Welcome from our Head of School
We bring up the children for the future, not for the present, not that we may enjoy the fruit of our work, but for others. Our education is not meant to turn the children out small and finished but seriously begun on a wide basis. janet erskine stuart, rscj
Hello and welcome to Forest Ridge! It is an honor to introduce you to our community–one with a dynamic history that prepares our students to lead lives of purpose in a nuanced and ever-changing world. As an all-girls, Sacred Heart school, Forest Ridge students are known and valued for their individual contributions; encouraged to confidently voice their opinions, ask thought-provoking questions and embrace new learning experiences; and empowered to be their very best selves. Our students come to us as girls and leave as women ready for college and life.
Since 1907, Forest Ridge has been a leader in educating girls. Drawing on the vision of our foundress, St. Madeleine Sophie Barat, Forest Ridge provides a transformative education that seeks to align the heart, mind and will of students, forming young women of intelligent faith, compassionate action and courageous hope. A Forest Ridge education blends timeless values and tradition with innovative educational practices that support our students to become resourceful and adaptable, while deepening their capacity to think creatively and critically. As a member of an international network of schools, and a warm, inclusive community that represents the richness of the Seattle area, students leave our campus curious, empathic and committed to impacting their communities in positive and meaningful ways.
Forest Ridge’s unique identity as a Catholic, independent school, allows us to benefit from the best practices of both worlds. As an independent school, Forest Ridge has the freedom to develop a timely, relevant and flexible curriculum that challenges and inspires a wide range of learners. The entire Forest Ridge experience is designed to cultivate in our students the competencies and attitudes outlined in our Portrait of a Graduate. We hold ourselves to a high standard of academic excellence and practice ongoing evaluation of our programs. Our graduates leave us well prepared for college and beyond and our alumnae lead incredible careers and lives.
Our Catholic identity leads us to encourage each student to explore her personal relationship with God, deepening her connection to the divine and providing her with a strong moral compass that guides her into adulthood. As a Catholic school for families of all faiths, we enjoy the diversity of faith traditions in our community and support each student’s deepening knowledge of her own faith practices.
Ultimately, Forest Ridge prepares our students to embark on a lifetime of continuous learning, community contribution and compassion for others. I invite you to visit campus to learn more about us. From the breathtaking drive up the hill, to the warm welcome you will receive upon your arrival, you will quickly understand what makes a Forest Ridge education so profound. I look forward to meeting you!
Warmly,
Mary Rose Guerin, Head of School
