Issaquah Schools: Why They’re Great and What That Means for Home Buyers

Issaquah Schools: Why They’re Great and What That Means for Home Buyers

If you’re thinking about moving to the Eastside — especially neighborhoods like Issaquah School District (ISD) covering Issaquah, Sammamish, Newcastle, Bellevue, and surrounding areas — one of the biggest pluses many home buyers consider is the quality of the local schools. In my work as your trusted real-estate guide, I often hear from families that excellent schools are high up on the wish list. Friendly note: when it comes to homes for sale in Issaquah, Sammamish, Kirkland and nearby, strong schools do more than just serve your kids — they help support your property value, too.

Here’s why the Issaquah School District stands out and how that strength impacts the real estate market.

1. Strong Academic Programs & Student Achievement

ISD offers robust academic opportunities across its schools. For example:

• In the 2023-2024 school year, the district reported a 95 % adjusted on-time graduation rate. Issaquah School District 411+1
  
  

• The district serves approximately 19,580 students across 27 schools spanning 110 square miles and includes seven municipalities. Issaquah School District 411
  
  

• At Issaquah High School (IHS), 982 students took AP exams and 94 % of those exams scored 3 or higher in 2024-25. Issaquah High School
  
  

• At Skyline High School, reading proficiency is around 87 % (compared to the Washington state average of ~53 %) and math proficiency around 68 %. Public School Review

These metrics show that ISD not only emphasizes traditional academics, but also offers International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP), and career technical education programs that help prepare students for college and careers. Skyline High School+1

2. Engaged Community & Highly Qualified Staff

Another reason families love ISD: the community engagement and teacher quality.

• Over 90 % of community survey respondents rated district teachers “excellent.” Issaquah School District 411+1
  
  

• Many teachers hold advanced degrees (60 % or more in some reports) and the schools benefit from strong parental and business involvement. Issaquah School District 411
  
  

• The district serves many tech-savvy families (given proximity to companies like Microsoft, Amazon, Google) which often means additional support and resources for schools. Issaquah School District 411

These factors help build a strong school culture — where students are supported, and families feel invested. That matters a lot when you’re considering local real estate and lifestyle.

3. Why Good Schools Raise Home Values

Here’s how all of the above translates into real estate benefits:

• Demand & desirability: Homes located within strong school zones tend to attract more buyers, which often drives higher prices and quicker sales.
  
  

• Stability: If a school district is high-performing and consistently improving, it provides long-term confidence for families staying in the area — which supports property values.
  
  

• Area reputation: Neighborhoods that are known for great schools often carry a premium and appeal to both moving families and resale buyers.
  
  

• As you look at homes for sale in Issaquah, homes for sale in Sammamish, or homes for sale in Kirkland, being in a top school zone can be a distinct advantage — for your lifestyle now and your investment later.

4. What Families Should Look For

If you’re evaluating homes in Issaquah or the surrounding Eastside, here are some key school-related questions to ask:

• Which elementary/middle/high school will serve the property? Are these schools part of ISD?
  
  

• What are recent standardized test results, graduation rates, and college-readiness statistics?
  
  

• Does the district offer AP, IB, dual-credit, or technical education programs (IHS and Skyline both do).
  
  

• How involved is the community? Are there active PTAs, parent networks, and business partnerships?
  
  

• Are there future plans for expansion, modernization, or potential changes in school zoning? (For example, the district has plans addressing capacity at Skyline and Issaquah campuses.) Sammamish Independent+1

Having this information helps you not only pick the right home, but also plan for your future and the home’s resale potential.

Final Thoughts

Great schools matter — not just for students and families, but also for the strength and value of the community and your home investment. If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in Issaquah, Sammamish, Bellevue, or the surrounding neighborhoods, let’s explore how the local schools factor into your next move. I’m here to guide you through every step with friendly, knowledgeable support.

Thinking about buying or selling a home in Issaquah or the surrounding areas? I'd love to guide you through every step of the process. Reach out anytime — I'm here to help you make your next move a success!

— Krista Mehr, Issaquah Real Estate Broker | Compass