The Willow School empowers students to better understand the world and make a difference. At Willow, students learn joyfully, care for the natural world, and practice core values that inform every part of the school’s preschool through eighth grade curriculum and community.
The interweaving of ethics into all aspects of student life and a commitment to sustainability sets Willow apart. “Parents value our ability to provide a rigorous, experiential curriculum—one that reflects our deep commitment to outdoor education, fosters meaningful connections with the natural world, and weaves a deeply integrated and meaningful virtues program into every aspect of learning,” says Head of School Francisco Ayala.
“Willow virtues—like respect, responsibility, and honesty—form a shared language and ethos that help us collectively raise ethical children with a deep sense of purpose,” Ayala says.
Students, parents, and faculty work together to fulfill the school’s mission as a close-knit community. Morning gatherings, community lunches, and service-learning build ethical character and civic engagement.
Students in all grades learn through cross-curricular, project-based work with their classmates. In the lower school, students begin accelerated math studies and STEM work. In middle school, students take on leadership roles throughout the community including public speaking, experiential learning opportunities, and capstone projects.
“Our mission is to graduate students who are curious, critical thinkers, that will use these skills and their deep ethical foundation to be positive change-makers,” Ayala says.
1150 Pottersville Rd., Gladstone
908-470-9500
willowschool.org
