Mercer Island is centrally located, with gorgeous views and parks, and more banks, dry cleaners and insurance companies per capita than any place in the region. But the reason most people live -- and often sacrifice -- to remain here is because of the first-rate public school system.

Schools are a galvanizing force, drawing volunteer involvement at every level, be it tutoring, attending school board meetings or cheering at football games.

As in most islander endeavors, the hard work reaps results: Mercer Island has never failed to pass a school levy, and its students consistently have the highest test scores in the state. Ninety percent of high school graduates go to college.

Even sports are considered part of the learning curve, which may account for the island's ubiquitous club and school trophies. Some say islanders are driven by a need to succeed. But while competition on the courts and in the classroom can be fierce, most residents say love of excellence and life-long learning -- rather than a win-at-all-costs mentality -- anchor the community culture.