The Willows Community School, located in Culver City, California, is a Developmental Kindergarten through 8th grade independent school enrolling 476 students annually.
Nationally recognized as a balanced, progressive educational leader, The Willows` strong academic program incorporates experiential learning and thematic instruction into cutting-edge curriculum and integrates technology, maker, design thinking, and the arts into the classroom.
At The Willows, we believe each child brings our community an extraordinary gift: a curious mind, ready to explore and eager to learn. Our mission is to grow that gift by challenging our students to uncover meaning and significance in the world around them and to become capable, confident individuals who demonstrate character, engagement, and a joyful passion for creative inquiry across a lifetime. The Willows is strongly committed to financial assistance and seeks a broad-based student body with a diversity of race, ethnicity, economics and learning styles.
Quick Facts (2026)
- Top-Ranked CA School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 476 students
- Yearly Tuition: $36,025
- Application Deadline: Dec. 18
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
The Willows Community School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
School Overview
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
Year Founded
1994
First Day of School
Wed. Sep 2, 2026
Last Day of School
Tue. Jun 8, 2027
Campus Size
4 acres
Student Body
Total Students
476 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
43%
State avg.: 52%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
63 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
8:1
National avg.:
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Willows t-shirt worn Monday thru Friday
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Dec. 18
Yearly Tuition Cost
$36,025
Tuition Notes
DK: $36,025
K-5th: $42,865
6th-8th: $48,645
Tuition includes a $3,500 Non-Refundable Registration Deposit.
% on Financial Aid
19%
Admissions Director
Steve Futterman
Admissions Associate
Susie Stein
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
10 sports
School Notes
- School Motto: Where great minds grow
- The Willows Mission Statement: At The Willows, we believe each child brings our community an extraordinary gift: a curious mind, ready to explore and eager to learn. Our mission is to grow that gift by challenging our students to uncover meaning and significance in the world around them and to become capable, confident individuals who demonstrate character, engagement, and a joyful passion for creative inquiry across a lifetime.
- Our Philosophy: The Willows is committed to a balanced yet demanding progressive curriculum rooted in experiential learning and social values. We teach and model a zest for learning and the courage to take risks. We challenge children to challenge themselves and set high standards for academic excellence, which they pursue with energy and joy. We nurture a sense of compassion and community that begins at home, reinforcing what it means to be a respectful, involved citizen-of-the-world. We believe that great minds grow in a near-infinite variety of ways. In the spirit of the willow tree itself, our "great minds" are flexible, resilient, and beautiful at every stage of development.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Brycen Tremayne '14 - NFL Player and Stanford Graduate
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does The Willows Community School cost?
The Willows Community School's tuition is approximately $36,025 for private students.
What schools are The Willows Community School often compared to?
The Willows Community School is often viewed alongside schools like Turning Point School by visitors of our site.
Who are famous alumni from The Willows Community School?
The Willows Community School famous alumni include: Brycen Tremayne '14.
What sports does The Willows Community School offer?
The Willows Community School offers 10 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Dance, Flag Football, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Track and Field and Volleyball. The Willows Community School is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in California for most sports offered.
What is The Willows Community School's ranking?
The Willows Community School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Largest student body and Most sports offered.
When is the application deadline for The Willows Community School?
The application deadline for The Willows Community School is Dec. 18.
In what neighborhood is The Willows Community School located?
The Willows Community School is located in the Hayden Tract neighborhood of Culver City, CA.
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