Annie Wright Schools
AWSSecular, Founded 1884
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
IB PYPAccreditations
Languages
EnglishAnnie Wright Schools is an International Baccalaureate World School serving students from age three through Grade 12 in Tacoma, Washington. It offers co-ed programs in Preschool through Grade 8 and separate Upper Schools for boys and girls in Grades 9 through 12, with both day and boarding options.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school is committed to an inquiry-based, nurturing environment that fosters curiosity and connection. It emphasizes the development of responsible global citizens and adheres to the standards of the Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS), focusing on the best interests of children and a commitment to the public good.
Programmes
Annie Wright is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, delivering IB programs across all divisions. The academic structure includes a Lower School (Preschool-Grade 5), a Middle School (Grades 6-8), and separate Upper Schools for boys and girls (Grades 9-12). The curriculum is inquiry-based and includes signature travel experiences, such as Middle School "Journeys" to locations like San Francisco, the Southwest, and Costa Rica, as well as Upper School expeditions to international destinations.
Outcomes
Annie Wright Schools report a 100% college acceptance rate. The curriculum is designed to cultivate responsible global citizens, with students developing strong academic skills and critical thinking abilities through the International Baccalaureate framework.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides student support services across all divisions, including dedicated Upper School learning support and counseling. The institution is committed to making programs accessible through need-based financial aid, which is available to families who demonstrate financial need. Over 40% of families receive some form of financial aid.
Frequently asked questions(7)
- What curriculum does Annie Wright Schools offer?
- Annie Wright Schools offers IB PYP, IB MYP and IB Diploma.
- How much is tuition at Annie Wright Schools?
- Annual tuition at Annie Wright Schools is $23.7K–$81.1K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What ages does Annie Wright Schools teach?
- Annie Wright Schools enrolls students aged 3 to 18.
- Is Annie Wright Schools a day or boarding school?
- Annie Wright Schools is a day and boarding school.
- What accreditations does Annie Wright Schools hold?
- Annie Wright Schools holds accreditations including IB.
- Is Annie Wright Schools co-educational?
- Annie Wright Schools is a co-ed school.
- Where is Annie Wright Schools located?
- Annie Wright Schools is an international school in Tacoma, United States.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026-2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Preschool (5 mornings) | 3–4 | $23.7K |
| Preschool (5 full-days) | 3–4 | $28K |
| Kindergarten-Grade 5 | 5–11 | $31.3K |
| Grades 6-8 | 11–14 | $35.7K |
| Grades 9-12 | Day Student | 14–18 | $37.5K |
| Grades 9-12 | 5-Day Boarding | 14–18 | $57.2K |
| Grades 9-12 | 7-Day Boarding | 14–18 | $81.1K |
Other fees(7)
| Deposit· A non-refundable tuition deposit is required to complete the enrollment and re-enrollment process. The deposit amount varies depending on the type of enrollment and is applied to tuition. | — |
|---|---|
| Materials· One-time fee, varies by grade: Preschool $45, Kindergarten $100, Grades 1-3 $165, Grades 4-5 $190, Grades 6-8 $310, Grades 9-12 $465. | — |
| Materials· One-time technology package fee for Grades 9-12. Includes Mac laptop, 4-year AppleCare+ warranty coverage, software, ongoing in-house technical support, and loaner laptops. | $1.6K |
| Insurance· Health insurance for international students in grades 9-12. | $950 |
| Uniform· Daily uniforms are required at all levels. Dress uniform is required at the Upper School level. Costs vary from $110 to $260. | — |
| Bus / transport· Bus service costs vary from $1,600 to $3,200. Round-trip and one-way passes are available. | — |
| Meals· Lunch costs vary. On average, families in Grades 3-12 spend ~$69/month on lunch. Meals are included in Boarding tuition. | — |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: Varies
Admissions
Annie Wright Schools welcome students from around the world and maintain a policy of equal opportunity for all applicants. The admissions process is supported by a dedicated team divided by grade level: Preschool through Grade 5, Grades 6-8 (including Tacoma Scholars), and Grades 9-12 (split between domestic and international boarding). Families are encouraged to visit the campus to experience the community firsthand.
Calendar
The school operates a year-round preschool program. For Grades K-8, the school offers before-school care starting at 7:00 am and after-school programming until 6:00 pm. The academic year includes various travel opportunities, such as overnight experiences for Grades 4 and 5, and signature "Journeys" for Middle School students.
Facilities
About the campus
Located in Tacoma’s North End, the campus features a 25-yard indoor pool, six science labs, and a dining hall partnered with FLIK Independent School Dining. The school provides Mac laptops to all Middle School students and offers various studios for recording, textiles, music practice, and dance. Boarding students reside on campus, with options for five-day and seven-day residential programs.
Co-curriculars
Students have access to a wide range of after-school arts and athletics, including music production, theatre, improv comedy, and textiles. Upper School students may participate in (s)Electives, which are opt-in programs for deep exploration of passions, and the Great Outdoor Adventure Team (GOAT), a four-year program involving activities like rock climbing, kayaking, backpacking, and mountaineering. Fitness facilities, including a 25-yard indoor pool, are available to students.
- Jake GuadnolaHead of Schools
Jake Guadnola has served as Head of Schools since July 2020, following a 20-year career at Annie Wright in various roles including teacher, coach, and director. He is an alumnus of the school and holds an EdM from Harvard University.
- Sandra Forero BushAssistant Head of Schools
Sandra Forero Bush joined Annie Wright in 2010 and previously worked at Russell Investments. She holds degrees from Brown University and the University of California San Diego, and launched the school's Girls' Business & Entrepreneurship Program.
- Jeff BarberDirector of Residential Life
Jeff Barber joined Annie Wright in 2008 and has a background in ecology and residential education. He holds both a bachelor's and master's degree in ecology.
- Eireann CorriganDirector of Upper Schools
Eireann Corrigan joined Annie Wright in 2020 after 20 years at Rutgers Preparatory School. She is a published author of eight novels for young people and holds degrees from Sarah Lawrence College and New York University.
- Ann DicksDirector of Lower School
Ann Dicks joined Annie Wright in 2010 as a counselor and previously served as Assistant Director of Lower School. She holds a bachelor's in sociology from Emory University and a master's in Social Work from the University of Washington.
Grace FinchDirector of DevelopmentGrace Finch joined Annie Wright in 2016 as Philanthropy Director and was appointed Director of Development in 2020. She holds a bachelor's in art history and visual culture studies from Whitman College.
- Mike FinchDirector of Athletics
Mike Finch joined Annie Wright in 2016, bringing experience from both independent education and the financial industry. He holds a bachelor's degree from Harvard University.