Empowering Minds: Education and Schools in Our Community
Academic Excellence for Your Children's Future
As a physician relocating to Silverdale to join St. Michael Medical Center, providing your children with exceptional educational opportunities is likely a top priority. You'll be pleased to discover that the Silverdale area offers a comprehensive range of high-quality educational options that will nurture your children's academic growth and personal development. All educational pathways—from outstanding public schools to prestigious private institutions—will be accessible to your family, allowing you to select the environment that best aligns with your educational philosophy and your children's unique needs.
The local education landscape combines the advantages of smaller school sizes and personalized attention with access to advanced programs and diverse extracurricular opportunities. Unlike metropolitan areas where the most prestigious schools often have long waiting lists or prohibitive admissions requirements, Silverdale's educational institutions are both excellent and accessible, providing your children with pathways to top universities and future success.
- Award-winning public school system with recent accolades and ongoing investments
- Diverse private school options including college preparatory, faith-based, and specialized approaches
- Comprehensive programs for gifted students and those with special academic interests
- Short commutes between home, school, and your workplace at St. Michael Medical Center
Central Kitsap School District: Excellence in Public Education
The Central Kitsap School District (CKSD) serves the Silverdale area with distinction, consistently ranking among the top school districts in Washington State. In 2025, the district was ranked #72 out of 307, placing it in the top 30% statewide based on combined math and reading proficiency. CKSD excels in science education, ranking in the top 20% for science proficiency.
What sets CKSD apart is its commitment to both academic excellence and student wellbeing. The district’s schools offer modern facilities, a faculty where 67% hold advanced degrees, and a broad range of programs. With a student-teacher ratio of 18:1, your children will receive personalized attention to help them thrive.
- Central Kitsap High School ranked #67 out of 437 Washington high schools and earned a 4-star rating from SchoolDigger
- 38% AP participation rate emphasizing college preparation
- New facilities at Central Kitsap Middle and High Schools
- Comprehensive extracurriculars: championship athletics, award-winning arts, robust STEM
- Top 1% diversity ranking in Washington school districts
Innovative Programs and Academic Pathways
CKSD offers programs that challenge and engage students at all levels, allowing them to explore their passions and build meaningful skills:
- Highly Capable Program: Accelerated K–12 curriculum for gifted learners
- STEM pathways: Courses in IT, cybersecurity, robotics, healthcare, aviation, and more
- College prep: AP courses, dual credit, and college partnerships
- CTE programs: Industry-recognized certifications and real-world skills
- Project Lead The Way: Hands-on learning in engineering and biomedical sciences
Excellence in Elementary Education
CKSD’s elementary schools offer a nurturing foundation focused on core academic development and whole-child growth:
- Nine elementary schools with varied options based on location
- Focus on literacy and math with targeted interventions
- Enrichment opportunities in science, tech, arts, and PE
- Before and after-school programs for working families
- Dedicated counselors supporting emotional and social development
Middle School: A Time of Transition and Growth
CKSD middle schools offer a blend of academic rigor and personal development during this formative time:
- Three middle schools: Central Kitsap, Ridgetop, and Fairview
- Central Kitsap Middle School: Rated "above average" with 62% reading and 41% math proficiency
- Transition support from elementary to middle school
- Exploratory classes to uncover new interests and abilities
- Expanding athletics focused on skill and sportsmanship
High School Excellence and College Preparation
CKSD high schools offer a comprehensive experience, ensuring students are college- and career-ready:
- Two comprehensive high schools: Central Kitsap and Olympic
- Two alternative high schools: Klahowya and Barker Creek Community
- Central Kitsap High School: Nationally recognized with two Washington Achievement Awards
- Extensive AP offerings and consistent admissions to top-tier universities
- Dedicated college counselors guiding academic and career planning
Private School Options for Discerning Families
Families interested in private education will find top-tier private institutions with a range of philosophies:
- Crosspoint Christian School: Pre-K–12 college-prep on two campuses; top 20% in WA private schools
- Montessori Schools: Including Central Kitsap, The Cottage, and Cornerstone Montessori
- Silverwood School: Independent school emphasizing creativity and intellectual curiosity
- West Sound Academy: IB-accredited grades 6–12 school in Poulsbo with global focus
Special Education and Support Services
CKSD is committed to inclusive education, offering robust support services to meet diverse student needs:
- Resource Support Services for students with specific learning needs
- Intensive Learning Services for life-skills-based instruction
- Integrated therapies: Speech, occupational, and physical therapy
- Parent collaboration at every stage of education planning
- Seamless support transitions across grade levels
The educational landscape in Silverdale provides the ideal environment for your children to thrive. With your position at St. Michael Medical Center, you’ll have access to a full spectrum of academic options that ensure your children's unique potential is nurtured and supported. It’s yet another reason why relocating to Silverdale is a decision that benefits the entire family.
