ABOUT
A diverse K–8 community
TOPS is a dynamic and diverse K–8 alternative school within Seattle Public Schools, and home to the district's primary Deaf and Hard of Hearing K–8 program.
K–8
Grades served
DHH
District's primary K–8 program
501(c)(3)
Nonprofit · Tax ID 94-3142402
WHO WE ARE
Every child valued, supported, and empowered
We are committed to fostering an inclusive learning community where every child is valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. TOPS is also home to the district's primary Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) K–8 program.
Through a curriculum that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and academic excellence, we celebrate individuality while fostering collaboration and mutual respect.
Our educators inspire curiosity and a lifelong love of learning in a supportive environment that values diversity, innovation, community, and a shared commitment to social justice.
TOPS MISSION
We are committed to educating every student through an anti-bias, multicultural approach in a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment.
We help students understand and honor diversity, respect and care for themselves and others, take responsibility, and pursue academic excellence. Together, we are creating a school that empowers students to be active participants, leaders, learners, and contributors to social justice.
By working to eliminate opportunity and achievement gaps, we seek to ensure that students historically underserved by the public school system are fully included and that every student has the opportunity to meet or exceed academic standards.
Site Council
The Site Council is a key part of how TOPS works together as a school community; it functions much like a PTA. It brings together school administrators, staff, community members, and elected family representatives to discuss priorities, consider proposals, and make decisions that affect our school.
It meets monthly to review school priorities, make funding decisions, strengthen communication, and help ensure that family and community perspectives are part of the conversation. Our work is grounded in transparency, collaboration, and meaningful participation.
Friends of TOPS
Friends of TOPS (FOT) is the 501(c)(3) nonprofit that raises and manages funds to support the TOPS community. The organization is governed by the TOPS Site Council.
It funds programs and resources that go beyond what is provided by Seattle Public Schools: curriculum enhancements, enrichment programs, educator and classroom needs, community-building activities, family assistance, and other priorities approved through the Site Council's proposal and budgeting process.
Funded through individual donations, fundraising events, employer matching, grants, and volunteer support.
TAX ID
94-3142402
How a priority becomes a program
Same people, two roles
STAGE ONE
Who decides
Sets priorities
Reviews proposals
Makes funding decisions
Represents the community
STAGE TWO
Who acts
Raises and manages funds to put those priorities into action.
Programs and resources for TOPS students
Supporting TOPS students and our community
The TOPS Site Council and Friends of TOPS work together to bring families, educators, and community members together to support our students and strengthen our school community. Together, we:
1
Raise funds
We bring together contributions from families and community members, fundraising events, grants, and employer-matching programs to provide resources for TOPS students beyond what is available through Seattle Public Schools.
2
Turn priorities into action
We receive and review funding proposals and decide how fundraised dollars can best support TOPS students, educators, and our wider school community.
Executive Committee
Committee Leadership
Grade-Level Family Representatives
Non-Voting Volunteer Roles
Educator and Community Representatives
Interested in serving in an open position, or want to learn more about Site Council?
EVERY GIFT COUNTS
Turn community priorities into resources.
Your gift funds the programs and experiences the district budget does not cover.