• Located in western Washington, Rainier School District present a unique working environment and living experience. This is especially true for school employees interested in living in a rural setting yet desiring services offered by a metropolitan service center. The Rainier community is located in Thurston County approximately ten miles southeast of Olympia-Tumwater-Lacey. It is also within a 35 minute drive to Tacoma. Mount Rainier, beautifully visible, is 60 minutes away and it is a 90 minute drive to the ocean beaches.

    The town and community of Rainier have a long, rich history. In early years the timber industry served as the dominant economic base for the community. The timber industry continues to serve as one employment base, however, many state, federal, and Joint Base Lewis- McChord  employees now reside in the community. This brings together a healthy and diversified background of residents who cooperatively bring about the best for the school system.

    The district is one of eight Thurston County districts providing K-12 education. Rainier School District’s enrollment of approximately 800 students makes it one of the smallest in Thurston County. However, no school exceeds the pride, community support and dedication to quality education as provided at Rainier.

    In 1996, Rainier was recognized by Monday Magazine as one of the top 100 schools located in affordable communities across our nation.  In 2007, Rainier received the State Superintendent’s Learning Improvement Award and the designation of “School of Distinction.”  In 2013, Rainier was recognized by US News & World Report with a “Bronze” rating on their list of top high schools in the nation.  In 2014, Rainier received the State Superintendent’s Washington Achievement Award.

    Rainier is a great place to live, work, and learn.