Eras Introductions
Foundations
FOUNDATIONS
1924-1948
1924-1948
Growth has been a constant at The Bush School throughout its 100 years, and the same is true for the school’s commitment to providing a progressive, experiential education. Helen Taylor Bush’s educational philosophies laid the foundation, from the school’s humble beginnings serving six children in her home on Dorffel Drive in 1924, to its quick expansion to serving grades K–12 by 1935.
“Education is an active process, not a passive one. The school subscribes to the process of learning to do by doing,” Mrs. Bush wrote in 1928.
Play and self-discovery were emphasized in the Lower School, and the arts played a large role throughout all grades in the school’s early years. From the beginning, Mrs. Bush was also committed to expanding opportunities for all students. According to a financial statement from 1933, “of eighty-one students enrolled, fourteen paid half-tuition and eleven paid nothing.” Thus the values from these early years set the stage for Bush’s long history of striving to provide access and opportunity to a progressive and student-centered education.
“Education is an active process, not a passive one. The school subscribes to the process of learning to do by doing,” Mrs. Bush wrote in 1928.
Play and self-discovery were emphasized in the Lower School, and the arts played a large role throughout all grades in the school’s early years. From the beginning, Mrs. Bush was also committed to expanding opportunities for all students. According to a financial statement from 1933, “of eighty-one students enrolled, fourteen paid half-tuition and eleven paid nothing.” Thus the values from these early years set the stage for Bush’s long history of striving to provide access and opportunity to a progressive and student-centered education.
Head of School: Helen Taylor Bush, 1924-1948
Enrollment: 1924 six students
The Bush School is an independent, coeducational day school located in Seattle, WA enrolling 735 students in grades K–12. The mission of The Bush School is to spark in students of diverse backgrounds and talents a passion for learning, accomplishment, and contribution to their communities.
3400 East Harrison Street, Seattle WA 98112 (206) 322-7978
The Bush School does not discriminate in matters of employment, recruitment, admissions, or administration of any of its programs on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, gender, or sexual orientation. In addition, The Bush School does not discriminate in matters of employment on the basis of age or marital status.