Founded in Tacoma, Washington, Annie Wright Schools (AWS) is a private International Baccalaureate World School serving students from age three through high school. It is amongst the few elite schools in the US and the only in Washington State to offer the continuum of IB programs at every level.
Most recently, AWS added another feather to its cap by becoming the #1 Boarding School and #1 K-12 Private School in Washington State by Niche. Owing to its rich history, internationally-recognized programs, and world-class facilities, AWS is the preferred education destination for international students.
The Rich History of AWS
In 1884, AWS was founded by Charles Barstow Wright, a Philadelphia resident whose business brought him to Tacoma. He called Tacoma “the City of Destiny” and wanted to see it grow and flourish.
Another pioneer, Right Reverend John Adams Paddock who had moved to New Tacoma in 1881 sought Wright’s assistance to build a school which would “make possible Christian education for the rising generation of daughters of the pioneers.” Wright agreed and outlined his vision for the school. Paddock named the school in honor of Wright’s daughter, Annie, and thereon, the journey of Annie Wright Seminary (now known as AWS) began.
As years passed, Annie Wright Seminary underwent numerous transformations; from an only girls’ school to a co-ed school. In 2011, the school was renamed Annie Wright Schools, consisting of a distinct combination of co-ed and single-gender programs. The same year, AWS’ first batch of students earned the IB diploma. The primary and middle years programs were later adopted by lower and middle schools, respectively.
However, through all these years, AWS has successfully maintained its hallmark for delivering exceptional academic programs that challenge students to reach their full intellectual potential.
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure & Facilities
The campus of AWS is spread across 13 acres, nestling historic and newly constructed buildings. The institution offers state-of-the-art facilities with smart and spacious classrooms, fully-equipped science laboratories, a large indoor pool, gyms, a 350-seat proscenium style theater, a modern library and tech lab, a beautiful chapel, a dining hall with healthy and child-centered catering services, a medical facility, and a lot more.
Expert Faculty
All AWS teachers are trained in IB and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to facilitate a successful learning journey. They have and continue to inspire and support hundreds of students from their early years to university.
Moreover, AWS invests in its staff by offering them a range of professional development opportunities such as grant funding, staff endeavors, and more.
Small Class Sizes with Individualized Learning Support
At AWS, the average student to teacher ratio is 7: 1. The school offers differentiated instruction within the classrooms with additional individualized learning support for students. In every division, dedicated learning support specialists assist students in all subjects, especially math, during and after school.
Preparing Students for the World Beyond the Classroom
“Our IB programming emphasizes student inquiry, intellectual risk-taking, and global-mindedness,” shares Mr. Rex Bates, Director of International Advancement at AWS. Through a unique and challenging education, AWS students perform well academically and develop strong social and emotional characteristics.
Moreover, AWS strikes the right chord in encouraging students to pursue their unique interests and passions beyond the classroom. From study abroad and cultural exchange programs to a wealth of arts, athletics, and social opportunities, students have a wide range of options at AWS. Students become more culturally aware and can engage with others in an increasingly globalized, rapidly changing world. As a result, they become the ideal candidates for international universities and colleges with the necessary knowledge, skills, and disposition to make a successful career.
Engaging Parents in their Child’s Learning & Wellbeing
“At AWS, we pride ourselves on ‘knowing’ every student, and establishing rapport with families is important in that effort,” reveals Mr. Bates. AWS offers numerous parent engagement and social opportunities for families to get to know each other and their student’s teachers and administrators. Likewise, the faculty regularly updates parents about their child’s progress at every step of their learning journey. The institution also provides many volunteering opportunities for events, community service projects, etc.
Prestigious Accreditations
AWS is a certified International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, with IB curricula offered throughout the schools. It is also a proud member of the Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS), the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), the National Coalition of Girls Schools (NCGS), the International Boys Schools Coalition (IBSC), the Association of Boarding Schools (TABS), and the Educational Records Bureau (ERB).
Dealing with COVID-19 Pandemic Challenges
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the AWS community was well-equipped with modern technology infrastructure, training, and resources to offer a rigorous, mostly synchronous college-preparatory IB curriculum despite the campus closure. In addition, numerous other efforts were made by AWS faculty to keep the students engaged and motivated during the hybrid learning mode.
“We are immensely proud of our entire student body’s ability to rise to the challenge and to ensure we could continue forward as a global, yet inclusive, academic community,” states Mr. Bates.
Strategic Plans for a Brighter Future
Currently, the AWS community is leading efforts to bring the 2021-2024 strategic plan to life. Going ahead, the school will continue to challenge its student community to become the best versions of themselves and develop a broad perspective on the world. By honoring its past and embracing its modern identity, AWS looks forward to a luminous future.
For More Info: https://www.aw.org/