If you’re a parent in Bremerton or anywhere in Kitsap County, choosing the right elementary school can feel overwhelming. With so many options, each with its own strengths, it’s not just about picking the closest one. It’s about finding a place where your child will thrive.
So we rolled up our sleeves and did the research for you. Here’s a deep dive into six of Bremerton’s public elementary and K–5 schools, from test scores to class sizes, special programs, and more.
Whether you’re looking for strong academics, small class sizes, arts, or STEM, this blog gives you everything you need to make an informed choice.
1. Armin Jahr Elementary
Grades: K–5
Principal: Julie Fairall
Quick Look:
- Enrollment: ~487 students
- Student-Teacher Ratio: ~16:1
- Math Proficiency: 20–24%
- Reading Proficiency: 25–29%
- Per-Student Spending: ~$20,553 (highest in the district)
Armin Jahr serves a diverse student body with a large portion (over 70%) receiving free or reduced-price lunch. While its academic scores fall below the state average, the school benefits from smaller class sizes and high per-student investment. If you’re looking for a school that offers individual attention and support for students facing economic challenges, Armin Jahr stands out.
📌 Best for: Families seeking high staff support and inclusive classrooms.
2. Crownhill Elementary
Grades: K–5
Principal: Carre Potis
Quick Look:
- Enrollment: ~317 students
- Student-Teacher Ratio: ~14:1
- Math Proficiency: 45–49%
- Reading Proficiency: 50–54%
- Ranking: #2 out of 7 district schools (SchoolDigger)
Crownhill is one of the top-performing schools in the Bremerton School District. It’s known for solid test scores in both math and reading and has one of the best student-teacher ratios. Parents praise its close-knit community and individualized learning approach.
📌 Best for: Parents prioritizing academic performance and small class environments.
3. Kitsap Lake Elementary
Grades: K–5
Principal: Carly Takata
Quick Look:
- Enrollment: ~320–343 students
- Student-Teacher Ratio: ~14–15:1
- Math Proficiency: ~42%
- Reading Proficiency: ~47%
- Special Programs: Gifted & Talented support available
This school offers consistent academic results and a mid-sized campus. The presence of a Gifted and Talented program is a big plus for families looking to challenge high-achieving kids. Test scores are slightly below state average, but the classroom support is solid.
📌 Best for: Families seeking enrichment programs like gifted education.
4. Naval Avenue Elementary
Grades: K–5
Principal: Korene Calderwood
Quick Look:
- Enrollment: ~251 students (smallest in district)
- Student-Teacher Ratio: ~13:1
- Math Proficiency: ~42%
- Reading Proficiency: ~47%
Naval Avenue Elementary is known for its tight community and very small class sizes. Although test scores are below average, many parents appreciate the school’s nurturing environment and hands-on involvement from staff.
📌 Best for: Families who prefer a smaller school feel and high personal attention.
5. View Ridge Elementary Arts Academy
Grades: K–5
Principal: Carol Mendoza
Quick Look:
- Enrollment: ~394 students
- Student-Teacher Ratio: ~15:1
- Math Proficiency: 30–34%
- Reading Proficiency: 35–39%
- Specialization: Arts-focused curriculum (music, visual arts, performances)
View Ridge is a great pick if your child thrives in creative settings. As an Arts Academy, it emphasizes visual and performing arts across the curriculum. Though academic scores fall below average, the school is recognized for fostering creativity, student expression, and cultural events.
📌 Best for: Creatively inclined children who benefit from an artistic learning approach.
6. West Hills STEM Academy
Grades: K–5
Co-Principals: Carre Potis & Kimberly Powell
Quick Look:
- Enrollment: ~329–330 students
- Student-Teacher Ratio: ~14:1
- Math Proficiency: ~17%
- Reading Proficiency: ~30%
- Specialization: STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Math)
West Hills STEM Academy is a magnet school designed for students with an interest in hands-on, technology-integrated learning. It offers project-based education and often partners with local colleges for science and innovation opportunities. While test scores are currently lower than state averages, the program’s structure is innovative and future-focused.
📌 Best for: Kids who love tinkering, building, science, or technology from a young age.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| School | Enrollment | Ratio | Math (%) | Reading (%) | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Armin Jahr | ~487 | 16:1 | 20–24 | 25–29 | High support, inclusive |
| Crownhill | ~317 | 14:1 | 45–49 | 50–54 | Strong academics |
| Kitsap Lake | ~320–343 | 14–15:1 | 42 | 47 | Gifted program |
| Naval Avenue | ~251 | 13:1 | 42 | 47 | Small class sizes |
| View Ridge Arts | ~394 | 15:1 | 30–34 | 35–39 | Creative/Arts-based learning |
| West Hills STEM | ~330 | 14:1 | 17 | 30 | STEM-focused project work |
How to Choose What’s Right for Your Family
It’s not just about scores. It’s about fit.
- Want a cozy, community feel? Naval Avenue might be your place.
- Got a future engineer? Check out West Hills STEM.
- Looking for creative sparks? View Ridge Arts has that built in.
- Prioritize top academics? Crownhill consistently delivers.
Also, don’t skip the tour! Seeing how a school feels in person, how students interact, how teachers engage, can tell you more than any chart ever will.
Sources
Data sourced from:
All information verified as of 2025 and reflects most recent rankings, performance scores, and leadership.
Final Thoughts
Whether your child is just starting kindergarten or you’re moving into the area and planning ahead, Bremerton has a wide range of elementary schools to explore. There’s no perfect answer, but there is a perfect fit for your child.
Do you have a question about one of these schools? Want a guide to Bremerton middle schools next? Let us know in the comments or contact us.