Seattle Public Schools

Departments

International Education

International Education at Seattle Schools

Our vision is to prepare students, in partnership with families and community, for global citizenship in an increasingly interdependent world.

Seattle’s International Schools value multilingualism, cultivate creative and critical thinking skills, and emphasize a global perspective that will help students contribute to and succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.

International Schools help students engage in intellectually rigorous schoolwork and prepare them International Schools engage students in culturally relevant and intellectually rigorous schoolwork that prepares them for college, a career, and active participation in the local and global communities.

Students examine complex and interconnected global issues and learn how to recognize and respect different perspectives. Our International Schools teach and nurture core dispositions such as developing empathy and promoting equity.

Students in International Schools develop cross-cultural communication and collaboration skills and learn how to take collective action for sustainable development. Teachers and staff in our International Schools strive to develop a globally competent and culturally responsive professional practice.

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International Education - Seattle Public Schools graphic.  in the center is a globe labeled Global Citizens. The next circle shows components of International Education (SPS Board Policy No. 2177: Cultural/Global Compentency, Global Perspective, World Languages. Outer circle shows 21st Century Skills (SPS Strategic Plan): Communication and Collaboration Skills, Creative and Critical Thinking, Communication and Collaboration Skills. The remainder of the outer circle shows Global Competence Matrix, (CCSSO/Asia Society) Investigate the World Recognize Perspectives, Communicate Ideas Take Action.

Preparing Global Citizens

  • RCW 28A.150.210: Basic Education – Goals of School Districts
    “A basic education is an evolving program of instruction that is intended to provide students with the opportunity to become responsible and respectful global citizens , to contribute to their economic well-being and that of their families and communities, to explore and understand different perspectives, and to enjoy productive and satisfying lives.”
    (emphasis added)

Components of International Education

Global Competence Matrix

Current Initiatives

  • Youth Lead Washington Global Issues Network (WAGIN) Conference since 2015 (2021 Website)
group photo 2019 WAGIN Conference, Chief Sealth International High School, Seattle WA
2019 WAGIN Conference, Chief Sealth International High School, Seattle WA

International Education Frequently Asked Questions

International Schools

Southwest Region

Southeast Region

Northwest Region