Frequently Asked Questions

Westside Neighborhood School (WNS) is a private, independent, preschool through eighth grade, progressive school. Our hands-on, minds-on, constructivist, and project-based learning approach combines the power of a growth mindset, the tools from a strong social-emotional program, and the opportunities to apply all of this to a nearly limitless range of learning experiences. This is essential to our commitment to educate children to become innovators, creators, free-thinkers, and lifetime learners. 

WNS is accredited by the California Association of Independent Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. It is also a member of the National Association of Independent Schools.

Yes, students enrolled in WNS’s preschool automatically matriculate into the DK-8 program.

The WNS preschool program is full day, five days per week.

Preschool families have the option to enroll for either our:

• Typical school year that follows the DK-8 calendar: Late August/early September through early June 

• Extended school year that continues through all of June and July: Late August/early September through end of July

Toilet learning is required for children aged 3 and up (ie. consistently out of diapers and using the toilet). 

Preschool: 2 years by August 1, 2026 

DK: 4 years by August 1, 2026 

Kindergarten: 5 years by August 1, 2026 (August birth dates are considered based on developmental readiness) 

The August 1 cutoff date of birth remains as a guide for grades 1–7.

Preschool: Six classrooms of 10-14 students in each, with two teachers per class.

DK: Three classrooms of 15-16 students in each, with two teachers per class.

Kindergarten – 5th: Three classrooms of 20 students in each, with two teachers per class.

Grades 6-8: Departmentalized, with 55-65 students per grade level; students are placed in groups of 8-17 depending on the subject area.

WNS’s sibling policy is consistent with our philosophy of supporting families. Although we cannot guarantee admission, siblings are granted preferential consideration if the student is well qualified and the family has supported the school’s mission and philosophy.

We can’t wait to get to know you and introduce you to the philosophy of WNS! We invite you to visit our Admissions Processes and Dates page to learn more about our events. 

Visit Admission Processes & Dates page 

WNS does not have a daily uniform. The only time that wearing spirit wear is required is when a K-8 student goes off campus on a field trip.  

Early Childhood Center students do not wear a PE uniform, nor a regular uniform.

Visit WNS apparel store

WNS has a small spirit gear service. They are fully online and managed through the website vendor. Items purchased here can be worn for PE, on field trips, as well as day-to-day! We also offer fun pieces for adults to show your WNS pride as well.

Visit WNS apparel store

Visit WNS hat store

WNS is pleased to offer families the option to order delicious and healthy lunches during the school year for all grades Preschool-8 through Organic Kids LA. Ordering and payment is convenient through their simple, secure online system and must be done so in advance. Their program uses natural, local, and organic ingredients whenever possible, and all poultry and dairy products are antibiotic- and hormone-free. To maintain their commitment to being kind to the environment, their program uses 100% recyclable and compostable packaging.

In the Early Childhood Center, snacks are provided for all students. In grades DK-8, students bring their own snacks from home.

For students 4 years and older, for an additional fee, WNS offers morning bus service in the following areas every morning:

North Route (Santa Monica/ West LA)

• Walgrove Elementary
• Sawtelle & National

East Route (Inglewood, Windsor Hills, Ladera Heights)

• Regent & Market
• Windsor Hills Elementary
• Ladera Park

South Route (South Bay, Westchester, Playa del Rey)

• Aviation & PCH (Redondo Beach)
• Pacific Elementary (Manhattan Beach)
• Falmouth & Manchester (Playa del Rey)

Families receiving financial assistance may be eligible for support with bus fees.

Yes. WNS offers need-based tuition assistance for PS-8. Click here to learn more.

Preschool & DK: Notification letters are emailed February 26, 2026 at 2:00 pm. Enrollment contracts and the non-refundable deposit are due no later than 12:00 pm on March 3, 2026.

K-8: Notification letters are emailed March 13, 2026, at 5:00 pm. Enrollment contracts and the non-refundable deposit are due no later than 12:00 pm on March 20, 2026.