a great foundation for kids to grow, thrive, and succeed.

If you’re considering a move and have questions about specific schools or neighborhoods, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to share my perspective and help families navigate both the real estate market and the school system here in Kirkland.