The Gardner School admissions efforts are aimed at finding students who will thrive in our learning environment. As our mission states we support students becoming independent thinkers who take risks, work well with others and feel a stewardship towards the earth and humanity.

We seek students of diverse backgrounds who will add to the fabric of the school community and who can excel within our program. In considering an applicant for admissions, we take into account many factors: an individual's talents and academic skills, motivation towards learning, recommendations, previous school experiences and academic record, social skills, personal qualities of character, and commitment of the family to the educational philosophy of the school. We search for families who are interested in a strong academic program and a community that will embrace the children and help the students develop into positive citizens who work to make the world better.

The decision to be part of an Independent School community is an important choice for a family. When the match is right, a strong partnership between home an school is built.

We invite you to visit The Gardner School. It is the best way to understand the school. We offer tours, Admission Events, and other opportunities to learn more about The Gardner School. Please call the office to schedule a visit or to request additional admissions materials (360-574-5752).

We are delighted in your interest to consider The Gardner School for your child. What follows is an outline of the application process, including the documents you will need to complete so that we can assess your child for admissions.

Parents contact the School and request an application packet. If financial aid is needed, the School and Student Service for Financial Aid forms should be requested along with the application packet. If you have questions about financial aid, you can call our Business Office.

Contact Heather Rogers - (360) 574-5752

Parents need to complete the basic Application form and submit it with the application fee ($50 for Preschool and Kindergarten and $100 for 1st through 8th grades) for the 2008/2009 school year.

Financial Aid forms should be requested and filled out at the same time.

• Early learning program (Preschool - Kindergarten)
• Parent questionnaire
• Personal letter of reference or teacher recommendation

• Parent/Guardian questionnaire
• Student record release
• Student questionnaire
• Teacher recommendation
• School transcript (where appropriate, including current year's reports and grades)

Once the School has received the application forms, the teacher will set a date for student assessment. Age-appropriate activities will give us information about the child's academic ability and potential as well as help the teachers assess personality, group skills, and interests. Interviews with the Directory of Admissions will be arranged for the parents.

Re-enrollment of existing students must be received by the School by March 17th. Once available openings are determined and the testing of applicants are complete, the Admissions Committee meets to determine the selection of students for the 2008/2009 school year. Factors considered in the admissions process include gender and grade balance for each class and diversity of students. Enrollment decisions will be mailed in March 2008. Financial Aid decisions are made in April. Parents will be notified by mail.

• Saturday, January 26th 2008
• Saturday, March 15th 2008
• Saturday, April 26th 2008
• Saturday, May 17th 2008