Relocating to a new duty station? It’s not easy, and we hear you. The numerous challenges you are likely facing are significant, and we bet one of them is attempting to select the most appropriate school district for your children.
For those of you stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Washington State, or about to be, understanding the educational landscape can ensure a smoother, happier transition and continued academic success for your children during what we know is an already challenging time.
If you’re feeling your stress levels rise and the time crunch, we not only understand–we’ve been there. As one of the only 100% veteran-owned and operated brokerages, we’ve worn the uniforms, or have supported the spouses who did. So let us not only help you but guide you with our expertise, straight from people who have been standing where you are right now.
The Educational Landscape Near JBLM
JBLM is situated in Pierce County, Washington, and is encompassed by some of the best school districts in Washington State, each offering distinct educational opportunities, The primary school districts that serve the JBLM area include:
- Clover Park School District: This district serves the majority of JBLM, including on-base housing areas. It encompasses 17 elementary schools, four middle schools, and two high schools. Notably, Beachwood Elementary School, located on JBLM, has received commendations for its academic performance.
- Bethel School District: Covering a substantial portion of unincorporated Pierce County, Bethel School District includes areas such as Spanaway, Graham, and Kapowsin. It operates multiple elementary, middle and high schools, providing a wide range of educational programs.
- Steilacoom Historical School District: Serving the town of Steilacoom and parts of JBLM, this district is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and community involvement.
Evaluating the Best School Districts Near JBLM
As you are determining the best schools in the JBLM area, there are several factors that merit your consideration:
1. Academic Performance. Reviewing standardized test scores and school ratings can provide insight into a district’s academic standing. For instance, Beachwood Elementary School in the Clover Park School District has been highlighted for its high performance, ranking 116th out of 1,168 elementary schools in Washington.
2. Extracurricular Opportunities. A well-rounded education includes access to arts, sports and other extracurricular activities. Districts like Bethel offer diverse programs catering to various student interests.
3. Support for Military Families. Given the very unique challenges we military families face, districts with dedicated support programs can be particularly beneficial. Clover Park School District, serving a significant military popular, offers resources tailored to the needs of military connected students.
Addressing the Most Common Questions:
What school districts are near Joint Base Lewis-McChord?
The primary school districts near JBLM include Clover Park School District, Bethel School District, and Steilacoom Historical School District.
Are there schools on U.S. military bases?
Yes, in fact, many U.S. military bases have schools located on-base to serve children of military personnel. At JBLM, several elementary schools operate within the base, including Beachwood Elementary School.
What’s the nicest army base?
The designation of “nicest,” army base is entirely subjective and depends on your individual preferences. However, JBLM is often praised for its comprehensive facilities, strategic location, and strong community support available.
What school district is JBLM in?
JBLM mostly falls within the Clover Park School District, which serves the majority of the base’s residential areas.
What is JBLM known for?
Joint Base Lewis-McChord is renowned for being one of the largest and most inclusive military installations in the United States, providing a full spectrum of training and support for active-duty service members.
We Can Help: Find Your Perfect Home Near the Best School Districts with Operation RedDot.
We know that selecting the best school district near JBLM is one of the many stressful, yet pivotal decisions for a military family during deployment. By thoroughly researching and considering factors such as academic performance, extracurricular offers, and support for military-connected students, families like yours can make informed choices that align with your values and needs.
Deployment can be a significantly stressful time for the entire family, with worries, anxiety, loneliness, and increased responsibilities for the remaining parent—when we say you do not have to go through this alone, we mean it—because we’ve been in those coyote tan boots ourselves, or we’ve gone through the exact same situation with our spouses.
No one deserves to feel like they have no one to turn to and no one that understands the unique, and often very challenging aspects of the military as much as we do. At Operation RedDot, our commitment is to provide comprehensive support, ensuring that your transition is as seamless as possible.
Let us help you in finding not just a house—but a home where your family can thrive.