25 Years of SGS: Reflections from Lexi Keeler, Interim Head of School

Twenty-five years ago, a small group of concerned south Seattle parents saw the disturbing trend of girls dropping out of the study of math, science, and technology in their adolescent years. They wanted something different for their daughters. 

With our founding faculty and staff, they endeavored to create a place where curiosity outweighed certainty, where understanding was more important than right answers, where difference was viewed as strength, where understanding–of oneself and others–was an essential part of leadership. A place where joy, discovery, relationships and courage were integrated in and integral to learning. That place was Seattle Girls’ School.

Twenty five years later, our founders’ vision is as important as it ever was. A 2025 United Nations report says that women's and girls' rights are under attack and gender discrimination remains deeply embedded in economies and societies. SGS gives me hope. The research still shows that girls’ school graduates are six times more likely to consider majoring in mathematics, science, and technology in their college or university studies. They demonstrate stronger motivation and higher aspirations to pursue advanced degrees and leadership opportunities. 

What I love about working at SGS–and why I choose to send my precious (and stubborn and magnificent) only daughter here–is that this is a community that loves learning, growth, and sees the inherent value in each of us. We make space for people to be human. To make mistakes and repair and grow, to stand up for our beliefs without stomping on the beliefs of others, to step into our passion and become more fully ourselves. 

At SGS, a girl’s place is in the classroom, the athletic field, the art studio, the shop, the science lab. Her place is behind the camera, in front of the class, under the spotlight. With her head in a book or a tool in her hand. Her place is in the boardroom, the courtroom, the medical field, the tech industry, the film industry, the great outdoors, outer space, the White House. 

Our students belong everywhere. A quarter of a century educating girls and gender expansive students to be courageous, creative, and compassionate leaders is something to celebrate–and we can’t wait to celebrate with you, as we look forward to the next 25 years together. 

Onwards,

Lexi