Local Schools

Bailey Gatzert Elementary School

Bailey Gatzert Elementary School (Gatzert) is located six blocks south of campus and it has just over 300 Kindergarten through 5th grade students. Gatzert has a tremendously rich history. Over 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 over 40% of students are English Language Learners. Gatzert students also face tremendous challenges: nearly 92 percent of Gatzert students qualify for free and reduced priced lunch and on average between 50-70 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 to provide academic support and mentorship. Seattle U students learn life skills including humility, patience, listening, understanding while drawing out the brilliance of scholars. Gatzert student's 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, 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 graders 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 students to facilitate a positive learning environment beyond the normal school day. This program runs Monday - Thursday, 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM.
• Redhawk Scholars: 2nd-5th Grade Students participate in this afterschool program where they get extra instruction in literacy and mathematics. Following an "academic hour," Gatzert students 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 Students. Redhawk Scholars runs Monday-Thursday, 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM.

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Washington Middle School

At Washington Middle School, our goal is to work alongside scholars and their families by providing educational support in daytime and after school opportunities. Seattle University students have the opportunity to work with fellow SU students to provide academic mentoring, support teachers, and build relationships with the amazing young scholars at the school. 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 6th, 7th and 8th graders with SU undergraduates who serve as Academic Mentors and meet one-to-one with their mentees once a week during the school day.

• RAMP After School provides programming for youth after school 3:45pm-5:30 PM on Mondays and 2:30-4:30 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 from 8:55 AM – 3:55 PM and 8:55-2:30pm on Wednesdays.  

To learn more or sign up, please contact Washington Middle School Success Coordinator LaKesha Kimbrough. 

Resources for K12 SU Student Employees and Volunteers

K12 Guidebook for Seattle U Student Employees and Volunteers

Protection of Minors Incident Report Form