JACKSON, Wyo. – After more than twenty years of preparing high school students to succeed in college and life, the Jackson Hole Community School (JHCS) is extending its philosophy of instilling curiosity, confidence, and integrity to middle school students in grades 6-8 starting in August 2026.
The new middle school will be located next door to the current high school at 1715 High School Road, creating a single, integrated campus for grades 6-12. Their ideal situation next to one another facilitates the sharing of ideas, programs, and resources as the Community School develops middle school curriculum and programming.
Head of School Ted Smith said the expansion “lets us grow thoughtfully while staying true to who we are; a small, close-knit community that values relationships and depth of learning.”
Founding Middle School Director Bill Waskowitz joined the staff in April and full time starting in July. He has been collaborating with faculty to develop the Middle School curriculum and programming. “Middle school is a pivotal time,” Waskowitz said. “Students deserve a place where they feel known, valued, and capable, where they can take risks, ask questions, and grow into confident, kind young people.”
Since its founding in 2004, the Community School has graduated over 300 students. The school’s mission, rooted in challenging academics and personal relationships, focuses on the development of both student initiative and moral character; JHCS graduates are leaders, thinkers, contributors, and appreciators who are prepared to make meaningful impact in their communities. The addition of a 6-8th-grade middle school will expand this proven philosophy for the unique developmental needs of this age group.
The Community School aims to have its student body reflect our local communities and has adopted a flexible tuition model: through donations, scholarships, and grants, JHCS is able to set tuition on a sliding scale based on the means of individual families and the school’s capacity. Scholarships are also available.
Applications are being accepted for the 2026–27 school year for both the middle and upper schools; the deadline is January 30, and there is no fee to apply.
The Community School invites families interested in learning more to a Grades 6-12 Admissions Open House tonight, Wednesday, Nov. 12, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Families will be able to meet school leadership and tour the expanded campus, where faculty from each department will present an overview of curricular and experiential programming. To learn more about admissions, flexible tuition, and scholarships please visit jhcommunityschool.org.
