Willows Preparatory School
Part of International Schools Partnership, Secular, Founded 1992
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
IB MYP
CogniaLanguages
English
SpanishWillows Preparatory School is an IB World School in Redmond, Washington, serving students in Grades 5–12. As part of the International Schools Partnership (ISP), it provides a globally aware, inquiry-based education within a nurturing, small-class-size environment.
Curriculum
Term structure
Teaching approach
The school is rooted in a culture of curiosity, resilience, and leadership, placing students at the center of every decision. It emphasizes an inquiry-based approach where students are encouraged to think critically, collaborate effectively, and develop the skills outlined in the IB Learner Profile. The educational model aims to nurture the "whole child," fostering independence and a sense of responsibility as global citizens.
Programmes
The school offers a seamless International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum, featuring the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 5–10 and the Diploma Programme (IBDP) for Grades 11–12. The curriculum is supported by a structured Spanish language pathway that builds toward fluency. Technology is integrated across the curriculum through a Microsoft 365 ecosystem, with explicit instruction in digital citizenship and computer science.
Outcomes
Graduates of the school have secured placements at prestigious universities worldwide and earned significant scholarship funding. The school reports an average SAT score of 1530 and maintains a 40:1 student-to-counselor ratio to ensure comprehensive college preparation. Students are guided through a multi-year counseling journey that begins in middle school to align academic choices with future university and career goals.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides a personalized student support program that includes 1:1 check-ins, after-school academic help, and social skills groups. Targeted support is available for executive functioning, organization, time management, and self-advocacy. Additionally, the school offers specialist partnerships to assist students with language-based learning differences such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, and auditory processing challenges.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Willows Preparatory School offer?
- Willows Preparatory School offers IB MYP and IB Diploma.
- How much is tuition at Willows Preparatory School?
- Annual tuition at Willows Preparatory School is $33.4K–$33.9K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does Willows Preparatory School hold?
- Willows Preparatory School holds accreditations including IB, Cognia and NCPSA.
- Is Willows Preparatory School co-educational?
- Willows Preparatory School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Willows Preparatory School located?
- Willows Preparatory School is an international school in Seattle, United States.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026-2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Grades 5 - 8 | 10–14 | $33.4K |
| Grades 9 - 12 | 14–18 | $33.9K |
Other fees(2)
| Registration fee· One-time, non-refundable, for new students only. | $2.2K |
|---|---|
| Enrolment fee· $1,700 until January 31 / $2,200 from February 1. One-time, non-refundable, for returning students. | $1.7K |
Admissions
The admissions process begins with an initial inquiry via phone, email, or the school's online form. Prospective families are encouraged to apply through the Ravenna online management hub, followed by a student interview. The school maintains a selective and personalized approach, with the admissions team guiding families from the first point of contact through to enrollment.
Calendar
The academic year is divided into two semesters, with Semester 1 running from late August to January and Semester 2 from February to June. Key dates include orientation days in late August, a winter break spanning late December to early January, and a spring break in April. The school year concludes in mid-June, with specific days designated for parent-teacher conferences, professional development, and graduation ceremonies.
Facilities
About the campus
The 15-acre campus in Redmond features three interconnected buildings—the Main, East, and West Buildings—housing technology-equipped classrooms, science and innovation labs, and creative studios. Specialized facilities include a high-tech "Future Classroom" with panoramic projection, design technology makerspaces, a music room, a library, and a learning commons. The campus also includes a versatile gymnasium with retractable seating and a newly developed athletic field.
Co-curriculars
Student life is supported by a variety of clubs, leadership roles, and athletics, including basketball, volleyball, cross country, soccer, ultimate frisbee, tennis, and track. The school utilizes a House System and a Student Senate to foster community and leadership. Additionally, students participate in performing and visual arts through electives, productions, workshops, and festivals.
Rich StearnsHead of SchoolRich has 35 years of experience as an educator, including roles at Culver Academies, Overlake School, Seattle Academy, and Seattle Prep. He holds a bachelor's degree in history from Northwestern University, a master's in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Washington, and a Certificate in School Management and Leadership from Harvard. He also serves as the school's Designated Safeguarding Lead.
Mary EwartAssociate Head of School, Director of LearningDr. Ewart is in her fourth year as Associate Head of School and Director of Learning, bringing expertise in instructional strategy and teacher development. She holds a B.A. in Liberal Studies from CSU Stanislaus, an M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership from Seattle Pacific University, and an Ed.D. in Curriculum, Teaching, Learning, and Leadership from Northeastern University.
- Kia duNannDirector of Student Life
Kia duNann oversees student leadership, athletics, clubs, counseling, and travel experiences for grades 5-12. She has over 15 years of educational leadership experience, including roles as a principal and assistant principal, and holds a B.A. in Education from Gonzaga University and an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Seattle Pacific University.
Margaret MarksDirector of AdmissionsMargaret Marks leads the school's admissions process, guiding families from initial inquiry to enrollment. She works collaboratively with school leadership and faculty to support enrollment goals while maintaining a student-centered approach.
- Corey LowellDirector of Operations
Corey Lowell oversees campus operations, facilities, safety, and strategic initiatives. He holds a Master’s degree in Sports Administration and Leadership from Seattle University and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics with a focus in Business Management.
Matt OwenScience Teacher & Athletics DirectorMatt Owen serves as a Science Teacher and Athletics Director. He emphasizes interdisciplinary connections, noting that science and athletics are integrated into the classroom and field experience.
- Kenta SueyoshiEdTech Specialist
Kenta Sueyoshi has served at Willows Prep for a decade, spending the last two years as the School EdTech Specialist while teaching IB Diploma Programme Mathematics and Chemistry. He holds a B.S. in Chemistry with a minor in Mathematics and Interdisciplinary Honors from the University of Washington.