The assessment process for placement includes testing for academic and cognitive ability and for creativity. Students and teachers develop contracts on an individual basis for credit in both core academic areas and electives. CLIP programs are in all of the large high schools as well as at Edmonds Community College. Students must apply and pass an entrance exam for admittance. Madrona School is a primary through eighth grade school that incorporates multi-age instruction in all classrooms.
Preference goes to siblings to keep families together.
Siblings are placed first, lottery selections are made, then a waiting list is maintained for each age group. K-8 School is a school of choice where parents are involved on a daily basis. Parents must also attend monthly meetings, participate on a school committee, and drive or chaperone on at least two field trips per year. Maplewood Co-op families assist the school in a variety of ways, such as leading small group lessons, creating special projects, and sharing talents and hobbies. Parental involvement enriches the learning experience for children.