Rainier Prep

Mission

Rainier Prep's mission is to prepare all students to excel at four-year colleges and to become leaders in their communities.

Description

Rainier Prep Public Charter School is a fully established, high-performing public middle school operating with excellence at a $7.5M annual budget. Founded in 2013 by a small group of families and partners willing to take a risk, Rainier Prep was built on the belief that all students deserve access to an excellent education—and the potential for generational change.

Today, that belief is reflected in our results. Rainier Prep ranks in the top 10% statewide for academic growth, two years in a row—both schoolwide and across our primary student groups: Black (54%), Latine (27%), Multilingual Learners (30%), and students from limited-income households (80%).

These outcomes extend well beyond middle school. More than 600 alumni are currently enrolled in high schools and colleges across the region, with our first college graduating class completing their degrees in 2026.

68% of Rainier Prep graduates enroll directly in college degree programs, more than double the local district rate. This success is built intentionally through College Success and Career Exploration programming that begins in 5th grade and continues through 8th.  Today, more than 1,000 students and alumni are achieving strong academic outcomes, developing confidence and agency, and stepping into leadership in their communities. 

Rainier Prep stands as one of Washington State’s highest-performing public middle schools serving BIPOC and limited-income students.  Rainier Prep is tuition-free, non-sectarian, and open to all students.  As a Washington public charter school, we are held to rigorous accountability standards, but we do not receive local levy funding. This results in an annual $1.5 million public funding gap.

This gap is not just financial—it is an equity issue. Unequal funding directly impacts access to teachers, enrichment opportunities, college counseling, and the comprehensive supports our students need to thrive.

Partnership at this moment is critical. Our school is at capacity, our results are strong, and our students are ready for more. To sustain and strengthen our model, we rely on private investment to support our core programming:

• Advisory: Daily social-emotional learning, self-advocacy, and family connection
• Differentiated Instruction: Inclusive classrooms serving all learners
• Post-Secondary Success: College and career pathways beginning in 5th grade
• Enrichment: Cross-grade electives that build skills and interests
• Professional Development: Ongoing collaboration and coaching for educators
• School Culture: Multicultural celebrations, restorative practices, and community partnerships

Rainier Prep is proof that excellence and equity can—and must—go hand in hand. Sustaining this work ensures that more students have access to the opportunities they deserve.

Recognition

Our foundation is solid. Our potential is enormous.  From day one, Rainier Prep has stood for equity, excellence, and opportunity.  We are built on the belief that every child deserves access to excellent public education in their own neighborhood.  Investments from our partners and community help us drive outstanding outcomes from our academic growth, student experiences, and staff professional development, while elevating long-term equitable impact with our community.  Thank you for your consideration and support.