Special Education, 9-12 - Eastside Catholic School | Private 6-12 in Seattle area
Source: http://www.eastsidecatholic.org/fs/pages/2691
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:11
Special Education, 9-12 - Eastside Catholic School | Private 6-12 in Seattle area
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Special Education, Grades 9 - 12
Confidence. Community. Life Skills.
At Eastside Catholic School we believe every student deserves to thrive in a supportive, inclusive community.
The Options Program at Eastside Catholic School offers individualized academic and life skill development for high school students with diagnosed intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
Our student-centered special education program is designed to give individuals the critical foundational skills and confidence they need to live actively and independently in their community. With our experiential learning approach, students achieve deeper knowledge through active exploration of real-world challenges.
Students enrolled in the Options Program experience inclusion and integration in the school community through full participation in school events, activities,
retreats
,
clubs
,
Campus Ministry
and
athletics
. To further cultivate and promote a feeling of belonging and stronger school community, students in the Options Program can enroll in general education courses with modifications to coursework specifically aligned with their capabilities and goals.
Because the Options Program is about life success, all students earn a “Certificate of Completion” at the end of the program.
We’re here to walk alongside you as you explore the best fit for your student — and we’d love to meet you.
A Place for Every Learner
Ways to explore EC:
Attend an
Open House
!
Connect with us through our
Parent-to-Parent events
.
Speak directly with EC parents whose children have flourished in our
High School Options Program.
Attend a
Future Crusader for a Day
event.
Your family is invited to cheer on our team and feel that Crusader spirit!
Schedule a personalized tour
or conversation with our admissions team
Register Here
Loading from Vimeo...
My daughter is an alumnus of the Options Program.
It was a wonderful experience and a true blessing to our family.
My other two daughters have been Options Program peer tutors.
Our family loves the Options Program!
Ormezinda Brown-Maki
Eastside Catholic School Parent
Students in the Options Program Receive:
Individualized academic skills development
Life skills training
Faith-based education
Student-centered, special education curriculum
Experiential learning
Inclusion and integration in student life
General education course enrollment opportunities
View the Options Program Profile
Curriculum
Tuition and Fees
Athletics and Activities
The Options Program provides appropriate instruction for each student’s academic level, as well as opportunities for inclusion in the larger EC community. With this integrated approach, students gain the confidence and skills to succeed in life after high school.
Our curriculum is developed around common themes and structured with regard to each student’s interests and needs. Methods of instruction include, but are not limited to experiential learning, project-based learning, differentiated instruction, peer tutor interactions and hands-on activities.
The Options Program offers courses in the following subjects:
Language Arts – literature, reading strategies and language arts are offered at an appropriate level to engage and challenge students
Science – curriculum promotes scientific fundamentals through hands-on and interactive projects and experiments
Global Issues – foundational knowledge and skills are taught in order for students to understand more fully the world around them to become engaged citizens
Social Studies – important events in state, national and world history are explored with a connection to current events
Mathematics – content focuses on basic math concepts, life skills and math, as well as everyday budgeting
Religious Studies
Life Skills and Social Skills – a broad range of appropriate skills are discussed and practiced for full participation in everyday life and social skills practice to interact effectively and positively with others
Careers – career possibilities and opportunities are investigated in preparation for life after high school
Additional coursework - American Sign Language, health and wellness, computers and technology, study skills and strength and conditioning
Options Program tuition and fees for the 2026-27 school year are:
Enrollment Fee (new student): $500
Options Program Student Tuition: $34,300
More information about tuition and fees can be found on our
Tuition and Tuition Assistance page
.
Students in the Options Program are encouraged to participate in many all-school extracurricular activities, as well as Special Olympics sports offered through the school. A popular club for many students in the high school is the Circle of Friends club which encourages socialization and understanding within the broader school community.
Special Olympics
Special Olympics teams currently offered at EC are basketball, bowling and track and field. Each participating student has the opportunity to challenge their skills in these team sports. Any student-athlete who participates in an event for two years during their four years at Eastside Catholic School will receive a varsity letter for that sport. By participating in these sports, student-athletes increase their self-confidence and social skills while improving their physical and motor skills.
View Our Curriculum Guide
Loading from Vimeo...
Admissions Criteria
How To Apply
Campus Visit
Crusader for a Day Visit
Diagnosed intellectual and/or developmental disability, or other diagnosis indicating a need for an integrated special education program for students seeking a high school certificate of completion
Minimum levels of academic achievement indicating past successes in learning environments
Appropriate behavior patterns for school environment to ensure success
The skills necessary to initiate simple written and verbal expression
The ability to interact socially
Willingness to partake in the spiritual opportunities provided by the school
Ability to perform all activities of daily living such as toileting, self-feeding, dressing and washing
Exhibit responsible and socially adaptive behavior without one-on-one support from an adult or aide
The ability to function independently throughout the school day. This includes navigating passing periods, having the ability to sit through 50-to-70-minute classes, independently logging on to a computer, maintaining personal belongings and attending to individual needs and hygiene.
For additional information about the application process, please contact our Admissions Team via
admissions@eastsidecatholic.org
or 425-295-3000.
Please visit our
How To Apply webpage
for details about applying to Eastside Catholic School.
The campus visit will consist of a guided tour by an Admissions Team member and a meeting with the program director. Students have the opportunity to choose one of the following classroom experiences including:
One-hour classroom experience
Half-day classroom experience
Full-day campus experience with lunch provided
Depending on the visit experience your student selects, candidates will leave the EC campus after a parent and guardian meeting, or parents and guardians will return to the EC campus to pick up their student at the end of the school day.
Options Program candidates may schedule a campus visit by contacting our Admissions Team via
admissions@eastsidecatholic.org
or 425-295-3000.
Any student interested in the Options Program is welcome to join us for a Crusader for a Day visit where they will be able to sit in on classes, enjoy lunch and connect with peers, staff and faculty.
To register or learn more about our program, please contact Director of Options Program Michele Santucci Barton via
mbarton@eastsidecatholic.org
or call 425-295-3000.
No child should be denied his or her right to an education in faith, which in turn nurtures the soul of a nation.
Pope Benedict XVI
Play and Pause Buttons for Slideshow
EC Students Join the Buddy Walk with Heart and Spirit
EC students participate in the annual Buddy Walk at the Woodland Park Zoo.
Why Eastside Catholic School Ends Our Day with the "Glory Be Prayer"
At Eastside Catholic, the day ends with the “Glory Be” prayer—a brief but powerful tradition that reminds students, faculty and staff of God’s unconditional love and presence.
October: The Month of The Rosary
October is the month dedicated to Mary, Our Lady of the Holy Rosary—a time to rediscover the Rosary as a powerful prayer of peace, hope and grace.
Making Waves with a Big Splash!
Congratulations to Eastside Catholic School's Options Program student Frannie R. who made a big splash at the summer Special Olympics Washington State Swim Competition.
Champions On and Off the Track!
Congratulations to our Options Program students and alumni at the summer Special Olympics Washington State Track and Field Competition.
Special Olympics Basketball Team Wins State Championship!
A huge congratulations to our Special Olympics basketball team for winning the State championship!
Freshman Frannie Ronan Featured on Fox 13, Set to Walk the Runway for Down Syndrome Awareness
Freshman Frannie Ronan, a student in the Options Program, was recently featured on
Fox 13’s Good Day Seattle
, highlighting her upcoming role as a featured model in the Down Syndrome Center of Puget Sound’s Style & Stars Fashion Show.
Options Program Alumnus has Letter Personally Delivered to Pope Francis
Discover how Options Program alumnus Aden Huey '24 had a letter personally delivered to Pope Francis!
Caitlin Burrows '20 Joins Down Syndrome Community of Puget Sound Board of Directors
Caitlin Burrows ’20 recently partnered with the Down Syndrome Community of Puget Sound and accepted an invitation to join their Board of Directors as a Self-Advocate.
Current Student Connects with Options Program Alumni
Junior Chase Kirby assisted in practices this summer with the Special Olympics softball team on Mercer Island. Some team members were Options Program alumni.
Skip To Main Content
Special Education, Grades 9 - 12
Confidence. Community. Life Skills.
At Eastside Catholic School we believe every student deserves to thrive in a supportive, inclusive community.
The Options Program at Eastside Catholic School offers individualized academic and life skill development for high school students with diagnosed intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
Our student-centered special education program is designed to give individuals the critical foundational skills and confidence they need to live actively and independently in their community. With our experiential learning approach, students achieve deeper knowledge through active exploration of real-world challenges.
Students enrolled in the Options Program experience inclusion and integration in the school community through full participation in school events, activities,
retreats
,
clubs
,
Campus Ministry
and
athletics
. To further cultivate and promote a feeling of belonging and stronger school community, students in the Options Program can enroll in general education courses with modifications to coursework specifically aligned with their capabilities and goals.
Because the Options Program is about life success, all students earn a “Certificate of Completion” at the end of the program.
We’re here to walk alongside you as you explore the best fit for your student — and we’d love to meet you.
A Place for Every Learner
Ways to explore EC:
Attend an
Open House
!
Connect with us through our
Parent-to-Parent events
.
Speak directly with EC parents whose children have flourished in our
High School Options Program.
Attend a
Future Crusader for a Day
event.
Your family is invited to cheer on our team and feel that Crusader spirit!
Schedule a personalized tour
or conversation with our admissions team
Register Here
Loading from Vimeo...
My daughter is an alumnus of the Options Program.
It was a wonderful experience and a true blessing to our family.
My other two daughters have been Options Program peer tutors.
Our family loves the Options Program!
Ormezinda Brown-Maki
Eastside Catholic School Parent
Students in the Options Program Receive:
Individualized academic skills development
Life skills training
Faith-based education
Student-centered, special education curriculum
Experiential learning
Inclusion and integration in student life
General education course enrollment opportunities
View the Options Program Profile
Curriculum
Tuition and Fees
Athletics and Activities
The Options Program provides appropriate instruction for each student’s academic level, as well as opportunities for inclusion in the larger EC community. With this integrated approach, students gain the confidence and skills to succeed in life after high school.
Our curriculum is developed around common themes and structured with regard to each student’s interests and needs. Methods of instruction include, but are not limited to experiential learning, project-based learning, differentiated instruction, peer tutor interactions and hands-on activities.
The Options Program offers courses in the following subjects:
Language Arts – literature, reading strategies and language arts are offered at an appropriate level to engage and challenge students
Science – curriculum promotes scientific fundamentals through hands-on and interactive projects and experiments
Global Issues – foundational knowledge and skills are taught in order for students to understand more fully the world around them to become engaged citizens
Social Studies – important events in state, national and world history are explored with a connection to current events
Mathematics – content focuses on basic math concepts, life skills and math, as well as everyday budgeting
Religious Studies
Life Skills and Social Skills – a broad range of appropriate skills are discussed and practiced for full participation in everyday life and social skills practice to interact effectively and positively with others
Careers – career possibilities and opportunities are investigated in preparation for life after high school
Additional coursework - American Sign Language, health and wellness, computers and technology, study skills and strength and conditioning
Options Program tuition and fees for the 2026-27 school year are:
Enrollment Fee (new student): $500
Options Program Student Tuition: $34,300
More information about tuition and fees can be found on our
Tuition and Tuition Assistance page
.
Students in the Options Program are encouraged to participate in many all-school extracurricular activities, as well as Special Olympics sports offered through the school. A popular club for many students in the high school is the Circle of Friends club which encourages socialization and understanding within the broader school community.
Special Olympics
Special Olympics teams currently offered at EC are basketball, bowling and track and field. Each participating student has the opportunity to challenge their skills in these team sports. Any student-athlete who participates in an event for two years during their four years at Eastside Catholic School will receive a varsity letter for that sport. By participating in these sports, student-athletes increase their self-confidence and social skills while improving their physical and motor skills.
View Our Curriculum Guide
Loading from Vimeo...
Admissions Criteria
How To Apply
Campus Visit
Crusader for a Day Visit
Diagnosed intellectual and/or developmental disability, or other diagnosis indicating a need for an integrated special education program for students seeking a high school certificate of completion
Minimum levels of academic achievement indicating past successes in learning environments
Appropriate behavior patterns for school environment to ensure success
The skills necessary to initiate simple written and verbal expression
The ability to interact socially
Willingness to partake in the spiritual opportunities provided by the school
Ability to perform all activities of daily living such as toileting, self-feeding, dressing and washing
Exhibit responsible and socially adaptive behavior without one-on-one support from an adult or aide
The ability to function independently throughout the school day. This includes navigating passing periods, having the ability to sit through 50-to-70-minute classes, independently logging on to a computer, maintaining personal belongings and attending to individual needs and hygiene.
For additional information about the application process, please contact our Admissions Team via
admissions@eastsidecatholic.org
or 425-295-3000.
Please visit our
How To Apply webpage
for details about applying to Eastside Catholic School.
The campus visit will consist of a guided tour by an Admissions Team member and a meeting with the program director. Students have the opportunity to choose one of the following classroom experiences including:
One-hour classroom experience
Half-day classroom experience
Full-day campus experience with lunch provided
Depending on the visit experience your student selects, candidates will leave the EC campus after a parent and guardian meeting, or parents and guardians will return to the EC campus to pick up their student at the end of the school day.
Options Program candidates may schedule a campus visit by contacting our Admissions Team via
admissions@eastsidecatholic.org
or 425-295-3000.
Any student interested in the Options Program is welcome to join us for a Crusader for a Day visit where they will be able to sit in on classes, enjoy lunch and connect with peers, staff and faculty.
To register or learn more about our program, please contact Director of Options Program Michele Santucci Barton via
mbarton@eastsidecatholic.org
or call 425-295-3000.
No child should be denied his or her right to an education in faith, which in turn nurtures the soul of a nation.
Pope Benedict XVI
Play and Pause Buttons for Slideshow
EC Students Join the Buddy Walk with Heart and Spirit
EC students participate in the annual Buddy Walk at the Woodland Park Zoo.
Why Eastside Catholic School Ends Our Day with the "Glory Be Prayer"
At Eastside Catholic, the day ends with the “Glory Be” prayer—a brief but powerful tradition that reminds students, faculty and staff of God’s unconditional love and presence.
October: The Month of The Rosary
October is the month dedicated to Mary, Our Lady of the Holy Rosary—a time to rediscover the Rosary as a powerful prayer of peace, hope and grace.
Making Waves with a Big Splash!
Congratulations to Eastside Catholic School's Options Program student Frannie R. who made a big splash at the summer Special Olympics Washington State Swim Competition.
Champions On and Off the Track!
Congratulations to our Options Program students and alumni at the summer Special Olympics Washington State Track and Field Competition.
Special Olympics Basketball Team Wins State Championship!
A huge congratulations to our Special Olympics basketball team for winning the State championship!
Freshman Frannie Ronan Featured on Fox 13, Set to Walk the Runway for Down Syndrome Awareness
Freshman Frannie Ronan, a student in the Options Program, was recently featured on
Fox 13’s Good Day Seattle
, highlighting her upcoming role as a featured model in the Down Syndrome Center of Puget Sound’s Style & Stars Fashion Show.
Options Program Alumnus has Letter Personally Delivered to Pope Francis
Discover how Options Program alumnus Aden Huey '24 had a letter personally delivered to Pope Francis!
Caitlin Burrows '20 Joins Down Syndrome Community of Puget Sound Board of Directors
Caitlin Burrows ’20 recently partnered with the Down Syndrome Community of Puget Sound and accepted an invitation to join their Board of Directors as a Self-Advocate.
Current Student Connects with Options Program Alumni
Junior Chase Kirby assisted in practices this summer with the Special Olympics softball team on Mercer Island. Some team members were Options Program alumni.