Odyssey aims to evoke and nurture a love of learning in children, which encompasses continuous learning, academic success, and the development of social skills needed for successful, caring, and responsible community participation.

Academic Excellence -

Learning that excites curiosity and challenges students from kindergarten through 8th grade.

The Odyssey program is designed to evoke and nurture a love of learning. Odyssey offers a rigorous curriculum that follows district standards to prepare your student for further study in any academic environment. Odyssey students study topics similar to those in other public schools in the Bainbridge Island School District; the delivery model is student centered and often individualized.

In the elementary program (K-6), all students receive core academic instruction in math, reading and writing, spelling and social studies. Students also particpate in specialist classes Art, Music, STEM (K-4) and PE.

In the middle school program (7-8), subjects include Algebra, CMP Math, Honors Geometry, CTE STEM Science, Social Studies, and Language Arts. Every semester, middle school students also receive Art, PE/Health, and Music (General Music, Band and/or Marimba Performance Ensemble).

The small, multiage structure allows teachers to truly know each learner and tailor the instruction to their academic and social-emotional needs.  Studuents are encouraged to stretch themselves academically, and teachers provide both support and accerleration based on each student’s progress and goals.

Community –

An intentional team of parents, kids, and teachers, where everyone is known, valued, and connected.

At Odyssey, students, teachers and families create a strong bond that is fostered through multi-age learning, small group learning, strong teacher relationships, active parent partnership and a vibrant parent community that results in a true connection.

Independence -

Students take ownership of their learning, make meaningful choices, and grow in confidence every day.

Odyssey is built on the core belief in which every learner can be motivated and self-directed. Teachers champion independence, voice, choice, and self-sufficiency, inspiring learners to play an active role in designing their educational experiences. Students begin developing skills in independence in Kindergarten and develop them throughout the program.

To build independence, teachers at Odyssey emphasize experiential learning through:

• Project-Based Learning: In all grade levels, Project-Based Learning allows students to pursue their interests and communicate their discoveries using multiple forms of expression, including technology, the arts, and live demonstration.

• Outdoor Education: All students in grades 1-8 participate in overnight outdoor education expeditions and field trips. Learning experiences outside the classroom enrich academic learning, build leadership skills, and provide opportunities to build community with fellow students and teachers. 

• Service Learning: Service learning encourages responsible, caring civic participation in the local community, environment, and the wider world. 

• Career and Technical Education: At the 7th and 8th grade levels, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provides students with the academic and technical skills, knowledge, and training to spark interest in future careers and to become lifelong learners. CTE courses offer a foundation in workplace competencies guided by our industry partners who are active members in our Advisory Committees.

Heart -

Teaching with empathy and intention to nurture emotional intelligence, kindness, and a sense of belonging. 

At Odyssey, social-emotional learning is part of everyday life. We help kids understand themselves, care for others, and feel connected to a community that truly knows them. Heart shows up at Odyssey through: Strong relationships that foster a true sense of belonging;  positive discipline where teaching skills and solving problems together is key; learning at your own pace; small group connection; parents as partners; and a K-8 community that stays connected.