The McGillis School is an independent private school offering kindergarten through 8th-grade education grounded in a strong ethical and values-driven mission that inspires students to think critically, live ethically, and contribute positively to the world. While rooted in Jewish values and cultural traditions, the school welcomes families of all backgrounds and faiths, creating a diverse and inclusive community where every student is valued as an individual.
The McGillis curriculum is centered on inquiry-based learning that encourages curiosity, conceptual understanding, and collaboration. Academic programs emphasize not only core disciplines such as language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, but also specialty classes in art, music, drama, Spanish, Ethics and Culture, physical education, health & wellness, and technology, ensuring a rich and well-rounded educational experience. Instruction is tailored to support different learning profiles and to encourage students to take ownership of their learning journeys.
In addition to its standard Lower and Middle School programs, McGillis offers a unique Learning Center (TLC) — a school-within-a-school model designed specifically for students with language-based learning differences such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. Students in TLC receive highly individualized academic support while participating fully in the broader school community for enrichment and social activities, making McGillis a welcoming option for learners who benefit from differentiated instruction and strong academic challenge.
The school’s inclusive community culture — often described as a “kehilah” (community) — fosters empathy, respect, and cooperation. McGillis programs like Ethics in Action service projects encourage students to put their values into practice through community engagement. Outdoor and off-campus learning experiences further enrich students’ understanding of themselves and the world around them.
As a private independent school — governed by a board of trustees and accredited by the Northwest Association of Independent Schools and the National Association of Independent Schools — McGillis stands apart from public, charter, or homeschool co-ops by offering a mission-driven academic philosophy, inclusive community values, and specialized support for diverse learning needs. Its commitment to building thinkers who contribute to “repairing the world” equips students with both academic skills and ethical foundations for lifelong learning and leadership.