Jefferson Community School Mission

Jefferson Community School is a not-for-profit accredited independent school that provides educational opportunities for all families on the Olympic Peninsula based on the principles of experiential and expeditionary learning, and individual care for each student in a respectful community environment.

School Today – Thriving and Growing

Jefferson Community School is an energetic hub in the heart of Port Townsend. Students from 7th-12th grade participate in a unique experiential education that offers academics, community service, and expeditions near and far. Our dedicated teachers routinely take kids out of the classroom to experience learning in the world around them. You might see them at the beach analyzing kelp, on Mainstreet sketching interesting sights and people, or in the park firing the catapults they built in Physics class. Regardless, the students who attend JCS truly live our motto:
Community at Home – Kinship with the World.

School History – A Different Vision

Jefferson Community School was conceived in 2004 by a dedicated group of parents and educators, who were looking to create a truly life-changing educational experience for students. Both teachers and parents shared a commitment to individualized education, experiential, expeditionary-based learning & a goal of igniting students’ intellectual passions.

Paula, grade 11. Photo by David Miller

We did it! We made our goal. THANK YOU

Our very first Expedition Gala was a huge success. We made our goal, skated past it and landed feeling well supported.  And it was a blast!

Over 130 people attended. Matt Smith, auctioneer did a fantastic job from working with the student speakers to keeping things rolling through the evening. Beth Johnson and In Season Catering’s wonderful team provided tastes from around the world reflecting the school’s expedition destinations – and it was delicious.

Thanks to all who attended, donated, volunteered or all of the above. You are a fantastic community to support the future of these students and the experiential education programs provided by the school and our partners the Northwest Maritime Center, the Port Townsend Film Institute and the PT ReCyclery.

Thank you for joining our adventure!