History

Ladell Black, botanist and educator, founds KapKa Cooperative School with a group of parents. Inspired by the Pacific Northwest’s cooperative schooling tradition, KapKa began as a K–2 program, sharing space with University Co-op at a church in Seattle’s University District.

KapKa celebrates its first class of 2nd graders, affectionately called the “Elder Elders” (one of these students even returned years later as a parent!). That same year, KapKa families help to found Salmon Bay K–8, an option school in Seattle Public Schools, to continue an interwoven approach to experiential learning, social-emotional development, and the arts.

KapKa moves out of its shared space to the “Little Red Schoolhouse” near Woodland Park Zoo, creating a dedicated outdoor learning environment and expanding hands-on experiences in nature.

Moving to its current location on 50th Street, across from the Zoo, KapKa grows to serve K–5 students. With a full gymnasium, art and woodworking spaces, play yard, nearby parks, and walking access to multiple “pocket parks,” KapKa offers a complete elementary experience deeply connected to both community and nature.

KapKa graduates its first class of 5th graders - emphasizing leadership, mentorship, and middle school readiness.

KapKa adapts its co-op model to meet the needs of today’s families, offering flexible participation options and the ability to take “flex years” while maintaining a vibrant, cooperative community.

KapKa launches its annual Student Author Summit, celebrating student writing and creativity. KapKa students in grades 2-5 host a guest school - writing, illustrating, and binding their own books - culminating in a visit from a guest author or illustrator who shares their process and work.