Independent Private School | Clark County, WA
Progressive Education, Rooted In Belonging
Where curiosity, courage, creativity, and connection guides every child’s growth.
Currently enrolled? Head to
A Clark County Private Elementary School
We Believe In Individual Growth With Lifelong Impact
At Gardner, education is more than memorization. Through experimental learning, hands-on experiences, we help children think critically, explore boldly, and grow into confident learners who carry these skills for life.
Clark County Private Schools
What Makes Us Different?
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A Progressive Education Model
We don’t do one-size-fits-all. Our curriculum brings together multiple intelligences, hands-on exploration, and real-world connections. Children learn best when they’re engaged and curious, challenged in ways that honor how their minds work.
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Five-Acres Of Discovery
Our campus sits on five wooded acres. Nature trails, garden beds, and outdoor learning spaces are essentials here. We have a focus on children building resilience, wonder, and a connection to the world around them, which starts by getting outside.
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Individualized Growth
Every child shows up with their own strengths, questions, and ways of learning. Small class sizes and dedicated teachers mean each student is seen, known, and supported on their own path to meeting important educational standards.
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Integrated Academics
Art, music, Spanish, science, and PE aren’t separate subjects tucked into corners of the week. They’re woven throughout every day, helping kids think creatively and communicate with confidence.
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Inclusive Connected Community
When you join Gardner, you join a supportive community. Families volunteer alongside teachers. Students support one another. Everyone here is valued exactly as they are.
Learning That Starts In Curiosity,
“Gardner has really given back that sense of community that I feel like we lost during Covid. I finally feel like we have it again.”
— J.F. | Gardner Parent & FROGS Volunteer
“At Gardner, it really is the village. People are connected on purpose, and those connections go deeper because everyone is taking care of everyone.”
— Greg G., PE & Health Teacher (2 Children Enrolled)
And Lasts For Life
Independent Clark County Education
Getting Started With Gardner
Taking the first step is easy! Here’s how families begin their Gardner journey:
01Inquire
Fill out our Admissions Inquiry Form to let us know you’re interested. We’ll be in touch to answer your questions and share more about our programs.
02Visit
Book a campus tour to see our five-acre campus, meet our faculty, and experience the Gardner difference firsthand. Tours are available year-round.
03Apply
Complete your application and, if needed, apply for financial aid. We believe every child deserves access to exceptional education, and we're here to help make it possible.
Get Involved With Growing Gardner
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
As a non-profit independent school, our giving program is essential for financial aid, campus improvements, and the programs that make Gardner special.
F.R.O.G.S.
Friends and Relatives of Gardner School is our volunteer group that builds community and keeps school events running.
Clark County Elementary School
30+ Years Of Progressive Education In Clark County
Founded in 1995, Gardner School of Arts & Sciences is Clark County’s first independent, progressive, student-centered learning environment, serving students from preschool through 6th grade.
Small Class Sizes: Every child gets individualized attention.
Nonprofit Status: Every dollar goes directly to education.
Accredited Excellence: Member of WFIS, candidate member of NWAIS, 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). This also includes our Country Friends Campus, which offers early learning classrooms for children from 18 months through Pre-K.
What’s New At Gardner!
Featured stories, announcements, and upcoming events.
Why Summer Camp Here is the Best!
We know we’re biased, but these camps have a reputation for being magical!
Clark County Early Childhood Education through Elementary
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Our classes are intentionally small, typically ranging from 12-18 students, ensuring every child receives personalized attention and support.
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Absolutely. Our five-acre wooded campus is central to our curriculum. Students learn in nature year-round, developing environmental awareness alongside academic skills.
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We serve students from preschool (age 3) through 6th grade at our main Vancouver, WA campus. Our Country Friends location in Hockinson, WA provides early learning for infants through preschool.
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Yes. Gardner is an independent, non-religious school that welcomes families of all backgrounds and beliefs.