According to a Niche survey of the top Washington state school districts of 2018, Bainbridge Island School District ranks fifth among the 236 districts within the state. With a total of 10 schools and nearly 4,000 students, the Island earned especially high marks within the categories of Academics, Teachers, Clubs & Activities, and College Prep. As Niche reports, the student-teacher ratio is at a low 18 to 1 and the District also ranks well among Best Teachers in Washington (at the number two spot) and Best Places to Teach in Washington (at number eight). Top-rated schools are one of the many draws that bring residents to the Island life, especially given that educational opportunities far from end at the public school system.
In honor of Bainbridge Island’s stellar schools, we put together a few of our favorite family friendly activities that fuse fun with education for the whole family.
Bainbridge Aquatic Center
No matter the time of year, the Bainbridge Aquatic Center offers a balance of relaxing poolside afternoons with classes to help guppies refine their swimming skills. The Don Nakata Memorial Pool promises hours of entertainment with a 180-foot waterslide, lazy river, sloped beach entry, tot pool, and more.
Bainbridge Island Farmers Market
From March 31st through December 15th, the Farmers Market provides an eclectic variety of local produce, handmade cheeses, and artisan products that have to be either Island-grown or Island-made. The result is a memorable excursion that keeps family members of all ages entertained, with plenty of opportunities to meet and learn more about the Island’s thriving local businesses.
KiDiMu
The Kids Discovery Museum was founded on the mission “to spark children’s curiosity through play and experiential learning,” which they achieve by allowing children and their caregivers to “explore art, science, and culture through hands-on exhibits, daily art projects, cultural and scientific programming.” They even offer Summer Camps when the kids are out of school so they can both enjoy summer break and continue their growth in learning.
The Bainbridge Island Historical Museum
For older children, the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum provides an excellent venue for diving into the history of the Island. Located in a 1908 schoolhouse, exhibits allow visitors to learn about the Port Blakely lumber mill, Native American heritage, the explorers that charted the Puget Sound, and more.