What is the relationship of the students to the community?

At present, quite amicable. Yelm was incorporated as a town in 1924. It became a city in 1989. Its current population is 2,310. The remaining county lands that surround the hub of Yelm are home to thousands more. Despite the small size of Yelm, the involvement of Ramtha students has been one of peaceful coexistence. It is interesting to note that no Ramtha students to date have ever run for any of the town's public offices. Students take part in community life and have involved themselves as advocates for certain causes.

Some students and former students have opened shops and businesses in Yelm and Rainier, contributing to a unique mix of interesting offerings. Many others are self-employed consultants. Students have also published a number of books and have been active in the arts. A resident theater company and a dance troupe are unique for a town the size of Yelm, as are the great number of artists.