Seattle Area German American School

United States, Seattle

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The school at a glance

Instructs in German, English

Fees $8,159 - 16,050

Ages 3 - 10 years

Type Co-educational

Bus Service No

Academic offering

Curriculum American Curriculum, German Curriculum

Taught languages English

Typical class size 15

Strengths Languages, Outdoor Education, Performing Arts

Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language

Stages Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary

Introduction

Seattle Area German American School is a bilingual program serving children ages 3 to 10. Located at 11010 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle, WA 98133, the school offers a dual curriculum that combines the American framework with a German immersion program. The elementary curriculum uses Kompetenzbereiche (competency areas) as in Germany, while aligning with Washington State standards. Kindergarten through fifth grade follow a full-day schedule (Kindergarten 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.; grades 1–5 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.). Core subjects include Math, German, English from 1st Grade, Science, and Social Studies. The program emphasizes learning through living languages, with students using German in daily activities to build fluency and cross‑cultural understanding. Preschool and PreK support early bilingual development. Facilities include a library with over 3,500 German-language books for children. Enrichment programs, music and arts, robotics, chess, and outdoor education complement academics. The school emphasizes volunteer involvement and outdoor time as part of its daily routine.

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The Essentials

Location

The Seattle Area German American School is in Seattle, Washington, at 11010 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle, WA 98133. It sits in the Greenwood neighborhood of Seattle.

Stages

Preschool and PreK; Elementary.

Country affiliation

United States

School day structure

Preschool runs 9:15am–1:15pm with 3–5 days per week; PreK attends at least 4 days a week (Mon–Thu, Mon–Wed+Fri, or Mon–Fri). Elementary runs 9:00am–3:00pm. Preschool daily activities include arrival/free play, morning circle with songs, themed projects, lunch/clean-up, and outdoor play. Elementary daily activities include circle, German and English instruction, recess, lunch, math, science, social studies, music, art, and sport.

Diving Deeper

Food Options

Lunch is part of the daily schedule for Preschool through Elementary. Preschool has a lunch period around 11:15. Elementary has a lunch period around 11:00.

Governance and Ownership

The school is incorporated as a not-for-profit educational organization in the state of Washington and is recognized as a 501c-3 tax-exempt educational institution by the Internal Revenue Department. The Board of Directors provides governance oversight in partnership with the Head of School.

Fees

Application fees

- A one-time application fee applies per child: USD 60.

Tuition fees by program (annual and per-installment amounts)

- Preschool (3 days/week, Preschool only): USD 8,159 per year; paid in ten equal monthly installments of USD 816 (paid September through June).
- Preschool/PreK (4 days/week): USD 9,723 per year; paid in ten equal monthly installments of USD 972 (paid September through June).
- Preschool/PreK (5 days/week): USD 11,309 per year; paid in ten equal monthly installments of USD 1,131 (paid September through June).
- Elementary (Kindergarten – 5th grade), full day (5 days/week): USD 16,050 per year; paid in ten equal monthly installments of USD 1,605 (paid September through June).
- A 10% sibling tuition discount applies to the second and any subsequent child enrolled.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Tuition is billed on an annual basis and collected in ten equal monthly installments (September through June), regardless of holidays, absences, or vacations. Tuition installments are processed through the school's tuition-management system.
- Families pay a non-refundable tuition deposit equal to one month's tuition to secure a spot; that deposit is applied as the September tuition payment. Specific deposit due dates are set during enrollment.
- Regular tuition payments begin after the deposit and are due on the 10th or the 20th of each month, depending on the plan chosen. If a family withdraws a student during the school year, a 30-day written notice to the Head of School is required; failure to provide required notice can result in the entire remaining year's tuition becoming payable. If a student is dismissed, the current month's tuition remains due but any additional prepaid tuition will be refunded.

Boarding fees

- Boarding is not offered. Programs are daytime only (Preschool hours and Elementary day schedule specified). There are no boarding fees.

Other costs and fees

- Field trip fees: typically USD 10–15 per field trip; actual amounts vary by classroom and trip.
- Extended care / aftercare: offered for an additional fee and billed separately from daytime tuition; families sign up and pay for extended care independently.
- Enrichment programs, camps, and elective after-school activities carry separate fees (examples: some enrichment classes run in multi-week sessions and are priced per session).
- School spirit wear / optional apparel is available for purchase through the school shop; there is no mandatory uniform fee.
- Volunteer expectation: families are encouraged to complete volunteer hours (a community expectation that helps keep tuition at current levels). Volunteer hours are a family commitment rather than a monetary fee.

Refund information

- The enrollment tuition deposit (one month's tuition) is non-refundable. A 30-day written notice is required to withdraw a student during the school year; if notice is not provided as required, the school may require payment of the entire remaining year's tuition. In the event of dismissal under the school's policies, the current month's tuition remains due and any additional prepaid tuition will be refunded. No refunds are offered for missed days. (Camp registrations have their own cancellation policy; for camps a cancellation up to 21 days before the first day may qualify for a refund less an administrative fee.)

Fee payment options and methods

- The school uses a third-party tuition-management service (FACTS) to collect tuition and fees; FACTS supports payment-in-full, semi-annual, and monthly payment plans and allows payment by bank (ACH) or card through that system.
- The school accepts electronic transfers (Zelle) and checks for application fees and other payments when specified in enrollment materials; specific payment instructions (Zelle address, check payee and mailing address) are provided at application/enrollment.

If you need the amounts presented in a different numeric format (for example, per-month installment figures are already included above), the listed annual fees and the ten-installment breakdowns provide the complete billing picture for each program.

Academics

Curriculum

Full immersion German language program. The school provides German immersion education. The Elementary curriculum goals are organized into Kompetenzbereiche (competency areas) as in Germany, while meeting Washington State standards. Kindergarten through 5th Grade attend a full-day schedule (Kindergarten 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.; First through fifth grade 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.). Core subjects include Math, German, English starting at 1st Grade, Science, and Social Studies. The program emphasizes learning through living languages, with students learning by playing, exploring, creating, singing, and using German in daily activities to build fluency and cross-cultural understanding. Preschool and PreK programs support early bilingual development.

Student Teacher Ratio

Preschool targets 9:1; PreK targets 10:1; Elementary classrooms range about 12–20 students per classroom with a goal of 15:1.

Gifted and Talented

Enrichment programs are available; the school aims to challenge students of all developmental levels. Enrichment offerings include activities such as Chess Wizards and additional German-language art, music, dance, and theatre programs.

Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school fosters belonging and accessibility by recognizing each child's emotional, social and cultural individuality and by establishing a trusting relationship between teachers, parents and children to support learning.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

English is taught as a core subject starting in 1st Grade.

Mental Wellbeing

The school supports students' mental well-being by fostering an inclusive environment and encouraging exploration of interests and feelings within a trusting, respectful community.

Parent Experience

Community

The SAGA School fosters a vibrant, welcoming community grounded in German-speaking culture. Volunteer opportunities are available for families and community members through Volunteer at SAGA. Community events include SAGA Fest 2026, and family resources such as Current Family Information and Our Library, along with programs like Shop at SAGA and Community Benefit Programs.

Facilities

Facilities Overview

The Seattle Area German American School operates from 11010 Greenwood Ave N in Seattle, WA 98133. The campus includes a dedicated library with over 3,500 German-language books for children, plus a smaller adult section and a collection of CDs and DVDs. The library is currently closed to the public due to COVID-19 precautions; families can request books by emailing library@sagaschool.org. When public access is allowed, the library is typically open to students, staff, parents and members of the public. Checkout is limited to ten books or items and three DVDs per family; DVDs may be checked out for one week, and other library materials for three weeks. The SAGA School provides a German-immersion environment with a curriculum and teaching materials designed to maximize German language acquisition through play, exploration, and structured learning, aligning with Washington State and Seattle Public Schools expectations for early childhood development through 5th grade.

Academic Facilities

The SAGA School provides a full immersion German language program that fosters early language acquisition and cross-cultural understanding. The program uses a German-language environment with verbal, visual, physical, tactile, and auditory tools to make language accessible. Curriculum materials are pre-planned to introduce basic vocabulary and concepts in a coordinated fashion. Staff engage in ongoing professional development in early childhood education. The program aligns with Washington State and Seattle Public School District expectations for early childhood development, with kindergarten expectations aligned for entry into 1st grade and continuing through 5th grade.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Spring and Summer Camps are offered for children of all ages. Enrichment Programs are available, with a wide variety of offerings, most conducted in German. Parent-Child Kinderstunde offers German music, finger play, stories, and movement for children aged 10 to 29 months and their parent. Chess Wizard is part of the enrichment offerings at SAGA.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

Robotics Club is offered for 1st–2nd grade and for 3rd–5th grade. Chess is offered as an extracurricular activity. English Creative Writing is offered as an extracurricular. Extracurricular opportunities emphasize learning outside the classroom through a range of projects and activities.

Arts & Creative

Blockflöte is offered as an extracurricular instrument program. A Dancing Program is offered. The curriculum includes a music program with a bi-annual school-wide musical and art programs that foster creation. SAGA-Musical: DER SONNENMACHER is part of enrichment offerings.

Cultural & Language

Cultural Events include Laternenfest – St. Martinstag, Winterfest, Fasching, and Oktoberfest. The library houses over 3,500 German-language books and media for children and adults. Elementary students have weekly library visits to borrow materials.

Social & Hobbies

Extracurricular opportunities include Robotics Club, Running Club, and Chess. The Wilderness Program offers outdoor learning experiences. Music and art programs contribute to social engagement and creative expression.

Community & Service

Volunteering supports SAGA's operations and helps keep tuition prices reasonable. Parents volunteer on committees and community members are invited to participate. To get involved, contact volunteer@sagaschool.org.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Preschool hours are 9:15am–1:15pm, with before- and aftercare options available. Faustlos (Second Step program) teaches social skills and problem solving. The school emphasizes outdoor time, with daily outdoor activity. Sport is emphasized for fitness and movement in the curriculum.

Languages

Language Provision

German is the language of instruction at SAGA. Preschool is in a German-speaking environment, with most teachers native German speakers engaging with children in German. Four-year-olds often speak German with peers and switch between German and English, aiding bilingual development. No prior German experience is required to attend Preschool.

Bilingual Teaching

German immersion education is provided. The program uses a full immersion model with a 'living languages' approach, where students learn through play, exploration, creating, singing, and daily activities in German. Preschool is conducted in a German-speaking environment with most teachers being native German speakers who engage with children in German. Four-year-olds often speak German with peers and switch between German and English, and students who continue into Kindergarten gain literacy and become bilingual.

Immersion Programs

German immersion is the core program, offered in Preschool and through elementary education. Preschool classrooms provide a German-speaking environment, with most teachers being native German speakers who engage with children in German. Four-year-olds often speak German with peers and switch between German and English, supporting bilingual development. No prior German experience is required for Preschool.

Admissions

Step 1. The SAGA School invites new families to visit an Open House or meet with a SAGA representative and tour the school prior to submitting an application. This helps families learn about programs, meet teachers and staff, and ask questions. New families are encouraged to attend an Open House or arrange a tour to learn more about SAGA. For questions, contact the Admissions Team at admissions@sagaschool.org. Step 2. Complete the New Student Application Form for Preschool/PreK or Elementary. The application collects child and family information, including details such as the child's name, birth date, languages spoken, and how the family heard about SAGA. Previous exposure to German is not required for preschool; it is highly recommended for students in Kindergarten and is required for students in Grade 1 or higher. Step 3. Review the Admissions Timeline. February 9, 2026 is the new student application deadline (applications may be accepted beyond the deadline if space allows). March 2, 2026, enrollment contracts to admitted students are sent no later than March 2. March 31, 2026, a non-refundable tuition deposit is due to secure a spot. Step 4. Returning Students. Re-enrolling at this early stage gives your child priority placement for the coming school year before enrollment opens to the public on January 12, 2026. Step 5. Questions? For questions regarding applications and registration, contact the Admissions Team at admissions@sagaschool.org.

School Events

The school has not added events

FAQs

Where is Seattle Area German American School located, and what age groups do you serve?

The school is located at 11010 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle, WA 98133 in the Greenwood neighborhood. It serves children ages 3 to 10, with Preschool, PreK, and Elementary (Kindergarten–5th grade) on a full-day schedule.

What curriculum does SAGA use for its students?

SAGA offers a full immersion German language program. The Elementary curriculum uses Kompetenzbereiche to align with Washington State standards, while Preschool and PreK support early bilingual development.

Is the school co-educational and what are typical daily hours for preschool, PreK, and elementary?

SAGA is a co-educational school. Preschool runs 9:15am–1:15pm (3–5 days per week), PreK attends at least 4 days per week, and Elementary runs 9:00am–3:00pm.

What is the admissions process and the key deadlines for new applicants?

Admissions begin with an Open House or a school tour, followed by the New Student Application Form. The new student deadline is February 9, 2026; admitted students receive enrollment contracts by March 2, 2026, and a non-refundable tuition deposit is due by March 31, 2026. Returning students have priority placement for the next year.

What is the application fee, and is there a deposit to secure a spot?

There is a one-time application fee of USD 60 per child. Families pay a non-refundable tuition deposit equal to one month's tuition to secure a spot, which is applied to the September tuition.

Is there a sibling discount?

Yes, a 10% sibling tuition discount applies to the second and any subsequent child enrolled. The discount helps reduce the overall tuition for eligible siblings.

What is the student-to-teacher ratio / typical class size in preschool, pre-K, and elementary?

Preschool targets 9:1; PreK targets 10:1. Elementary classrooms typically have 12–20 students, with a goal of 15:1.

When is English introduced as a core subject, and what languages are taught?

English is taught as a core subject starting in 1st Grade. German is the language of instruction throughout the program, with immersion designed to build bilingual fluency.

Are there enrichment programs or clubs to challenge students beyond the core curriculum?

Yes. Enrichment offerings include Chess Wizards, German-language art, music, dance, and theatre. Additional activities include Robotics Club and English Creative Writing, among others.

What learning resources does the campus library offer, and how can families access it?

The campus features a dedicated library with over 3,500 German-language books for children, plus adult materials and media. The library is currently closed to the public due to COVID precautions, but families can request books by emailing library@sagaschool.org.

What extracurricular activities are available (e.g., robotics, chess, music)?

Extracurriculars include Robotics Club for 1st–2nd and 3rd–5th grades, Chess, English Creative Writing, Blockflöte (recorder), and a Dancing program, along with a biannual school-wide musical and art programs.

Are there activities or opportunities for families to get involved through volunteering?

Yes. Families can volunteer to support school operations and committees, and community members are invited to participate. To get involved, contact volunteer@sagaschool.org.

What social-emotional learning and wellbeing programs does SAGA offer?

SAGA emphasizes belonging and accessibility through social-emotional learning, recognizing each child's emotional and cultural individuality. Faustlos (Second Step) teaches social skills and problem solving, and outdoor time is emphasized as part of the wellbeing approach.

Is English language support available for students, and when does EAL begin?

English is taught as a core subject starting in 1st Grade, providing language development support as students progress through the early years.

What is the German immersion model like at SAGA, and is prior German experience required for Preschool?

German immersion is the core model, with Preschool conducted in a German-speaking environment led by native German-speaking teachers. No prior German experience is required to attend Preschool.

What community events and resources exist for families, and how can they participate?

SAGA hosts events like SAGA Fest and maintains resources such as Current Family Information and Our Library. Families can participate through volunteering, and programs like Shop at SAGA and Community Benefit Programs support the community.

What is the lunch arrangement across different age groups?

Lunch is part of the daily schedule. Preschool has a lunch period around 11:15, and Elementary has a lunch period around 11:00.

How is SAGA governed and what nonprofit status does it hold?

SAGA is incorporated as a not-for-profit educational organization in the state of Washington and is recognized as a 501c-3 tax-exempt educational institution. The Board of Directors provides governance oversight in partnership with the Head of School.

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