I am in awe of The Willows. After 30 incredible years of discovery, inspiration, and innovation, the school remains as committed as ever to fulfilling its founding mission: providing a unique and welcoming environment where students can grow, explore, and develop a love of learning that will last a lifetime.
~ Zack Faigen, Co-Chair, The Willows Board of Trustees and Current Parent
30 Memories for 30 Years
#1
Kindergarten Teacher Phil Lee & Snakes in 1994
“I was not prepared for the snakes. I was terrified of snakes. This took place during our Animal Unit when the Reptile Guy visited. He put one snake on my shoulders without telling me and I froze. Then he kept adding snakes. I did my best to stay cool because all the students were around me watching, and I didn’t want to scare them. I did learn one thing–I discovered that snakes are so strong and heavy. They were so heavy around my neck!”
That is Phil, who is so thoughtful, he wore snakes that frightened him, so he didn’t scare his students!
It was about passion. Never underestimate the passion of parents when it comes to their children.
~ Gary Yale, founder and current Willows Trustee
3 Generations of a Founding Family at The Willows
Leah Bishop and Gary Yale were Founders of The Willows Community School along with their children, Alum Elizabeth Yale Marsh ‘00, and their grandchild and Kindergartener Miles Marsh. (Not shown Rhys Marsh, Miles’ father, and alum Rebecca Yale ’02)
30 Memories
30 basketballs rolling around in the gym
30 sunflowers thriving in the garden
30 scientists experimenting with chemicals
All the paintbrushes dancing on paper!
All the memories of the friends we made!
We celebrate 30 years at the Willows!
~ Vale, 4B
The joy I found at The Willows stems from the strength of the community.
~ Skye Belker, Alum Class of 2019