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Willows Preparatory School

United States, Redmond

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees $33,360 - 33,895
Ages Not listed
Pupil numbers 273
Type Co-educational
Opened 1992
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Taught languages Spanish
Typical class size 9
Strengths Performing Arts, STEM, Languages
Clubs Arts and Creative, Academic and Intellectual, Cultural and Language
Stages Middle School, High School
Introduction

Willows Preparatory School is an IB World School serving grades 5 through 12 in Redmond, Washington. It offers the IB Middle Years Programme (grades 5–10) and the IB Diploma Programme (grades 11–12), operating within ISP's Learning.First framework that emphasizes inquiry-based learning, social-emotional development, and the Approaches to Learning. The school supports multilingualism with a Spanish language pathway and a community representing more than 30 countries and 40 languages. Technology is integrated through a Microsoft School approach, and the campus hosts dedicated design technology makerspaces, science labs, and a futuristic immersive classroom with four synchronized projectors and a 180-degree panoramic experience. Willows Prep's Performing and Visual Arts facilities nurture expression, while extensive athletic facilities, a full gym, and an expanding outdoor field support Wildcats athletics. Partnerships with the ISP network and recent accreditation achievements underscore a commitment to university preparation, ethics, and global-minded learning. A vibrant, inclusive community shapes lifelong learners.

The Essentials

Willows Preparatory School has 273 pupils, typical class sizes of 9, instruction in English.

Location

The school is located at 12280 Redmond – Woodinville Rd NE, Redmond, WA 98052, United States. Redmond is in the Seattle metropolitan area of Washington state. The campus is purpose-built and comprises three buildings with science laboratories and creative studios.

Stages

Middle School (Grades 5–8) and High School (Grades 9–12). The IB continuum includes the Middle Years Programme in Grades 9–10 and the Diploma Programme in Grades 11–12.

Type

Private school

Pupil Nationality Mix

Students come from 30+ countries. 40 languages are spoken in the Willows Prep community. Spanish is taught through a structured language pathway.

Additional learning support

The Student Support Program provides one-to-one weekly check-ins, after-school learning support, and targeted services for language-based learning differences, including on-site speech-language therapy with a licensed clinician.

Country affiliation

United States
Diving Deeper

Food Options

Hot school lunches are available; orders are placed through ezschoolapps; lunch includes a salad bar; cost is $9.00 per lunch when ordered by midnight two days prior.

House System

Willows Prep has a House System with four houses: Leviathan (blue), Wyvern (purple), Oni (green), Phoenix (red); students earn points and compete toward the annual House Cup.

Governance and Ownership

The school is part of the International Schools Partnership (ISP) network.
Fees

Annual tuition at Willows Preparatory School ranges from USD 33,360 to USD 33,895 for 2026/27.

Application and registration fees
- Registration (new students, one-time, non-refundable): USD 2,200.
- Re-enrolment (returning students, one-time, non-refundable): USD 1,700 if paid by January 31; USD 2,200 if paid from February 1.

Tuition fees by school year (2026–27)
- Grades 5–10 (annual): USD 33,360. Payment options shown: one payment, three payments, or monthly plan.
- One payment (in full): USD 33,360 (payment in full by June 1, 2026).
- Three payments: USD 11,287 per payment (due June 1, 2026; September 1, 2026; December 1, 2026).
- Monthly payment plan (10-month): USD 3,436 per month via Electronic Fund Transfers (EFTs); first payment due June 1, 2026; final payment due March 1, 2027.

- Grades 11–12 (annual): USD 33,895. Payment options shown: one payment, three payments, or monthly plan.
- One payment (in full): USD 33,895 (payment in full by June 1, 2026).
- Three payments: USD 11,468 per payment (due June 1, 2026; September 1, 2026; December 1, 2026).
- Monthly payment plan (10-month): USD 3,491 per month via Electronic Fund Transfers (EFTs); first payment due June 1, 2026; final payment due March 1, 2027.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Payment deadlines and schedule for the one-payment, three-payment and 10-month plans are specified in the 2026–27 tuition information: one-payment due by June 1; three-payment dates: June 1, September 1, December 1; monthly plan is a 10-month EFT schedule from June 1 through March 1.
- Annual tuition is due according to the payment plan selected at enrollment. Payment schedules and due dates are communicated annually in the Enrollment Agreement. Families are expected to keep tuition accounts current; materially past-due accounts may result in restrictions on class attendance, participation in activities, report cards/transcripts, or re-enrollment until accounts are brought current. The school reserves the right to pursue collection of outstanding balances.

Boarding fees
- Boarding is not applicable. Willows Preparatory School is a co-educational day school (Grades 5–12). No boarding program or boarding fees are listed.

Other costs and recurring fees
- Technology fee (annual, non-refundable): USD 400.
- Laptop fee (one-time) for new Grade 5 and Grade 6 students (touchscreen 14" 2-in-1 with stylus and three-year service agreement): USD 1,450.
- Family Association membership (annual, non-refundable): USD 200.
- IB Diploma (DP) fee for Grades 11–12: amount varies; covers DP testing and course materials.
- Optional fees: student support services (1:1 check-ins, executive functioning support, after-school academic support) and extra-curricular activities (clubs, after-school enrichment, student experiences) are available for additional fees. Specific pricing for optional services and activities varies by offering.
- Late pick-up fees: the tuition/fees listing indicates a USD 20 drop-in fee after 4:40 p.m. and an additional USD 60 late fee after 5:00 p.m.; the Parent & Student Handbook also notes that any student remaining on campus after 5:00 p.m. without prior approval may be charged a late pick-up fee (handbook language references a per-minute late charge). Parents should note both the published fee schedule and the handbook rules regarding late pick-up consequences.

Refund information
- Registration and re-enrolment fees are explicitly non-refundable.
- The Enrollment Agreement is a binding contract. A request to withdraw a student after the Enrollment Agreement has been executed does not release the family from the contractual financial obligations described in that agreement. The handbook places responsibility for tuition and fees on the family per the terms of the Enrollment Agreement. No separate, detailed tuition-refund schedule is published in the 2026–27 tuition sheet or the Parent & Student Handbook; families should review the Enrollment Agreement for the contract terms that apply to withdrawal and financial liability.

Fee payment options and methods
- Monthly installment plan payments are processed through Electronic Fund Transfers (EFTs) on a 10-month schedule (first EFT due June 1; final EFT due March 1).
- Families may choose payment in full or approved installment plans at enrollment; the Enrollment Agreement and annual communications specify exact schedules and payment terms. The school's handbook describes that payment schedules and acceptable payment methods are confirmed through the Enrollment Agreement.

Notes on policy and amounts
- The figures above reflect the published 2026–27 tuition and fee materials for Willows Preparatory School, and the Parent & Student Handbook statements that govern billing, enrollment agreements, and account status. Specific optional-program pricing, IB examination charges, and any item-level charges for extracurricular activities or support services are listed as "varies" or are available upon request through admissions or in enrollment materials.
Academics

Willows Preparatory School teaches IB (MYP), IB (DP).

Curriculum

The school is an IB World School offering the IB Middle Years Programme (grades 5–10) and the IB Diploma Programme (grades 11–12). It follows the IB framework within ISP's Learning.First approach, emphasizing inquiry-based learning, social-emotional development, and Approaches to Learning (ATLs). The school supports multilingualism with a Spanish language pathway and a community representing 30+ countries and 40 languages. It uses technology in learning through a Microsoft School approach and provides a Performing and Visual Arts Program to develop artistic expression. As part of the ISP network, Willows Prep prepares students to be ready for university and beyond.

Student Teacher Ratio

1:9

Exam Results

Average SAT score: 1530. The school also emphasizes college counseling to prepare students for universities in the U.S. and worldwide.

Higher Education Progression

College counseling prepares students for admission to leading universities in the United States and worldwide.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Willows Preparatory School emphasizes social, emotional, and personal development as part of its IB program. The IB framework integrates social-emotional development into inquiry-based learning and the development of ATL skills. The Student Support Program provides ongoing advocacy and close collaboration among families, teachers, and specialists to support every student. Weekly 1:1 check-ins offer personalized executive functioning coaching during the school day. Social Lunch Circle provides structured small-group activities to build empathy, listening, and healthy peer relationships. A low teacher-to-student ratio in elective and support settings enables individualized guidance and progress monitoring.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

For language-based learning differences, including dyslexia, dysgraphia, and auditory processing challenges, Willows Prep provides targeted support. This includes one-to-one, on-site speech and language therapy during the school day delivered by a licensed speech-language pathologist. The Speech Language Pathologist delivers individualized strategies to support oral and written language. The Student Support Program coordinates advocacy, accommodations, and progress monitoring across the school experience. Inclusion is central, with differentiated instruction to meet diverse learners' needs.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

English is the language of instruction, and Spanish is taught as a world language through a structured pathway. The language policy describes acquisition of the language of instruction (English) and the world language (Spanish). Multilingualism is highlighted as a key feature of the program.

Mental Wellbeing

Mental wellbeing is supported through the Student Support Program, which provides tools, guidance, and encouragement to help students grow academically, socially, and personally. The program includes weekly 1:1 check-ins for executive functioning and academic coaching during the school day. Social Lunch Circle and social skills groups help students develop healthy peer relationships and self-awareness. After-school learning support and differentiated electives reinforce organization and resilience. The approach involves close collaboration with families and specialists to coordinate suitable accommodations and progress monitoring.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is a shared responsibility and the foundation of the Willows Prep community. Every member of the community demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting each child's wellbeing. There is a designated safeguarding lead (DSL) on site. The safeguarding policy commits to ensuring every child feels secure, supported, and respected, regardless of background or identity. Safeguarding measures include rigorous safer recruitment, a safety-focused curriculum addressing wellbeing, relationships, digital behavior and responsible decision-making. Digital safeguarding software supports student wellbeing and the protection of the school's digital environment.
Parent Experience

History

Willows Preparatory School began in 1992 as Bellevue Children's Academy, an afterschool program built on innovative teaching. It became a full-day school by 2000. Willows Prep opened a Redmond middle school in 2014 and expanded to a high school in 2019, earning IB World School accreditation that year. In 2019, Willows Prep joined the International Schools Partnership (ISP). The first graduating class was celebrated in 2023; dual accreditation from NIPSA and Cognia followed in 2024, and a new athletic field was completed in 2026.

Community

Willows Prep brings together students from 30+ countries and 40 languages, creating a globally connected community. An IB-centered journey is supported by ISP's global network and a campus designed for inquiry, collaboration, and global citizenship. Student life includes a Student Senate and a House System, with a vibrant clubs and athletics program. The Willows Prep Future Pathways program provides university fairs, global experts, and an A–Z Speaker Series.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Willows Prep has a robust Willows Prep Family Association that supports the family, student, and staff community. The Family Association organizes events and fundraising, including the Gala hosted by the Association and Popcorn Wednesdays. A Family Association membership supports events and initiatives through an annual fee. Volunteer opportunities are coordinated via the Family Association, including an interest form for volunteers.
Facilities

Facilities Overview

Set on a 15-acre campus in Redmond, Willows Prep offers an innovative, connected learning environment. The Main, East, and West Buildings are linked to create a cohesive school day across spaces. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, technology-equipped classrooms, science and makerspace labs, and spaces for art and music. It includes a futuristic immersive classroom with four synchronized projectors and panoramic visuals, two hands-on design labs, and two design technology makerspaces. The gymnasium is versatile with a built-in stage and retractable auditorium seating, and an athletic field supports physical education and team sports. A well-resourced library and learning commons support research and collaboration, and sustainability features such as solar panels offset energy use.

Sports Facilities

Gymnasium is a versatile space with a built-in stage and retractable auditorium seating, supporting physical education, team sports, and performing arts. An expanding outdoor athletic field gives students room for sport and teamwork. Wildcat Athletics offers a dynamic range of sports and activities across the year for middle and high school, welcoming all experience levels.

Academic Facilities

Technology-equipped classrooms span 20 spaces with high-speed Wi‑Fi and fiber connectivity. Two purpose-built science labs support hands-on experimentation. Two innovative design technology makerspaces enable students to design, build, and test projects. A futuristic immersive classroom, created with Uchida and Avidex, features four synchronized projectors and a 180-degree panoramic experience. An art studio and a music room provide spaces for visual and performing arts, while two additional design labs support collaborative problem-solving with flexible workspaces. A well-resourced library and a learning commons support independent study and collaboration, and a conference room supports planning and school-wide connection.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Willows Prep offers a broad program of clubs and sports for Grades 5-12. Clubs span arts, technology, and service, including continuing band, crafts, culinary, debate, and DECA. Students can participate in math, game design, and game development clubs, as well as track, soccer, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, and table tennis as part of Wildcat Athletics. Athletics are a vibrant part of the Willows Prep experience, with middle and high school teams across a range of sports.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

GAUSS Math Contest engages Grades 7 and 8 in showcasing mathematical thinking. Students also participate in MOEMS and math Olympiad formats, and engage in Math Mondays to strengthen problem-solving skills. The school funds hands-on STEM experiences through a robotics club and Game Design with Unity, and eighth-grade math courses may earn high school credit.

Arts & Creative

Performing and Visual Arts empower students to create, perform, and lead with confidence. The Thespian troupe competes on global stages at the International Thespian Festival and contributes to award-winning productions. Signature fall and spring productions engage the whole school, and students explore theatre, music, visual arts, technical theatre, and design technology with specialist facilities.

Cultural & Language

The school connects with peers worldwide through International School Partnership programs, including ISP Artists, ISP Changemakers, ISP Chess Masters, ISP Cultural Exchange, ISP Scientists, ISP Filmmakers, ISP Virtual Exchange, and ISP Model United Nations. In Grades 9-12, students may travel to Spanish-speaking destinations such as Costa Rica, Greece, and Spain for language and cultural immersion. Multicultural experiences celebrate art, food, and shared traditions to broaden perspectives and foster a globally minded community.

Social & Hobbies

Athletics and clubs form a vibrant part of Willows Prep life, with a calendar of sports and student-led activities. The school provides over 20 clubs and sports across campus, including robotics, game design, and gaming clubs. House life and student-led activities—such as Field Day and the Yearbook & Journalism club—broaden social opportunities.

Community & Service

The National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society recognize students for excellence in scholarship, leadership, service, and character. The PAWsitive Club focuses on kindness, service, and everyday leadership through campus initiatives. Volunteerism and service-oriented events are integrated into school life.

Leadership & Professional

Student leadership is fostered through Student Senate and the school's four-House System. House Captains are chosen by peers to energize teams, strengthen community, and promote participation. Counselors guide students as they explore extracurricular opportunities and build long-term plans aligned with college aspirations.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Willows Prep offers Wildcat Athletics, providing a dynamic range of sports and activities across the year for middle and high school students. PE & Health instruction emphasizes movement, confidence, and lifelong wellness. Experiential Education includes off-campus trips such as IslandWood and other immersive experiences to build independence, resilience, and well-being.
Languages

Language Provision

The language of instruction at Willows Preparatory School is English. Spanish is the Language B and is taught as the world language. The school has a language profile with just over 30 languages spoken by the student body, including French, Mandarin, Japanese, Arabic, Turkish, Hebrew, and Hindi. Additional languages may be used in interdisciplinary learning.
Admissions

Admissions

1. Initial inquiry: Contact the admissions team by phone, email, or the online inquiry form to express interest and ask initial questions. The team guides families through the next steps for Willows Prep admissions. Financial aid is available; families from all backgrounds are encouraged to explore support options. 2. Apply through Ravenna: Create your account in Ravenna, the online admissions portal, locate Willows Preparatory School in the Greater Seattle directory, and begin the application. Submit the initial application through Ravenna and monitor progress from your Ravenna dashboard. The portal stores communications and updates related to the admission process. 3. Schedule a student interview: After submitting the initial application, sign up for an interview time through the Ravenna portal. The interview helps the school get to know your family and understand your goals for enrollment. Interviews are a required part of the admissions process for enrollment consideration. 4. Stay connected: The Admissions Committee reviews applications and shares decisions with families directly through Ravenna and by email. Ensure contact details in Ravenna and your email are up to date to receive timely updates. This keeps you informed as the process progresses. 5. Welcome to Willows Prep: Before the first day, families receive all the key information needed to start with confidence, helping the student feel at home from day one. Admissions communications will continue through Ravenna and email as needed. The onboarding materials support a smooth start.
School Events
The school has not added events