About

A big idea for even the smallest learners

Founded in 1982 by a group of local entrepreneurs as Columbus’ first coeducational independent school, The Wellington School is dedicated to helping students find their purpose and realize their potential for tomorrow’s world. Students in preschool through grade 12 have freedom to delve into interests that spark their curiosity, all while building a solid academic foundation through challenging and engaging curriculum. We believe that every form of diversity makes us stronger and strive for each member of our learning community to share their individual voice and have a deep sense of belonging. 

2025-2026 School Year Major Dates

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Welcome from Head of School

Welcome to Wellington! The moment I stepped foot on Wellington’s campus, I knew it was the right school for my family and me. I hope that you, too, will quickly sense that Wellington is a joyful, ambitious, and essential school that lives up to its mission of helping students find their purpose and realize their potential for tomorrow’s world. We value curiosity, authenticity, ambition, empathy, and responsibility.

Learn more about Ms. McLaren

countries of origin for Wellington students

We believe that every form of diversity makes us a stronger community.

Take a deep dive into life at Wellington with our digital view book

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Leaders shaping leaders.

At the center of a Wellington education are the faculty and administrators who encourage, inspire, and celebrate the discoveries our students make every day. Our Board of Trustees provides invaluable guidance, oversight, and vision.

Meet Our Leadership

Our history

Wellington was conceived in 1979 by a group of Columbus executives and entrepreneurs with the goal of creating the first coeducational, independent school in Columbus. They spent three years refining plans, raising money, finding a property, and recruiting teachers and students. In 1982, Wellington opened. All of the living founders remain connected to Wellington today. Many of the founders’ children graduated from Wellington and now their grandchildren as well. Each says the school has exceeded their original vision, and Wellington continues to innovate curriculum that creates tomorrow’s leaders.

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Our Founders

  • Ken Ackerman
    President, K. B. Ackerman Co.
  • Dave Swaddling
    CFO, Compuserve
  • Harry K. Gard
    Co-founder, Compuserve
  • Dave Thomas
    Founder, Wendy’s International
  • Bob Holland
    Upper Arlington City Attorney
  • Jack Ruscilli
    CEO, Ruscilli Construction
  • Len Immke
    Founder, Immke Buick and Cadillac
  • Jeff Wilkins
    Founder and President, CompuServe
  • George Minot
    Executive Vice-President, CompuServe

Milestones

Wellington was conceived of by a group of entrepreneurs with the goal of creating the first co-ed, independent school in Columbus.

Wellington opened with 137 students and 19 employees as the first co-ed, independent school in Columbus, Ohio.

First graduating class - 32 students.

New building opened - 76,000 sq ft.

3 year-old Little Jags preschool began

Wellington celebrated its 40th anniversary.

Wellington opened the new middle school and early childhood wing, thanks to generous support of the Believing Campaign. 

Wellington welcomes its sixth head of school, Eliza McLaren, and achieves record enrollment at 718 students.