SCIENCE AND MATH INSTITUTE

Science and Math Institute is a public high school that is part of the Tacoma School District school district, located in Tacoma, WA with about 484 students offering grade levels from 9th Grade to 12th Grade. With about 26 teachers, Science and Math Institute has a student/teacher ratio of about 18:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

The Science and Math Institute (SAMi) is an innovative public high school located within the sprawling grounds of Point Defiance Park in Tacoma, Washington. Operating as a choice school within the Tacoma Public Schools district, SAMi is designed for students who thrive in non-traditional, hands-on learning environments. Its unique location allows the school to utilize the park’s forest, zoo, aquarium, and waterfront as an "extended classroom," providing students with unparalleled opportunities for field-based research and experiential learning that bridges the gap between classroom theory and real-world application.

The school emphasizes a rigorous curriculum centered on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), but it maintains a holistic approach by integrating humanities and arts into its project-based framework. Because of its partnerships with local institutions—most notably the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium—students often participate in internships and research projects that are unavailable in traditional high school settings. SAMi is recognized for fostering a close-knit, collaborative community where students are encouraged to take ownership of their education, making it an ideal environment for those interested in scientific inquiry and environmental stewardship.

For more information, contact Science and Math Institute at (253) 571-2300 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.