Ashbrook Independent School welcomes students in Preschool through 8th grade.
Frequently Asked Questions

Admissions & Enrollment
You can begin the process anytime by Scheduling a Tour. After your tour, you’ll be guided through our online application.
We accept applications year-round. However, applying early ensures the best chance of placement in your desired grade.
We accept applications year-round. However, applying early ensures the best chance of placement in your desired grade. Ashbrook admits qualified mid-year transfers for classrooms with open availability. Applications for the following school year are accepted on a year-long basis. The application must be completed and supplemental application forms downloaded, completed and returned to the office. After applications are received, the Admissions Team will schedule student and parent visits.
1. Parents recognize that the Ashbrook Independent School mission is to challenge and nurture academically capable students.
2. The Online Admissions Application is completed and submitted.
3. The applicant visits the school for a full day in the class he/she would be attending. Summer applicants meet with the Admissions Team.
4. The family will actively meet the Ashbrook expectations of community cooperation and positive connections.
5. Ashbrook staff assesses the student’s core content and social skills.
6. Admission to Ashbrook would be beneficial for both the potential student and the existing class.
No, Ashbrook does not require tests for admission. The Ashbrook staff administers assessments and considers academic transcripts and recommendations.
Yes! Families are encouraged to schedule a tour with our admissions team. Tours are personalized to your child’s grade level and interests.
Tuition & Financial Assistance
Tuition varies by grade level. Please visit our Tuition page for current rates.
Neither fees nor tuition are refundable. Tuition insurance may cover expenses if the school year is not completed. Tuition insurance is required for all families who do not pay their tuition in one lump sum. We strongly encourage all families to purchase tuition insurance.
Yes. Ashbrook is committed to making an extraordinary education accessible. We use the FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment system to determine need-based assistance. Families submit a simple application, along with supporting documents, and aid is awarded confidentially. For more information, visit our Financial Aid page.
Yes, there is a $40 fee paid directly to FACTS when you apply.
Ashbrook Independent School is committed to providing an education to eligible students regardless of financial circumstances as our financial assistance budget allows. All financial aid is awarded on the basis of demonstrated need as determined through analysis of a family’s financial resources according to the FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment service.
Academics & Classrooms
Our small class sizes (average 12–16 students) ensure that every child is known, supported, and challenged.
Ashbrook offers a rigorous, well-rounded curriculum emphasizing critical thinking, problem solving, writing, science, math, arts, and world languages beginning in the early grades. For deeper look at our curriculum, visit our Academics page.
Yes! In addition to core subjects, students participate in art, music, drama, world languages, and physical education. Additionally, a variety of after school clubs are offered throughout the year.
Student Life & Community
Students have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of after-school clubs and enrichment programs. Offerings vary each year based on student interest.
The culture of Ashbrook Independent School is guided by our Character Traits. We progress monthly, from one trait to next, throughout the course of the year. Exploring the meaning and significance of our chosen traits gives them context within our lives.
Parent involvement is a key part of the Ashbrook experience. Families can volunteer in classrooms, help with events and fundraising efforts, join committees, and participate in the vibrant PTO.
General Information
An independent school is a private, non-religious school that operates outside of a public school district. Ashbrook is governed by a board of trustees and registered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. As an independent school, we do not receive government funding. Our programs are supported through tuition and the generosity of our families and community.
Because we serve a wide range of grade levels, exact start and end times vary by grade level. In general, families can expect a standard school day to run from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Extended care is also available before and after school for families who need additional coverage.
Yes, we offer an After School Program 3:05 – 5:30 p.m. most school days. For a breakdown of pricing, visit our Tuition page.
Lower School (K-4th grade) students have a world language class for 30 minutes every day.
Middle School (5th-8th grade) students have a world language class every other day for 50 minutes.
We teach French, Spanish, and Mandarin Chinese.
As a private school, we use the Iowa Assessments once a year to gather data on the progress our students make in all of the core academic subjects. Ashbrook students often score above average on these assessments.
The school’s dress code standard is that clothing be neat, clean, and appropriate to the program of the day. Our students wear certain colors depending on the grade level.
Our small class sizes allow us to differentiate learning within our classrooms. In addition, we have flexible schedules that allow students to advance to higher classes in some subjects that are beyond their current grade level.
All students go through our admissions process that includes an evaluation of their social, emotional, and academic skills to determine readiness.
Students in our Beginning School follow the Creative Curriculum, play-based curriculum where students engage in interest area exploration and guided intentional time throughout their day. Spaces in the room such as block play area, dramatic play area, toys and games, art area, library area, discovery area, and cooking area allow children daily opportunities to learn through play.
Yes, preschool and pre-kindergarten students have one hour of rest time each day.
Beginning School (preschool & pre-kindergarten): 1 hour of planned outside time each day, and teachers often add more outdoor opportunities during the day depending on the weather.
Lower School (kindergarten-4th grade): 20 minute recess in the morning and 30 minute recess after lunch, and teachers often add more outdoor opportunities during the day depending on the weather.
Middle School (5th-8th grade): 15 minute recess in the morning and 15 minute recess after lunch, and students have one term of PE core as well as other electives that provide additional outdoor opportunities.
In high school, students are expected to maintain strong grades, perform well on state assessments, and meet increasing academic challenges. Just as important, however, are the core skills that set students up for long-term success. Planning, organization, self-discipline, resilience, and critical thinking. At Ashbrook, these skills are intentionally woven into daily learning. Our students leave with not only a solid academic foundation, but also the confidence and habits they need to thrive in high school and beyond.
Yes, we offer hot lunch every day with a 10-day rotation menu.
EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL STUDENTS
Ashbrook Independent School is an equal opportunity institution and does not discriminate in employment, admission practices, or access to programs on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit based factors.