Relocating to a new city is an exciting adventure, but can be stressful when you have young children. If you’re moving to Seattle from another country, this guide will help you navigate key aspects of settling in—education, housing, finances, and building a community.
Why Seattle is a Great Place for Families
Seattle offers family-friendly neighborhoods, outdoor adventures, and a welcoming community. Seattle is home to over 485 parks, offering playgrounds, hiking trails, and waterfront activities. Popular spots like Green Lake, Discovery Park, Carkeek Park, and Richmond Beach provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun.
From Francophone cultural festivals to bilingual schools and meetups, Seattle has a growing French-speaking network that makes it easier for families to settle in and stay connected to their roots. Our school is proud to be a part of this vibrant community, offering a bilingual environment that supports both academic success and cultural identity.
Understanding Education in Seattle
One of the biggest adjustments for families coming from another country is understanding the differences in education. In the US, school starts in kindergarten. Kindergarten is the equivalent of the French grande section. Students in the US must turn 5 by August 31st to start kindergarten in September. However, North Seattle French School accepts students based on the French system and the December 31st cut-off date.
Grade levels equivalence are as follow. In some school districts, 6th grade is part of the elementary school instead of middle school.
Our bilingual preschool and elementary school offer small class sizes and individualized attention, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a nurturing and academically rigorous environment. We provide guidance to families to ensure a smooth transition, and offer extra support in English to our new students coming from a French-speaking country.
Essential Contacts for Francophone Families
We know how important it is to connect with people who understand your needs. Here are Francophone professionals ready to help:
Merveille Madilamba at BECU in Shoreline can assist with your banking and financial needs. BECU is a community-focused credit union that makes settling in easier. merveille.madilamba@becu.org – +1.800.233.2328 – 18336 Aurora Ave N Suite 109 in Shoreline.
Nathalie Boss, a French-speaking real estate agent, can help you find the perfect home in a family-friendly neighborhood. https://nathalieboss.johnlscott.com/home
For rental homes, you will find listings on Zillow.com and Trulia.com.
Questions about neighborhoods, sports and kid activities, pediatricians and dentists, daycares for younger siblings, please contact Aurélie Declerck, our Admissions Manager, at admissions@northseattlefrenchschool.com, or by phone: +1 206.365.1034. We’re here to help.
Practical Tips for Settling In
Enrollment in a Bilingual School
Contact us early to learn about enrollment and requirements. We offer virtual tours through GoogleMeet or facetime on WhatsApp. We’ll guide you through the admissions process and help ensure your child’s transition is seamless. We know visas, paperwork and finding a home take time.
Community Connections
Join events or meetups organized by the French-American Chamber of Commerce or the Union des Français de l’Etrangers, story times at local libraries, to build your social network. Our community committee organizes playdates and get-togethers to help our families connect.
Cultural Adjustment
Embrace Seattle’s love for outdoor activities: family hikes, camping trips, water activities or winter fun, pumpkin patch and fruit picking, etc… there’s plenty to explore. Put on your rain boots and sunglasses (you never know…), grab your favorite drink at a coffee shop, and discover the beauty of the Pacific Northwest!
Welcome to Seattle!
Moving with children is no small task, but with the right resources, you can make it a positive and enriching experience. It’s such a chance for your family!
If you’re looking for a bilingual, community-focused school, our doors are open. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can support your family’s transition to life in Seattle.
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