Programs

High School (Grades 9-12)

Preparation for Life

Our High School program is based on a philosophy that honors the individual, respects a variety of learning styles and provides high-challenge educational opportunities to every student. It may be small, but it can be just the right fit for a student who loves to learn, to work in a supportive, close-knit environment and to go deep into subject areas, a student who appreciates finding connections and understanding the interconnectedness of all things.

Flexible learning plans, seminar-style classes, mastery learning and time for reflection give space for deep learning and encourage personal growth. The unique Montessori learning partnership between student and teacher results in young people who can confidently advocate for themselves and others.

WMS is the only school in the Northwest accredited through 12th grade by both American Montessori Society (AMS) and the Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS)

List of 3 items.

  • An in-depth college planning program

    At WMS, we effectively combine the independence of the Montessori philosophy with the strength of a college prep culture. The college counseling philosophy focuses on finding the schools that fit the student rather than molding the student to fit a school. Learn more on the College Planning page.
  • Learning extends beyond the classroom

    Essential to a Montessori High School education are the opportunities to participate in service learning, take electives that spur interest and engagement, experience time in nature to develop a connection to the land and take extended trips to explore the wider world.
  • Our goal is for students to graduate from WMS with:

    • A sense of their purpose in life.
    • A strong moral compass.
    • A firm academic foundation.
    • The ability to take charge of their learning.
    • The readiness to contribute positively to the world in their own unique way.

Sunita Pailoor, WMS Head of School

Our graduates leave WMS with strong academics, a strong sense of self, the ability to confidently self-advocate in college, and the ability to work collaboratively with people whose learning style, work flow, and views may differ from their own. Our students come back from colleges and universities, both large and small, and tell us they were very well-prepared.

The WMS Difference

The WMS High School program offers small, personal classes that support independent learning and group discussion. Our integrated programs, providing academic depth and rigor, are explored within a supportive, close-knit community. Some of the classes offered are college-level work.

Our math and science courses focus on strengthening skills, exemplary analytical thinking, and the ability to develop communication and problem-solving strategies.

The program emphasizes product and process, procedural and conceptual understanding, and imagination and creativity. Students are encouraged to be independent learners and compassionate humans, ready to choose a forward path, take on the rigor of college coursework, and value education for life.

Our High School graduates are well-prepared to tackle any future academic challenges. A wide range of colleges and universities, from small liberal arts colleges to STEM schools and research universities all across the world see the value of a WMS education.

Is WMS the right fit for my High School student?

The best way to learn if our High School program is a perfect fit for your student is to attend a campus tour, where our Admissions Director will give your family an inside look of the program and facility and will be able to answer any questions. During the school year, a campus tour provides a peek into live classroom instruction.

Student Stories

Our students are our best representatives. See what a few of our past graduates have to say about their time in the High School program at WMS: