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A Hub for Learning and Community Engagement

At The Meridian School, our education program goes beyond the classroom to build a strong academic foundation while encouraging students to become good stewards and active community members. Through close connections with the historic Good Shepherd Center, Meridian Park, and the surrounding neighborhood, students engage in experiential learning that fosters responsibility and compassion.

student girl with flowers

A Unique Outdoor Learning Environment

The lush, green landscape of Meridian Park, surrounding the school, feels like a serene country orchard. Enclosed by a tall hedge of holly and horse chestnut trees, the recently renovated playground incorporates art and thoughtful design elements, giving it the charm of a secret garden. With over six acres of outdoor space, we move the classroom outdoors frequently, giving students opportunities for creative play and physical activity—key components of a balanced, healthy education.

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The Good Shepherd Center: A Community Building

The Good Shepherd Center, our home, is not only a school building but also a vibrant community hub operated by Historic Seattle that hosts several organizations, including the Wallingford Senior Center, Alliance Française, EarthGen, and the Tilth Alliance. This collaborative environment provides students with enriching interactions and shows how we can learn from our neighbors, embodying the guiding principles of Meridian Cares.

students playing in dirt

Engaging in Meaningful Community Projects

Meridian students actively contribute to the local community through hands-on projects that create lasting impact. Recent initiatives include:

  • Designing and painting a collaborative mural in Meridian Park’s comfort station.
  • Supporting grounds maintenance and clean-up during our annual all-school Community Service Day.
  • Planting and maintaining heritage apple trees with City Fruit, following storm damage to the park.
  • Painting the sculptures at Meridian Playground as part of Seattle’s 1 Percent for Arts Program.
  • Partnering with local businesses and nonprofit organizations like Seattle Tilth and FamilyWorks Food Bank.
  • Partnering with local Senior Center, making quilts & folk dancing celebrations

These projects help students see the importance of civic engagement and community responsibility, fostering a deep connection to their environment and neighbors.

Historical Highlights

1946

E. Louise Perkins, a Seattle piano teacher, founded Perkins Musical Kindergarten in her home in Seattle’s Ravenna neighborhood.

1961

E. Louise Perkins and Betty Lea obtained a business license for a private preschool, which Betty purchased the full share of in 1972.

1976

Betty Lea officially opened Perkins Elementary School, serving lower elementary grades in Phinney Ridge.

1978

The school received non-profit status, and Betty hired Ellen Toole as a French teacher and swimming instructor.

1981

Ellen Toole found space in the Good Shepherd Center in Seattle’s Wallingford neighborhood, and Perkins Elementary moved to the historic building. Classes were located in the main building, and the school shared the gymnasium with Pacific Northwest Ballet.

1982

Ellen Toole was named Head of School.

1989

The school acquired nearly full occupation of the South Annex and renovated the space.

1990

PNAIS (now NWAIS) evaluation and accreditation.

1991

Chris Chevalier took over leadership of the preschool and kindergarten. Chris opened an elementary school under the name of Perkins School the following year.

1997

The school changed its name to The Meridian School.

2002

Hundreds of people in the Wallingford neighborhood joined Meridian families and staff to raise money for new playground equipment. Students helped with the landscaping of the future playground site.

2004

After 25 years with Perkins Elementary and The Meridian School, Ellen Toole retired. During her tenure, the school grew from 30 students to 168. She left a legacy of strong and creative academic program.

2023

The Meridian School opened The Corliss House, located in a renovated house on Corliss Ave, directly next to the South Annex. The 2023-2024 school year marked the exciting launch of our PreKindergarten class!

Today

The Meridian School is proud to be the largest tenant at the Good Shepherd Center. We are dedicated to teaching our students the importance of being good stewards and partners of this remarkable space.

A Campus That Inspires

“We recommend Meridian to others because of the outdoor space to play, explore, and learn. Place-based learning brings to life what our kids do in school, igniting a love for learning. It also allows them to explore, observe, play, and be active participants in caring for the beautiful park and Good Shepherd Center.”

– Meridian Parent

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