About Our Private Schools in Vancouver, WA
A Progressive Education Model Rooted In Belonging
The Gardner School of Arts & Sciences main campus is an independent private school in Clark County serving preschool through sixth grade. We also operate Country Friends in Hockinson, our early learning center that provides a nurturing start for our youngest learners.
Why Choose This Vancouver, WA Private School
What Makes A Gardner Grad?
An Adaptable and Innovative Thinker
Approaches challenges with a growth mindset and a willingness to try new things, even if they may fail.
Transforms obstacles into opportunities through creative problem-solving and collaboration, applying learned material to new problems in a variety of contexts.
Demonstrates an understanding in core academic subjects including math, science, writing, and reading with the ability to apply that knowledge beyond Gardner and into the next chapter of their education.
Asks thoughtful questions to understand how concepts connect across a variety of situations and diverse perspectives.
A Compassionate Community Member
Shows kindness, empathy, and respect in communication and actions.
Values and embraces different ways of thinking, being, and learning.
Celebrates the talents of others, and participates in opportunities to showcase one’s own talents.
Looks for ways to find common ground and work together while still being true to what they believe.
Speaks up for others and includes everyone’s voice to build a classroom and school community where all feel respected and welcome.
A Confident and Self-Aware Individual
Demonstrates a strong sense of identity, understands personal strengths, learning preferences, and areas for growth, and uses this awareness to set meaningful goals.
Advocates for themselves using clear and respectful communication.
Cultivates awareness of personal and others’ emotions, managing responses thoughtfully to build caring relationships and understand impact on others.
Demonstrates versatility through participation in a broad program including art, music, foreign language, and physical education.
Our Mission
To Cultivate Authentic Learning Through Integrative Experiences in a Supportive Community
Our Values
What Powers The Work We Do
curiosity
We celebrate imagination and innovation, honoring different ways of thinking, learning, and being. Gardner students embrace the diverse talents and abilities of themselves and others, and find ways to express their learning in individualized ways.
Courage
Gardner students navigate challenges with determination, treating obstacles as opportunities to learn. Whether speaking up in a class discussion, exploring new ideas in science, or trying something unfamiliar on the playground, they practice bravery in both big and small ways. Courage here means advocating for themselves and others, taking risks in learning, and building resilience that lasts a lifetime.
Connection
We are a community where every member is seen and included, fostering an environment of belonging and acceptance. Acting with kindness towards others, ourselves, and our environment, we cultivate a culture of compassion and empathy.
Creativity
At Gardner, students are encouraged to explore and wonder, fostering a love for learning that drives them to actively engage in their education. That spark empowers students to be critical thinkers and builds connections in the classroom and beyond.
A Future Built On Purpose, Innovation & Belonging, Standards And Strengths
We’re building for the long haul. Our strategic plan focuses on strengthening academics, expanding access, and deepening our connection to families. This goes beyond ‘next year’ and into the next generation.
Beyond Conventional Standards. Into Possibility.
At Gardner, learning happens through exploration, not loads of worksheets. Our preschool program is built on the idea that learning happens through exploration, and curiosity is nurtured from the very start.
Our elementary program supports the whole child with a multiple intelligences approach, grounded in progressive education research. Students connect classroom learning to real-world experiences. They grow socially, emotionally, and academically all at once.
One of the Best Elementary Schools in Vancouver, WA
30 Years Of Guiding Curiosity, Courage & Connection
We’ve been doing this for over 30 years. That experience shows.
Gardner School is a member of the Washington Federation of Independent Schools (WFIS) and a candidate member of the Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS). We’re licensed by OSPI and the Washington State Board of Education. Our preschool and Pre-K programs are fully licensed through the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF).
The Founding of Gardner School
A Community Of Support
Our community thrives because of the families and community members who give their time, talent, and support. Whether you’re looking to contribute financially or roll up your sleeves, there’s a place for you.
Growing Gardner
The Growing Gardner Fund is the school’s giving fund that supports the full Gardner experience. This fund directly supports our academic programs, financial aid that makes education accessible, professional development for our teachers, and creative classroom materials and experiences.
F.R.O.G.S.
FROGS (Friends and Relatives of Gardner School) is a dedicated group of volunteers at Gardner School who are committed to enhancing the school community. FROGS members contribute their time and talents to support various school activities and initiatives.
Non-Religious Private Schools | Vancouver, WA
An Independent School For All Families
Gardner is an independent, nonprofit school. We’re not affiliated with any religious organization, and we welcome families of all backgrounds. As a nonprofit, all tuition and donations are reinvested in our students, faculty, and programs.
We serve families from across Clark County, including: Vancouver, Camas, Washougal, Battle Ground, and Ridgefield.
FAQs
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Every child learns differently. We observe and adapt to create learning experiences that match how each child's mind works. Review our academics page for a deeper dive into our curriculum models.
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Our faculty and staff choose to work in a progressive education based school because they are passionate about a different kind of school experience for children. Many have been with Gardner for years. They know students by name, personality, and potential.
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Yes. We are a non-profit organization governed by a Board of Trustees whose role includes strategic planning, financial oversight, and setting broad school policy.
Join A Community That Teaches, Learns & Grows Together
Gardner School of Arts & Sciences hires professionals who are passionate about working in education and who thrive in a dynamic, creative environment. Job opportunities for both campus locations can be found here.