8509 Higuera Street, Culver City, CA 90232
The Willows Community School, where great minds grow, is a Developmental Kindergarten to 8th grade co-ed, independent school, enrolling 465 students from 58+ zip codes. Recognized as a balanced, progressive educational leader, the academic program incorporates experiential learning, thematic instruction, and social emotional learning into cutting-edge curriculum. Design thinking, maker and the arts are integrated into the classroom. The broad-based student body has a diversity of race, ethnicity, socioeconomics and learning styles; 33% of our student body identify as students of color. The Willows believes each child brings our community an extraordinary gift: a curious mind, ready to explore and eager to learn. The Willows’ definition of a great mind also includes an emphasis on character and heart–the ability to communicate honestly, work collaboratively, take responsibility, and contribute meaningfully to the community.
Our warm, inclusive school culture centers on a deep and resonant definition of learning. The Willows’ academic program builds foundational and critical thinking skills, but is also structured to help our students discover optimal ways to express themselves and excel. We are devoted to tapping into our students’ imaginations so they may discover their unique voice and talents and grow in countless ways. We pay attention to each child and create an environment where each student can thrive as an individual and a valued member of a vibrant community. We encourage students to explore the road less traveled, to ask difficult and thoughtful questions, to take intellectual and creative risks, and to dare to dream. We want our students to live the credo: All things are possible.
Collaborative, supportive, joyful, creative, and engaging
Curious, caring, empathetic, and innovative
Athletics Program (team sports), debate team, visual and theater arts, dance, choir, maker and design labs, robotics team. Electives in Middle School offer co-teaching opportunities. Looping in 1st & 2nd grades and 3rd and 4th grades where students remain with their teachers for two consecutive years. Overnight Trips starting in 2nd grade; Domestic and International trips in 5th through 8th grade. RULER social emotional learning approach integrated into curriculum and life of the school.
As a DK-8 school, we do not offer AP courses.
Poet-in-Residence program integrated in curriculum for the study and writing of Poetry culminating in Poetry Week
Once a year, we depart from day-to-day curriculum to offer Intersession, an in-depth, one-week, cross-disciplinary, multi-age study of one theme.
Ideas@TheWillows Speaker Series offers renowned educational and parenting speakers and authors open to all of Los Angeles throughout the year.
1:1 Device (laptop or iPad) in DK-2; 1:1 laptop in 3rd-5th; 1:1, 24/7 in Middle School
