The Island School Programs
Education
Caring and accomplished teachers model a love of learning. We recognize students need the lifelong skills of critical thinking, creativity, flexibility, confidence, curiosity, adaptability, strong communication and the ability to work effectively with others. While building a solid academic foundation with developmentally appropriate curriculum, we develop these lifelong skills through engaging, fun, hands-on learning carried out in an atmosphere of love and support.
Community
Our community is warm, open and welcoming. Interesting, deeply caring people - parents, students and grandparents - are drawn to The Island School because they value the important role a caring community plays in the lives of children and families. Each student comes to understand his or her unique strengths and challenges, and learns to respect others while working together in our diverse community. Each child plays an important part in contributing his or her talents, interests and passions.
Responsibility
We set high standards in non-academic areas such as being sensitive to others and respecting our physical environment. Students learn that respect, compassion and inclusion are just as important as reading, writing and math. We provide a place where it is safe for children to risk, to learn, and to dream. Our wish for our students is that they develop a quiet confidence in themselves and their accomplishments, and a respect for the contributions of others.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
In 2008, The Island School completed its master building plan with the construction of Webster Hall, a 5,000-square foot multipurpose facility. The hall provides dedicated space for our physical education, music and extended day programs, as well as a gathering space for all-school events and student performances. Additionally, the hall has provided a much-needed venue for other non-profit organizations on Bainbridge Island and the Kitsap Peninsula. The facility was funded almost entirely by contributions from generous donors and grants from foundations.
Financial Aid
We celebrate the fact that we serve a student population with a strong racial, ethnic and economic diversity. Over $1,000,000 in financial aid has been awarded to an average of 22% of our families over the course of our history. In the 2011-2012 school year, 30% of our students were awarded financial assistance, but many needs remained unmet. Contributions for financial aid are critical in helping us to continue our commitment to offering a quality education to a diverse group of students by providing financial support for a greater number of deserving families.