SUYI K-12 Schools

Bailey Gatzert Elementary School

Bailey Gatzert Elementary School (Gatzert) has a rich history, is located six blocks south of campus, and has just over 300 Kindergarten through 5th grade students. Through the decades it has been the neighborhood school for thousands of immigrant families, making it one of the most culturally diverse schools in the district. Over 20 languages are represented in the building, and more than 40% of students are English Language Learners. Gatzert students also face tremendous challenges: nearly 92% qualify for free and reduced priced meals, and on average 50 to 70 Gatzert families are impacted by housing insecurity. 

Bailey Gatzert is a community space where Seattle U students both work with and learn from young scholars, providing academic support and mentorship. Seattle U students learn life skills including humility, patience, listening, and understanding while drawing out the brilliance of scholars. Gatzert students' eagerness to learn and connect with caring adults can be a transformative experience for SU volunteers. Young people want to be in the presence of SU volunteers who build authentic relationships with youth and their families, and who are present and responsive. 

"A highlight of this year was when we talked about culture and the things that make each scholar unique. I felt like they had so much to learn from each other, and I also saw the true joy that came from being able to talk about their families and pasts in a classroom setting. The scholars really rose to the occasion and surprised me with their extreme insight and maturity when talking about subjects that most adults struggle to comprehend. I realize that I have so much to learn from them and hope that they feel pride in the fact that they can teach me as much as I can teach them." - Bailey Gatzert Seattle U Student Lead

Opportunities

At Gatzert, the Seattle University Youth Initiative places SU students in several different positions:

• Daytime Classroom Assistants are embedded in classrooms throughout the school day. These volunteers do things like read 1-on-1 with students during literacy blocks or provide guidance as students work through difficult math lessons.
• 1st Grade Brain Train After School Program: SU students in this program assist in tutoring and mentoring 1st grade scholars in one of three stations which include Reading, Writing, and Math. In these student-led lessons, volunteers have the opportunity to work 1-on-1 with scholars to facilitate a positive learning environment beyond the normal school day. This program runs Monday - Thursday, 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM.
• Redhawk Academic Mentoring Program (RAMP): Scholars in grades 2-5 participate in this afterschool program where they receive extra instruction in literacy and mathematics. Following an "academic hour," Gatzert scholars are engaged in enrichment programs which include a variety of activities such as dance, creative writing, and soccer. These programs aim to foster a positive environment and love of learning for our Gatzert Scholars. Redhawk Scholars runs Monday-Thursday, 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM.

Sign up on ConnectSU

Washington Middle School

At Washington Middle School, our goal is to work alongside scholars and their families by providing educational support in daytime and afterschool opportunities. Seattle University students have the opportunity to work as a team in providing academic mentoring, supporting teachers, and building relationships with these amazing young scholars. We are looking for Seattle U students who love working in groups, who are excited about learning with and from youth, and who want to build authentic relationships. 

Opportunities

• The Redhawk Academic Mentoring Program (RAMP) is designed to support youth as they transition from elementary school to Washington Middle School. RAMP matches scholars in grades 6-8 with SU undergraduates who serve as Academic Mentors and meet one-to-one with mentees weekly during the school day.
  
  
• RAMP After School provides programming for youth 3:45-5:30 PM on Mondays and 2:30-4:30PM on Wednesdays. Academic Mentors are asked to make a year-long commitment.
  
  
• Seattle U students can also be a classroom assistant during the school day on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 8:55 AM – 3:55 PM, and on Wednesdays 8:55AM-2:30PM.  

To learn more or sign up, please contact Washington Middle School Site Manager Nakiya Baker.