West Sound Academy
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Phone: (360) 598-5954
Fax: (360) 598-5494
GreatSchools Rating
private • Grades 6,7,8,9,10,11,12 • 97 students
West Sound Academy, a private school located in Poulsbo, WA, serves grades 6-12 in the .
West Sound Academy is a private school located in Poulsbo, WA. 97 students attend West Sound Academy.
Posted: July 19, 2026
Posted: July 19, 2026
Posted: July 19, 2026
Posted: July 19, 2026
My daughter has thrived at West Sound!!!! All of the teachers have connected with her and understand her. The classes are challening, but also personalized. I'm looking forward to her choosing the IB diploma route once she is in 11th grade---as I know it will increase her chances of getting into and being successful at college. Speaking of, West Sound has a full time one on one college counselor, Ashley, who helps each student find the right fit. The art program is great. All the 'specials' are amazing...music and theater. All of the arts are available to all the students. which you don't get in the public schools. We get financial aid which allows us to send her the school, and has made all the difference. Can't recommend West Sound Academy enough!
Posted: July 19, 2026
Posted: July 19, 2026
Posted: July 19, 2026
Posted: July 19, 2026
Posted: January 30, 2026
Posted: January 30, 2026
Posted: January 30, 2026
Posted: January 30, 2026
Posted: January 30, 2026
Posted: January 30, 2026
Posted: January 30, 2026
We highly recommend West Sound Academy for any family looking for a tight knit, challenging, but supportive learning environment for their child. Our son has excelled at WSA! His teachers truly know him, work with him and create classroom experiences that he is so excited about!!! We cannot wait for him to start the IB diploma program later in the upper school, as we know it will set him up for success after school with the skills he will need to launch into the world. While small, the school has a fantastic arts program that you just don't see elsewhere in Kitsap....the theatre, music and art teachers are all incredible and get the students to produce outstanding work. The campus is set on acres of nature and they move between buildings, so always are experiencing the beauty and fresh air vs. stuck in a huge stuffy building all day. Definitely look at West Sound for a exceptional experience!!!
Posted: January 30, 2026
Posted: July 3, 2025
Posted: July 3, 2025
Posted: July 3, 2025
Posted: July 3, 2025
Our family believes WSA is a gem on the Kitsap Peninsula. The student-to-teacher ratio is exceptional, which we didn't find in the surrounding schools. We noticed the incredible diversity on campus among the student body, and it was very welcoming. The teachers are attuned to their students and intentional about building on each student's strengths and refining their skills. The emphasis WSA places on developing each student's character is unmatched, and helping every student realize they can shine while guiding each individual to understand how they can contribute to their community, state, country, and beyond is unparalleled. Learning to be a global student is extraordinary, and we are grateful for the education our kids are receiving and the friendships they are forming along the way.
Posted: July 3, 2025
Posted: July 3, 2025
Posted: July 3, 2025
Posted: July 3, 2025
Posted: May 10, 2024
Posted: May 10, 2024
Posted: May 10, 2024
Posted: May 10, 2024
When it became clear that our public school was not meeting my student's social/emotional and academic needs, we looked into smaller independent schools in the area. She was intrigued by the International Baccalaureate approach to learning and the small classes. She started in tenth grade and quickly made friends. There was no drama, and the class was very cohesive. Throughout the next three years she got to know her teachers well, and they were incredibly supportive, as was the administration. She had a few accommodations and the school was very flexible in implementing them. The curriculum was interesting and challenging for her, and she was able to infuse her own passions into her learning. She graduated last year and was accepted into multiple top colleges with significant scholarships.
Posted: May 10, 2024
Posted: May 10, 2024
Posted: May 10, 2024
Posted: May 10, 2024
Posted: May 6, 2024
Posted: May 6, 2024
Posted: May 6, 2024
Posted: May 6, 2024
Our child started attending West Sound Academy in 6th grade and is now getting ready to transition into the upper school/high school. Choosing WSA has been one of the best decisions we've made. The small class sizes and personalized attention from the dedicated teachers has truly made a difference in our child's education. I have watched my child grow, with support and love from their teachers, into a more confident and well-rounded person who has developed critical thinking skills and a global perspective. WSA's emphasis on inquiry-based learning and international mindedness has enriched my child's understanding of the world and fostered their love for learning. We are impressed by the inclusive community at WSA, which has created a supportive and welcoming environment for my child to thrive. I highly recommend this school to any parent seeking a high quality education that prepares students for success in a global society.
Posted: May 6, 2024
Posted: May 6, 2024
Posted: May 6, 2024
Posted: May 6, 2024
Posted: April 24, 2024
Posted: April 24, 2024
Posted: April 24, 2024
Posted: April 24, 2024
West Sound Academy is a wonderful school that has been able to meet the needs of my two children for multiple years now. We decided to leave a top public district because our kids weren't getting the individual attention they needed in larger classes, and we are so grateful that we found WSA. In the past three years, they have both developed into the type of students we knew they could be, have become involved in various extracurricular activities, and have gained confidence and maturity that we credit the incredible faculty and staff with nurturing.
Posted: April 24, 2024
Posted: April 24, 2024
Posted: April 24, 2024
Posted: April 24, 2024
Posted: March 30, 2024
Posted: March 30, 2024
Posted: March 30, 2024
We love West Sound Academy! The school prioritizes academic excellence but also balances it well with a student's social and personal growth. The teachers go above and beyond to reach each child and help them flourish. The class sizes are small (about 15 -18 students) which allows each student to participate fully. The school has an IB curriculum for high school and the middle school curriculum prepares the students very well for IB and beyond. The music, drama, and art programs are exceptional!! The community is also very warm and embracing. We strongly recommend West Sound!
Posted: March 30, 2024
Posted: March 30, 2024
Posted: March 30, 2024
Posted: March 30, 2024
Posted: March 30, 2024
Posted: March 25, 2024
Posted: March 25, 2024
Posted: March 25, 2024
West Sound Academy has been a great school for our daughter. She's a senior now, and her experience has been top-notch. The school meets students where they are and challenges them to take it to the next level. There are also lots of leadership opportunities. Combined, this helped our daughter get into great colleges.
Posted: March 25, 2024
Posted: March 25, 2024
Posted: March 25, 2024
Posted: March 25, 2024
Posted: March 25, 2024
Posted: July 27, 2022
Posted: July 27, 2022
Posted: July 27, 2022
Posted: July 27, 2022
Posted: July 27, 2022
Posted: July 27, 2022
Posted: July 27, 2022
Posted: July 27, 2022
I have been at WSA for nearing three years at this time and I have adored it! The emphasis on a well-rounded education and the willingness to support students in their goals has been a game-changer. I would miss one of my classes once a week due to a University course and the teacher of the class spent their own time making sure I was still caught up and understanding the material. The faculty is fantastic and the students are kind and thoughtful, as well as hard-working. One of the biggest questions incoming students ask me is: what are the students like? And, truth be told, there isn't one answer. Everyone is super different but still collaborates and appreciates each other for their differences. I know I have made lifelong friends here (as well as hosted an exchange student who is now my full-time exchange sister).
Posted: April 26, 2022
Posted: April 26, 2022
Posted: April 26, 2022
I have 3 students coming through the ranks of WSA and I canÂ’t rank this school high enough. First, they encourage critical thinking skills and collaborative work. They want students to be well rounded and community minded. Their teachers wrap around these kids to make sure they are supported. The staff has visited my children at their outside school events (sports, volunteer work, employment) just to encourage them. They listen to the students. In addition to the loving and supportive staff, their academics are top notch. My recently graduated student has said their college classes are easier than their high school courses. The small class sizes are also a bonus. I love that much of what they are learning are student led, but still focus in global issues. One of my kids has learning disabilities and this school has easily provided accommodations, without a fight. They want the kids to succeed! Fantastic school worth every penny.
Posted: April 26, 2022
Posted: April 26, 2022
Posted: April 26, 2022
Posted: April 26, 2022
Posted: April 26, 2022
Posted: November 30, 2021
A M A Z I N G! External factors such as COVID and other world events would give anyone an excuse to not be at their best. The last two years have been hard on everyone. A global pandemic has changed the way we work and live. West Sound Academy never compromised on its standards or commitment to excellence; In fact, I witnessed a more outstanding commitment to the vision and values of the school and its students. Our child’s education and the experience were the one thing our family didn’t worry about during a challenging time. West Sound Academy is a “True North” or guiding star for many families. Going through COVID and losing friends or family or changes in employment status can provide you with a unique perspective. People matter. This school and its leadership were at the forefront to provide stability and continuity to the students and families. The administration, faculty, and staff lead with their hearts and heads during a difficult time. They came together, stronger than ever, and set the standard of best practices in remote learning. I felt like we mattered and were genuinely cared for. You remember people that are there for you in the good times and bad. West Sound was there, and it was remarkable. I can not thank the leadership, faculty, and staff enough for this. This year we are returning to the new normal of a pandemic. This year has been off to a great start. West Sound is as magical in person as it has been remote. I have faith that West Sound will continue to lead and bring us back to a new normal. I would highly recommend considering West Sound. Academy. Our experience continues to exceed expectations.
Posted: November 30, 2021
Posted: November 30, 2021
Posted: November 30, 2021
Posted: November 30, 2021
Posted: November 30, 2021
Posted: November 30, 2021
Posted: November 30, 2021
Posted: November 8, 2020
A very manageable workload is given to students and lots of teacher support is always available.
Posted: November 8, 2020
The teachers are amazing! They are enthusiastic and engaged. They know their students and understand them.
Posted: November 8, 2020
WSA encourages diversity and kindness. The books that the students read and the discussions support an empathetic community.
Posted: November 8, 2020
The Head of School and other administrative staff are excellent communicators and provide continual information. The summary communications and the follow up reminders are extremely helpful to busy parents.
Posted: November 8, 2020
The teachers know the students well and offer tailored support to help students who are having difficulty understanding concepts, etc.
Posted: November 8, 2020
We have fortunately not faced this issue, but I am confident that WSA would effectively handle a bullying situation.
Posted: November 8, 2020
My twins started 7th grade in August 2020. It has been a particularly challenging year due to the pandemic and the online schooling. WSA has made great efforts to have in person days and activities. While my boys and I would like to have more in person schooling, we can appreciate that not everyone feels this way and we think WSA is doing great addressing the different views/tolerance on schooling during the pandemic.
My boys thrive with the schedule and mod approach. They like having a reliable schedule and encouraging teachers. One of my boys commented that I would never have switched them to WSA but for the pandemic, therefore, he sees a silver lining. Both of my boys love WSA!
I love the robust curriculum and variety of classes. Exposing my kids to a wide range of learning is preparing them for college and supporting open minds.
Posted: October 4, 2020
Before our daughter started middle school at West Sound Academy, she was apathetic about school. This isn’t everyone’s experience at public school, but for her the classes and classwork were tedious and uninspiring. WSA’s magical way of helping students discover their academic abilities and their individuality shifted her view of school and of herself 180 degrees. She is now an excellent student who knows herself and understands what she is capable of. We love West Sound Academy's mission and culture—warm, welcoming, inclusive, and an excellent college preparatory experience. The value, to us, is huge. During the pandemic, the school has continued offering that value, remotely. It is the closest thing to in-person school that I can imagine.
Posted: October 4, 2020
Posted: October 4, 2020
Posted: October 4, 2020
Posted: October 4, 2020
Posted: October 4, 2020
Posted: October 4, 2020
Posted: November 18, 2015
A jewel of a school. Excellent teachers, rigorous curriculum, an actual arts program along with great science, math, history not to mention the rocking music program. The IB program is amazing. The student body is also 20% international students. This school has been a game changer for my daughter. So glad we stumbled on it!
Posted: July 20, 2014
If you want your children to have the best head start in college and real life, you should consider sending them here. Small class sizes, caring teachers and staff. A huge emphasis is placed on creative learning and exploration. Minds are opened to possibilities kids didn't even know existed. International exposure serves children so well. And huge emphasis is placed on post secondary preparation, including scholarships. Two thumbs way up.
Posted: December 10, 2013
West Sound Academy is the ideal school for families that are seeking academic challenge for their children in a supportive community. The teachers have heart! They get to know each student as the class sizes are small and there is great communication with families through their online school management system. We are a very tight knit school. I have two kids here and have watched them flourish! I've also hosted international students and love what they bring to the classroom and our community. Each of them has found success in their futures and holds their WSA experience as a key factor in that success. The kids are prepared for real life challenges, not just college. Kids are free to be themselves without social pressures, and when you have that environment, their creativity is unstoppable and they develop a love of learning. Wonderful place. I wouldn't want my kids any where else.
Posted: November 13, 2013
West Sound Academy has been an enriching environment for our high schooler to grow socially, academically and artistically. We are very happy with the academic rigor and international influence that shows up every day as the international students study alongside. The value of the deeper IB learning environment encourages the students to blend their subjects in ways that connect the many nuances between discilpines.
Posted: November 7, 2013
My sons have both attended West Sound Academy. This school brings to light the true value of learning. That education is the cornerstone in a person's life. The philosophy of creating creative, independent life long learners is seen throughout the entire community. The students are challenged, stretched, and nutured all at the same time. I believe an education from West Sound Academy prepares my child for the future at a level I never imagined was possible when I became a parent. There are caring invested staff. There is a rich international culture. There is a community of students wanting to grow and learn every day. I cannot even beging to put a price on what this school has done for our family.
Posted: October 30, 2013
We feel extremely fortunate to have found West Sound Academy. Coming from a homeschool environment, the small class sizes and welcoming atmosphere allowed our children to quickly gain confidence and thrive in this challenging academic environment. The faculty and staff are top-notch and truly treat each child as part of their family. More impressive, are the students themselves. They are extremely conscientious, well-rounded, polite, articulate and support each other. I continue to be extremely impressed with West Sound Academy.
Posted: October 17, 2013
We chose West Sound Academy for our two children because of the academics, small class size, the success stories to launch students fully prepared to enter college. The critical thinking that goes along with the teaching at the school is something the students will fall back on for a life time. The school becomes like family - looking out for every student, offering a helping hand when needed, pushing students to succeed and believe in themself. The school has an up & coming STEM program which is important to us.
Posted: October 16, 2013
I am so thankful for West Sound Academy and what it offers my daughter academically socially, and emotionally. Small class sizes, dedicated faculty, community-oriented, IB program allows students to begin college as sophomores (saving parents money), focus on math and science as well as the arts, everything I was looking for in a school and more. I am so impressed with this school, it is worth the tuition (and also offers scholarships & financial aid) and compared to Seattle private schools, it's a bargain for what each student receives. I'm so thankful to have this school in Kitsap County--it's truly filling a need no other schools around are. All classes are AP, and any extra help students need is there as well as a truly supportive faculty and administration. An incredible school for parents who want the best for their kids and for kids who want to do well academically and get a little more advantage when it comes to college and his or her future. Kind smart kids doing good things in the community (and the world), truly makes me thankful for West Sound Academy.
Posted: May 2, 2013
We sent our child here for middle school to avoid the public middle school in Kingston, which has been having some issues and huge budget cuts, however we were so impressed with the students, classes, and academics, we will continue with this school through graduation! It is such a wonderful experience to send your child to a school that they love and you love. Their students have won state in math and history bowls and continued on to Washington DC for Nationals. We didn't think we'd love a small school, but now I will never return my children to overfilled classrooms. The student to teacher ratio is fantastic and they truly know and respect each child for who he or she is.
Reviews provided by GreatSchools™
| # | Name | Type | City | State | Overall Rating | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Meredith Heights | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Poulsbo | WA | 1.4 mi | |
| 2 | Caldart Cottages | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Poulsbo | WA | 2 mi | |
| 3 | Woods and Meadows | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Poulsbo | WA | 5 mi | |
| 4 | The Reserve at Bucklin Hill | Apartment Complex | Silverdale | WA | 5.1 mi | |
| 5 | Blueberry Meadows | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Bremerton | WA | 6.8 mi | |
| 6 | Whisper Ridge | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Bremerton | WA | 8.5 mi | |
| 7 | Fairway Lane | Apartment Complex | Bremerton | WA | 9.4 mi | |
| 8 | Manette | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Bremerton | WA | 9.9 mi | |
| 9 | Kitsap Lake | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Bremerton | WA | 10.6 mi | |
| 10 | The Ridge at McCormick Woods | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Port Orchard | WA | 14.5 mi | |
| 11 | McCormick Woods | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Port Orchard | WA | 15.1 mi | |
| 12 | Mukilteo | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Mukilteo | WA | 20.8 mi | |
| 13 | North Everett | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Everett | WA | 26.6 mi | |
| 14 | The Carriages at Fairwood Downs | Apartment Complex | Renton | WA | 28.6 mi | |
| 15 | North End | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Tacoma | WA | 31.3 mi | |
| 16 | Stadium District | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Tacoma | WA | 31.7 mi |
| # | Name | City | State | Overall Rating | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Poulsbo | Poulsbo | WA | 2.5 mi | |
| 2 | Naval Base Kitsap | Poulsbo | WA | 4.1 mi | |
| 3 | Ridgetop | Silverdale | WA | 4.3 mi | |
| 4 | East Bremerton | Bremerton | WA | 5.6 mi | |
| 5 | Lakeness Meadows/ Vinland Area | Poulsbo | WA | 5.8 mi | |
| 6 | Silverdale | Silverdale | WA | 6.3 mi | |
| 7 | Bainbridge Island | Bainbridge Island | WA | 7.2 mi | |
| 8 | Port Orchard | Port Orchard | WA | 12 mi | |
| 9 | Downtown Seattle | Seattle | WA | 14.8 mi |
| Base | Distance |
|---|---|
| Naval Base Kitsap Bangor | 5 mi. |
| Naval Base Kitsap - Bremerton | 10.5 mi. |
| Coast Guard Seattle | 15.1 mi. |
| Everett Naval Station | 26.2 mi. |
| McChord AFB | 41.1 mi. |
| Whidbey Island NAS | 43.5 mi. |
| Fort Lewis | 43.6 mi. |
| Coast Guard Port Angeles | 48.7 mi. |
