From public school, to private school, to home school, and now a charter high school, students in Southwest Washington have a broad selection of educational programs to choose from to fit their learning style. Wondering what will be best for your kiddo? With this year’s Education Guide, we’ve rounded up Clark County’s many educational options, from preschools up to high schools (plus college!), and even dual-language programs. Contact each school or district directly for more information, or to tour their campus and programs.

(Schools are listed alphabetically.)

Charter School

Rooted School Vancouver

Grades: 9-12
Location:  10401 NE Fourth Plain Blvd., Vancouver, WA 98662
Phone: 360-524-2842
Website: rootedschoolvancouver.org
Rooted School Vancouver is a free public charter high school that exists to provide students personal pathways to financial freedom. We teach our students to learn in an ever-changing world, develop their skills in the most in-demand job sectors and create technology that is transformational.

Agape Christian Academy

Grades: Preschool-12th grade
Location: 717 NE Everett St., Camas, WA 98607
Phone: 360-833-0558
Website: goacalions.org
Our mission is to develop unshakable faith and God-given purpose in each student. Open House: February 3, 2025.

Blue Spruce Montessori Children’s House

Grades: Preschool-Kindergarten
Location: Vancouver, WA
Phone: 360-314-4190
Website: bluesprucemontessoriwa.com
Licensed in-home Montessori program serving children ages 2.5-6 years old.

Cascadia School

Grades: 1-8
Location: 10606 NE 14th St., Vancouver, WA 98664
Phone: 360-944-8096
Website: cascadiaschool.org
Using the Montessori Method of Education, we create a safe, child-centered community of academic excellence. We teach to the whole child; supporting social, emotional, moral, and intellectual development. Children develop a deeper sense of self, respect for the earth, and independence through cooperation and collaboration. Cascadia Alumni are responsible citizens, fully engaged with the world and deeply rooted in a life-long love of learning. Open House: February 1, 2025, 11 am-1 pm.

Cedar Tree Classical Christian School

Grades: K-12
Location: 20601 NE 29th Ave., Ridgefield, WA 98642
Phone: 360-887-0190
Website: cedartreeschool.org
We use a time-tested classical approach to pursue excellence in K-12 education. Our students enjoy small class sizes and a supportive parent community and are taught within a Christian Worldview. We nurture students in Christ-centered wisdom to grow strong like cedar trees, flourishing into old age and declaring God’s greatness and goodness (Psalm 92:12-15).

Cornerstone Christian Academy for Learning & Leadership

Grades: K-12, plus Early Childhood Education (Ages 12 months-5 years)
Location:
Vancouver campus (ECE and Kindergarten-4th Grade) – 10818 NE 117th Ave., Vancouver, WA 98662
Battle Ground campus (Kindergarten-12th Grade) – 715 NW Onsdorff Blvd., Battle Ground, WA 98604
Phone: 360-256-9715 (K-12) / 360-256-9714 (Early Childhood)
Website: ccak12.net
Cornerstone Christian Academy for Learning & Leadership provides a safe, nurturing, Christ-centered environment for students to grow academically, spiritually and physically into the next generation of servant leaders. Our Vancouver Campus offers programs for Early Childhood (1-5 years old) and kindergarten through 4th grade, as well as before and after school care. Our Battle Ground campus offers programs for kindergarten through 12th grade. Enrollment for the 2025-26 school year will begin online on our school website in February 2025. To schedule a tour or for more information, please visit our website at www.ccak12.net. Vancouver Campus Open House: January 27, 2025, 6:30 pm. Battle Ground Campus Open House: January 28, 2025, 6:30 pm.

Firm Foundation Christian School

Grades: Preschool through 12th grade
Location: 1919 SW 25th Ave., Battle Ground, WA 98604
Phone: 360-687-8382
Website: ffcs.org
The mission of Firm Foundation Christian School is to assist families in developing today’s youth into Christian leaders serving in the home, church, and community by providing an education emphasizing academic excellence using a Biblical curriculum.

The Gan-Garrett Jewish Preschool

Grades: Preschool ages 2-5
Location: 9604 NE 126th Ave., Vancouver, WA 98682
Phone: 360-256-0859
Website: thegan.org
The Gan-Garrett Jewish preschool unites children, teachers, family and community in a positive and constructive early childhood experience. We model and encourage kindness, respect, compassion, confidence and responsibility. We foster children’s intellectual, social and emotional development as they are encouraged to explore their environment and express themselves through words, movement, drawing, painting, playing and other natural modes of expression. We promote an environment where children can develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills for a successful and meaningful life.

Gardner School of Arts and Sciences / Country Friends Child Care

Grades:
Country Friends (Toddlers, Pre-school, Pre-K, before and after care for 5 to 12 years old)
Gardner (Early Childhood, Kindergarten, Grades 1 through 6)
Location:
Country Friends Campus: 17415 NE 159th St., Brush Prairie, WA 98606
Gardner Campus: 16413 NE 50th Ave., Vancouver, WA 98686
Phone: 360-574-5752 Gardner / 360-260-5290 Country Friends
Website: gardnerschool.org / countryfriendschildcare.com
In 2024 Country Friends Child Care became a part of Gardner School of Arts and Sciences. Gardner School is proud to carry on the legacy of play-based, community-centered childcare in the heart of Hockinson. Founded by Ebie Mountford in 1995, Country Friends Childcare is an institution in early childhood education in Clark County. Also founded in 1995, Gardner School has grown to be a leader in progressive education and experiential learning on our 5-acre campus near Salmon Creek. Both Gardner School and Country Friends focus on the outdoors, exploratory play-based learning, and the principle that teachers follow the lead of the children to help them grow and shine. Call or email info@gardnerschool.org to schedule a tour.

Good Shepherd Montessori School

Grades: Preschool-Kindergarten (Ages 2 ½ – 6)
Location: 805 SE Ellsworth Rd., Vancouver, WA, near Hwy 14 and I-205 connection
Phone: 360-892-2018
Website: gsmontessori.org
At Good Shepherd Montessori School, we are committed to providing a high-quality Montessori education that prepares children for success in school and in life. We believe that every child is unique and has the potential to achieve great things. We are dedicated to helping each child reach their full potential, in our nurturing environment that emphasizes hands-on learning. Our experienced and dedicated teachers guide children through the Montessori curriculum that fosters independence, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. Our Primary Program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers language, mathematics, sensorial exploration, practical life skills, music, geography, cultural studies and much more. Children learn at their own pace, guided by their interests and abilities. We invite you to visit our school and learn more about our programs. Please contact us to schedule a tour or to request more information. We look forward to welcoming you and your child to the Good Shepherd Montessori School community.

Joyful Learning Preschool

Grades: Ages 3-6
Location: 1201 SE 136th Ave., Vancouver, WA 98683
Phone: 360-513-7447
Website: joyfullearningpreschool.com
Imparting a love for Jesus, others and learning is at the heart of JLP! Our goal is to provide each student with a safe, loving and joyful start to their learning journey. We offer 2, 3, or 4 day a week preschool and Pre-K classes. Our classes support each student as he or she develops confidence in learning, social skills and hands-on engaging activities to promote curiosity and early childhood growth. Open enrollment for our 2025/2026 school year begins March 1, 2025.

Kids Club Fun and Fitness Preschool

Grades: Preschool Ages 3-5
Location: 13914 NW 3rd Ct., Vancouver, WA 98685
Phone: 360-546-5437
Website: kidsclub4fun.com
Our Academic Preschool program is designed for children who are between the ages of 3-5 and who are fully potty trained. Our facility includes an academic classroom, gymnastics gym, open gymnasium and The Jungle (our indoor playland). We use a national certified curriculum called Funshine Express to help children be Kindergarten ready. In class, we will practice the alphabet, numbers, shapes, colors, and social emotional problem solving, all while having fun, constantly setting goals for children to grow, learn, and thrive. Each class has a 1:10 ratio with two teachers and up to 20 children. We have many different options for preschool times to help fit your family’s schedule, including 3 days a week (M/W/F), 2 days a week (T/TH), or 5 days a week (M-F). All classes are either AM or PM. Email Preschool@kidsclub4fun.com for a tour.

KIDSPACE Child Enrichment Center

Grades: Age 3-Kindergarten
Location: 5145 NE 94th Ave., Vancouver, WA 98662
Phone: 360-944-9300
Website: aboutkidspace.com
Our beliefs describe our program. We believe that every child is a capable being. Children learn best when they experience and participate. Young children are not meant to be passive learners. As children involve more senses in their experiences, their brain activity increases, thus making their understanding more complete. Our curricular activities and provocations are hands on, open experiences in which children can be the designers of their play with learning support from teachers. Multiple times a week children spend time in our beautiful atelier which is a combination of art studio and light and shadow play with our atelierista, In addition, we have a bouncy, well-outfitted gym which hosts our PE activities throughout the week. Our playground, a natural classroom, is a beautiful sanctuary of play amongst old growth trees. Tours available upon request.

King’s Way Christian Schools

Grades: 12 Months-12th Grade
Location: 3606 NE 78th St., Vancouver, WA 98665
Phone: 360- 574-1613
Website: kwcs.org
Your child’s journey begins here! King’s Way partners with families to provide a Christ-centered education for the whole child as they DISCOVER God’s Love, DISCERN God’s Truth, DREAM God’s Call, and DO God’s Will. To schedule a tour or inquire about enrollment please call our admissions office. Kindergarten Preview January 23, 2025. Call for more details!

Lakeshore Montessori Preschool

Grades: Ages 2.5-6 (potty trained)
Location: 4803 NE 15 Ave., Vancouver, WA 98663
Phone: 360-573-4103
Website: lakeshoremontessori.com
Montessori environment, child led learning, mixed age groups, whole child development.

Little Beginners Christian Preschool

Grades: Ages 2.5-Kindergarten
Location: 6005 NE 110th Ave., Vancouver, WA 98662
Phone: 360-433-2047
Website: lbcp.net
Little Beginners Christian Preschool offers a nurturing, faith-centered environment where young learners thrive. Our kindergarten and preschool programs build academic, social, and spiritual foundations through hands-on learning, phonics, and creative play. Join us to inspire curiosity, kindness, and a love for learning! Tours by appointment.

Lupine Experiential School

Grades: K-8
Location: 5001 NE 66th Ave., Vancouver, WA 98661
Phone: 360-910-4953
Website: lupineschool.org
Lupine is an independent, non-profit, secular (K-8) school in Vancouver, WA where children are valued and community is treasured! Integrated curriculum at Lupine inspires students to think deeply and holistically about important and relevant studies. Experiential & Project-Based Learning foster inquiry, problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity through meaningful work. Learning is enriched through field trips, visual art, music, drama and significant outdoor experiences. Our school partners with Camp Hope of SW Washington to provide an outdoor education for students in their lush forest along the Lewis River. Tours available! Call or email info@lupineschool.org.

Mannahouse Christian Academy

Grades: Preschool-12th
Location: 811 NE 112th Ave., Vancouver, WA 98684
Phone: 360-719-2589
Website: mannahouseacademy.com
Our mission at Mannahouse Christian Academy is to deliver academic excellence and develop healthy spiritual lives in a safe Christ-centered learning environment. We provide a rigorous academic experience along with a wide selection of elective classes, weekly chapel services and sports opportunities. Our faculty and administration’s goal is to provide a safe and fun atmosphere for each child to learn and grow. We currently offer Preschool-8th grade in Vancouver and bus service to our Portland Campus for High School.

Mill Plain United Methodist Preschool

Grades: Age 3, 4 and PreK Classes (Must turn 3 prior to December 31)
Location: 15804 SE Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver, WA 98684
Phone: 360-896-2696
Website: facebook.com/MPUMPStaff
Mill Plain United Methodist Preschool: Where we focus on the fundamentals of academics, spiritual and moral growth. Where your child will learn social skills and personal development. Through the Abeka curriculum we provide the foundation for their education. Call for a tour.

Naydenov Preschool

Grades: Preschool
Location: 6603 NE 63rd St., Vancouver, WA 98661
Phone: 360-944-4444
Website: ngymnastics.com/naydenov-preschool
The preschool learning center room is located inside Naydenov Gymnastics. Our 41,000-square-foot building gives us endless space with a unique fun equipment.

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School

Grades: Preschool-8th
Location: 4701 NW Franklin St., Vancouver WA 98663
Phone: 360-696-2301
Website: lourdesvan.org
Welcome to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School where exceptional academics and Catholic/Christian morals and values are taught with care and respect. Children thrive here as our highly trained teachers journey with them through preschool, elementary, intermediate and middle school. Conveniently located in the heart of Vancouver, WA, our private school provides a well-rounded education, accomplishes diligent community service, and provides opportunities for students to live out their faith. Lourdes Lancers enjoy specialist classes that include sports, music, Spanish and library. All faiths are welcome to join our friendly community. Open House: January 26, 2025, 12-2:30 pm.

Seton Catholic College Prep

Grades: 9-12
Location: 9000 NE 64th Ave., Vancouver, WA 98665
Phone: 360-258-1932
Website: setonhigh.org
Seton Catholic seeks to educate the comprehensive student, creating an environment where learning comes alive and our students are personally known. We encourage our young men and women to be people of character while speaking to their variety of interests and backgrounds. Our school community follows a 4-means-more school week, attending school in person Tuesday-Friday. This modified schedule allows time for planning and preparing, collaboration, and professional development. It places strong emphasis on supporting mental health and well-being through better school and life balance with time for service, faith, family and community. As a Catholic, college preparatory high school, we believe in empowering our students to achieve their greatest potential, and our pillars of higher learning, deeper faith and stronger character. Open house: October 19, 2025.

St. Andrew Nature Preschool

Grades: Preschool (Ages 2-5)
Location: 5607 NE Gher Rd., Vancouver, WA 98662
Phone: 360-892-7210
Website: preschoolstandrew.org
At St. Andrew Nature Preschool your child will investigate the world through nature-based play and enjoy daily time outside, including monthly days in the forest at a local park. Our emergent curriculum reflects the interests of the children and promotes language, math, science, arts, and social-emotional development. Our curriculum also explores embracing differences and acting against bias. In our supportive community, children know they are loved and feel safe to explore, take appropriate risks, problem solve, cooperate with others, and have fun learning! We offer independent preschool classes for ages 3-5 and parent/toddler classes for 2-year-olds and their caregivers. Open House: March 13, 2025, 4:30-6 pm.

Public School Districts in Clark County

Free Preschool Programs in Clark County

ECEAP is the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program funded by Washington State for children 3 and 4 and, in some locations, infants or toddlers who are younger than 3 years old.

Head Start is funded by the federal government for children ages 3 and 4 and, in some locations, pregnant women and children birth to age 3.

In Southwest Washington, ECEAP and Head Start providers include ESD 112, Innovative Services NW and EOCF. Go to dcyf.wa.gov/services/earlylearning-childcare/eceap-headstart to learn more, and to find a program near you.

Vocational Programs in Southwest Washington

Colleges in Southwest Washington

Dual-Language Programs in Clark County

Read the full January 2025 issue here:

Learn More: College Scholarships

Scholarships are an important driver of college access, yet a common misconception is that these opportunities only exist for academically exceptional students. According to Sallie Mae, roughly half of American families are unaware of the variety of scholarships available. So, do your homework by looking into the three main types of scholarships. 

1. Institutional Scholarships: Many higher education institutions offer scholarships for enrolled students, which can reduce the cost of tuition. Private institutions are known for offering significant aid packages for students, so make sure to inquire about opportunities with your preferred college or university. 
2. Private Scholarships: These opportunities come from a variety of sources, including high schools, civic clubs, employers, nonprofits and foundations. The Community Foundation for Southwest Washington offers awards specifically for local students, with deadlines ranging from February-April. Browse available scholarships at cfsww.org/scholarships.
3. Government Scholarships: As implied, these awards are funded by federal or state governments. Washington has the most generous need-based programs for college or career training in the country thanks to programs like the Washington College Grant and Washington State Opportunity Scholarship.

Go here to read more news and articles about education.