At this year’s NCCE Conference, Bertschi School was represented by third grade teacher Beth Williams and fifth grade teacher Beau Casazza. They were among educators and innovators exploring the future of technology in the classroom in what Beth described as an energizing opportunity to share how the school integrates digital tools with care and purpose.

For Bertschi’s director of community and belonging, Amina Loftin, that work of belonging is deeply personal. Raised by people who taught her radical love for humankind, she approaches diversity, equity, and inclusion with curiosity and connection.

One of the most exciting musical experiences for Bertschi students is the Link Up program, a collaboration with the Seattle Symphony that transforms third graders from audience members into active performers.

For Josh del Pino, education is more than a profession; it’s a calling shaped by personal experience and a deep commitment to fostering student growth. “Both of my parents are educators, and both of them, in different ways, inspired me to pursue a career in education,” Josh shares.

Since its inception in 1981, the Second Grade Market at Bertschi School has been an exploration of economics, sustainability, social justice, and community building.

Bertschi School offers a full-time teaching associate job and up to $10,000 each year toward tuition for an aspiring Black educator enrolled in a teaching certification program. Our inaugural fellow reflects on his journey through the program.

Embarking on a journey beyond the familiar confines of the classroom, Linda spent her recent sabbatical in the ancient lands of Egypt and Jordan. Linda’s class followed her travels in real time, learning alongside their teacher despite the distance.

In March 2023, Bertschi faculty Joey Tanaka (digital learning and robotics specialist) and Beth Williams (second grade teacher) attended the SXSW EDU Conference & Festival in Austin, TX. 

We welcomed Tanvi, Bertschi graduate of 2017, back to campus to help with Summer Camp programming. We sat down with The Bush School senior to hear what it's like to return to Bertschi as a high schooler, how she's grown since fifth grade, and what she plans for the future.