Lower School
Grades Jr. Kindergarten - 4
Where Curiosity Takes Root and Confidence Flourishes
Building independent thinkers who embrace discovery every day.
At The Independent School’s Lower School, we combine a close-knit community with a hands-on, workshop-style curriculum that inspires each child to explore their passions, ask bold questions, and grow as self-directed learners. With passionate teachers, innovative specialists, and family partnerships at every turn, TIS provides the perfect environment for young minds to thrive—today, tomorrow, and beyond.
Academic Approach
We believe in developing children socially, emotionally, and academically. Classrooms serve as model communities where play and creativity are integral to the educational process. It is our privilege to have passionate and nurturing teachers who encourage students to explore and discover the world by igniting each child’s natural curiosity.
Our teachers encourage students to become independent thinkers — confident in themselves and responsible for their work.
Community Engagement
Parent and family involvement is valued at Independent. We have an active Parent Association and hold several events throughout the year, including Bingo nights, skating parties, and a carnival.
Upper School
The Upper School Curriculum Showcase is an opportunity for families, prospective students, and the school community to experience the depth and breadth of learning happening across departments in the TIS Upper School. We want to share curriculum highlights, demonstrate learning tools, and highlight student work. We will have a panel of teachers and staff ready to answer questions and provide comprehensive information about our curriculum. Families will also tour classrooms to visit with teachers, see student work, and engage in our curriculum in unique, hands-on ways.
Why Attend?
This showcase offers a meaningful look at:
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Academic pathways, course offerings, and signature programs
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Advanced and AP opportunities
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Humanities, STEM, world languages, and fine arts
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Academic advising, college counseling, and leadership experiences
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Student perspectives on learning, motivation, and life in the Upper School
Who Is Invited?
Everyone!
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Lower School families curious about what lies ahead.
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Middle School families preparing for upcoming academic choices.
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Upper School families looking to deepen understanding of available opportunities.
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Prospective families exploring what makes the TIS Upper School exceptional.
Hours - 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Students may be dropped off as early as 7:30 AM
2025-2026 TIS School Calendar
A Letter from Mrs. Wilson
Dear Families,
Whether you’re just joining our community or have been part of it for years, I’m so happy to welcome you to the Lower School. As the Head of Lower School—and as an alumna, educator, and parent—I can confidently say there’s no place quite like TIS.
My journey at Independent began in 1996 as a kindergartener. I’ve walked the same halls your children now walk, and I carry with me so many wonderful memories of being a student here. After graduating in 2009, I earned my degree in Elementary Education from Kansas State University, and later my Master of Arts in Education from Friends University. I began teaching second grade at Fort Riley before returning home to Independent to teach third and fourth grade. Now, as Head of Lower School, I have the honor of working alongside the most passionate and dedicated educators I know.
I love leading the Lower School because it truly feels like family. We are a close-knit, supportive community where students and teachers love coming to school every day. This is a place where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to learn and grow.
What sets our program apart is the deep, meaningful relationships our teachers build with students and their families. These strong connections allow us to meet each student’s individual needs—academically, socially, and emotionally. Our students are thriving: on average, they perform one grade level above their current grade. Our teachers are intentional about enriching each child’s experience, challenging them to reach their fullest potential while supporting them every step of the way. Our outstanding specialists work closely with classroom teachers to create engaging, cross-curricular projects that make learning meaningful and exciting.
Families and students experience life in the Lower School as part of a warm, welcoming community. From the moment they walk in the door, students know they are loved and supported. We value parent involvement and see education as a true partnership between school and home. Whether it’s volunteering in classrooms, attending field trips, helping with classroom celebrations, or participating in our active Parent Association, there are many ways for families to be part of the learning journey.
We also love building community through fun and meaningful events throughout the year. Families come together for the Homecoming parade, Panther Cub sports, our Lower School Carnival, Bingo Night, Trunk-or-Treat, Field Day, our Lower School family dance, and so much more. These moments create memories that last a lifetime.
What truly makes the Lower School unique is our people. Our teachers are incredibly invested in The Independent School. Many have been here for decades, and several have seen their own children graduate from TIS. Their commitment to our students and families runs deep, and it shows in everything they do. You simply won’t find a better place to call “home” than right here.
It is a joy and privilege to lead this community that means so much to me. Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education. The future is bright at TIS—and I look forward to a year filled with growth, discovery, and connection.
Go Panthers!
Warmly,
Erin Wilson ‘09
Erin Wilson | Head of Lower School | erin.wilson@theindependentschool.com
Meet Mrs. Wilson
Mrs. Erin Wilson's journey at The Independent School began in 1996 as a kindergartener, and her bond with the school only grew stronger over the years. After graduating from Independent in 2009, she pursued her passion for education and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Kansas State University. Following graduation, she taught second grade at Seitz Elementary in Fort Riley, Kansas, while earning her Master of Arts degree from Friends University.
Upon returning to Wichita, Mrs. Wilson was elated to secure a teaching position at Independent, where her love for learning was first ignited. She taught third grade for six years and fourth grade for one year before accepting the position of Head of Lower School.
Mrs. Wilson’s personal life also found roots in Independent. She married her high school sweetheart, Jacob, who, like her, attended Independent from 7th to 12th grade. The couple has a 3-year-old son, Calvin, and will be welcoming another Panther Cub in January 2024.
