Submitted by North Thurston Public Schools
Students learn in different ways, and families have different needs. North Thurston Public Schools (NTPS) offers choice school experiences for students who may excel in a learning environment different from the conventional school paths.
“We want to meet students and families where they are, with a variety of educational opportunities that match their interests and needs,” said Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services Sarah Rich. “Every family in our district belongs, and we want to be sure they all find a place where they can thrive.”
NTPS Offers Four Choice Schools
- Aspire Performing Arts Academy, a performing arts-focused middle school (grades 6-8). At Aspire, middle school students apply and enroll through a randomized selection process to ensure equitable access. In addition to rigorous academic standards, Aspire students develop skills in citizenship and teamwork as they explore the performing arts through band, orchestra, choir, and drama.
“Our students learn to understand the importance of being an active and positive member of a community in our large performance groups,” said Aspire Principal Mike Suhling. “They use these skills across the entire school and carry them to high school. We find high levels of engagement, commitment, and drive at Aspire. This is true for the students and the staff of this amazing school.”
- Envision Career Academy, a project-based, career and technical education (CTE) focused high school (grades 9–12). At Envision, students engage in traditional academics through hands-on exploration. Students can choose from four pathways to earn high school credit: Business, Marketing and Entrepreneurship; Agricultural Sciences; Manufacturing and Technology with an Aerospace Pathway; and Biomedical Sciences. In addition to classrooms, the Envision learning environment includes a design lab, gardens and a small forest to manage, and a small business café. Woven into the curriculum are five key experiences: career planning, job shadowing, career mentoring, internships, and community service.
“Envision is an excellent school for students who are looking for a unique learning experience that focuses on real-world application of the state’s academic requirements,” said Envision Principal Dr. Brody LaRock. “Students and staff love the small-school environment and creative approaches to teaching that meet students’ different learning styles. It’s rigorous, and it’s fun.”
- Ignite Family Academy, a family partnership school to support at-home learning (grades kindergarten–8). Ignite offers on-site classes for students that are hands-on, highly engaging, and taught by certificated NTPS teachers. Classes are grounded in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math).
Ignite Principal Stephanie Hollinger said the school provides the support that families need in their at-home learning: instructional support from staff, support from other parents, or just knowing they are not alone in their at-home learning journey.
“Ignite Family Academy is a truly special place for students and families,” Hollinger said. “When you step into the building, you feel a sense of happiness. You see smiling students and families. You hear laughter between students and teachers in the classrooms. You can almost hear the ‘got it’ moments when learning clicks for a student.”
“At Ignite we get to learn about so much more than I expected,” said Ignite 3rd-grade student Lincoln, who has attended Ignite since kindergarten. “Coding, robotics, drama, art, and STEM building are some really fun classes.”
- Summit Virtual Academy, a fully online, accredited school taught by local NTPS teachers (grades kindergarten–12). Summit provides curriculum, materials, and technology for students free of charge. Students attend interactive live classes 5 days / week and complete online work. Summit is available for any NTPS student.
Summit Principal Becky Lee said in addition to the live online classes, Summit provides optional in-person gatherings and extra support for students during their independent work time. “The teachers at Summit are deeply committed to helping students find success and will go out of their way to connect,” Lee said.
“I like how Summit makes our learning environment a safe and comfortable place and how they make sure every student has access to the help they need,” said Summit 9th-grade student Leo Shiley.
Each school has its own application process, and there are a limited number of openings for students who live outside the district and wish to request a choice transfer. Visit the school websites to learn more.
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