About James Baldwin Elementary School

Top Highlights

• Teachers who use proven, effective practices in their classrooms every day
• James Baldwin focuses on efforts to build a strong community of learners through Eagle Pride, assemblies, student incentives, and positive behavior/anti-bullying initiatives.
• A focus on reading includes an uninterrupted 90 minute literacy block daily
• State of the art technology, high quality performance space in the commons, devices for each student and interactive white boards
• Multicultural events throughout the year celebrate our status as one of most diverse schools in the city (20 languages spoken)
• Building newly opened in 2023 with a design that includes small group learning areas throughout the school, is student and family centered, and filled with natural light

Before/After School Activities

• Boys & Girls Club offers on-site, tuition-based before or after-school care, with scholarships available.
• Seattle Urban Squash program for grades 3 – 5.
• James Baldwin READS/COUNTS afterschool program for grades 2 – 3.

Student Achievement

• Teacher training through ongoing professional development
• Strong focus on developing teachers’ skills through professional learning communities
• On-site Instructional Assistants
• Family support worker, counselor, psychologist, OT/PT, speech therapy

Special Programs

• Head Start
• Bilingual Orientation Center 
• Self-contained special education programs
• Tutor/Mentoring volunteer programs

Significant Changes at the School

• Ongoing grant applications for promising practices and increased learning

Mission

James Baldwin Elementary is a culturally responsive community working together toward educational excellence and justice for all students and families. We empower students to be community-minded critical thinkers who are successful academically, socially, and emotionally.

Vision

James Baldwin Elementary students will work toward creating more equitable, diverse, and inclusive communities. They will become global citizens with the skills to solve the complex challenges our world presents.