St Michael School

Olympia, WA 98501

Phone: (360) 754-5131

NR

GreatSchools Rating

private • Grades PK,KG,1,2,3,4,5,6,7, • 251 students

St Michael School, a private school located in Olympia, WA, serves grades PK-8 in the .

St Michael School is a private school located in Olympia, WA. 251 students attend St Michael School.

Posted: August 4, 2026

We moved our children from public school to St. Michael a few years ago and it was the best decision for our children and our family. We have not only seen our children grow academically, but they genuinely love going to school and you can see how much the teachers and administrators care and love each student. We love the parent involvement, tons of communication from the classroom teachers and the school, and we love how much our family is a part of our children’s education. We have heard from other families with high school students that the transition to high school was easy because they were well prepared, and that was a huge reason for us in choosing this school. Our children are loved for who they are and supported to be the best version of themselves. HIGHLY recommend St. Michael during these critical years of childhood and development.

Posted: August 4, 2026

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Posted: July 14, 2026

This school is honestly the worst nobody actually cares about your kid. The teaching is bad and the safety is absolutely horrible and overall terrible. The teachers yell at the students constantly and overall just a bad environment. My kid is in the 7th grade and he says that the teachers constantly yell at him and they do a terrible job teaching. And I can prove this because every day when he comes home he is always crying and his grades have dropped tremendously.

Posted: July 14, 2026

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Posted: September 11, 2024

The problem here is that the big donors get the best treatment for their kids. I felt discriminated for not being part of the church, for not donating and volunteering enough.i find the school very cliquey and always felt some parents and kids were left out.if you go there, make sure you have plenty of money and are being part of the church . Be aware of the space you’re gonna get for your child, as what they offer is not great!

Posted: September 11, 2024

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Posted: January 22, 2024

This school focuses on core education values. They focus on love of God, Family and Country. The school and staff set high standards for academic work and behavior. If you are tired of the non-academic agenda of our public schools this might be a good option for you. We are not a religious family but the exposure to religion is very appropriate. It is a Catholic school but they are not trying to convert my child.

I am so happy to have found this school. I just wish I would have made the change sooner.

Posted: January 22, 2024

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Posted: August 29, 2023

School is bad n teachers they swear and stuff not that much staff don't recommend the school it is violent but please do not send ur kids to this school ur not aloud to go toilet in classes all door at lunch time shut around 5 minutes if u ask people they would say to

Posted: August 29, 2023

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Posted: January 27, 2020

The school administration is very supportive of students, parents, and teachers. I have always seen the administration as caring and responsive.

Posted: January 27, 2020

My children have had classes with students with a variety of learning differences. It is an inclusive community, supported by the teachers, staff and administration who believe all students have potential and can thrive.

Posted: January 27, 2020

Bullying simply does not exist here due to the school’s expectations and values.

Posted: January 27, 2020

Enrolling at this school was one of the best decisions of our lives. Our children have blossomed into strong students and compassionate individuals. The school community is truly special and has been so supportive of our family. I would recommend St. Michael
to all families searching for a school where the faculty and staff make learning fun and have high but realistic expectations for students. To our family this school is much more than just a school. It is our family and our home.

Posted: January 27, 2020

The weekly homework is reasonable and focuses on practicing what was learned in class. I am thankful that my children have learned strong study skills to prepare them for high school and college.

Posted: January 27, 2020

All teachers our children have had care about them and push them to be their best. They are highly trained, innovative, and effective. Most importantly, I feel that they truly know my children and care about them.

Posted: January 27, 2020

The school develops compassionate and thoughtful students. Developing character is at the heart of this school as an effective Catholic school. They have done a lot to grow student leaders who care for others.

Posted: January 27, 2020

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Posted: January 27, 2020

St Michael truly equipped our son with the academic skills needed for success in high school. We are thankful for the dedication of the teachers and staff for all they’ve done for our family. We love this school.

Posted: January 27, 2020

We have been pleased with the quality of education provided by St. Michael. This school is a true community and has far exceeded our expectations.

Posted: January 27, 2020

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Posted: January 27, 2020

Horrible, just sorry for my son that had to endure a full year here. I don't know if we just had extraordinary experiences before and after this school, but I would not recommend this school to my worst enemy.

Posted: January 27, 2020

My son came in way ahead of his class and left at the same level. He rarely had homework because he got it done in class or in 15 minutes after school.

Posted: January 27, 2020

Only had one teacher and she was biased toward her favorites. Being sent into the the hall to work with other students in 3rd grade because you are ahead of of others is not getting kids to their true potential. We only kept our son here through the whole year because we had paid for the whole year and feel our son paid for it when he entered his new school in 4th grade.

Posted: January 27, 2020

I wouldn't say all but some show absolutely no respect for other students. I would have never dreamed that my son would ever tell me he didn't want to go to school and have restored that feeling with his new school.

Posted: January 27, 2020

Seems great until after you pay and then bringing problems to them is like pulling teeth and resolution is not conveyed back to the parents.

Posted: January 27, 2020

Posted: January 27, 2020

Our son had never had a problem at his old school, but here he got slapped, tackled and his hair pulled multiple times and when the playground attendent was notified nothing was done and it would then happen a few days later.

Posted: March 4, 2019

Way too much homework and much of it is not at all meaningful.

Posted: March 4, 2019

Some very strong teachers, all of them are very kind and generous.

Posted: March 4, 2019

It is a Catholic school and it does a great job at embracing Catholic values. Unfortunately in fundraising efforts they are often willing to compromise. Parents can often buy privileges for their children to enjoy at school during school hours.

Posted: March 4, 2019

The principal is extremely disconnected from what is happening in the classroom. He is a parrot for the parish priest. The principal is extremely dismissive of parent concerns and incredibly patronizing.

Posted: March 4, 2019

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Posted: March 4, 2019

Overall a positive experience. The administration should definitely work on genuinely listening to ALL parent concerns, not just those of major donors.

Posted: January 29, 2019

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Posted: January 29, 2019

They do not tolerate bullying, and go out of their way to make sure it stops. I know this from personal experience.

Posted: January 29, 2019

The junior high team does a fantastic job preparing for high school. They created unparalleled leadership experiences-not just for the popular who are elected by peers. They build leaders and are constantly working with the students to improve and excel in policy and academics. This was my favorite school! My student will be graduating from High School this year. But, looking back, it was St. Michael School that in my humble opinion that stands out.

Posted: December 8, 2017

My child has attended this school for 8 years. It has been a wonderful experience. Those at the school have created a place for safe growth and there is a high standard of studies. I think that my child will be well-prepared to move into the next phase of studies. They also create a place where students can learn and put into practice their faith. Thank you St. Michael school!

Posted: December 8, 2017

They are able to balance homework assignments for students who need more work and with those who need less work.

Posted: December 8, 2017

Most of the teachers are really loving and are able to provide amazing opportunities for the students, as well as keeping an eye on those students who are in need of more help.

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Posted: October 5, 2017

I think that this school was terrible the only good teachers were mr. Kuss, Mrs. Raferty, and Mrs. Fellows the rest of the teachers suck and i'm emotionally scared from my experience at this school and I dout that I will ever overcome my problems that I have obtained from this school

Posted: October 5, 2017

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Posted: October 5, 2017

I am mentally and emotionally damaged. I now have to cry myself to sleep every night, thinking of the horrors I endured during my four years at St. Mikes.

Posted: October 5, 2017

Posted: January 25, 2016

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Posted: January 25, 2016

This school is bad. There are teachers that dont know there stuff, and those who do dont teach it well at all. There is no science program. We do random labs that wont prepare us for high school.

Posted: November 2, 2015

I have a son who just finished St. Michael Parish Catholic School and is now attending Pope John Paul II High School. My daughter is currenty in 7th grade at St. Mike's. We feel that the curriculum has prepared our children well not only in academics but also in faith formation. The kids are challenged with rigorous academics and lots of homework but in addition, the school provides engaging and fun programs for music, the arts, and sports. We are grateful that this school has the desire to guide and challenge students to be "the best versions of themselves". Most importantly, the gift of St. Michael Parish School has given us the avenue to pass on our Catholic faith tradition and in doing so has deepen our faith journey as a family.

Posted: October 29, 2015

Our two daughters have been at St. Mike's since kindergarten and we have experienced nothing but joy at this school. The teachers are very approachable and provide answers to any questions - parents are encouraged to volunteer in the classrooms. The children are constantly taught about the Faith but just as importantly they see it modeled for them by the teachers, staff, and other families. The children go to Mass frequently. Test scores are high too. We have to budget to send our kids to St. Mikes and pay for aftercare too since we both work full time but to us it is more than worth the effort to have our children be well educated in mind and spirit. Our children pray during the school day, they collect food and coats for the poor, and they grow in their love of God while they learn. They play, they have music, art, computer classes, and PE. They learn to speak into a microphone in front of the entire school in kindergarten! It is a fabulous curriculum, an inviting community (get a mentor family!), and a place filled with the Holy Spirit.

Posted: October 29, 2015

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Posted: October 28, 2015

Posted: October 28, 2015

I've heard over and over again from students and parents that the amount of homework is too much, burdensome, sometimes seems to be busywork and challenges families in finding time for other important activities.

Posted: October 28, 2015

I do not have children attending this school, but I know this is integral to their mission. Additionally, Catholic catechism is integrated throughout all subjects, classes and activities at the school.

Posted: October 28, 2015

Walking onto the campus and through the school, kids seem happy, parents are visible and teachers are engaged. Catholic identity is on display with statues and religious posters etc.

Posted: September 19, 2015

High quality education in academics and the Catholic faith. I know my child is happy here and feels that his teachers care about him.

Posted: September 20, 2014

We have had our children at St. Michael for over ten years. St. Michael is like our second family. Not only are the teachers excellent, but they come to me with great stories about each individual child. They love their students. At St. Michael, students learn their prayers & their faith, attend regular masses, and participate in various service projects to help the community. We have a Christmas Program where the Kindergartners perform their version of the Nativity Story - it is always a highlight of our Christmas season. The students here consistently test at higher levels than the other local schools in both reading and math. Cursive is taught in second grade, we read with the AR reading program, use the Passport Club to learn geography, and have a new math curriculum this year. The community, also, is exceptional and has jumped in to help families who are struggling with illness, job losses, or separations. I highly recommend this wonderful place for children to learn and grow.

Posted: September 1, 2014

St. Michael school is fantastic. The teachers are of high quality, leading by example and always with energy. They are all well trained and are devoted to God and to teaching his word. Another plus about St. Mikes is the incredible test scores the students who attend there receive. As far as quality education goes, this school is very high up there. I would like to see more recreational options being excitedly offered to the kids, such as opportunities for students to explore drama, orchestra and other musical groups, arts clubs, etc. It seems to be lacking in electives.

Posted: August 27, 2014

I have seen St Michael School go through many changes over the 13 years that my children have been attending. Administrative changes, new staff members, curriculum updates, capital improvements but through it all, the motto "a family of families" remains steadfast. I have found this community to be very welcoming and accepting of families from all backgrounds. The faith-based education and dedication of the staff can't be beat.

Posted: August 23, 2014

We have had a great experience at St. Mikes and I feel fortunate that we discovered this school. My son is excited for the start of the school year and we are too.

Posted: August 21, 2014

As a parent I liked the small school size and was looking forward to the sense of community. A family of families as they say at St, Mikes. However, with the level of cliqueness, it is nearly impossible to be fully absorbed into the community. Private parties, private dinner clubs, groups of parents vacationing with one another, newcomers to the school WILL NOT be invited and new parents and kids feel left out. Parents of boys should be aware of the EXTREMELY aggressive middle school girls. School administration and teachers will not get involved.

Posted: August 20, 2014

All ready for the new school year with classes of terrific kids, super teachers, and supportive administration all around. The graduated 8th graders from last year report that they are excited and ready for high school, many in honors classes. This year middle school English is offering an enrichment piece focusing on the high school AP readings. I can't wait to see what this wonderful school will do this year!

Posted: August 19, 2014

This school and staff are amazing. The staff is dedicated to making this an excellent year for all our students and families. We are busily preparing to once again give our students an educational experience that is rewarding and challenging . As an experienced educator this is by far the best the South Sound has to offer. We are proud to partner with our faith filled parents in providing the best in a Catholic education.

Posted: June 23, 2014

My child has done very well at this school. Yes, the school and church do ask for money but that is part of the package when you enroll your child in a private Catholic school so I have no problem with it especially when I see where my money is going. Wonderful caring staff and teachers, great academic standards, improvements like the covered play area, the 5th grade Shakespeare program, a deep sense of the Catholic faith, a solid anti bullying policy. It is worth every penny!

Posted: June 16, 2014

I have been a parent of St. Michaels for 4 years with 4 children K-8. This school is an excellent education. They go above and beyond to help children learn. Teachers are always available to speak with a parent ANYTIME. Larges classes up to 30, yet no discipline problems because it is not accepted. it is an investment but well worth it. My child graduated as a published writer by age 13, strong in Faith, and all the skills needed to be successful in high school.

Posted: June 11, 2014

St Mikes school is wrought with hypocrisy regarding the teachings of Jesus Christ. It operates as a political establishment, pandering to those that can afford large financial donations and full price tuition. Math instruction is very weak. New Principal is young and inexperienced, his goal seems to be to make St. Mikes a school for the elite, not the average Catholic family. Many families feel hurt by this school, are denied financial aide, and will not be returning in the fall. There are teachers that care, but their voices are not heard by the Administration of St. Michael School or the Parish that appear to care more about the handful of parishioners with the $$$. Very disappointed by this school and sad to to post this review.

Posted: May 30, 2014

I am a student, and St. Mikes treats the very church involved and wealthy students differently. One time, a wealthy and church involved student got an answer wrong on a test and would not give up on getting it right. This student kept trying to prove that he/she was right, and the teacher let him/her right a paragraph about the test subject and the student would get a hundred, instead of missing a point on the test like he/she deserved to. It wasn't fair. I have missed a point on a test and didn't automatically get to make up for it, but this student gets to. Sometimes the teachers even say to a couple of students that they are some of their favorite students right in front of other students. The wealthy and church involved students get more privileges. Not all the teachers treat students that way, though. Also St. Mikes needs more classes like Health, Home Ec, Shop Class, Photography, etc. Sometimes St. Mikes is great, but at other times it is dreadful.

Posted: September 3, 2013

St. Michael School is a private "Catholic" School that panders to the wealthy. Tuition costs have gone up with no justification or reasoning. Money raised during any and all fundraisers I believe is highly misused. It is sad that a middle class family cannot send their child to receive religious education. What happened to the nuns who used to teach and lead our children in Catholic Schools? I believe that the St. Michaels Priest has too much of a financial role in this school. He needs to focus on the spiritual and religious part and stay out of the politics. This school focuses too much on money-making and not on the enrichment of each and every child rich or poor or just average income backgrounds. This Catholic School seems to forget Christ's teaching. I am very sad about this review but I refused to afford to send my child here anymore.

Posted: June 26, 2013

Saint Michael School is a place where teachers search out the child that has learning difficulties, then destroys their self esteem. They separate them from the other children during fun activities, and mark correct answers wrong while using lame excuses to do so. A parent can't defend their child without being criticized and receiving sarcastic remarks. The teachers are always "right" and parents and specialists are "wrong". They deliberately give low grades on well done work just because they can. (I showed my child's report to other teachers, and they agreed that it should have had at least a "B", not a "D".) Teachers and parents are segregated. They favor the wealthy. It's only those who are that have the best roles, their pictures all through the yearbooks, win everything, and get treated with utmost respect. The staff is too proud to admit that they aren't perfect. The majority of students are very sweet. My child has never been teased or made fun of regardless of the difficulties. The teachers could learn a lot from their students, parents and specialists if they would just remove their pride. We refuse to continue to be a part of this sad and abusive school. We are done!

Posted: April 17, 2013

St. Michael's is both good and bad. Great in academic and religious preparation. Bad in allowing children to simply be children as there is very little play time during and after school (due to amount of homework). The interactions with parents are striated and some would say segregated. Well to do (and known) families are the focus while the average family is left in the background. Like St. Michael's parish, the focus is on funds, not families.

Posted: January 16, 2013

My wife and I are amazed at this school. We have a first and kindergarten student in place and they are both earning religion and requirements of upper education. Tuition is a little high but worth it. The quality of educators staff at this school is worth the price. For more of the point...I have see Catholic teachings reach my first grader, and kindergarten child, more this year than last. We have a Catholic Parish that is strong on Catholic beliefs...this year the school seems to value the beliefs.

Posted: September 28, 2012

This school has definitely slipped from it's glory days. There are too many individuals and not enough community. There seems to be an almost endless priority on money, fundraising, fees, and I'm not sure all of it even goes to the school. I think some school support actually goes to the parish. Anyway, the teachers are a mixed bag. Some are very dedicated and caring while others seem to be there just to collect a paycheck. Many of the parents are involved in a wide variety of activities but it almost seems like their is different levels of parents and how we are respected, recieved, communicated to at times. Really there are a few excellent indivdiuals or programs here and there but as a whole we think this school is average. With somewhere around 10+ private school options in this area it's getting harder and harder to justify the tuition at St. Mike's. I hope things can get turned around where they need to be and St. Mike's gets back to it's faith and community roots.

Posted: August 4, 2012

I have 3 kids in this school right now. Prior to being in St. Mikes my kids were at one of the local public schools. My wife and I did not feel the public schooling system was challenging our kids enough. This is not true at St. Mikes. In one of the reviews I read about St. Mikes a parent mentioned bullying. I feel our children have encountered significantly less bullying in St. Mikes than the public school they were attending. No school is perfect, there will always be bullies. I feel the staff at St. Mikes has a much better grasp of what is happening in their school as compared with some others the kids have been in. Know this up front, your kids will get A LOT of homework. It is challenging at times, but it will teach your kids how to properly manage their time. We are a military family and have moved around a good deal. I feel this school has been the best we have encountered so far.

Posted: June 23, 2011

Currently have two children attending this school and am contemplating pulling both of them out due to many things: no school counselor, bullying (non-physical) being addressed in a passive-agressive way instead of dealing with the offending children/families/teachers directly, unprofessional relationships with administration/teachers and parents creating an unapproachable environment, discovery that auction proceeds do NOT go entirely to the school, but rather are supporting the church and nothing mentioned about this in donation paperwork, children are forced to spend rainy day recess in their classrooms doing non-active tasks rather than getting exercise and letting them unwind by running outside (covered outdoor play area desperatly needed or indoor gym access should be allowed during those times), and much more. We keep our children in the school at this point for the religious education, but are seriously condsidering pulling them out to go to public school if things do not impove soon. Sad that the principal does not address the many serious issues at the school and panders to those that have the most money.

Posted: May 19, 2011

It is more prep school than Catholic School, in that most of the teachers and Principal accept the values of the parents rather than stand for anything more: for example, favoratism based on affluence/volunteer time of parents.Complacency is a big problem. Resting on your reputation leads to mediocrity.

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