Since 1913
Educating Our Community
Welcome to McGilvra Elementary
Since 1913, our community has united to support McGilvra Elementary, a cherished K–5 school in the heart of Seattle's Madison Park. Together, we enhance educational experiences through programs in art, academic tutoring, and after-school enrichment, fostering a strong sense of connection and belonging for all students.
Read the feature article about McGilvra in the Madison Park Stroll!
Support the McGilvra Auction!
When: Saturday, May 2 @ 6:00 p.m.
Where: Imperia Lake Union
How to Help:
Become an Event Sponsor
Donate an Item
Buy a ticket
Invite a friend
and help ensure McGilvra students continue to have access to a full-time math and reading specialist, academic tutors, and an excellent art program.
Thanks to our community’s support, our students have a lot to be thankful for!
More About McGilvra
We are parents, teachers, alumni, and neighbors united in support of McGilvra Elementary—a cherished K–5 school at the heart of our community. Since 1913, McGilvra has been delivering exceptional education while fostering connection and belonging.
Located in a beautifully updated historic schoolhouse in Madison Park at 1617 38th Ave E, Seattle, WA 98112, McGilvra serves approximately 200 students from both the neighborhood and across the city. As part of Seattle Public Schools, our day runs from 7:55 AM to 2:25 PM, with extended care and seasonal enrichment programs available.
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McGilvra is proud to have some of the most experienced and dedicated teachers and staff in the district. Thanks to support from our PTA, we also provide tutors and additional classroom support to help students who need extra help in specific subjects—while giving teachers more time to focus on instruction. Our commitment to academic excellence is reflected in consistently strong test scores and student growth across grade levels.
You can read more about the staff and teachers on our people page.
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The best way to get to know our school is to take a tour. We offer many opportunities to visit throughout the year. Please join us at one of our 2025-26 tours!
If you live within McGilvra’s attendance boundary, your child is eligible to attend—but you still need to complete the enrollment paperwork through Seattle Public Schools. All families, whether assigned by neighborhood or applying through school choice, should visit seattleschools.org/enroll to review required forms, important dates, and instructions. Families outside our attendance area can apply to attend McGilvra through the Open Enrollment process, typically held in February. We encourage prospective families to join one of our seasonal school tours—or request one anytime. And if you have questions or need a helping hand, our PTA is always here to support you.
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McGilvra offers a wide range of after-school enrichment programs designed to spark creativity, build new skills, and keep students engaged beyond the school day. Organized in partnership with the PTA, these seasonal offerings include activities like art, chess, drama, science, sports, language, and more—taught by experienced instructors from trusted local organizations. Programs run in fall, winter, and spring sessions, with registration typically opening a few weeks before each season begins. Financial assistance is available to ensure all students have the opportunity to participate.
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McGilvra Elementary offers on-site after-school care through Launch, a licensed childcare provider that partners with Seattle Public Schools. Launch provides a safe, enriching environment for students from the end of the school day until 6:00 PM, including activities that support social-emotional learning, academic support, arts, and active play. Families must register directly with Launch, and spots are limited, so early enrollment is encouraged. More information, including registration details and contact info, is available on the McGilvra school website.
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If you live outside the McGilvra zone, you have the opportunity to apply to McGilvra through the SPS School Choice process. In recent years, McGilvra has welcomed a number of families through this program. For additional information, please visit the SPS website or email outreach@mcgilvrapta.org.
We’d love for you to join the McGilvra PTA in whatever capacity works for you! It’s a great way to get involved, support our school, and help shape our community. No experience needed—just your time, ideas, and enthusiasm. Reach out anytime if you’re interested!
Events
The McGilvra PTA hosts events throughout the year, from evening picnics and community gatherings to our amazing spring auction. These events support McGilvra and help the community stay connected. We hope you’ll join us!
Read-a-thon - January 26 - February 6
PTA General Meeting & Town Hall - March 3, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Spring Auction - Saturday, May 2, 6:00 p.m. @ Imperia Lake Union
McGilvra @ The Mariners - Sunday, May 31 @ 1:10 p.m.
Subscribe to McGilvra’s full calendar so you don’t miss a thing!
Our Mission and Impact
The goal of the McGilvra PTA is to achieve the best education for our students through community building, fundraising, outreach and advocacy, bridging home and school for collaboration between parents and teachers.
Contact Us
Have a question about McGilvra or thinking about joining our community? We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re a prospective family, a neighbor, or someone looking to get involved, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help. You can also email us directly at outreach@mcgilvrapta.org.