The McGillis School recognizes that children’s intellectual skills develop on an individual timeline, so teachers use differentiated learning activities that allow children to work at their own level of development. Within small classes, students receive the support they need to achieve success and develop core skills. Depending on grade level, teachers may use a wide range of teaching methods and instructional materials including, but not limited to, direct instruction, small group instruction, individual instruction, independent or group research and writing, teaming, oral reporting and publishing.

The school values each student as a unique individual and supports personal development. Good citizenship, self-esteem and strength of character are built and respected along with intellectual power and creativity. The McGillis School recognizes the critical importance of emotional well-being as the foundation for learning.

The academic program, while sophisticated, is not based on an accelerated, linear approach to curriculum. The emphasis is on inquiry-based learning and designed to broaden conceptual experience and create opportunities for children to construct highly personal and meaningful understanding.

Mission

The McGillis School empowers children to become enthusiastic learners and ethical and active citizens as they each create their own place in the world.

Our Vision

• To offer a nurturing school community that empowers children to raise questions in order to build knowledge, understanding, and life-long enthusiasm for learning;
• To develop individual and social responsibility by integrating community service into the students’ learning environment;
• To embrace the universality of Jewish values, including repairing the world and giving to others, so that children of all backgrounds can learn to work together and contribute to society;
• To help students achieve their full potential by encouraging their pursuit of both their individuality and their appreciation of diversity.

Our Culture

The McGillis School was originally established in 1990 when a group of dedicated parents founded the Jewish Community Center Elementary School. The school became independent in 2002. Today, our school community encompasses students, faculty and administration from diverse backgrounds who learn and grow together through a secular curriculum and the support of friendship and respect. Our guiding principles reflect the school’s roots:

• Tzedakah: Giving to others
• Tikun Olam: Repairing the world
• Gemilut Hasadim: Doing good and kind deeds
• Derech Eretz: Having respect for all
• Limud L’shma: Learning for the sake of learning