Public Schools
In the Peninsula area, the positive impact of public schools goes beyond textbooks and formulas. Fifteen schools and over 8,750 students comprise the Peninsula School District, with an annual growth rate between four-five percent. In 2002 the District received an “Aa3” bond rating from Moody's Investment Services of New York, a testament to sound financial management. The District is considered one of the strongest and most innovative in the State of Washington. All-Day Kindergarten became standard at no fee in 2007 and beginning in September 2008 all students will start one hour later on most Wednesdays providing staff an opportunity to meet for the purpose of school improvement planning and collaboration. Visit the Peninsula School District website for more information on our public schools.

Private and Home Schools
For younger students, there are a variety of quality private education options including Montessori, Christian and Catholic schools.  The Peninsula School District has a home school liaison available to offer information to families considering home schooling.  Visit the PSD website linked above or the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction at www.K12.wa.us for more information on home school options.

Higher Education
Gig Harbor is fortunate with its range of higher and technical education programs offered in our community. Tacoma Community College offers credit courses through its local branch for an Associates Degree, professional/technical and worker retraining and worker retraining programs, adult basic education, computer certification and much more.

For more information and statistics about local area schools, our Economic Development section has a 2 part segment called Gig Harbor Peninsula: Education.