The Independent School

The Independent School is a fully accredited private school located in Wichita, Kansas, serving students in grades K-12. Students come from a wide variety of racial, ethnic, economic and religious backgrounds. The fine arts, sports, and academic competitions have been recognized over the years through their multiple state championships. Included within the program, is a comprehensive extracurricular program that flourishes as students are encouraged to expand their interests and talents whether it is on the field, on the stage, behind a canvas, or through their pen and voice.HistoryIn 1980, Mrs. Jean K. Garvey, a mother of six who was deeply committed to the education of her children, saw a need for a different type of private school in Wichita, Kansas. She wished to create a school that provided a high-quality education for average and above-average children. Starting in a small building with eight brave students and equally brave parents, The Independent School quickly grew to a student body of 146. Mr. Willard Garvey, whose construction company created homes around the world for hundreds of people, was “persuaded” to build a large building for the growing student population. The new and spacious building was quickly filled with dynamic teachers and enthusiastic pupils who were eager to learn in a warm, caring and nurturing environment. In 1991, grades 6-8 were added to a new Middle School. The addition of an Upper School saw our first class of 16 pioneering seniors graduating in 1998. In 1999, the first five National Merit Scholars were named.Today, due to Mrs. Garvey's vision, The Independent School continues to thrive. In 2005, The Independent School was recognized by Blue Ribbon Schools Program. The Blue Ribbon Award is considered the highest honor an American school can achieve. Students come from a wide variety of racial, ethnic, economic and religious backgrounds. Every year, Independent graduates are offered admission to some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in the nation. A comprehensive extracurricular program at all levels flourishes as students expand their interests into a wide variety of sports and academic competitions, winning multiple state championships.