History & Mission

History of SCDS
Seattle Country Day School was founded in 1964 as a private non-profit coeducational school serving kindergarten through eighth grades. It was the dream of Lucile Beckman, our school's first director, to create an environment where bright children could be guided and challenged by teachers who understood that education involved honing intellectual strengths and encouraging a love of discovery.

Since 1964, SCDS has flourished under the guidance of strong leaders Lucile Beckman (1964-1986), Dr. Jayasri Ghosh (1986 to 2001), Christopher A. Massi (2001-2003), and now Michael G. Murphy. SCDS continues to feature experiential learning, affirmation of personal creativity, good citizenship, and a passionate staff dedicated to supporting children both academically and personally. The SCDS mission remains clearly in focus and Lucile Beckman's original dream lives on, more vibrant than ever.

Our Mission
Seattle Country Day School is an independent Kindergarten through Eighth Grade school committed to developing the abilities of children of high intellectual and creative promise. Using inquiry-based teaching strategies, SCDS promotes academic excellence and generates enthusiasm for learning. Within a nurturing environment the school cultivates responsible behavior and honors each child.

Core Values

Non-Discrimination Policy:
Seattle Country Day School strives to maintain a diverse school community. The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, or disability in administration of educational policies, admission, financial aid, or any other school-administered programs.

Letter from the Head