Independent. Student-Driven. Community-Rooted.
At The College School, we believe education should be an adventure—one that nurtures curiosity, inspires creativity, and builds confident, engaged learners. As an independent school, we have the freedom to design an exceptional learning experience tailored to the needs of our students and community. The College School is guided by its own unique philosophy and mission-driven education, allowing us to align our curriculum and programs with our core values and beliefs. We are governed by a board of trustees and accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States.
Community members, including parents, are integral to our school’s vibrant community and play an active role in decision-making and supporting each student’s growth.
What Sets Independent Schools Apart?
1. Freedom to Innovate
As an Independent school, we are not bound by state-mandated curricula, which allows us to create a dynamic, hands-on learning environment that engages students in meaningful ways. This freedom enables us to implement innovative teaching methods, adapting our instructional approaches to best support each student’s needs and interests. At The College School, this means experiential learning, theme-based exploration, and real-world application of knowledge, all within a learning environment designed to encourage critical thinking.
2. Student-Centered Learning
With small class sizes and individualized attention, our teachers build strong relationships with students, meeting them where they are and challenging them to grow. The median ratio of students to teachers in our small classes allows for close connections, ensuring each student receives personalized support and guidance.
Our approach fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-confidence, ensuring every student is seen, heard, and valued.
3. A Mission-Driven Community
As an independent school, our values guide every decision we make. The College School is community-rooted, bringing together families, students, and educators who share a commitment to experiential education, inclusivity, and lifelong learning.
Together, families, students, and educators collaborate and communicate clearly to ensure everyone is working toward the same goals in supporting each student’s educational journey.
4. Dedicated & Engaged Teachers
Our faculty are passionate educators, with each teacher bringing exceptional qualifications and expertise, who bring learning to life through outdoor experiences, interdisciplinary projects, and hands-on exploration. Students also gain valuable leadership experiences through a wide range of extracurricular activities that nurture personal growth and leadership skills. Our teachers prioritize deep, meaningful learning experiences that spark curiosity and engagement, while our curriculum is designed to provide academic rigor that challenges students and prepares them for future success.
5. A Supportive Environment
We are more than a school—we are a community. The College School thrives because of the dedication and generosity of our families and alumni, who help sustain and strengthen our mission. With a strong and engaged community, we continue to grow and evolve, driven by a shared commitment to experiential education.
Choosing an independent school like The College School means investing in an education that is personalized, innovative, and rooted in community. Students benefit from programs that nurture their personal and academic development, ensuring they are supported both inside and outside the classroom. Our graduates leave not only prepared for high school and beyond but also as thoughtful, engaged citizens ready to make an impact.
Visit our Campus to Learn More
We invite you to visit our campus, meet our educators, and see firsthand how independent, student-centered learning can ignite a lifelong love of learning.
Schedule a Tour Today!
