Winner! Best in the PNW Awards
U Co-op Wins Four Best in the PNW Awards
University Cooperative School is proud to announce that we have received four honors in the Seattle Times Best in the PNW Awards, including Gold recognition for Best Preschool and Best Summer Camp. We were also named Bronze Winners for Best Elementary School and Best Private School.
Our 2026 Best in the PNW Award Wins:
🥇 Best Preschool (Gold Winner)
🥇 Best Summer Camp (Gold Winner)
🥉 Best Elementary School (Bronze Winner)
🥉 Best Private School (Bronze Winner)
Why Families Consider U Co-op One of the Best Preschools in Seattle
Receiving Gold recognition as Best Preschool is a tremendous honor.
Our Pre-K program is designed around the understanding that young children learn best through play, exploration, relationships, and meaningful experiences. Teachers thoughtfully create environments that encourage wonder, discovery, and independence while nurturing each child's social-emotional development.
Families often tell us that what sets our preschool apart is the balance of warmth and intention. We support children as individuals while helping them become part of a larger community. They build foundational academic skills while also developing confidence, empathy, resilience, and a love of learning. As one of Seattle's leading preschool programs, we believe early childhood education should be joyful, engaging, and deeply connected to how young children naturally learn.
What Makes University Cooperative School Unique?
U Co-op challenges students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and engage fully in their learning. Rather than focusing solely on outcomes, we emphasize inquiry, discovery, and growth.
Across every grade level, students participate in experiential learning that connects classroom concepts to the wider world. Projects often integrate multiple disciplines, helping students see meaningful connections between science, literacy, mathematics, social studies, and the arts.
As an independent elementary school in Seattle, we intentionally create opportunities for students to develop both academic skills and strong character. Children learn how to communicate thoughtfully, solve problems creatively, and contribute positively to their communities.
Families choose U Co-op because they value an education that supports the whole child. Our graduates leave with strong academic foundations, confidence in their abilities, and the curiosity to continue exploring the world around them.
A Community Achievement
While we are proud of these recognitions, the awards themselves aren't what matters most.
What matters is the vibrant community behind them.
Every day, our teachers bring passion, expertise, and creativity to their classrooms. Our students approach learning with enthusiasm and curiosity. Our families contribute their time, energy, and partnership. Our alumni continue to champion the values that make U Co-op unique. Together, they create a learning environment rooted in belonging, collaboration, and shared purpose.
These Best in the PNW awards affirm what we have long known: when students are supported by a caring community and engaged through meaningful, experiential learning, extraordinary things happen.
Thank you to our extraordinary community for your votes!