Eckstein Middle School

In 1950, Eckstein Middle School first opened its doors as a junior high. It was a grand opening for what was then considered one of the largest single-unit schools in the Pacific Northwest. Eckstein Middle School, nestled between the Wedgwood and Ravenna neighborhoods of Seattle, has been a landmark of the community ever since. Originally named Nathan Eckstein Junior High, it was named after a prominent Seattle figure. Nathan Eckstein, a businessman and school board member, was even once declared Seattle’s “most useful citizen”. His daughter, Joanna, graced the dedication ceremony in November 1950. The school’s history is filled with interesting tidbits. Did you know that the U.S. Secretary of Education, Richard Riley, chose Eckstein’s auditorium to deliver the State of Education address in 1998? The school’s architecture, a beautiful example of Modernistic International Style, also boasts large windows and walls of glass bricks. A persistent urban legend whispers of a hidden pool on the roof, fueled by a partially scratched-off sign. Eckstein transitioned to a middle school in 1971. It became part of the district’s desegregation plan, with students being bused between Eckstein and Meany-Madrona. This era saw the school adopt its eagle mascot and the birth of its newspaper, the Eckstein Eye. Eckstein has also been a champion for inclusivity. It housed the district school for deaf and hard-of-hearing students until 2014. Eckstein Middle School’s music program is renowned. It has consistently won awards for its band and orchestra. The jazz band even took second place at the prestigious Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival. And for those who love sports, the 2022 boys basketball team pulled off a stunning victory with just one second left on the clock, using a move they called “The Laettner”. Eckstein also boasts some notable alumni, including NBA player Aaron Brooks, Barack Obama’s mother, Ann Dunham, and musicians Duff McKagan of Guns N’ Roses and Mike McCready of Pearl Jam. Eckstein Middle School stands as a testament to its namesake’s dedication to education, a place where history and learning intertwine.