Brigitte’s Story

A native of Switzerland, Brigitte Bertschi graduated from the University of Early Childhood Education in Basel. Following seven years of teaching in elementary programs in Basel, Brigitte founded Bertschi School as a one room preschool in 1975. Her goal was to offer children a stimulating and dynamic educational experience in a cooperative, community-centered environment. In addition to a solid academic program, Brigitte incorporated teaching respect, tolerance, and responsibility as an essential part of school life. Moreover, the new school creatively integrated the arts — music, drama, and visual arts — into the multicultural curriculum. With her original vision as the foundation, Brigitte continues to lead Bertschi School with passion, energy, and an extensive knowledge of elementary education.

Brigitte has served in a variety of capacities for the Pacific Northwest Association Independent Schools (PNAIS), including sitting on the Membership, Executive, and the Diversity in Education committees. She is presently Vice President of the PNAIS board and has chaired a number of evaluation studies of independent schools in the Pacific Northwest.

Brigitte, her husband Peter and children, Alexander and Eva (Bertschi graduates!), live on a houseboat in Seattle. She has traveled extensively, including Central/South America, the Far East, and throughout Europe. In her free time, Brigitte enjoys hiking, tennis, and swimming, as well as the arts.