Our History

In 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. 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. 

Today, due to Mrs. Garvey's vision, The Independent School continues to thrive. 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.