ABRAHAM JOSHUA HESCHEL DAY SCHOOL
17701 Devonshire St,
Northridge, CA 91325
https://www.heschel.com
Abraham Joshua Heschel Day School is a dynamic transitional kindergarten through eighth grade educational community grounded in Jewish values. Located on a three-acre campus in Northridge, California, the sense of inspiration and engagement that have been the hallmark of Heschel since its inception in 1972 are unmistakable. Our values of tradition, character, and community infuse students, faculty, staff, and parents with shared vision and meaningful purpose. Individually and collectively, we challenge ourselves to pursue excellence. As a pluralistic Jewish school, our families observe Judaism on many different levels. Balancing individual engagement and joyful learning with rigorous studies within a dual curriculum is at the forefront of a Heschel education. Teachers and parents work collaboratively to assure that we offer our students challenging and diverse opportunities for growth in a secure, positive environment with the resources to enable our children to emerge as active citizens who understand the importance of making a difference in the world. Students are encouraged to question and engage in respectful debate, problem solve and think critically.
For more information, please contact our Director of Admission, Lara.Martin@heschel.com, 818-368-5781 x318.
THE ACADEMY SCHOOL
2722 Benvenue Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94705
www.theacademyschool.org
BASIS INDEPENDENT FREMONT | TK–12
3300 Kearney Street, Fremont, California 94538 (TK–Grade 5)
39706 Mission Boulevard, Fremont, California 94539 (Grades 6–12)
(510) 573-3435 (TK–Grade 5)
(510) 738-6003 (Grades 6–9)
fremont.basisindependent.com
BASIS Independent Fremont is a TK–12 private school where students discover their passions as they learn at the highest international levels. The world-acclaimed BASIS Curriculum is a blend of the best practices found in top education systems around the world, led by passionate Subject Expert Teachers who bring classrooms to life and foster a love of learning in every student. The curriculum and teachers unite to empower students’ natural curiosity, ingenuity, and independence from their first day in TK and all the way through senior year.
Students participate in a well-rounded, advanced liberal arts program with STEM offerings that is designed to inspire mastery and excellence across a diverse course load, including Mandarin, engineering, performing arts, physics, economics, chemistry, humanities, and more. BASIS Independent Fremont fosters a joyful learning culture where hard work is celebrated and intellectual pursuits results in extraordinary outcomes.
BASIS INDEPENDENT SILICON VALLEY | TK–Grade 12
1500 Partridge Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94087 (TK–Grade 5; Coming fall 2022)
1290 Parkmoor Ave San Jose, CA 95126 (Grades 6–12)
(408) 291-0907
siliconvalley.basisindependent.com
At BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, a grades 5–12 private school, students perform at the top 1% of their U.S. peers in math, reading, and science. Students and Subject Expert Teachers engage in a spiraling, globally bench-marked curriculum designed to inspire mastery and excellence. Rooted in STEM and the liberal arts, our program calls for the mastery of diverse content across disciplines—from to logic, economics, and concurrent sciences in middle school to college-level capstone courses and independent research in high school.
We believe in setting a higher standard and promoting self-reliance and accountability in an environment where learning is encouraged and celebrated. Our world-class educators are subject experts in their discipline who help students develop the knowledge, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills needed to enter and excel in the world’s top colleges and universities.
BENTLEY SCHOOL
Belong to a Community. Become Your Best Self. Bentley is a distinctive independent K-12 day school founded in 1920 with two beautiful campuses in Oakland (K-8) and Lafayette (9-12).
Exacting academics, caring teachers and peers, and an inclusive community prepare students for lives of purpose and success in and beyond college.
Learn more at www.bentleyschool.org.
THE BERKELEY SCHOOL
Early Childhood: 2030 Francisco Street Berkeley, CA 94709
(510) 849-8340
K-8th Grade: 1310 University Avenue Berkeley, CA 94702
(510) 665-8800
https://www.theberkeleyschool.org/
At The Berkeley School, Preschool through 8th Grade students actively learn what it means to be a member of their school community, their local community, and the global community. Filtered through the lens of civic engagement, The Berkeley School’s approach to teaching connects academic rigor with social and emotional development.
Our responsive curriculum focuses on current events and key conflict-resolution opportunities, empathy development practices, and student-led community campaigns, all of which reinforce our core belief: what matters in education is what matters in life.
You’re invited to meet with us virtually for an Open House or in-person for an outdoor campus tour. Safety is first and foremost as we open our campuses for prospective families to explore our school. Register at https://www.theberkeleyschool.org/important-dates/.
THE BISHOP’S SCHOOL
7607 La Jolla Boulevard
La Jolla, California 92037
(858) 875-0826
www.bishops.com
Coeducational | College Preparatory | Grades 6-12
The Bishop’s School is a thriving learning community on an 11-acre campus in La Jolla. San Diego’s only independent middle and high school affiliated with the Episcopal Church, Bishop’s is an intentionally pluralistic and inclusive community where students come from more than 70 schools representing diverse religious, cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Forty-eight percent of students self-identify as people of color; 20 percent receive more than $4 million in financial aid. We have 72 sports teams, 40 performing arts shows in dance, theater, choral and instrumental music, and we offer visual arts options from photography to animation and more. Classrooms are designed for interaction and conversation rather than lecture.
Why Bishop’s?
On our campus, we are committed to well-being as the foundation for growth, fostering a community of inclusion and belonging. As we lean into our deep expertise in adolescent learning and development, we also work to help students cultivate a sense of greater purpose.
The Episcopal principles of inclusion, humility and kindness guide our actions every day.
BRENTWOOD SCHOOL
East Campus (Grades 6-12)
100 South Barrington Pl., Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-476-4087
West Campus (Grades K-5)
12001 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-889-2812
Brentwood School is an independent K-12 coed day school with two campuses, located four blocks apart on Sunset Boulevard, in the Brentwood neighborhood of West Los Angeles.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE:
Brentwood School inspires every student to:
Think critically and creatively.
Act ethically.
Shape a future with meaning.
CORE VALUES:
Trust • Respect • Responsibility • Honesty • Caring • Diversity • Community
DIVERSITY MISSION STATEMENT:
The Brentwood School community actively seeks diverse perspectives and embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential. We create an environment that fosters openness and appreciation of multiple dimensions of culture and identity. We aim to engage mindfully in open and frequent dialogues to ensure that each member is valued, included, and respected. Diversity is in the fabric of who we are.
THE BUCKLEY SCHOOL
3900 Stansbury Avenue
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
https://www.buckley.org
CATHEDRAL SCHOOL FOR BOYS
https://www.cathedralschool.net
Cathedral School for Boys is an independent K-8 all-boys school located on Nob Hill in the heart of San Francisco. Since its founding in 1957, Cathedral has provided an excellent education through intellectual inquiry and rigor, devoting each day to the spirited dialogue, dynamic lessons, and intentional character building that guide each young boy to engage in the way that best fits him. With 264 students, we are the optimal size for a K-8 school, and our close-knit community lets every boy be seen for who he is. Our committed faculty possesses a deep understanding of how boys learn, and they strive to help each boy learn to think not only critically, but creatively and independently as well. Our graduates enter high school prepared for rigorous academics as well as the challenges of life, coupled with a deep empathy and respect for the world around them.
As an Episcopal school nestled on the grounds of Grace Cathedral — a building of breathless architecture and unparalleled beauty — we strive for diversity of thought, experience, and perspective. Families of all faiths, cultures, ethnicities, makeups, and socio-economic backgrounds are welcomed and celebrated here.
THE CENTER FOR EARLY EDUCATION
http://www.centerforearlyeducation.org
563 North Alfred Street
West Hollywood, CA 90048
323-651-0707
The Center for Early Education is an independent, coeducational day school in West Hollywood, California serving approximately 538 students in its Toddler through Sixth Grade programs.
The school was founded in 1939 by a group of parents who were inspired by the belief that children’s social and emotional development are as important as their academic growth. Today The Center is a nationally renowned, innovative Early Childhood and Elementary school that combines a nurturing, inclusive learning environment with an increasingly challenging academic program that addresses the developmental needs of each child.
Centrally located in the vibrant city of West Hollywood, the school’s urban campus houses state of the art facilities, including an Innovation Center, science labs, a 23,000 volume library, art studios, music rooms, gymnasiums, and developmentally appropriate ground level and rooftop playgrounds.
With its ongoing commitment to diversity, the school welcomes families from all over the city of Los Angeles who represent a wide range of diversity in all its forms; racial, ethnic, cultural, socio-economic, and family makeup, among others. These families are united by their belief in our core values of caring, responsibility, inclusion, and honesty.
Application information can be found on our website at www.CenterForEarlyEducation.org.
CHILDREN’S COMMUNITY SCHOOL
14702 Sylvan St.
Van Nuys, CA 91411
818-780-6226
www.ccsteaches.org
Welcome to the modern classroom, where a diverse set of students are motivated, not lectured. Fueled by responsibility, not chastened by obedience. Here, children are never bored or stifled. Here, everyone develops a love of learning. Here, students form the building blocks of ingenuity that will reap a lifetime of rewards.
Children’s Community School is an independent, progressive elementary school in Van Nuys, California. Dedicated to providing a diverse student body an excellent education that prepares them, not just for middle school, but for life. For nearly 40 years, CCS has offered a hands-on, Dewey-based curriculum that teaches children to know themselves as learners (strengths and weaknesses), cultivates compassion and responsibility (for themselves and others), and encourages active participation in our community and democracy. To schedule a tour of our school, visit www.ccsteaches.org.
THE COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL
6100 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94618
510-652-0111
www.college-prep.org
The College Preparatory School is a vibrant day school for grades 9-12 in Oakland’s Rockridge neighborhood. At College Prep we believe in the foundational importance of scholarship, the value of dialogue, and the need for academically curious young people to belong to a kind, creative, diverse, and joyful community. We challenge our students to engage deeply in learning, appreciate one another, and grow into adults who are intellectually adventurous, ethically sure-footed, and generous of heart and spirit.
COW HOLLOW SCHOOL
65 Funston Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94129
415-921-2328
www.cowhollowschool.org
Cow Hollow School, a beautiful little school nestled in the Presidio in San Francisco, offers parent participation, part day and summer programs for children ages 2-5.
Our approach to education comes directly from an absolute love of children and childhood. We believe that every child is capable and competent. We observe, document and interpret children’s thinking and learning in order to understand, support and extend the children’s meaning-making experiences.
As a school community we value process, play, inquiry, stewardship for the earth, relationships, and creativity. Within the context of meaningful experiences and reciprocal relationships among participants, it is our goal to inspire dispositions for lifelong learning.
The following principles guide and define our approach to learning and teaching:
- Every child is capable and competent
- Children learn through play, investigation, inquiry and exploration
- Children and adults learn and play in reciprocal relationships with peers, family members, and teachers
- Adults recognize the many ways in which children approach learning and relationships, express themselves, and represent what they are coming to know
- Process is valued, acknowledged, supported, nurtured and studied
- Documentation of learning processes acts as memory, assessment, and advocacy
- The indoor and outdoor environments, and natural spaces, transform, inform, and provoke thinking and learning
- School is a place grounded in the pursuit of social justice, social responsibility, human dignity and respect for all.
THE CROWDEN SCHOOL
https://www.crowden.org/the-crowden-school
The Crowden School is unlike any other school in the country, a 3rd–8th grade day school with chamber music at its heart. Since 1983, our ensemble-based curriculum has instilled in our students the creative, collaborative, and critical-thinking skills to succeed in life. The study of music alongside a challenging academic curriculum offers our students a unique educational experience with transformative results. In our small classes, you will find students who are actively engaged with learning, whether they are making music or discussing books, solving equations, or playing soccer. The cooperative and emphatic communication skills our students learn while playing music together, and the fun they have in doing it, carries over to all aspects of their lives. Crowden School students are lively, curious, and confident learners. Our alumni are well-rounded leaders, ready to meet the artistic and intellectual challenges of the high school years and beyond—whether they go on to careers in microbiology or music.
For children who love music, Crowden offers a supportive home and community for engaged learning and growth. At The Crowden School, music changes everything.
EAST BAY SCHOOL FOR BOYS
2340 Durant Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94704
510-621-3272
www.ebsfb.org
The East Bay School for Boys empowers middle school boys (grades 6-8) to cultivate their intellectual, physical, and emotional selves to become the engaged, thoughtful, and courageous men of tomorrow.
The East Bay School for Boys focuses on how boys learn best and believes boys engage more and learn more in a challenging and active learning environment that combines hard work with discovery, creativity, fun, and purpose. Whether forging utensils and designing furniture in our 21st Century workshop or mummifying hens and learning cuneiform in our irresistible classrooms; at EBSB, we teach and do. We provide opportunities for boys to design, build, nurture, and grow their world, empowering boys to affect, connect, reflect, and most importantly, love to learn.
In our single-sex environment, we have a unique opportunity to empower our students so they don’t have to take power away from others. We challenge students to use respectful language, unlearn messages of misogyny inherited from the larger culture, and reflect on their gender identity in relation to power and privilege. We develop students’ awareness of male privilege and provide opportunities for them to engage in meaningful social justice conversations and actions.
For more information or to sign up for an Information Night, check us out at www.ebsfb.org/visit-us
ECOLE BILINGUE DE BERKELEY
1009 Heinz Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94710
510-549-3867
Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley, founded in 1977, is a preschool to 8th grade French-American school.
As a recognized leader in international bilingual education, EB integrates the rigor and excellence of a French curriculum into a dynamic, whole-child education, imbuing students with tenacity, cross-cultural fluency, a deep intellectual capacity and vast stores of kindness.
EB’s students receive a wide range of services that enrich their educational experience. We strongly believe that in order to grow into thriving adolescents and adults, children need character education, environmental education, and a supportive atmosphere that nurtures creativity and exploration.
We offer a full range of support to children and families: extended day care and after-school enrichment classes, counseling, individual support in French, learning specialist, and a bilingual library that all families can access.
At Middle School level, we have recently created our International track! Students can now start in Middle School (grade 6) with no prior experience with French Language and have the opportunity to join our community then.
Accreditations: WASC/CAIS, NAIS Member, French Ministry of Education and Mission Laïque Française.
Visit www.eb.org for more info or contact our Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management, Manon Johnson at mjohnson@eb.org.
EF ACADEMY PASADENA
1539 E Howard St., Pasadena, CA 91104
https://www.efacademy.org/pasadena/
(914) 495-6056
EF Academy's mission is to open the world through education. At our international, private high school welcoming day and boarding students from 75+ countries, students will engage in a learning experience that asks them to explore diverse perspectives through a process of collaboration, analysis and reflection aimed at developing the skills necessary to respond to the challenges and opportunities facing their generation. Here, we foster true global citizenship through our multicultural learning community. Our school promises to provide a superior education, thorough preparation for university, and a future that knows no borders.
Our California campus, EF Academy Pasadena, is located on a brand new 16-acre campus in greater Los Angeles County, 30-minutes from L.A. and is committed to empowering students to become confident, resilient, and responsible global citizens. EF Academy embraces the spirit of collaborative international perspective on a community-focused campus. We offer a range of programs so that all our students master a key set of global competencies in multilingualism, leadership and travel enhanced by a broad array of clubs, activities, and competitions. With 30+ after school clubs and activities, students have the opportunity to discover their true passions. EF Academy encourages students to develop the confidence and independence that will serve them well in college and the real world after.
EF Academy also has locations in Westchester, New York, and Oxford, England.
GATEWAY SCHOOL
255 Swift Street
Santa Cruz, California 95060
(831) 423-0341
www.gatewaysc.org
admissions@gatewaysc.org
Grades K-8
Gateway School in Santa Cruz, California has provided families with an exceptional educational experience for 50 years. Students and alumni proudly embody the school's values and inspire future generations as Gateway embarks on its next 50 years.
Gateway School is an all gender day school for students in grades Kindergarten through 8th. We are a community dedicated to nurturing academic excellence and intellectual curiosity, high character and personal compassion, and individual agency and engagement.
We invite all families interested in Gateway School to visit, ask questions, and get to know our community! For more information and to schedule a tour, please email our Admissions Manager or visit our website at www.gatewaysc.org.
GERMAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF SILICON VALLEY
650 254 0748
www.gissv.org
admissions@gissv.org
Mountain View Campus
Preschool - Grade 12
310 Easy Street
San Francisco Campus
Preschool - Grade 8
117 Diamond St. (Castro)
The German International School of Silicon Valley (GISSV) is an independent bilingual immersion school focused on nurturing students using a stimulating project-based learning system that fosters critical, independent, and imaginative thinking.
We feature a strong science program and are a recognized MINT (the German equivalent to STEM) school. Our Teachers are at the heart of the GISSV experience. We pride ourselves in our caring, highly qualified, experienced and international faculty, most of whom have gone through Germany’s rigorous teacher training and holds an advanced German degree (Master's equivalent).
Our unique homeroom teacher system allows students to stay with the same teacher for several years, forging a strong bond, and for students joining us with little or no knowledge of either German or English, we offer individualized language learning support.
GISSV is accredited by WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) and is recognized as the only official German School Abroad (DAS) in California. This enables our students to graduate with dual diplomas, the California High School Diploma, and the German International Abitur offering world-wide opportunities.
Schedule a tour with our Admissions Director and discover more about GISSV.
THE HARKER SCHOOL
500 Saratoga Ave.
San Jose, CA 95129
408-249-2510
communications@harker.org
www.harker.org
An inspiring and supportive community: The Harker School
The Harker School, established in 1893, is a kindergarten-grade 12 private school in Silicon Valley that has earned international recognition for its top academics, quality teachers and student achievements. Educating more than 2,000 students, Harker is the largest independent school of its kind in California with each division on its own San Jose campus.
Harker blends strong college-prep academics with rich and extensive offerings in STEM, business, athletics and the arts. Harker evaluates the course placement that will best challenge and inspire each student to academic excellence, ensuring a motivating and exciting learning environment. Outstanding faculty, many with advanced degrees, and small class sizes are paramount at Harker. Our comprehensive, innovative curriculum features outstanding teaching techniques, diverse educational experiences and broad rich, extracurricular activities.
Kindness, respect, honesty, integrity and personal accountability have been in the school’s DNA since its founding. Community service, character development curriculum and our honor code all encourage, develop and reinforce these important qualities.
Harker is an inspiring, supportive and lively community where parents, faculty, staff, students and alumni form a close-knit community through events, traditions and our common mission. Our students leave Harker uncommonly prepared for college and ready to make a difference in the world. For more information visit www.harker.org.
HEAD-ROYCE SCHOOL
Head-Royce is a nationally recognized K-12 independent school situated in the hills of Oakland, California. Our mission is to inspire a lifelong love of learning with a focus on scholarship, diversity, and citizenship.
Upon visiting our campus, you will see a dynamic and vibrant learning center in action. From innovation centers, internships, and integrated technology, to life skills classes, service learning, cross-divisional buddies and small advising groups, we are equally dedicated to educational excellence and social-emotional learning.
At our heart, we are a community of passionate educators and learners, all sharing a deep commitment to creating lifelong learners who will be prepared to lead with joy and compassion. Our faculty is world-class, bringing unique perspectives from a wide range of experiences. Their diversity of thought, coupled with their subject matter mastery, uniquely positions them to provide transformative experiences to every student across our K-12 setting. Our families come to us from a variety of backgrounds and cultures and we are proud to reflect the fabric of the Bay Area.
We enroll a diverse student body of approximately 875 talented and ambitious learners. Our admissions are open to all students regardless of race, color, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation, nationality, or ethnic origin.
HILLBROOK SCHOOL
300 Marchmont Drive
Los Gatos, CA 95032
(408) 356-6116
admission@hillbrook.org
www.hillbrook.org
Be Kind, Be Curious, Take Risks, Be Your Best: these are the core values of Hillbrook, an independent JK-8 school in the hills of Los Gatos, California—14 rolling acres where students can play, dream, and explore. At Hillbrook, children will find a close, welcoming community of friends, parents, and educators, a place where every child is known, loved, and encouraged to be exactly who they are. In addition to strong academic programs in math, science, the arts, history, languages, and more, Hillbrook students are invited to explore their passions and curiosities, and reach beyond themselves to make a difference. At the The Scott Center for Social Entrepreneurship, students are encouraged to transform their ideas into impact, explore their passions and curiosities, and see themselves as part of the world. As a school, we move into the future with intention—diversity, equity, and inclusion is woven into our academic curriculum, preparing students to see the world as it is, imagine what it might be, and develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to build a better future.
To learn more, book a tour, and apply, please visit www.hillbrook.org.
HOLLYWOOD SCHOOLHOUSE
1233 North McCadden Place
Los Angeles, California 90038
323.465.1320
info@hshla.org
www.hshla.org
KATHERINE DELMAR BURKE SCHOOL
7070 California Street
San Francisco, CA 94121
415-751-0177, ext. 206
www.kdbs.org
An independent K–8 school for girls
Burke’s mission is to educate, encourage and empower girls. Our school combines academic excellence with an appreciation for childhood so that students thrive as learners, develop a strong sense of self, contribute to community, and fulfill their potential, now and throughout life.
KIRBY SCHOOL
425 Encinal Street
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
831-423-0658
kirby.org
Kirby School is an award-winning independent 6th-12th grade college preparatory school in Santa Cruz, California offering a challenging academic curriculum to middle and high school students in a highly responsive environment. Seminar-sized classes averaging 12 students enable our inspiring faculty, each a life-long learner, to provide individualized instruction and supportive guidance to each student. We welcome learners from different backgrounds, beliefs and experiences and are committed to empowering each student to shape their futures with confidence. Our college prep curriculum includes:
• Award-winning visual and performing arts programs
• Personalized college counseling
• A breadth of learning opportunities including service learning programs, grade-level retreats and immersive travel experiences.
• The opportunity for independent study or to follow an intensive path of study, with support from a faculty advisor.
• A caring student success team including the following services: Diversity and Inclusion, onsite.
• Mental Wellness Counseling, Academic Counseling and Learning Services for students with different learning abilities.
• Inclusive and competitive athletics.
LIVE OAK SCHOOL
1555 Mariposa Street
San Francisco, CA 94107
(415) 861-8840
https://www.liveoaksf.org
NEW ROADS SCHOOL
www.newroads.org
310-828-5582
131 Olympic Boulevard
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Serving young people in grades K-12
New Roads School, a K-12 independent school in Santa Monica, CA, liberates voice, curiosity, perspective and talents through the art and science of progressive education. New Roads School provides an inspired college preparatory program from which an authentically diverse student population, mirroring the rich diversity of Los Angeles, develops a personal dedication to learning, a respect for independent thinking, an expanding curiosity about the world and its people, and a commitment to the common good. We believe that education must not be a race for the accumulation of facts, but a joint venture among students, parents, and teachers to develop habits of mind, habits of character, an ever-expanding awareness of the human situation, and the tools needed for social, political and moral participation as well as personal fulfillment. To be truly supportive of young people, teachers and parents must themselves continue to learn so that they may perceive the young accurately and treat them wisely.
OAK GROVE SCHOOL
220 W. Lomita Ave.
Ojai, CA 93023
oakgroveschool.org
Inspired by the original intent and statement of philosophy left by the school’s founder J. Krishnamurti, the mission of Oak Grove School is to assist students in developing those qualities of mind, heart, and body that will enable them to function with excellence, care, and responsibility in the modern world. In addition, it is the intention of the school to offer a place where the whole community can inquire together into the perennial questions of humankind and explore an approach to life that is whole, mindful, and intelligent.
Our approach to learning from Pk through College Prep, emphasizes depth over coverage, project-based learning, a model of student-as-worker/teacher-as-coach, a genuine appreciation of each student’s unique capabilities, and the balance of traditional assessments with authentic assessment practices such as portfolios, demonstrations of learning and student exhibitions.
Learn more and schedule a tour on our website
Take a virtual 360 tour
Visit us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, both Fun and philosophical
THE OXBOW SCHOOL
530 Third Street
Napa, CA 94559
707.255.6000
www.oxbowschool.org
The Oxbow School is a single-semester art and academically focused boarding school for high school juniors, seniors, and gap-year students in beautiful Napa, CA. At Oxbow, students are immersed in an environment of critical thinking and creative problem solving that prepares them for life after high school. Students come from all over the country and internationally to learn from our distinguished faculty and world-renowned visiting artists. As the nation’s only art-focused semester boarding program for high school students, Oxbow stands out as a unique educational model, situated in a beautiful setting that is conducive to fostering student growth. Oxbow is centered on a belief in the impact that direct contact with artists can have on young minds.
Students leave Oxbow transformed, having had time and space that is curated, intentional, and slowed down to find and celebrate their voice and develop and incubate their ideas. They return home with an appreciation of art, how art is made, the function of the artist in the world, and with personal agency and with powerful new life skills: a creative framework for problem solving and teamwork; a vocabulary to analyze and interpret visual material and theoretical concepts; and the confidence to experiment and pursue their passions.
The Oxbow School curriculum is designed to match the requirements of the nation’s best public and private high schools and is as committed to academics as it is to art making. All of the courses at Oxbow are accredited, honors level, and college preparatory.
For more information, please visit our website at www.oxbowschool.org or contact our Director of Admissions, Jason Tucker, at admissions@oxbowschool.org or 707.363.0449.
PARK DAY SCHOOL
Oakland, CA
510-653-0317
parkdayschool.org
Park Day School is a progressive K-8 co-ed school located in Oakland, California. Park Day provides a strong academic foundation where students learn by doing and are encouraged to follow their own curiosity.
With a focus on developing intrinsic motivation, Park Day’s robust interdisciplinary academic program includes an emphasis on social justice and social emotional learning. Classes are designed to prepare students to be informed, courageous, and compassionate people who shape a more equitable and sustainable world, while nurturing a love of learning that propels them their entire lives.
Take a virtual tour of campus or sign up to visit Park Day School in person parkdayschool.org.
PILGRIM SCHOOL
540 So. Commonwealth Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90020
213-385-7351
www.pilgrim-school.org
Early Education- 12th Grade
Located between Downtown LA and Hancock Park on the corner of 6th and Commonwealth, Pilgrim School was established in 1958.
Pilgrim’s close knit community includes students in toddler, preschool and junior kindergarten programs, elementary school (K-5), middle school (6-8) and high school (9-12). Small class sizes ensure that every student receives the individual attention she or he requires throughout their education, including invaluable personal guidance through the complex college admissions process. In addition, Pilgrim has Mayflower House, a dormitory for high school students (both domestic and international).
Visitors notice the beauty of the historic campus, but also the poise and friendliness of the students, and the genuine sense of community and warmth. An integral part of the school’s identity is that the Pilgrim community is made up of a vibrant range of families and students who mirror the ethnic, family profile and socioeconomic mix that defines Los Angeles.
Pilgrim School provides a personalized education in a nurturing environment based on a “no cut/everybody plays” model in the arts, academics, physical and outdoor education. Pilgrim offers both before-and after-school care and enrichment programs, a wonderful convenience for parents that also offers students the opportunity to participate in additional organized activities.
PROSPECT SIERRA SCHOOL
2060 Tapscott Avenue
El Cerrito, CA 94530
www.prospectsierra.org
PRESIDIO HILL SCHOOL
3839 Washington Street
San Francisco, CA 94118
415-751-9318
www.presidiohill.org
TK - 8th grade
Presidio Hill School was founded as a place to teach students in a new way—to inspire a lifelong love of learning by treating students as individuals who can shape their own learning, by focusing on the arts and the outdoors, and by fostering empathy and caring connections throughout the fabric of the school. More than one hundred years later, Presidio Hill School continues to be a place where children permanently fall in love with learning. Our school nurtures 230 students from transitional kindergarten through eighth grade and, with only one class per grade in the lower school and two sections per grade in middle school, we are a community where individuality is celebrated and every student and family is appreciated. Located just blocks from one of the most beautiful and bio-diverse locations in the world—the Presidio of San Francisco—our students are able to explore the natural world and incorporate the environment into their everyday learning experiences.
PS1 Pluralistic School
1225 Broadway
Santa Monica, CA 90404
310-394-1313
www.psone.org
PS1 Pluralistic School is an independent, co-ed elementary school for grades K-6. Located in Santa Monica, CA, PS1 was founded in 1971 by current school head Joel Pelcyger and Eleanor Coben in order to provide excellence in academics coupled with joyful learning and a sense of community.
At PS1, we recognize that every child is unique, so we built a school that nurtures individual talents and learning styles. That’s how children become the best versions of themselves, in a school where fitting in is about being yourself.
Through the acquisition of strong academic and interpersonal skills, we seek to strengthen in the young the image they have of their best selves. Through helping children develop successful strategies for learning and guiding them to feel proud of their accomplishments, our students expand their images of themselves as competent individuals open to life-long learning. Our aim is to show that learning is a process of living and not just a preparation for future life.
THE RENAISSANCE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
3650 Dimond Ave.
Oakland, 94602
5201 Park Blvd.
Piedmont, 94611
510-531-8566
https://www.therenaissanceschool.org
The Renaissance International School (TRIS) provides children age two through middle school with a high-quality and unique education. Students go beyond the expected, and learn to be compassionate, confident, creative individuals who achieve their highest potential and succeed in high school, college, and beyond.
We are an international community with more than 30 countries and nearly every ethnic group and major world religion represented. Our Montessori curriculum encompasses the full substance of a traditional curriculum and includes music, fine arts, and French/Spanish/English language immersion. We teach students to think, not simply to memorize. We realize that no two students learn at the same pace, nor do they necessarily all learn from the same methods. In addressing each student as a unique individual, we are flexible and creative.
We are following COVID-19 protocols and guidelines, including maintaining the highest cleanliness standards. We have built small cohorts of students who have ample space indoors and outdoors. We offer in-person classes and an online curriculum with live lessons. We are capable of easily moving to a completely online platform. We are prepared for all learning scenarios: online lessons, pre-recorded lessons, as well as our beautiful in-person classrooms.
SAN FRANCISCO WALDORF SCHOOL
Explore the extraordinary difference
www.sfwaldorf.org
Founded in 1979, our school has expanded into three beautiful campuses serving Nursery through Grade 12. At San Francisco Waldorf School, you’ll find students that try their hand at everything and search for more than just the right answer and a supportive community with a global perspective. Our extraordinary curriculum inspires students at each age and stage of their development, while challenging to think creatively and apply knowledge across subjects. Movement and music are woven into the school day, and a connection to the outdoors is a highlight of our program. At the high school, our unique college preparatory program integrates academic exploration with experiential learning, helping students build capacities to meet the challenges of their times.
Learn more and register for an admission event at www.sfwaldorf.org.
THE SEVEN HILLS SCHOOL
The Seven Hills School is committed to the whole child education which engages all aspects of what it is to be an integrated and accomplished human; it tends to the academic, emotional, social, and aesthetic life of the child. In fact, there is a chronology – for children to grow intellectually, they must first feel emotionally safe in their learning environment. Only when they feel respected, known and valued, can they venture into the kind of intellectual risk-taking which results in the deepest learning.
Teachers work hard for each student to be “known” – not only academic strengths and challenges but approaches to learning, as well. Areas of interest and areas that don't pull the student in. The obstacles that stand between the student and that “aha moment” of intellectual or creative breakthrough. Learning begins with students’ own essential questions and then, with robust student input, the teacher constructs authentic learning experiences that allow students to make choices, think, research, design, create, solve, and share outcomes with others. A curriculum of caring starts in the preschool and continues right through graduation day. At those earliest ages, our students learn to take turns and respect others' space. By 8th grade, they have learned to listen open-mindedly to divergent points of view and embrace differences. In-between, there are hundreds of moments in which teachers guide their students to emotional intelligence while teaching appropriate self-advocacy, conflict resolution, and restorative justice. Seven Hills embeds cultural competency, social justice, and a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout our curriculum and programming for students and adults.
SIERRA CANYON SCHOOL
Middle and Upper School Campus - 20801 Rinaldi Street
Lower School Campus - 11052 Independence Ave.
Chatsworth, CA 91311-1562
818-882-8121
www.sierracanyonschool.org
Since 1978, Sierra Canyon School has inspired and challenged students from Palmdale to Culver City and beyond. Located in the northern San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, Sierra Canyon School has two campuses: a Lower School for Early Kindergarten through 6th grade students, and a state-of-the-art Upper Campus which serves as an “academic village” for 7th through 12th grade students. This spring, Sierra Canyon opened a new, architecturally dynamic 20,000 square foot gymnasium designed to support the School’s exceptional Middle and Upper School Athletics Program.
Sierra Canyon is an independent, non-sectarian, college preparatory school where intellectual discourse, athletic prowess and artistic expression come together in an environment that instills a sound work ethic and promotes strong personal values.
Close, meaningful student-faculty relationships support the School’s mission to instill a love of learning and the pursuit of personal excellence. A strong sense of community prevails among our students, parents, teachers and alumni.
For more information, please visit www.sierracanyonschool.org or contact the Admission Office at 818-882-8121.
SILICON VALLEY INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (INTL)
Palo Alto, CA
PK, K-12
www.siliconvalleyinternational.org
Silicon Valley International School (INTL), formerly the International School of the Peninsula, has been the top international school in Silicon Valley since 1979, educating students through a rigorous and dynamic bilingual program. Students are inspired to develop an inquisitive and responsible international mindset, one that fosters curiosity and builds cultural fluency, encouraging positive action and change in our world.
We are an independent, co-educational, non-sectarian bilingual day school with Chinese, French, and German programs spanning preschool through 12th grade. Beginning in 6th grade, we offer the Upper School Language Acquisition (USLA) program for students with no prior bilingual immersion experience.
INTL is an International Baccalaureate World School offering the IB Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma Programmes. Students here learn more than just an additional language; they learn how to become agile, responsive, global thinkers.
INTL strives to empower students, alumni, faculty, staff, and parents to understand, value differences, and celebrate diversity. Through an environment of respect, the INTL community is committed to inclusion, acceptance, and belonging, so all may live in a better and peaceful world.
SONOMA COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
4400 Day School Place
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
https://www.scds.org/
ST. JAMES' EPISCOPAL SCHOOL
St. James’ Episcopal School is an independent, Pre K-6th elementary school with a neighborhood school “feel” in the heart of Los Angeles. We provide a rich educational experience in a warm and diverse community.
We believe that an inclusive and joyful respect for all of God’s creation, engaged and compassionate citizenship, and student-centered instruction instill in our students a lifelong love of learning,
academic confidence and success. St. James’ is not just an education; it is an engaging, close-knit community that becomes part of your family and your life.
At St. James’, our approach to teaching and learning blends student-centered instruction with joy and rigor. Through designing learning spaces with careful attention to the socio-emotional needs of our students, we ensure that all of our children are seen, heard and affirmed.
Our students learn best through an environment grounded in curiosity. We encourage our students to lean into creativity and wonder, while practicing kindness and compassion.
Our programs provide rich opportunities for children to develop lifelong habits of diligence and creative expression. We implement innovative, research-based best practices with extraordinary attention to students’ overall growth and well-being.
We invite you to visit and learn more about us at sjsla.org.
ST. MATTHEW’S PARISH SCHOOL
1031 Bienveneda Ave, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
(310) 454-1350
admissions@stmatthewsschool.com
www.stmatthewsschool.com
Serve. Lead. Flourish: these three simple words embody the mission at St. Matthew's Parish School, an independent Preschool - 8th Grade School in Pacific Palisades. An integral part of the Parish of St. Matthew and the larger Episcopal community, the school stresses moral and spiritual growth while welcoming and celebrating families of all faiths. St. Matthew’s is a school where every child is known. Our 28 acre campus allows our students to learn and grow while keeping our Character Covenant - and its tenets of respect, responsibility, empathy, fairness, and honesty - at the heart of our program and community.
Throughout the Middle School program, students are introduced to increasingly challenging and probing academic coursework, enrichment in the arts, music, and physical education. Students learn to question and think through our project-based learning program, which is an integral part of our Middle School curriculum. Students can study debate, work in an innovator’s Maker Space with technology and engineering, and take part in our Spring Musical. The academic disciplines of English, mathematics, history, foreign language - Latin and Spanish - and science are the core of the academic program, with chapel and a strong service leadership program rounding out our character education. The program prepares students for future academic success at highly competitive independent and public secondary schools alike.
To learn more, book a tour, and apply, please visit www.stmatthewsschool.com.
ST. MATTHEW’S PARISH SCHOOL
1031 Bienveneda Ave, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
(310) 454-1350
admissions@stmatthewsschool.com
www.stmatthewsschool.com
Serve. Lead. Flourish: these three simple words embody the mission at St. Matthew's Parish School, an independent Preschool - 8th Grade School in Pacific Palisades. An integral part of the Parish of St. Matthew and the larger Episcopal community, the school stresses moral and spiritual growth while welcoming and celebrating families of all faiths. St. Matthew’s is a school where every child is known. Our 28 acre campus allows our students to learn and grow while keeping our Character Covenant - and its tenets of respect, responsibility, empathy, fairness, and honesty - at the heart of our program and community.
Throughout the Middle School program, students are introduced to increasingly challenging and probing academic coursework, enrichment in the arts, music, and physical education. Students learn to question and think through our project-based learning program, which is an integral part of our Middle School curriculum. Students can study debate, work in an innovator’s Maker Space with technology and engineering, and take part in our Spring Musical. The academic disciplines of English, mathematics, history, foreign language - Latin and Spanish - and science are the core of the academic program, with chapel and a strong service leadership program rounding out our character education. The program prepares students for future academic success at highly competitive independent and public secondary schools alike.
To learn more, book a tour, and apply, please visit www.stmatthewsschool.com.
ST. PAUL'S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL
116 Montecito Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610
www.spes.org
St. Paul’s is an independent K-8 day school located steps from Lake Merritt. We welcome families of all faiths.
St. Paul’s is a leader in providing students with the skills they need to thrive – an excellent academic foundation, facility in confronting complex problems, and an appreciation of difference. Our approach is based on three principles:
• Supporting students as fearless learners is the best path to academic rigor. We cultivate the social-emotional growth of our students so they can approach challenges with confidence and courage.
• Community Engaged Learning is essential. Students learn the history of this region and partner with local organizations to serve our community.
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion are the bedrock of what we do. As part of a diverse community of teachers and families, students learn about their own identity and how they can be leaders in the fight for equity and inclusion.
Stratford School - When Students are Inspired by a Robust Curriculum…The Extraordinary Happens!
STRATFORD SCHOOL
Campuses Located Throughout Northern and Southern California
Find out more @ www.stratfordschools.com
Stratford School provides an unparalleled education where children are inspired to be creative problem-solvers, imaginative innovators and insightful, confident leaders. These 21st-century qualities provide children with the knowledge, confidence, and ingenuity to help them excel in future careers. Stratford’s accelerated curriculum from Preschool through 8th Grade emphasizes STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics) while incorporating music, physical education, foreign language, and social skills development.
By combining a safe and nurturing learning environment, Stratford teachers ensure a stimulating and well-rounded program while cultivating a child’s natural joy of learning. All students are encouraged to participate actively in leadership, community service, and extracurricular activities. Stratford’s goal is to prepare and mentor students for admission to competitive high schools and colleges.
Personalized tours can be scheduled by appointment and students are welcomed to enroll throughout the school year, as long as there is space available in the desire program and the child is grade-level ready. Find our more at www.stratfordschools.com and discover a school where the extraordinary happens.
SYNERGY SCHOOL
1387 Valencia Street
San Francisco, CA 94110
www.synergyschool.org
Synergy School is a progressive, independent TK-8 school located in San Francisco’s Mission District. For nearly 50 years, our mission has been to nurture the intellectual, creative, and emotional potential of every child in a community dedicated to diversity, inclusion, and social justice.
From the beginning, we have had a deep commitment to recognize and honor differences within our community and the world at large. We encourage our students to develop their voices and to have agency to affect change, to advocate, and to act as allies against racism, sexism, classism, homophobia, transphobia, and intolerance.
We work toward these goals by creating a safe space in our school, presenting multiple points of views in our teaching and curriculum, as well as building a community that reflects the ethnic and socio-economic diversity of San Francisco.
We affirm the necessity of engaging in ongoing work to create and sustain a socially just, equitable environment that actively works against all forms of bias and racism.
We invite you to learn more about us, our approach to education, and to sign up for a tour, visit www.synergyschool.org.
TOWN SCHOOL FOR BOYS
2750 Jackson St., San Francisco, CA 94115
(415) 921-3747
www.townschool.com
K - 8th grade
Town School for Boys is a K-8 all boys' independent day school located in San Francisco, CA. Student enrollment is approximately 400 and our student : teacher ratio is 11:1. Our fundamental goal is for each boy to be engaged in an environment that weaves together collaboration, critical thinking, integrity, empathy, and creativity. These broad skills, as well as a firm grounding in core academic competencies, offer boys an excellent preparation for their further education. We promote social and emotional learning as a foundation of academic excellence and self-discovery. We prepare students to meet challenges in the world by helping them develop an appreciation for a variety of perspectives from the local to the global. We celebrate diversity by fostering a community of learners built on mutual respect. Learning experiences are inclusive, relevant, flexible, innovative, and adapted to reflect the needs of all kinds of learners. In our joyful, active, and collaborative school, boys flourish.
To find out more, visit our website at www.townschool.com.
THE URBAN SCHOOL OF SAN FRANCISCO
1563 Page St.
San Francisco, CA 94117
415-626-2919
http://www.urbanschool.org
Urban School believes there is a better way to educate high school students. For more than half a century, our educational innovations have ignited the minds of Urban graduates, who pursue their passion for learning at the nation’s best colleges, and who go out into the world uniquely equipped to solve the challenges their generation will face.
Urban teaches students how to think, not what to think. We seek students with an enthusiastic approach to learning and a clear capacity for success in a rigorous academic program. Urban’s extraordinary teachers challenge our 420 students with a college preparatory curriculum in math, science, arts and humanities with comprehensive service learning and competitive athletics programs, and a rich selection of co-curricular activities.
We invite 8th graders and their families to spend time exploring Urban and learning more about our strong, inclusive community!
VILLAGE SCHOOL
780 Swarthmore Avenue
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
https://www.village-school.org
We are a village of students, families, and educators with a common goal: to create a childhood of wonder, joy, and challenge where children expand their minds and hearts, find their greater purpose, and prepare to engage with the wider world.
This is childhood.
Village School strikes the perfect balance, providing rigorous and inspired academics in a loving, home-like environment. Here, we celebrate the gifts and interests of each child. Here, our younger students skip through the gates—that’s how eager they are to start their days—and our older students say good morning, making eye contact and holding doors. Just like an actual village, we are a close-knit community with time-honored traditions, where kids can experience a true sense of childhood, exploring and taking risks in a safe space. We also embrace innovation and diversity, keeping pace with a rapidly changing world. Once you join our village, you belong. Your voice is welcomed, encouraged, and becomes an integral part of our every day and our future.
Our Village raises kids who know and care about the world, have high EQs, think outside the box, exercise good judgment, and cultivate an instinct for self-reflection. Village students make decisions with passion and integrity.
Please visit https://www.village-school.org to apply.
THE WAVERLY SCHOOL
67 W. Bellevue Dr
Pasadena, CA 91105
(626)792-5940
www.thewaverlyschool.org
Admissions: Jennifer@thewaverlyschool.org
Whether you are looking at preschool, elementary, middle, or high school, finding the right educational community can be an overwhelming process. We welcome the chance to assist you in getting to know Waverly and working with you to determine if Waverly is the right fit for your family.
Waverly attracts students and families who value:
• Intellectual curiosity
• Being part of a thoughtful, evolving, and eclectic community where they are known to everyone
• Being somewhere where their presence makes a difference
• Becoming the best version of themselves
• Trying something new, starting a club, trying a sport, or helping organize a community event
• Growing as an individual, as well as an intellectual
Background information:
• Waverly is a nonsectarian, coeducational, college preparatory, progressive day school that spans preschool through 12th grade.
• The school is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the California Association of Independent Schools (CAIS) and is a member of The Alliance, POCIS, and A Better Chance.
• Waverly has three separate campuses and a one-acre organic farm within walking distance. It is conveniently situated off the 210 and 134 freeways.
THE WESLEY SCHOOL
4832 Tujunga Avenue
North Hollywood, CA 91601
(818) 508-4542
www.wesleyschool.org
The Wesley School is a coeducational K-8 independent day school in North Hollywood. Established in 1999, we honor timeless traditions and pride ourselves on our caring, welcoming, and diverse community. Take one look at our historic ivy-covered brick buildings, and you’ll be instantly transported to a different time and place—to a beautiful, tucked-away gem—an oasis in the heart of the San Fernando Valley. Here, we offer individual attention and small instructional groups, all the while nurturing relationships, developing globally-minded citizens, and demanding every student’s personal best. Our dedicated faculty, low student-to-teacher ratio, and wonderful learning community further set us apart, as do the smiles on our children’s faces when they willingly participate in everything from classroom discussions to public speaking opportunities.
When we ask our parent body why they chose us for their children, the overwhelming response is—community. Step onto our campus and see for yourself! We know you’ll walk away with a feeling that cannot be replicated as you witness, first-hand, Academic Excellence and Character Development within the Circle of Family. Come to Wesley, and you won’t be able to help but think that where you’ve actually come is home.
WESTLAND SCHOOL
16200 Mulholland Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-472-5544
http://westlandschool.org
Founded in 1949, Westland School is a small close-knit community with an inquiry-based, integrated social studies core. The curriculum, which develops thematic studies, deeply embeds the arts, science, woodworking and gardening throughout the academic base. Blocks and other basic materials are central to the children’s work and further the learning goals of collaboration, ability to access and analyze information, taking initiative, thinking critically, and expressing curiosity, inquisitiveness, and imagination. Children have functional jobs both in their classrooms and in the school at large. Parent involvement is also a major strength in the school’s life. Both of these provide models, along with the daily functioning of our multi-age classrooms, for the participation in a democratic society we strive to reflect.
WESTMARK SCHOOL
5461 Louise Ave.
Encino, CA 91316
www.westmarkschool.org
WESTRIDGE SCHOOL
Westridge is an independent, forward thinking school for girls in grades 4-12 dedicated to educating adventurous thinkers and courageous, compassionate leaders. With a curriculum informed by research on how girls learn best, the school balances challenging academics and leadership development with nurturing students’ sense of self and emphasizing their responsibilities to others and the world.
The school is known for strengths in writing, performing arts, and STEM and a well-rounded program includes a commitment athletics. Its strategic plan focuses on priorities that are tightly integrated components of academic excellence and student well-being:
• Supporting student well-being and social emotional growth,
• Conducting a comprehensive program review and update focused on excellence, innovation, and relevance,
• Expanding our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and to becoming an anti-racist institution,
• Developing a formal leadership curriculum.
The school’s engaged and supportive student culture allows students to be wholly themselves and focus on learning. As a recent graduate put it, “There is an intellectual vitality here – everyone is excited about education.”
Westridge’s historic Pasadena campus is home to 550 students. With core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, and inclusion, Westridge is a school where girls can be their authentic selves, learn to use their voices, and grow into young women who lead lives of impact.
WESTSIDE NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL
WNS, a preschool – 8th grade private independent school located in Los Angeles, embraces a positive, child-centered approach to education that strives to fully develop the potential of each student intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically. Our high academic and ethical standards encourage students to take responsibility for their learning and their behavior. Propelled by curiosity, WNS students are learners, doers, and makers. We provide students with a platform to become entrepreneurs by nurturing their intrinsic ability to innovate. Our program is designed to engage students in a project-based, active-learning curriculum that challenges all students to grow. We provide an environment steeped in a growth mindset where each child is able to experience success, embrace mistakes as a part of the journey, is confident in taking intellectual risks, and where individuals feel valued in their differences and value the differences in others.
We strive to be a community of lifelong learners, where academic excellence, creativity, sense of humor, independence, self-discipline, and high moral standards are valued.
For more information about WNS, please visit wns-la.org or contact by phone: 310-574-8650 or Email: admissions@wns-la.org.
THE WILLOWS COMMUNITY SCHOOL
where great minds grow
www.thewillows.org
The Willows Community School, located in Culver City, California, is a Developmental Kindergarten through Eighth Grade independent school enrolling 470 students annually. Nationally recognized as a balanced, progressive educational leader, The Willows’ strong academic program incorporates experiential learning, critical thinking, and thematic instruction into cutting-edge curriculum and integrates STEAM, technology, maker, and the arts into the classroom. Character and heart are also emphasized as essential to The Willows’ definition of a ‘great mind.’ Focusing on the socio-emotional development of our community, The Willows integrates RULER, the acclaimed evidence-based approach to social and emotional learning developed by the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, into school curriculum.
At The Willows, we believe each child brings our community an extraordinary gift: a curious mind, ready to explore and eager to learn. Our mission is to grow that gift by challenging our students to uncover meaning and significance in the world around them and to become capable, confident individuals who demonstrate character, engagement, and a joyful passion for creative inquiry across a lifetime. The Willows is strongly committed to financial assistance and seeks a broad-based student body with a diversity of race, ethnicity, economics and learning styles. More than 25% of its student body is comprised of students of color, and the school annually enrolls students from 57+ zip codes across the greater Los Angeles area.
WINSTON PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Winston Preparatory School is a network of campuses offering students with learning differences a highly individualized, holistic, and responsive education. Our unique model serves students through grade 12, along with a multifaceted gap year program for students who are not yet ready for college or the workplace. At Winston Prep, faculty carry out ongoing, in-depth assessments to cultivate a deep understanding of students, helping them to advance at a meaningful pace and giving them the tools to continue independently learning and growing.
All of our campuses provide intense skill remediation while fostering independence, resilience, responsibility, and self-awareness. They include two sites in New York City and one each in New Jersey, Connecticut, on Long Island, and our newest campus in the San Francisco Bay Area. Last year, we also launched Winston Online Learning, an innovative, individualized program that allows students to participate from anywhere in the country. To learn more about Winston Prep, visit www.winstonprep.edu.
BOULDER COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
4820 Nautilus Court North
Boulder, Colorado 80301
303.527.4931
www.bouldercountryday.org
Boulder Country Day School, where academic distinction meets education with character. BCD is a top rated, accredited private school in Boulder, Colorado where every child has the opportunity to discover their own unique excellence. Distinguished by small class sizes, outstanding faculty, engaging academics and a focus on community, our preschool, elementary and IB middle school teachers strive to create a well-rounded educational environment that balances traditional subjects with the arts, world languages, athletics and project-based learning.
Schedule a tour or attend an Open House at https://www.bouldercountryday.org/admission/tours-and-open-houses.
School Contact - Susan Boyle, Director of Admission and Marketing, info@bouldercountryday.org or (303) 516-4148.
Dawson School
10455 Dawson Dr.
Lafayette, CO 80026
303-665-6679
www.dawsonschool.org
Dawson School is the Boulder County region’s leading independent, college-preparatory school for students in grades K-12. Dawson offers challenging academics, robust arts and athletics programs, and renowned outdoor and experiential education. Emphasizing respect, compassion, courage, and integrity, Dawson prioritizes the social-emotional wellbeing of our community. Dawson graduates are young men and women who achieve their individual potential, savor life, and meet the challenges of the world.
BAKER DEMONSTRATION SCHOOL
201 Sheridan Rd., Wilmette, IL 60091
847-425-5800
www.bakerdemschool.org
Preschool – 8th grade
AN EDUCATION THAT PUTS CHILDREN IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT. Our child-centered approach to learning ensures that each child, from preschool to middle school, is uniquely valued, supported and nurtured throughout their educational journey — creating expressive, compassionate students that are eager to help shape the world. Located on the border of Evanston and Wilmette, Baker Demonstration School is nationally recognized for excellence in progressive education.
Learn more about Baker and arrange an admissions chat by visiting www.bakerdemschool.org.
BENNETT DAY SCHOOL
955 W. Grand Ave
Chicago, IL 60642
312-236-6388
www.bennettday.org
Bennett Day School is an independent, PK-12 school in Chicago that is committed to advancing creativity, innovation, and the development of lifelong learners and leaders. At Bennett, students learn by doing through dynamic project-based learning (PBL) experiences. Our mission is to provide a collaborative culture that nurtures our innate sense of inquiry and curiosity.
Our teachers don’t see students as empty vessels waiting to be filled with information, but rather thinkers, doers, and inventors who are co-collaborators in the learning process. Bennett Day School’s emergent and responsive curriculum empowers students to be curious, think critically, and take ownership of their education. Small class sizes ensure every child’s voice is heard and valued.
NOW ENROLLING! Register for an Open House or schedule an admissions chat: https://bennettday.org/visitus/
CHIARAVALLE MONTESSORI SCHOOL
425 Dempster St.
Evanston IL 60201
www.chiaravalle.org
CHICAGO JEWISH DAY SCHOOL
https://www.chicagojewishdayschool.org/admissions/welcome
Chicago Jewish Day School offers an insightful and progressive Junior Kindergarten through Grade 8 curriculum that integrates the breadth and diversity of our Jewish heritage into a rich academic, student-centered curriculum. We are committed to academic excellence, grounded in educational research and driven by best practice. Using a Jewish lens, we educate the whole child by integrating subject matter, providing an experiential educational model, and focusing on the social-emotional development of children as a way to enhance higher academic achievement. At Chicago Jewish Day School, we inspire joyfully engaged learning as we educate children to think clearly and deeply, gain knowledge and acquire judgment, and respect diversity in our community and beyond. We are committed to developing critical thinking and socially engaged intelligence that enables each individual to understand and participate effectively in the affairs of their community, country, Israel, and the world at large in a collaborative effort to achieve a common good. At Chicago Jewish Day School, we strive for learning to be authentic and meaningful and to inspire a passion for life-long learning.
FRANCIS W. PARKER SCHOOL
330 West Webster Ave., Chicago, Illinois 60614
773-797-5107
Serving students in Junior Kindergarten through 12th Grade
www.fwparker.org
www.facebook.com/parkerchicago
www.twitter.com/fwparker
Francis W. Parker is a school where inspired teachers, a dynamic curriculum, and a diverse community of learners thrive. Parker students are provided with an exceptional educational opportunity in an inclusive community, where diversity in every form provides a global perspective. It is a unique and special place where enduring values and new ideas benefit individual and collective growth.
Guided for over 100 years by a profound educational philosophy, Parker School strives to cultivate students who have the curiosity, self-discipline, independence of mind, and collaborative spirit necessary to apply their values, skills, knowledge, and ideas to challenges. At Parker, students learn to connect reflection with action, insight with innovation, deeds with consequences, and character with citizenship.
Its small class sizes and interdisciplinary approach to teaching set the stage for a challenging and meaningful educational experience. Students learn and grow within a diverse community of passionate teachers, parents, and peers. As the only independent school in Chicago where students from 14 grades share one building, the school offers collaborative opportunities among grade levels as part of the curriculum.
Academic programs include math, science, history/social studies, and English. Exposure to foreign languages and world cultures begins in the early grades and is part of formal studies starting in sixth grade. In addition to academic curricula, students have physical education, visual arts, drama, and music classes. Upper school students have a large number of elective courses available in addition to the required core of courses. Elective choices are offered in all departments and include approved independent studies, computer programming, and advanced literature studies in foreign languages. To learn more or to register for an open house, visit fwparker.org/openhouse.
INTERCULTURAL MONTESSORI LANGUAGE SCHOOL
114 S. Racine Ave., Ste. 100
Chicago, IL 60607
www.interculturalmontessori.org
LAKE FOREST COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
847.615.6151
http://www.lfcds.org
Located on more than thirty acres of property, LFCDS offers programming for students aged two through grade 8 and provides a rich and diverse educational experience grounded in rigorous academics, arts, athletics, and social-emotional learning. Drawing from 37 local communities, students across all grade levels have access to engaging learning spaces including expansive Outdoor Classrooms, a 2800-square-foot Innovation Center, and a Performing Arts Center.
NEAR NORTH MONTESSORI
1434 W. Division St. Chicago, IL 60642
773-269-6230
Serving students aged 6 months through 8th Grade
www.nnms.org/admissions
www.facebook.com/NNMSChi
https://www.instagram.com/nearnorthmontessori/
Founded in 1963, Near North Montessori is one of the country's oldest and largest nonprofit Montessori schools. This welcoming, enriching environment for children aged six months through eighth grade provides challenging academics along with skills to strengthen all children’s humanity and set their moral compasses towards compassion. NNM’s commitment to diversity promotes an environment of respect rooted in equity and inclusion where students become each other’s allies and develop awareness of social and global justice issues. Visit nnms.org/admissions to learn more or register to attend a Coffee Tour Information Session.
UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO LABORATORY SCHOOLS
1362 59th Street
Chicago, IL 60637
Phone: 773-702-9451
admissions@ucls.uchicago.edu
Because the Laboratory Schools are part of the world-renowned University of Chicago, the importance of intellectual life—of thought and exploration—infuses everything we do across all aspects of our curriculum. We wouldn’t expect anything less from a school that exists in the heart of a research-based university.
The Laboratory Schools are home to the youngest members of the University of Chicago’s academic community. We ignite and nurture an enduring spirit of scholarship, curiosity, creativity, and confidence. We value learning experientially, exhibiting kindness,
and honoring diversity.
Founded by distinguished educator John Dewey in 1896 and located in Hyde Park, the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools are a nursery through grade 12 college preparatory school that is among the nation’s best.
Learn more about our admissions process at ucls.uchicago.edu/admissions.
Learn more about our academic programs at ucls.uchicago.edu/program.
URBAN PRAIRIE WALDORF SCHOOL
SCATTERGOOD FRIENDS SCHOOL
1951 Delta Avenue
West Branch Iowa 52358
scattergood.org | (319) 519-1860
Scattergood Friends School is a brave space, an all-gender, inclusive, small school with small classes. Scattergood is a place where you can be who you are.
Located just 15 minutes from bustling Iowa City and three hours from Chicago on a 126-acre organic farm, Scattergood is an independent boarding and day school for grades 6-12 founded in 1890 (boarding for grades 9-12 only). Committed to environmental education and stewardship, students take college-preparatory courses with experiential, hands-on learning, and more individualized, self-reflective assessment, utilizing the school’s farm, pond, and restored prairie as outdoor classrooms. All students must be accepted to a four-year college to graduate.
Scattergood students come from all over the United States and around the globe. Staff and students work together to care for our home, from gathering produce to preparing our meals to keeping campus grounds pristine. Instilled with the Quaker values of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship- and the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion- Scattergood students are set to grow not just academically, but to thrive personally, with many adventures along their dynamic journey.
To learn more about this safe, inclusive, affordable, and open-minded day and boarding school, contact admissions@scattergood.org.
BARRIE SCHOOL
13500 Layhill Road
Silver Spring, MD 20906
John Wilson
Director of Admission
admission@barrie.org
301-576-2800
www.barrie.org
Barrie School is a progressive independent school, serving students from 12 months to Grade 12, that inspires excellence, intrinsic motivation, and responsibility through innovation in learning. Our intentional educational throughline—from Montessori (12 months to Grade 5) to Project-Based Learning (Grade 6 to Grade 12)—cultivates learning that lasts, offering challenging educational experiences that unlock intrinsic motivation and innovation in both students and faculty.
Our community fosters a deep sense of belonging and empowers and honors student voice and responsibility, coming together in our truly diverse student body of engaged citizens confident to be themselves, bringing diverse and inclusive worldviews. Located in Silver Spring, Maryland, Barrie School provides an extraordinary learning environment integrating local, national, and global educational opportunities. Our 45-acre campus is home to the world-renowned Barrie Institute for Advanced Montessori Studies— one of the largest school-based teacher training programs in the country— and Barrie Camp, a Washington, D.C. area tradition since the 1950s.
FRIENDS COMMUNITY SCHOOL
5901 Westchester Park Drive
College Park, MD 20740
301-441-2100
www.friendscommunityschool.org
K – 8th Grade
Now in its fourth decade, Friends Community School is a thriving, K-8 Quaker progressive school that thoughtfully guides young children through adolescence. Founded in 1986 by members of the Adelphi Friends Meeting, FCS occupies a LEED Silver-certified building on 17 acres adjacent to Greenbelt National Park in College Park, Maryland, and draws from nearby DC, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and beyond.
The core values of FCS — simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality and equity, and stewardship — are embedded in our curriculum and in our interactions with each other. FCS focuses on educating the whole child (socially, emotionally, intellectually, spiritually, and creatively) and recognizes that children learn best from experience and meaningful relationships with peers and teachers. FCS teachers meet students where they are and — through experiential and inquiry-based lessons, a child-centered curriculum, collaborative projects, and intentional reflection — promote deep learning. Our curriculum challenges students to question, explore, reflect, reason, think originally, and communicate effectively, whether working on a mechanical invention in 1st grade or delving into a stock market project in 8th. FCS also offers a wide range of after-school enrichment activities, including an instrumental music program, as well as engaging summer camps.
As a community, FCS is diverse, welcoming, supportive, and inclusive. Students are respected, childhood is celebrated, and learning is experiential. Our students are lifelong learners, courageous risk-takers, and joyous peacemakers who matriculate to rigorous independent, parochial, and public magnet schools in the greater Washington, D.C. area.
SchooFor more information, please visit our website, www.friendscommunityschool.org.
FRIENDS MEETING SCHOOL
The Friends School of Frederick County
3232 Green Valley Rd.
Ijamsville, MD 21754
www.friendsmeetingschool.org
The future is a great unknown. The best thing we can do for our children is to teach them how to solve the problems they don’t even know about yet; we can do this by stimulating their imaginations at a young age, and maintaining outlets for their creativity as they grow. Problem-solving stems directly from imagination, which needs to be cultivated at all ages.
Friends Meeting School was founded in 1997 as an intellectually vigorous, community-centered, inclusive alternative to the other school options in the region. Annette Breiling (who had previously founded what became the Lower School at Sandy Spring Friends School in Montgomery County) felt so strongly about the mission of Friends Schools that she had to start another. While she has since retired, Annette remains highly active in several Frederick County communities. The current Head of School, Mara Nicastro, carries on that passion for the students, working to maximize their curiosity and academic abilities.
The only Friends School in Frederick County, Friends Meeting School’s values offer students a solid foundation for growth in Mind, Body, and Spirit. All grades, K-12, get hands-on exposure to the world around them – they learn to garden, perform and create in between their accelerated academic courses. The High School at Friends Meeting School has a 100% acceptance rate to top-choice colleges: every single graduate of their program has had their pick of universities!
McDONOGH SCHOOL
Owings Mills, Maryland
https://www.mcdonogh.org
McDonogh is a welcoming community dedicated to providing a learning environment based on mutual respect, understanding, and kindness. It is a place where joy is ever-present and opportunities abound for deep thinking, innovating, collaborating, and discovering passions. Under the guidance of talented and caring teachers, students in prekindergarten through twelfth grade are empowered to be self-reliant, critical thinkers who can form, test, and revise their ideas—for themselves, and in the service of others.
In addition to state-of-the-art academic, art, and athletic facilities, McDonogh’s 800-acre campus provides countless opportunities for exploration. Learning also takes place at Roots, the school’s 10-acre farm, where students care for chickens, tend crops, and harvest produce for the dining hall and local food pantries.
With a fleet of 27 buses that make stops in Baltimore City and surrounding counties, McDonogh is right around the corner! Upper School students also have the option of participating in our five-day boarding program that allows them to live on campus during the school week and become further immersed in campus life.
THE NORA SCHOOL
955 Sligo Ave.
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Marcia Miller
Director of Admissions
Marcia@nora-school.org
301-495-6672
http://www.nora-school.org
Think differently. At The Nora School, these are words we take to heart. This intentionally small, inclusive, and personal college preparatory high school works to bring out the best in bright students with ADHD, executive function issues, or anxiety – and for those simply wanting something more individualized. Students turn to us because they’ve become frustrated in large, impersonal institutions, while others seek a richer, more engaging education without the emphasis on standardized testing. In our discussion-based classrooms, we inspire a critical world view, and students find their voice in an intellectually rigorous, accepting, nurturing environment. With a thought-provoking curriculum, inclusive sports and arts programs, Intersession, mindfulness and more, The Nora School helps students find their unique paths and prepare for college, work, and life. Building deep connections between the faculty and students, we encourage responsibility and build confidence and excitement about learning.
We’ve expanded, offering more curriculum choices and openings for more students! Discover the essence of our school. Call us to find out more, or RSVP for an Open House. Come see how our students thrive. Celebrating the same mission for over 50 years. Think Differently.
NORWOOD SCHOOL
Located in Bethesda, MD, Norwood School develops students in grades PK-8 into confident lifelong learners who have the academic, character, and leadership skills to succeed in high school and beyond. Recognizing that children are multi-faceted, Norwood provides many opportunities for safe risk-taking, exploration, discovery, and growth in a nurturing, supportive, and inclusive school community.
SANDY SPRING FRIENDS SCHOOL
16923 Norwood Rd.
Sandy Springs, MD 20860
301-774-7455
www.ssfs.org
Preschool (Age 3) - 12th grade
Sandy Spring Friends School is a progressive, coed, college preparatory Quaker school serving students from Preschool (age 3) through 12th Grade, with optional boarding programs in the Middle and Upper School. Founded in 1961, SSFS offers a deep and rigorous academic curriculum, character education rooted in universal Quaker principles, and a diverse and international student body that reflects today’s global community. SSFS sits on a pastoral 140-acre campus in the heart of Montgomery County, Maryland, midway between Washington D.C. and Baltimore – an ideal setting for intellectual contemplation, athletic training, diverse extracurricular pursuits, outdoor exploration, urban excursion, and personal growth. Please visit our Web site at www.ssfs.org for more information.
BAY FARM MONTESSORI ACADEMY
145 Loring St. Duxbury, MA
bfarm.org
Bay Farm Montessori Academy offers strong academic programs rooted in Montessori philosophy that inspire children to grow with joy, purpose, and compassion.
Bay Farm Montessori Academy is an independent Montessori school in Duxbury, Massachusetts serving children from all across the South Shore, ages 12 months to 14 years. Bay Farm offers strong academic programs rooted in Montessori philosophy that inspire children to grow with joy, purpose, and compassion. Students enjoy a robust academic program that includes an emphasis on art, music, drama, library, outdoor learning, STEM agriculture, PE, and world language. The school’s well-rounded academic curriculum and hands-on learning develops the skills and experience that enable its students to emerge as self-confident learners and leaders upon graduation.
To learn more about our philosophy and our various programs, visit bfarm.org. We encourage you to come to campus and take a tour to see our learning environment first hand.
BANCROFT SCHOOL
https://www.bancroftschool.org
Bancroft School is the premier PreK to Grade 12 Independent Day School in Central Massachusetts — an open and inclusive 34-acre campus in the city of Worcester that inspires learners to engage with one another, their communities, and the world in meaningful and impactful ways. Bancroft students take ownership of their learning and pursue their passions inside and outside of the classroom. We are a laboratory that motivates curious minds to form the insights, skills, and character they’ll need to thrive far beyond their journey here.
CAMBRIDGE FRIENDS SCHOOL
5 Cadbury Rd
Cambridge, MA 02140
(617) 354-388
https://www.cfsmass.org
Cambridge Friends School is a co-ed elementary and middle school (pre-K - grade 8) established in 1961 under the care of Friends Meeting at Cambridge, Religious Society of Friends (Quakers).
It is the mission of Cambridge Friends School to provide an outstanding education. Guided by Quaker principles, we engage students in meaningful academic learning within a caring community strongly committed to social justice. We expect all students to develop their intellectual, physical, creative, and spiritual potential and, through the example of their lives, to challenge oppression and to contribute to justice and understanding in the world.
As part of Cambridge Friends School's commitment to social justice, we are engaged in building an antiracist, antihomophobic community, and we actively seek students and staff from a diverse range of family structures and racial, cultural, socioeconomic, and religious backgrounds. Our community tries to go beyond mere tolerance to more deeply address issues of bias and privilege.
THE CAMBRIDGE SCHOOL OF WESTON
A leader among America’s progressive independent schools, The Cambridge School of Weston has been at the forefront of educational innovation since 1886. At this day and boarding high school located in Weston MA, creative, motivated students embrace challenging work and address complex questions — with curiosity and courage. Inspired by the diverse perspectives and high expectations of our justice-minded community, they find and develop what is extraordinary in themselves and in the world around them. Learn more at www.csw.org.
CAMBRIDGE-ELLIS SCHOOL
80 Trowbridge St.
Cambridge, MA 02138
www.cambridge-ellis.org
THE CHESTNUT HILL SCHOOL
428 Hammond St.
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
www.tchs.org
The Chestnut Hill School, an independent, co-educational elementary school, enrolling children ages 3 through grade 6, educates students in a diverse and nurturing community where learning is infused with purpose and joy. At CHS, our mission to educate children is deeply rooted in a commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and community. Believing students do their best when they feel a sense of belonging, we build caring and enduring relationships between families, students, and staff. As leaders in early childhood and elementary education, we believe there’s magic—and meaning—in a school where childhood is treasured and the pursuit of excellence becomes a habit. CHS is leading the way in creating a socially conscious community that nurtures intellectually curious, culturally competent, and self-empowered learners who connect with others and shape the conversation. Learning within and across differences is deeper, more daring, and more just. Come see why the world needs, and schools seek our graduates.
DEDHAM COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
www.DedhamCountryDay.org
781-329-0850
At DCD, we believe that balance matters—in learning and life. We combine academic challenge with support; pedagogical tradition with innovation. Strong scholastics combined with outstanding arts and athletics create a program that is balanced and whole. Here, a premium is placed on both academic and emotional intelligence. Children learn who they are as diverse individuals and how to be part of something bigger. Acceptance is a given, and children find encouragement in every connection they make. It’s a community that nurtures, nudges, and gives. That’s how we grow “whole” children—and, ultimately, adults who will thrive with the intellectual and emotional capacity to contribute to their world and enjoy meaningful lives.
While our “campus and classrooms” may look a bit different this year as we’ve reconfigured our school to maintain the health and safety of our community, our ability to deliver an education that is challenging, inclusive, and engaging, reflective of our mission, remains unchanged. From Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 8, DCD students tackle hands-on projects, collaborate, take risks, solve problems—and, most of all, enjoy and engage deeply in their experience.
Explore DCD through a series of virtual admissions events and personal connections with our admissions staff. An up-to-date schedule will be available on our website in September.
INLY SCHOOL
46 Watch Hill Drive
Scituate, MA
inlyschool.org
Inly School is an independent Montessori school on Boston’s South Shore with innovative programs that inspire toddler through 8th grade students to become engaged, lifelong learners. Inly’s curriculum blends Montessori philosophy with educational best practices to teach core subjects, world languages, creative thinking, arts, athletics, and life skills.
Inly Fast Facts:
• 310 toddler–grade 8 students; Low student–teacher ratio
• Multi-age classes grouped by developmental level
• Spanish, Visual & Performing Arts, Technology, Robotics
• Robust experiential learning program; Team and league sports
• da Vinci Studio for applied creativity and problem-solving
• 4-acre outdoor classroom, walking trails, organic gardens
• Nut-free and allergy-friendly
• Accredited by the Association for Independent Schools of New England (AISNE) and American Montessori Society(AMS)
The tangible benefits of an Inly education include a deep understanding of academic material, many hands-on skills, and a discerning ability to manage one’s time. The intangible benefits—confidence, independence, and social and interpersonal responsibilities—separate Inly graduates from their peers and define the Inly difference.
Learn more at inlyschool.org.
MILTON ACADEMY
170 Centre St.
Milton, MA 02186
www.milton.edu
NOBLE AND GREENOUGH SCHOOL
10 Campus Dr.
Dedham, MA 02026
www.nobles.edu
THE ROXBURY LATIN SCHOOL
www.roxburylatin.org | 617-477-6317
Founded in 1645, and located on 117 acres in West Roxbury, Roxbury Latin is a small, independent day school for boys in Grades 7 through 12. We are committed to the character development and rigorous academic training of each boy entrusted to us. The school’s comparatively low tuition, and its policy to admit and enroll students without regard to their parents’ ability to pay, ensures a diverse student body.
In designing a vital program, Roxbury Latin is alert to what is best and most effective in educating boys, but we also dare to define what is in their best interest. We care most of all what kind of person a boy is, and we promise to know and love each boy.
SHADY HILL SCHOOL
178 Coolidge Hill
Cambridge, MA 02138
(617) 520.5200
https://www.shs.org
WELLAN MONTESSORI SCHOOL
Wellan Montessori School (formerly Newton Montessori School) is an independent, coeducational school for students age 15 months – Grade 8, located in Newton Centre, MA. At Wellan, educators harness the power of each child’s intrinsic motivation; all students are known, cherished, and given the opportunity to achieve their greatest potential. Students benefit from hands-on lessons and structured curricula while working toward mastery in all subject areas. They learn in the context of a tight-knit community that includes peers, faculty, and family members of diverse backgrounds who celebrate each other’s differences. Graduates emerge as capable leaders with deep self-knowledge, sharply tuned academic skills, and empathy for others, well prepared for the area’s top public and independent schools. Schedule a tour at wellan.org to see our immersive education firsthand.
WORCESTER ACADEMY
Welcome to Worcester Academy—Your Future Starts Here.
Worcester Academy is an acclaimed independent school overlooking the thriving city of Worcester, MA.
A proud community of explorers and collaborators, we prepare our students not just for college, but for life — through an expansive curriculum that balances problem-solving with communication skills, independence with connection, and hard work with fun and creativity. Our students benefit from an experiential education that expands their perspectives, builds their character, and deepens their understanding through community engagement and real-world application — enabling them to Achieve the Honorable with their classmates and peers, in the Worcester community, and throughout their lives. At WA, we believe that the best education is a well-rounded one – one that teaches our students not what to think; but how to think and encourages them to flex their creative and problem-solving muscles. We are playful artists and grammar enthusiasts. We are American Math Competition finalists, and 20+ athletic championship winners.
From our 71-acre campus overlooking the city of Worcester, our students enjoy a holistic and forward-focused education, connecting with their local community and learning to Achieve The Honorable in the classroom and throughout their lives.
THE CRAIG SCHOOL
10 Tower Hill Road
Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046
https://www.craigschool.org
Currently celebrating its 41st anniversary, The Craig School is an independent school that specializes in working with students with learning disabilities in grades two to 12. The program features proven, research-based learning strategies based on a comprehensive, whole-child approach and multi-sensory instructional strategies. The Craig School's tools allow students to build their academic foundations, increase their ability to be active and independent learners, and develop a sense of who they are as individuals and students. Visit us at craigschool.org.
Far Brook School
52 Great Hills Road
Short Hills, NJ 07078
973-379-3442
www.farbrook.org
Emi Ithen Director of Enrollment Management
admissions@farbrook.org
Discover an inspired education at Far Brook School, an independent, coeducational day school for 220 students from Nursery through Eighth Grade in Short Hills, NJ. Our progressive approach builds a strong educational foundation, integrating liberal arts and sciences with the skills and habits of mind needed for success in high school and life. Classrooms open to the outdoors, encouraging exploration with nature and our Schoolyard Wetlands Habitat. Each Far Brook student is honored as an important part of our inclusive and diverse community, and develops self-assurance, intrinsic motivation, a sense of social justice, and leadership skills. Far Brook graduates attend local independent and public high schools as well as prestigious boarding schools around the country. It is our desire to touch the lives of children so that they may live life wisely and with great joy. Visit our beautiful 9-acre campus and discover if Far Brook is a good fit for your child. www.farbrook.org.
FLEXSCHOOL
New Jersey Campus
34 Russo Place
Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922
Phone: (908) 322-0554
https://www.flexschool.net/campuses/berkeley-heights-nj
New York Campus
171 White Plains Road
Bronxville, NY 10708
Phone: (914) 704-3334
https://www.flexschool.net/campuses/bronxville-ny
Cloud Campus
A live, interactive virtual school experience for remote learners in grades 1-12 and post-grad
Phone: (908) 322-0554
https://www.flexschool.net/campuses/virtual-cloud-classroom
FlexSchool is the learning community for gifted and twice-exceptional learners in grades 5 through 12, with a curriculum for post-graduate students as well. If traditional school environments have not been a good fit for your student, please join us to learn about our philosophy of embracing differences and meeting students where they are. We accept students gifted in one or more areas, including those who have challenges ranging from dyslexia to ADHD to ASD to social anxiety. We are a strength-based program, focused on helping students develop their gifts and talents with the assistance of our expert educators. We offer rolling admissions because we understand school fit issues don’t always conveniently line up with application season. FlexSchool team of highly trained experts works with students to create a plan that removes barriers to their learning and allows them to soar. Teachers receive ongoing professional development throughout the year, and each campus has learning specialists who work with students and teachers to promote a successful classroom experience. 1:1 courses are also available for classes that are not regularly offered or for students who require more assistance.
THE LAUREL SCHOOL
800 North Road
Hopewell, NJ 08534
https://www.laurelschoolprinceton.org/
The Laurel School is an independent, co-educational day school located in Princeton, NJ specializing in educating students with language-based learning differences such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. Our research-based and multi-sensory approach transforms struggling readers into confident learners who love coming to school and who thrive both academically and socially. Accepting applications from students in grades 1-8 year-round, Laurel School will be expanding to include 9th grade in 2019 and will continue to add a grade each year through high school graduation.
Montclair Cooperative School
65 Chestnut Street Montclair, NJ 07044
973-783-4955
www.montclaircoop.org
Marissa Hairston, Director of Enrollment Management
admissions@montclaircoop.org
About Montclair Cooperative School:
From early ages through 8th grade, the Co-op keeps children at the center of school life, engages parents in their children’s education, safeguards play and childhood, allows for exploration, and supports students towards their own personal excellence. Since 1963, the heart of our progressive approach is the belief that children thrive in an environment that honors individuality and community, self and others.The unique value of a cooperative school lies in the partnership between students, families, and teachers, contributing to the life of the school in ways that benefit all who enter.
Visit Montclair Cooperative School:
Start the conversation by visiting our website, joining us for a virtual information session or an in-person open house. We look forward to telling you more about our diverse, inclusive community of families and our engaging, progressive academic programs.
MOORESTOWN FRIENDS SCHOOL
At Moorestown Friends, we measure greatness by many metrics. MFS students build sound academic foundations, exceed traditional benchmarks, collectively earn the highest SAT scores in South Jersey, and go on to success at a diverse and impressive mix of colleges and universities.
What we believe profoundly shapes how we teach and learn. Because we value the inherent dignity of every person, our students learn to see the Inner Light in people of all beliefs, backgrounds, talents, and personalities. And because we believe our classrooms should be both challenging and compassionate spaces, our students try more earnestly, persevere in the face of difficulty, go deeper, engage with others, and learn more.
Moorestown Friends School graduates leave here as truly great kids going places — not just distinguished by outstanding test scores or bound for colleges that impress, but defined by uncommon kindness, meaningful accomplishment, and generative, generous lives that speak.
PRINCETON DAY SCHOOL
650 Great Road
Princeton, NJ 08540
www.pds.org
The region’s top-tier, independent day school offers PreK-Grade 12 co-ed learning experience on a 106-acre campus five minutes from downtown Princeton. Student-led leadership and a demonstrable commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion practices fuel our mission to nurture the mind, body and character of each student. Depth of learning, skills acquisition and innovative problem-solving define our expertly facilitated STEAM, arts and humanities programs, sports and extracurriculars. LEED-certified 30,000+ sq. ft. new athletic center, REx science independent study program, top Model UN, Energy & Climate Scholars, Jacobson Music Scholars program and more. See pds.org/admission.
WESTFIELD FRIENDS SCHOOL
https://www.westfieldfriends.org/
Westfield Friends School is a private, co-educational day school for students in preschool through grade 8. Shaped by centuries of progressive Quaker practice, Westfield Friends School provides the kind of education—the kind of childhood—that allows children to develop into confident, capable, and whole adults.
An inspiring academic setting, an empowering community, and a Quaker moral compass—these are the inseparable elements of the Westfield Friends experience. Working in unison, they produce deeply satisfying results. We’re proud to say that our graduates help create the world we seek.
Since we are a day school, our students live at home with their families here in Burlington, Camden, and Gloucester Counties, NJ and throughout other areas in southern New Jersey and the greater Philadelphia area. We believe that a diverse community leads to a confident, empowered child. In the warm embrace of our historic Cinnaminson campus, curiosity and compassion are kin. Equity and respect make us stronger, smarter, resilient. We celebrate each child’s unique spirit even as we honor the principles that bind us together. This is a place where learning becomes a joyful shared pursuit.
WINSTON PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Winston Preparatory School is a network of campuses offering students with learning differences a highly individualized, holistic, and responsive education. Our unique model serves students through grade 12, along with a multifaceted gap year program for students who are not yet ready for college or the workplace. At Winston Prep, faculty carry out ongoing, in-depth assessments to cultivate a deep understanding of students, helping them to advance at a meaningful pace and giving them the tools to continue independently learning and growing.
All of our campuses provide intense skill remediation while fostering independence, resilience, responsibility, and self-awareness. They include two sites in New York City and one each in New Jersey, Connecticut, on Long Island, and our newest campus in the San Francisco Bay Area. Last year, we also launched Winston Online Learning, an innovative, individualized program that allows students to participate from anywhere in the country. To learn more about Winston Prep, visit www.winstonprep.edu.
BUFFALO SEMINARY - SEM
Among the oldest girls' schools in the United States, SEM has designed a culture of achievement, scholarship, creativity, and leadership since 1851. Uniquely, we are non-denominational and non-uniform - our culture is centered around our Academic & Social Honor Code. Our independent high school environment allows girls to challenge themselves, express themselves, to succeed in college, and prepare for adulthood.
Our school, on the National Register of Historic Places, is a cozy campus in a leafy neighborhood with world-renowned art galleries, historically significant Olmsted designed city parks, shops and restaurants. Our student residences are renovated grand homes where girls live with faculty parents. Because Buffalo is situated on Lake Erie, SEM teams include sailing and crew.
Buffalo is a one hour flight from New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, Detroit and Chicago; and a 90-minute drive from Toronto. Niagara Falls is only 15 minutes away!
At SEM we believe in standards, but not standardization. Non-denominational and non-uniform, our independent high school environment allows girls to challenge themselves, express themselves, and to prepare for success in college and adulthood.
Students who thrive at SEM are ready to widen their perspectives, contribute to community, to explore, to stretch, and to learn.
EF ACADEMY NEW YORK
582 Columbus Ave., Thornwood, NY 10594
www.efacademy.org/new-york
(914) 495-6056
EF Academy's mission is to open the world through education. At our international, private high school welcoming day and boarding students from 75+ countries, students will engage in a learning experience that asks them to explore diverse perspectives through a process of collaboration, analysis and reflection aimed at developing the skills necessary to respond to the challenges and opportunities facing their generation. Here, we foster true global citizenship through our multicultural learning community. Our school promises to provide a superior education, thorough preparation for university, and a future that knows no borders.
Our flagship campus, EF Academy New York, is located on 98-acres in suburban Westchester County (under an hour north of Manhattan) and is dedicated to educating worldly students ready to seize a future of opportunities. Home to 400 students from 50+ different countries, EF Academy embraces the spirit of collaborative international perspective — in no small part through our IB Diploma program. Beyond that, we offer a range of programs so that all our students master a key set of global competencies in multilingualism, leadership and travel enhanced by a broad array of clubs, activities, and competitions. With everything from Model U.N. to soccer, coding to fine arts, students have the opportunity to discover their true passions. EF Academy encourages students to develop the confidence and independence that will serve them well in college and the real world after.
EF Academy also has locations in Oxford, England, and a new west coast campus opening in Pasadena for Fall 2022.
FLEXSCHOOL
New Jersey Campus
34 Russo Place
Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922
Phone: (908) 322-0554
https://www.flexschool.net/campuses/berkeley-heights-nj
New York Campus
171 White Plains Road
Bronxville, NY 10708
Phone: (914) 704-3334
https://www.flexschool.net/campuses/bronxville-ny
Cloud Campus
A live, interactive virtual school experience for remote learners in grades 1-12 and post-grad
Phone: (908) 322-0554
https://www.flexschool.net/campuses/virtual-cloud-classroom
FlexSchool is the learning community for gifted and twice-exceptional learners in grades 5 through 12, with a curriculum for post-graduate students as well. If traditional school environments have not been a good fit for your student, please join us to learn about our philosophy of embracing differences and meeting students where they are. We accept students gifted in one or more areas, including those who have challenges ranging from dyslexia to ADHD to ASD to social anxiety. We are a strength-based program, focused on helping students develop their gifts and talents with the assistance of our expert educators. We offer rolling admissions because we understand school fit issues don’t always conveniently line up with application season. FlexSchool team of highly trained experts works with students to create a plan that removes barriers to their learning and allows them to soar. Teachers receive ongoing professional development throughout the year, and each campus has learning specialists who work with students and teachers to promote a successful classroom experience. 1:1 courses are also available for classes that are not regularly offered or for students who require more assistance.
FRENCH-AMERICAN SCHOOL OF NEW YORK
Pre & Lower School: 111 Larchmont Ave, Larchmont, NY 10538
Middle School: 145 New Street, Mamaroneck, NY 10543
High School: 320 East Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, NY 10543
Contact us at 914-250-0401 or admissions@fasny.org
Founded in 1980 as a one-classroom preschool, FASNY has evolved to become an international and bilingual N-12 day school educating more than 700 students on three campuses in Mamaroneck and Larchmont, New York. It is the only school in the New York metropolitan area accredited to offer both the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma and the French baccalaureate. All students also graduate with a New York State high school diploma. New in September 2020: an International Program for grades 1-8, no previous French required.
Teachers are committed to creating an environment that is nurturing yet challenging, one that encourages students to flourish intellectually, emotionally, and ethically. A combination of French and American traditions are hallmarks of school life, as are the arts, music, athletics, and community service; local and international trips; and 20+ club offerings. College acceptances represent a wide range of schools in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and other European nations. To learn more visit fasny.org.
THE GOW SCHOOL
2491 Emery Road
South Wales NY, 14139
www.gow.org
GREEN MEADOW WALDORF SCHOOL
307 Hungry Hollow Rd.
Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977
845-356-2514
www.gmws.org
Nursery – 12th grade
Green Meadow Waldorf School offers programs for babies and toddlers from birth to age three, serves children from Nursery through 12th grade, and runs popular summer programs. Founded in 1950, we are one of the oldest, largest Waldorf schools in the US, with almost 225 students. Benefiting from discovery and play in our Early Childhood program, skill-building in our Lower School, and rigorous intellectual challenges in the High School, Green Meadow students go on to top colleges, fulfilling careers, and are known for their resilience and creativity. Come to an admissions event or call us to learn more about how we are transforming education. We also have a strong commitment to serving a diverse range of children, and we welcome LGBTQ and gender-fluid families. We invite you to read about our commitment to diversity at www.gmws.org/diversity.
Hackley School
293 Benedict Ave
Tarrytown, NY 10591
www.hackleyschool.org
A member of both the Ivy Preparatory League and the international schools consortium Round Square, Hackley has a 285-acre woodland campus in Tarrytown with extensive facilities to support our K-12 educational program, including a science building, geothermal library, competition cross-country trail system, eight athletics fields, and a new 110,000-sq ft Center for Health and Wellness. Through ongoing effort to increase socioeconomic diversity, Hackley now draws from over 70 communities, from Cold Spring to Manhattan, from Ridgefield, CT to Franklin Lakes, NJ and all points in between.
Hackley’s mission “challenges students go grow in character, scholarship, and accomplishment, to offer unreserved effort, and to learn from the varying perspectives and backgrounds in our community and the world.” Hackley students discover themselves through relationships with others—in classrooms, on stage, in arts studios, through community service, and on playing fields. Committed to international understanding, diversity, environmental stewardship, adventure, leadership, and service, Hackley prepares students to think and act with care and effectiveness both at school and in their broader communities.
Welcomed by the motto, “Enter here to be and find a friend,” Hackley honors strength of character, offering students a warm, supportive community that enables both challenge and nurture, giving them the means to set high personal goals and attain them. Through this strong ethos and the quality of its faculty and students, Hackley has achieved distinction as an educational force shaping the lives of generations.
THE HARVEY SCHOOL
260 Jay Street
Katonah, NY 10536
914-232-3161
www.harveyschool.org
Located on a beautiful 125-acre hilltop campus in Katonah, New York, The Harvey School provides a coeducational college-preparatory program for students in grades 6 through 12 that fosters lifelong learning and inspires students to develop the qualities necessary to succeed in a diverse, competitive, and changing world. With an average class size of 10, the Harvey community cultivates the strengths of each student through academic excellence, artistic exploration, athletic achievement, and service to others. Harvey offers Honors and AP classes as well as a wide array of co-curricular options in the arts, athletics, and community service. The School also features an International Student Program which currently enrolls 18 students who live in the dormitories during the week and with host families on the weekends. A unique offering is the optional five-day residential program for students in grades 9 through 12, offering the benefits of a boarding school with the comfort of home on weekends. Students come to Harvey from geographically, socio-economically, and ethnically diverse backgrounds, representing over 100 different communities in the tri-state region with the majority from Westchester and Fairfield counties.
THE MASTERS SCHOOL
49 Clinton Avenue
Dobbs Ferry
914-479-6420
www.mastersny.org
Set on 96 acres overlooking the Hudson River, The Masters School is a leading coed independent day and boarding school. We welcome students in grades 5-12 and offer 5- and 7-day boarding options for upper school students. The School’s renowned seminar-style learning approach produces independent thinkers who graduate prepared for college, career and life. Students find their passion on the athletic field, in the studio and on the stage. Day and boarding students benefit from our vibrant 24/7 campus, globally diverse community, and accessible residential faculty. Join us for our Open House on October 23 and admission events throughout the fall. www.mastersny.org/admission.
OAKWOOD FRIENDS SCHOOL
Oakwood Friends School is offering a full 5-day program of in-person programming, academic and extracurricular, with advanced health protocols meeting and exceeding all NYS guidelines, on a 55-acre campus for room to spread for the safety of all.
See a Virtual Campus Tour and come join our Virtual Open Houses on Sundays October 3rd and October 17th, at 10:00AM – details and RSVP at www.OakwoodFriends.org.
RYE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
Cedar St., Rye, NY 10580
914-925-4513
www.ryecountryday.org
PreK - 12th grade
Rye Country Day School is a coeducational, college preparatory school in Rye, New York, dedicated to providing students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 with an excellent education using both traditional and innovative approaches. In a nurturing and supportive environment, we offer a challenging program that stimulates individuals to achieve their maximum potential through academic, athletic, creative and social endeavors. We are actively committed to diversity. We expect and promote moral responsibility, and strive to develop strength of character within a respectful school community. Our goal is to foster a lifelong passion for learning, understanding, and service in an ever-changing world.
AVENUES: THE WORLD SCHOOL
259 10th Ave,
New York, NY 10001
www.avenues.org
Avenues The World School is located in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City. Serving toddler–12th grade, Avenues is one school with many campuses around the world. A core attribute of the Avenues community is inclusivity. Highlights of their innovative curriculum include language immersion in Chinese or Spanish, project-based learning, interdisciplinary study and the Mastery Program.
BANK STREET SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN
610 West 112th St., New York, NY 10025
212-875-4433
www.bankstreet.edu
Email: sfcadmissions@bankstreet.edu
430 Children
Lower School: Nursery – Kindergarten
Middle School: 1st Grade – 4th Grade
Upper School: 5th Grade – 8th Grade
Bank Street School for Children is a progressive independent school and a working model of the Bank Street College of Education’s approach to learning and teaching. The curriculum is experience-based, interdisciplinary, and collaborative. The emphasis is on educating the whole child – the emotional, social, physical, and intellectual being – while at the same time, recognizing and valuing the child’s integrity as a learner, teacher, and classmate. Children become self-motivated learners and strong community members though active engagement with all aspects of the environment. Education at the School for Children is experienced-based. Carefully designed and executed educational experiences offer the framework for each child’s process of “meaning making” and personal reflection. Constructivism - the idea that a child makes discoveries from his or her own observations, explorations, and experiences, and then uses all of them to construct understanding – is the basis of the educational program. The School has a commitment to diversity that is consistent with the progressive tenet that schools should represent the demographics of the society in which they exist. We strive to acknowledge, support, and educate every member of our community, both children and adults, to be sensitive to and respectful of the diversity among us with regard to race, ethnicity, class, religion, gender, sexual orientation, learning style, family structure, and physical ability. Moreover, a broadly based financial aid program provides tuition assistance, based on need, to attract and maintain a range of socio-economic diversity. Our philosophical beliefs and scholarly practice in our classrooms have a prominent anti-bias foundation, as well as a social justice and equity-driven curriculum reflected in all subject areas.
BASIS INDEPENDENT BROOKLYN | PreK–Grade 12
405 Gold St., Brooklyn, NY 11201 (PreK–Grade 2)
556 Columbia St., Brooklyn, NY 11231 (Grades 3–12)
(917) 473-1615
brooklyn.basisindependent.com
BASIS Independent Brooklyn is a PreK–12 private school featuring the world-acclaimed BASIS Curriculum, a globally inspired program rooted in the liberal arts and sciences. Students engage in engineering and Mandarin starting in PreK, work toward independent research in high school, and have a vibrant array of elective and extracurricular offerings to choose from. Led by Subject Expert Teachers who bring classrooms to life through their deep expertise, students build the knowledge and tools to be successful in every endeavor.
The school puts students at the center of their educational journey, nurturing a joyful learning culture where hard work is celebrated and intellectual pursuits result in extraordinary outcomes. As a result, BASIS Independent Brooklyn students learn to be self-advocates and proactively engage with their education—they are provided avenues to create programs and make sure their voices are clearly heard in shaping the school culture. Respect is the unifying value at BASIS Independent Brooklyn; respect for yourself, for the classroom, for friendships, for learning, and for the community.
BASIS INDEPENDENT MANHATTAN | PreK–12
795 Columbus Ave., New York, NY 10025 (PreK–Grade 5)
556 W. 22nd St. New York, NY 10011 (Grades 6–12)
(347) 305-4960
manhattan.basisindependent.com
BASIS Independent Manhattan is a PreK–12 private school that educates students to the highest international levels through a spiraling liberal arts curriculum featuring STEM, Mandarin, logic, humanities, economics, and more. Subject Expert Teachers are at the helm of every classroom—with a unique two-teacher model in the Early Learning and Primary Programs that supports differentiation—who encourage students to take risks academically while providing consistent, individualized support.
With a clear focus on readying students for the skills they need to excel in their future pursuits, BASIS Independent Manhattan takes the guess work out of what good education looks like, providing an unparalleled foundation in all academic disciplines, along with critical skills like collaborative problem-solving and self-advocacy. The school’s culture is shaped by the pillars of citizenship, confidence, courage, compassion, and creativity, creating a community that is as vibrant and diverse as its students.
BLUE SCHOOL
241 Water Street and 156 William Street
New York, NY 10038
212-228-6341 x 110
Pre-primary (2-4 year olds), Primary (K-5th), Middle School (6th-8th)
Enrollment Director, Dawn Williams
DawnW@blueschool.org
blueschool.org
Since its inception, Blue School has been reimagining education for our changing world for students age 2 – grade 8. Our approach to learning balances academic mastery, self and social intelligence, and creative thinking, knowing that each of these are essential components to educating our students’ full selves. Here, every child is seen and celebrated for the unique individual they are.
Educational excellence is at the core of our teaching and learning. While our approach to delivering lessons has built-in flexibility, the curriculum itself is complex and rigorous at every level. Fun and exuberance are irrevocable tenets of our approach to education. We know that play has tremendous value in increasing the possibilities for creating and generating ideas. At every level, children are encouraged to find joy in learning. Community is at the heart of who we are. When your child starts at Blue School, you are joining a warm, engaged group of people who are connected by a shared belief in our approach to learning.
Our program is intentionally structured to foster development throughout the twelve-year journey of a Blue School education, beginning at age two up through 8th grade. Blue School provides a nurturing, supportive environment where children can develop at their own pace. The emergent, inquiry-based curriculum intentionally builds throughout the Pre-Primary and Primary programs, so that, by the time they reach middle school, Blue School students know themselves as learners and are well poised to make an informed decision about the next four years of their education. Our graduates continue on to New York City’s top high school and thrive.
Nestled in the heart of the South Street Seaport, Blue School is an oasis in a large, fast-paced city. Our beautiful campus is designed to inspire creativity, exploration, and meaningful connection. We encourage you to come see it for yourself!
THE BRICK CHURCH SCHOOL
The Brick Church School offers an excellent early childhood education, nourishing children’s emotional, social, intellectual, physical, ethical, and spiritual well-being through an intentionally balanced approach in an atmosphere of warmth and mutual respect. The Brick Church School actively seeks to be a community that is diverse and inclusive in all aspects. Informed by the latest scientific research about brain development in the early years, our program fosters a love of learning while ensuring that children develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they will need to be successful in kindergarten and beyond, all in an age-appropriate, stimulating learning environment. Our expert teaching staff ensures that all children are supported and challenged. At The Brick Church School, children are valued for who they are and reach their fullest potential for growth and development while in our care.
BROOKLYN FRIENDS SCHOOL
375 Pearl Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
718-852-1029
www.brooklynfriends.org
Preschool - 12th grade
Brooklyn Friends School, founded in 1867, draws upon its Quaker heritage to educate students within the context of a challenging academic program and a caring, supportive community. An independent, coed day school, Brooklyn Friends enrolls more than 600 students from preschool through 12th grade,
Located in Downtown Brooklyn, our student body reflects the diversity of New York City and our students travel to school from all five boroughs and New Jersey. The Preschool through 8th grade, located in an eight-story building on Pearl Street, houses science labs, libraries, art, woodworking and ceramics studios, two dance studios, two gymnasiums, a rooftop playground, and a 300-seat theater. The Upper School (9th-12th grade) is housed at 116 Lawrence Street and contains science labs, a library, art, dance and music studios and a physical education center.
From the youngest age, students learn skills of empathy through play, writing, speaking, and activism. Our students are challenged by a curriculum based in critical thinking, self-reflection and inquiry. The highly esteemed International Baccalaureate Diploma Program is offered in the Upper School. Our school is proud of its active, supportive parent body, our enthusiastic and dedicated colleagues, and our thoughtful and engaged students. Together, we form a community reflective of a unique combination of intellect, energy, and heart.
As a Quaker school we value the light within each individual and encourage each student to find their voice and use it to make an impact on their community. With a curriculum that centers our Quaker identity, social justice and equity and inclusion, our students interact with the differences they see and learn to face challenges head on.
Brooklyn Heights Synagogue Preschool
131 Remsen Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
www.bhsbrooklyn.org
Our inclusive, caring community has been nurturing young learners and their families since the fall of 2002. Our on-going focus is on creating a warm, child-centered, inquiry-based school setting. An emergent curriculum and exceptional child/teacher ratio allows us to focus on children’s interests – exploring aspects of their lives, imaginations, and community in an atmosphere of fun and play. We are a Reform Jewish school and teachers introduce the Jewish holidays to children in much the same way they approach curriculum, by making it relevant, meaningful and accessible to young learners. Stories, symbols, songs and even the tastes of holidays allow our students to begin exploration of Jewish traditions and values.
Our current admissions process has been adapted to be safe and healthy during the pandemic. Schedule a remote tour and apply now. In order to apply to our Preschool, children must have turned two by July 31, of 2021.
BROOKLYN MUSIC SCHOOL
(718) 638-5660
126 St. Felix Street
Brooklyn, NY 11217
www.brooklynmusicschool.org
The Brooklyn Music School is a community arts organization that has been changing lives through music for more than a century. We are proud to offer an expansive range of programming for all ages and disciplines, both online and in person. We believe in providing our students with opportunities to learn, connect and perform. Our programming reflects our commitment to our mission of increasing the accessibility of high quality Music Education. We cater classes and lessons to all skill levels and everything we offer is available at an affordable cost with some Financial Aid available.
At BMS, you can explore: Private Lessons for all instruments, Group Classes, Outreach, Summer, Program, Early Childhood Music, Musical Theatre, Music Ensembles, Music Therapy, Mentor Program, Opera, Artist Certificate, Rehearsal Room Rentals, Theatre Practice Rentals, Performance Opportunities, Arts Reaching Youth, After School ProgramDance, and the Homeschool Program.
Learn more today about filling yours or your child’s life with the joy of music by visiting www.brooklynmusicschool.org!
THE CATHEDRAL SCHOOL
1047 Amsterdam Avenue (at 111th St.)
New York, NY 10025
212-316-7500
https://www.cathedralnyc.org/
The Cathedral School is an independent, Episcopal, K-8 day school for girls and boys of all faiths. The School is committed to a rigorous academic program that integrates the arts, athletics, and leadership development. Located on New York City’s Upper West Side on the 13-acre Close of the Cathedral, the School offers a unique setting for the celebration of the many traditions shared by its families. The School prides itself on being a diverse community in partnership with families who take an active role in their children’s intellectual, ethical, social, and emotional growth. The Cathedral School offers a stimulating environment in which each child can become an articulate, confident, and responsible citizen of the world. Continuing a century-old relationship, the School draws upon the Cathedral’s vast resources and provides its children’s choir.
THE CHAPIN SCHOOL
100 East End Ave.
New York, NY 10028
www.chapin.edu
CHELSEA DAY SCHOOL
319 Fifth Ave, 2nd Fl.
New York NY 10016
www.chelseadayschool.org
CITY AND COUNTRY SCHOOL
146 West 13th Street
New York, NY 10011
Director of Admissions: Elise Bauer
Admissions Associates: Erika Greenberg and Nick Smart
https://www.cityandcountry.org
City and Country School, for ages two – eighth grade, is a historically significant progressive school founded in 1914 by pioneer educator Caroline Pratt. Housed in seven brownstones in the West Village, its buildings and courtyards are filled with character and natural light.
Early childhood classrooms follow a simple-by-design philosophy. Children use basic materials including paint, clay, wood, water, and Pratt’s creation: wooden unit blocks, now used the world over. These open-ended materials, along with expert teachers, inspire creativity and collaboration, while promoting attention span and cognition.
Young children also use another of Pratt’s innovative designs: outdoor blocks. Children invent play structures using wooden boxes, blocks, boards, and sawhorses. Older groups use the School’s gym facility; the team sports program is introduced at age 10.
Older children engage in sophisticated historical studies of our diverse world, incorporating themes of social justice. Art, Technology, Music, Science, Woodshop, Rhythms, and Spanish complement their studies of history and culture. A hallmark is the Jobs Program: each group performs a job for the School (for example, school supply store). Through their jobs, children solidify skills in context, and develop authentic confidence, responsibility, and resourcefulness.
Students are accepted to an impressive range of high schools, most attending their top choice.
COLLEGIATE SCHOOL
301 Freedom Place South
New York, NY 10069
https://www.collegiateschool.org/
COLUMBIA GRAMMAR & PREPARATORY SCHOOL
5 West 93rd Street, New York, NY 10025
(212) 749-6200
www.cgps.org
PreK - 12th grade
CGPS is a family school, dedicated to nurturing, expanding and challenging the interests and passions of all our students from their first years in the Brownstones through graduation, matriculating to the top universities around the world. As one of Manhattan’s largest, most well-resourced independent schools, our dedicated faculty and staff make it feel like the small, student-centered neighborhood school it is at heart—and has been, for over 250 years.
At CGPS, we cultivate each student’s intrinsic gifts in a program inspired by the bold ideas and practices of our faculty. Our classrooms are dynamic, responsive, liberating spaces that encourage exploration, reflection and excellence, providing the skills necessary to be successful in a myriad of ways.
We believe a balanced education can lead to a powerful life. We invite you to visit our website and learn more about CGPS at www.cgps.org.
THE CO-OP SCHOOL
644 Gates Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11221
347-721-3408
www.thecoopschool.org
Preschool to 8th Grade
All members of The Co-op School — students, families and staff — contribute to the development of our unique culture. Teachers collaborate and guide students in the dynamic, life-long process of questioning and deepening connections.
We, The Co-op School, believe in and nurture the following Core Values:
Compassion: the strength to work together as a team, to be an individual, to respect differences of opinions, and have the ability to empathize with others.
Uniqueness: the confidence that leads to risk taking, problem solving, and taking pride in one’s own point of view.
Innovation: curiosity, creativity, experimentation and perseverance when faced with challenges.
Community Action: an awareness, respect and care for our surroundings, community and environment.
Joy: the simple joy of playing, learning, and friendship making.
The Co-op School is an inclusive community. We welcome and celebrate students and families who represent the diversity of Brooklyn and beyond, as it relates to race, ethnicity, gender, family structure, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic class and physical ability. We are committed to anti-bias teaching, which for young children is as much about precluding the formation of biases as it is disproving their myths.
CORLEARS SCHOOL
324 West 15th Street, New York, NY 10011
212-741-2800
www.corlearsschool.org
Preschool - 4th grade
In 1968, Corlears School was founded as a nursery/kindergarten school by Irene Neurath and a group of New York City teachers and parents. It was originally located on Grand Street near Corlears Hook on the lower east side of Manhattan. As the school grew, the school moved to its present Chelsea area site in 1971. Corlears School focuses on early childhood and elementary years, up to and including the fourth grade. Class sizes are kept small and offer its young students extra attention. Nursery students are introduced to reading and language skills and are encouraged to communicate their needs and experiences. Letter and word sounds, and rhyming and rhythms are taught using literature and music. Time, spatial relationships, temperature, and weight are used to explore mathematical ideas. In addition to typical toddler creative activities, science is introduced to develop skills of observation and the ability to draw conclusions. Students, kindergarten-through-fourth grade, begin acquiring the basic skills and knowledge for future academic development. The social studies curriculum integrates language arts, math, geography, history, science, and the visual and performing arts. The dance and drama program combines modern dance techniques and creative movement with improvisation and dramatic acting.
THE DALTON SCHOOL
108 East 89th Street
New York, NY 10128
212-423-5200
www.dalton.org
A progressive, K-12 coeducational school in New York City, The Dalton School prepares students to “go forth unafraid.” We are an intentionally diverse community that challenges each student to develop intellectual independence, creativity, curiosity, and a sense of responsibility toward others. Dalton was established on our founder’s belief in the importance of the individual and respect for differences. This core belief has been integrated into the education, thinking, and daily life of the Dalton School community. It continues to be the central charge of the school today.
THE ÉCOLE
Pre-Nursery to 8th Grade
111 East 22nd Street
New York, NY 10010
+1 646 410 2238
www.theecole.org
Located in New York’s vibrant Flatiron District, our intimate and independent French-American school cultivates an internationally-minded community of students. At The École, we believe that the goal of education is to develop well-informed, well-rounded, responsible and compassionate—in a word, “enlightened”—students who can create and connect to a world filled with possibilities. This belief is at the heart of our uniquely-designed bilingual program, in which students learn to not just speak, read, and write in two languages, but also to think, feel, and act in ways that are informed by two cultures. To always see, explore, and understand the world around them from two perspectives is the gift of the deeply bi-literate student, succinctly captured in our school’s motto, “Light through language”.
Artfully blending the curriculum requirements and pedagogical approaches of the French and American systems, our faculty create rich academic environments for a diverse, international student body. From Maternelle through Middle School, students at The École are guided through the core language arts, social studies, math, and sciences content, as well as character and cultural enrichment, in both French and English. In our intimate classroom settings, our teachers aspire to provide bilingual learning opportunities that engage, challenge, inspire—and illuminate.
ETHICAL CULTURE FIELDSTON SCHOOL
33 Central Park West, New York, NY 10023
212-712-6220
3901 Fieldston Rd., Bronx, NY 10471
718-329-7300
www.ecfs.org
Pre-K -12th grade
The Ethical Culture Fieldston School was established in 1878 by the visionary Felix Adler, educator, social reformer, and founder of the New York Society for Ethical Culture. Committed to academic excellence, progressive education, and ethical learning, ECFS today serves about 1,700 students from Pre-K through 12th grade on two campuses, one in Manhattan and the other on 18 acres in the Riverdale section of the Bronx. Our two lower schools, Ethical Culture and Fieldston Lower, teach Pre-K through grade 5; Fieldston Middle, grades 6 through 8; Fieldston Upper, grades 9 through 12. With a diverse community and a longstanding commitment to social justice, the school offers a rich and challenging curriculum in the arts, sciences, and humanities. ECFS also has one of the largest financial aid programs of any independent day school in the country. Find out more at www.ecfs.org.
THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH NURSERY SCHOOL
(212) 691-3432
www.fpcns.org
The First Presbyterian Church Nursery School was founded in 1952 in the heart of Greenwich Village. The school offers a non-sectarian program, welcoming children and families of all configurations, religions, races, cultures, and economic backgrounds. Respect for individuality and community building are centerpieces of the program. The Nursery School is dedicated to the development of the whole child in a warm and nurturing environment, with an educational philosophy based on the theory of Developmental Interaction, the program is enhanced and inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach.
FPCNS believes that children learn best when they are active participants in their learning. The school offers experienced classroom teachers, along with specialists in Studio Art, Music, Movement, Gardening and a Healthy Snack Program. FPCNS has excellent student teacher ratios in classrooms for children aged 2.0 to 5.3. The nursery school offers large airy classrooms, a roof top playground, and indoor play space for rainy day play. Extended Day programming and an Early Summer program are available for 4s and 5s students. Parent participation is welcome and encouraged. A lending library with over 3000 volumes is a beloved parent run resource. The school actively raises funds to provide financial assistance to families in need.
FRIENDS SEMINARY
222 East 16th Street, New York, NY 10003
212-979-5030
www.friendsseminary.org
Kindergarten - 12th grade
Founded in 1786 and grounded in Quaker values and a rich educational legacy, our mission aims to prepare students for the world that is and to help them bring about the world that ought to be.
Optimism is the operative word at Friends. Within the walls of our re-imagined campus opened in 2019, the combination of challenge and support creates a learning environment in which children feel valued for their unique selves and safe to take intellectual risks. We strive to build a school community representative of the city at large to open minds and enrich learning. Unique to Quaker schools, time is set aside for Meeting —a moment when students and faculty gather in the School’s landmarked Meetinghouse for quiet reflection.
Friends offers a K-12 balanced and robust academic program including over 120 courses in the Upper School alone. Through our Center for Peace, Equity, and Justice, service learning supports the School’s mission to help students understand the importance of respect, compassion and social responsibility. Our Global Education program provides opportunities for domestic and international study programs for students to experience stewardship first hand.
Friends welcomes and encourages children of all races, ethnicities, religions, nationalities, socio-economic backgrounds, and sexual orientation to apply for admissions. A substantial aid program is available for families requiring financial assistance.
GARDEN SCHOOL
33-16 79th Street
Jackson Heights, NY 11372
718-335-6363
www.gardenschool.org
admissions@gardenschool.org
@gardenschoolnyc
Garden School was founded in 1923 to meet the need for a high-quality, individualized, and independent school in Jackson Heights, Queens. The core of this neighborhood school’s early vision remains the same as the faculty and administration combine the wisdom of tradition with the science of pedagogical research to offer every student the finest education that maximizes academic and personal potential, in a partnership atmosphere where individual, family and community goals are valued and nurtured. We believe every child has potential and where we believe it is a school’s job to spark, acknowledge, and promote the passions and interests of children.
Garden is a tight knit family where we help our students develop and mature by tapping into their curiosity and teaching them to see one another as members of a global community. It is that sense of being part of something larger than oneself—a culture of caring for and reaching out to others—that makes Garden School a home away from home for our students.
Register for one of our weekly Virtual Information Sessions or schedule a private family tour of our campus.
GERMAN SCHOOL BROOKLYN (GSB)
40 Brevoort Place
Brooklyn NY 11216
www.germanschoolbrooklyn.org
German School Brooklyn (GSB) is an independent international Lower, Middle and Upper School with a bilingual curriculum. GSB admits students without knowledge of German and offers financial assistance. GSB is beginning its candidacy journey for the IB MYP & IB DP. A whole child education for future global citizens. Enrolling K-9.
GERMAN SCHOOL MANHATTAN
Private International Kindergarten & Lower School
74 Warren Street
New York, NY 10007
info@germanschoolmanhattan.org
(646) 869-1152
germanschoolmanhattan.org
German School Manhattan is the first international German-English bilingual school in the borough of Manhattan. It opened its doors in September 2018 in the heart of Tribeca. GSM will grow one grade per year into a full K-5 program (5th grade by 2023, currently enrolling for 21/22: Grades K-3).
GSM is open 5 days a week and enrolls students without prior knowledge of the German language. GSM offers a re-imagined child-centric curriculum that represents German and New York State Department of Education standards. Subjects are taught in German and English by native speakers. Our small classes provide a joyful learning environment to encourage and shape future global citizens. GSM provides seamless education with Middle and Upper School track available through partner school German School Brooklyn (GSB). At GSM, language is a powerful foundation for learning. We use it as a lens for understanding the world, communicating and connecting. Children at GSM are community-minded and take deep pride in themselves and their fellow students.
German School Manhattan offers summer camps and after school classes for different interests. Bilingual education is the academic model of the future. Its benefits are enhanced cognitive, academic and social skills. Get the bilingual advantage at GSM.
GRACE CHURCH SCHOOL
86 Fourth Avenue, New York, NY 10003
212-475-5609
www.gcschool.org
Junior Kindergarten - 8th grade
Grace Church School (GCS) was founded in 1894 by Grace Church as the first choir boarding school in New York City. From the original sixteen choristers, it has grown to its current enrollment of over 380 boys and girls drawn from a wide variety of ethnic, socioeconomic, and religious backgrounds. GCS's curriculum encourages children to appreciate diversity whether the difference is grounded in race, class, cultural tradition, religion, gender, nationality, or personal style. The School is divided into three divisions. Early Childhood Division (Jr. Kindergarten and Kindergarten), Lower School (grades one through four) and Upper School (grades five through eight). GCS's structured curriculum includes Spanish, Latin and French, and extensive computer and religious views of the community. The opportunity for responsibility and personal expression is enhanced through student council, community service, expanded sports and arts programs, and social activities such as dances and extended trips.
HANNAH SENESH COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL
K-8
342 Smith Street
Brooklyn, NY 11231
(718) 858-8663
www.hannahsenesh.org/
Hannah Senesh is a K-8 Jewish community day school in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn. We’re home to a diverse and joyful student body of 225 students who achieve their highest academic potential while developing skills that guide them throughout their lives. Our families represent a wide range of backgrounds and reflect the multifaceted voices of our ever-evolving Jewish community.
We believe in ensuring that our students are prepared to be global citizens who can be productive agents of change toward a more just world. Our core Jewish value of Elu v’Elu (openness) guides our work in building empathy, promoting tolerance, and valuing difference. We live this value daily at Senesh in our curriculum, programming, admissions, hiring, professional development, and dialogue with our broader community.
What unites us all is a commitment to raising lifelong learners, motivated by passion and creativity, dedicated to building connections, and inspired by kindness and respect. Hannah Senesh students embody the values of a rich Jewish tradition while embracing the promise and possibility of the modern world.
THE IDEAL SCHOOL OF MANHATTAN
314 West 91st Street
270 West 89th Street
New York, NY 10024
212-769-1699
https://www.theidealschool.org/
The IDEAL School of Manhattan is New York’s only K-12+ independent inclusion school. Our mission is to affirm and accept the full identities of all people while inspiring academic excellence, creative leadership, and a desire to build a more just and equitable world.
The school’s core principles are built into its name: Inclusion, Diversity, Excellence, Acceptance, and Leadership. Every aspect of the IDEAL experience--instruction, assessment, program, enrichment--reflects a research-based commitment to inclusion education.
Because IDEAL teachers know their students in and out of the classroom, they are able to design instruction that builds upon the students’ unique talents and strengths. Differentiated instruction allows students to pursue the same subjects at multiple levels of complexity. Supportive faculty, small class sizes, and partnerships between general educators and learning specialists create a rigorous but nurturing learning community.
IDEAL’s curriculum and programs are multicultural by design, and social justice and anti-bias instruction are built-in and given dedicated instructional time. Immersion in the arts and a differentiated athletic program as well as service-learning opportunities round out the IDEAL experience.
Please visit our website at www.theidealschool.org to learn more about our Upper West Side campus or hear what our parents and students have to say in our latest school video.
THE KEW-FOREST SCHOOL
119-17 Union Turnpike
Forest Hills, NY 11375
(718) 268-4667
www.kewforest.org
LITTLE RED SCHOOL HOUSE/ELISABETH IRWIN HIGH SCHOOL
Lower and Middle School
272 Sixth Avenue, New York, NY 10014
212-477-5316
High School
40 Charlton Street, New York, NY 10014
212-477-5316
www.lrei.org
Preschool - 12th Grade
New York City's Little Red School House/Elisabeth Irwin High School (LREI) has numerous gay-positive attributes. Founder, Elisabeth Irwin, was a model of lesbian leadership. She and her partner, Katharine Anthony, were adoptive parents. A lesbian-and-gay-issues committee of faculty, parents, and administration is an active voice in the school. The committee and the school co-sponsors the "Love Makes a Family; Living in Lesbian and Gay Families" photo-text exhibit which is attended by all students and faculty. "It's Elementary", a documentary about the importance of including lesbian and gay voices and themes in elementary curriculum, was viewed by the faculty and parents. Lesbian and Gay Pride Month is celebrated each October through assemblies and class discussions. Lower School teachers have devised an inclusive family curriculum, which recognizes gay and lesbian parents. The Middle School Adolescent Issues program deals with a wide range of matters, including sexuality and discrimination, with a focus on developing decision-making skills. LREI's library collection includes books for children of gays and lesbians and books which address sexuality.
LYCÉE FRANÇAIS DE NEW YORK
505 East 75th Street
New York City
admissions@lfny.org
Discover the Lycée difference!
If you have a global mindset and a passion for other cultures, and you wish to foster that in your child, come explore the Lycée Français de New York. A Nursery to Grade 12 bilingual, independent school founded in 1935, the Lycée offers an authentic French and American program that puts well-being and child development at its center. Caring teachers educated in France, the US and across the globe create a welcoming, stimulating school community and foundation for life for young learners--a true home away from home for families from 50+ countries.
No previous knowledge or experience in French is required to be part of our preschool.
Our fall open house season will take you on a journey through many aspects of Lycée life. Discover what we're all about and sign up for events at lfny.org/admission!
MANHATTAN COUNTRY SCHOOL
150 W. 85th St.
New York, NY 10024
212-348-0952
www.manhattancountryschool.org
PreK - 8th grade
Manhattan Country School is a pre-K through eighth grade co-ed elementary school where children are members of a collaborative learning community. A recognized leader in progressive education, Manhattan Country School offers a cohesive, challenging academic program--one in which teachers rely on experiential learning and creative pursuits to stimulate intellect. In addition to being well-trained in the academic disciplines, students acquire a deep understanding of activism and social justice and develop the strength and resources to effect change and pursue their goals. The student body reflects the diversity of New York City, with no racial group accounting for more than 50 percent. This diversity is supported by an innovative sliding-scale tuition program that enables every family to pay according to its means. A unique feature of the school is the award-winning MCS Farm in the Catskill Mountains. The farm program engages students with the natural processes that support life and provides an unparalleled experience of social growth. Manhattan Country School students graduate with highly developed critical-thinking skills, a sense of purpose and a deep understanding of our multicultural world. They go on to attend a variety of highly selective independent, public and parochial high schools, and boarding schools.
MARY McDOWELL FRIENDS SCHOOL
Mary McDowell Friends School is a K-12 college preparatory program dedicated to the success of students with learning disabilities. Grounded in the Quaker values of equality, integrity, and social responsibility, we cultivate a diverse and anti-racist community in which all students can reach their full potential. Our specialized teaching methodologies and challenging curricula empower students to become academic achievers, creative thinkers, advocates for equity, and contributing members of a global society.
We support our students in their academic journey with structured, multisensory curricula; differentiated instruction; small class sizes; and an engaging approach to learning, empowering them to be their own best advocates at school and beyond. We believe that all of our students can learn when given the attention and specialized resources they need. Our efforts extend beyond the classroom, incorporating the visual and performing arts, athletic teams, field studies programs, cross-cultural travel, and service learning. Our college preparatory program is rich, supportive, and academically rigorous.
The school has three campuses in Brooklyn: a newly renovated lower school in Boerum Hill, a middle school in Carroll Gardens, and an upper school in Brooklyn Heights. new.marymcdowell.org.
MARYMOUNT SCHOOL OF NEW YORK
1026 Fifth Ave.
New York, NY 10028
marymountnyc.org
Marymount School of New York is an N-XII independent day school that educates young women to challenge, shape, and change the world. Recognized as a leader in innovative teaching and learning, Marymount is the only private all-girls school in New York City to be named an Apple Distinguished School. With a strong emphasis on STEAM, Marymount is a pioneer in digital learning, financial literacy, and maker education. Our students are active, hands-on learners who take smart intellectual risks in a safe, supportive environment.
With our flagship campus on Museum Mile, Marymount offers a robust humanities curriculum that is enhanced by our unique relationship with The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Rooted in the Catholic tradition, students build a solid foundation for ethical decision-making and the pursuit of social justice. A wide range of extracurriculars and athletics complements the academic program and offers opportunities for creativity, leadership, and collaboration.
METROPOLITAN MONTESSORI SCHOOL
325 West 85th St.
New York, NY 10024
https://mmsny.org
Metropolitan Montessori School serves children between the ages of 2 and 14 years. Based on the Upper West Side of Manhattan and founded in 1964, the school is guided by the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori. We focus on building honest and open relationships between teachers, students, and parents that guide each child toward reaching their fullest potential.
Metropolitan Montessori champions a modern Montessori education that puts the child at the center of our work and the guide to our purpose. We emphasize individualized learning, positive social-emotional development and rigorous academics. The dynamic partnership of child, parent and teacher creates a consistent Montessori framework offering “An Education for Life.”
MORNINGSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL
251 W 100th Street, 6th Floor
New York, NY, 10025
(212) 316-1555
morningsidemontessori.org
A warm, welcoming preschool on Manhattan's Upper West Side, Morningside Montessori School combines Montessori principles with contemporary research-based approaches. Our early childhood programs are carefully designed to meet each child’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive needs, and are led by dedicated teachers who delight in helping children grow. In partnership with our close-knit family community, we cultivate each child's curiosity, joy, compassion, and independence, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
Our Twos Program is designed to gently introduce two-year-olds to the experience and community of a school environment. Our Early Childhood Program, for children aged three to six years old, aims to provide children with a sense of order, continuity, and community. All programs feature flexible scheduling to meet the needs of every family.
We invite you to explore our programs on our website, view our virtual open house, and contact us at admissions@morningsidemontessori.org with any questions.
THE PACKER COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE
170 Joralemon St.
Brooklyn, NY 11201
www.packer.edu
PARK AVENUE METHODIST DAY SCHOOL (PAMDS)
106 East 86th Street
New York, NY 10028
212-289-6997
Molly M. DeGesero – Director
office@pamdayschool.org
www.pamdayschool.org
Park Avenue Methodist Day School (PAMDS) was founded in 1954 with many families across the city well acquainted with our secular pre-school serving children 2 to 5 years of age. When the school was established, our play-based pedagogic model was virtually the only form of early childhood education. While other educational approaches have been introduced or developed since then, we continue to hold play at our core. PAMDS is the home of ‘Playful Inquiry’. Through constructive and meaningful play experiences and ‘Cycles of Inquiry’, children not only learn what they need to know, but also acquire the skills that they need to be successful learners and citizens beyond preschool. We listen to what each child has to say and treat each child as an individual. We praise the child’s process of discovery and encourage them to take risks. We support children to be respectful, active, excited, autonomous, curious and courageous learners.
We are seeking families who take an active role in their child’s life and firmly believe that play is a child’s work. PAMDS understands that a quality school relationship puts the child and the family at the center of our mission. We look forward to partnering with you throughout your time with us.
PUSTEBLUME INTERNATIONAL PRESCHOOL
244 West 14th Street, NYC
212-206-1137
info@pusteblumenyc.org
www.pusteblumenyc.org
Pusteblume International Preschool is NYC’s only non-profit, fully licensed, independent preschool offering German and Spanish language immersion. Some of our children participate in both language programs in a weekly rotation.
We combine the best of international and American teaching methods in a nurturing setting, that cultivates the growth and development of your child. Our unique, NY State approved curriculum is built around inquiry and exploration in the classroom, the school community and the vibrant city that surrounds us. Our licensed, native-speaking faculty teaches music, movement, mathematical concepts, literacy and visual arts in a fun and warm learning environment.
Pusteblume’s beautifully appointed, light-filled facility features a large play room that allows children to move freely even when the weather does not cooperate. We are conveniently located near multiple playgrounds and parks and only steps away from various major transportation options.
Our preschool program admits children 2 to 5 years of age; the activity-based after school/enrichment programs welcome children up to 12 years old, and are open to students from other schools.
At Pusteblume we have created a multilingual, multicultural environment that prepares your child to participate and succeed in our international world.
RIVERDALE COUNTRY SCHOOL
5250 Fieldston Rd., Riverdale, NY 10471
718-549-8810, 718-549-7780
www.riverdale.edu
PreK - 12 grade
At Riverdale Country School, we educate boys and girls in pre-kindergarten through grade 12 based on guiding principles in four areas: mind, character, commitment, and community.
MIND
High standards are valued, but so are innovative approaches to learning. We invite students to cast a wide net during their years on campus, encouraging them to explore subjects in the arts and sciences that interest them. Students' intellectual curiosity and emotional growth are given thoughtful support even as they grow independent as learners.
CHARACTER
Honesty, self-discipline, resilience, and perseverance are qualities we encourage. A multifaceted support system provides students with the assistance they need as they pursue opportunities and learn life lessons.
COMMITMENT
A successful life is made up of the many commitments we make, both to ourselves and to others. Riverdale's emphasis on commitment to a wide range of activities, including academics, sports, community service, and the arts, endows students with a sense of satisfaction and balance.
COMMUNITY
The Riverdale campuses are an ideal setting for an intimate community of learners. Students also expand their view of community beyond the wooded campuses; they are encouraged to view themselves as citizens of the world, with all the joy and responsibility that implies.
RODEPH SHOLOM SCHOOL
10 West 84th Street
168 West 79th Street
7 West 83rd St.
New York, NY 10024
646-438-8600 Admissions
646-438-8500 Main
www.rodephsholomschool.org
Rodeph Sholom School, a Reform Jewish day school, fosters intellectual curiosity through a challenging independent school academic program. At the heart of RSS is a warm, vibrant community, where students are guided by Jewish knowledge, values and ethics to become self-confident and socially responsible leaders.
Founded in 1958, RSS is the only Reform Jewish day school in New York City to serve students from nursery school through 8th grade. We believe that these are the most critical years in a child's development, when we can help establish a cultural identity and academic foundation that will allow students to flourish in high school and beyond.
With more than 600 students total, RSS is large and diverse enough to offer a stimulating and academic program, yet small enough to guarantee that every child receives the individualized attention he or she deserves. Upon graduation, our 8th Grade students routinely attend the most competitive independent and public high schools in New York City and beyond.
The benefits of an RSS education extend far beyond the classroom. The moment your child joins the Rodeph Sholom School community, your family becomes part of Congregation Rodeph Sholom, a warm and welcoming community on the Upper West Side.
SAINT ANN’S SCHOOL
We are an independent, co-ed, non-sectarian day school offering instruction to students in preschool through 12th grade. As a central part of our educational philosophy, grades are not given at Saint Ann’s. We deliberately integrate and highlight the arts—including dance, music, theater, and the visual and recreational arts—as central elements of our academic curriculum.
We believe diversity is essential to every aspect of education and seek deliberately to embrace the variety of experiences and perspectives that the city around us offers us as we construct the symposium that is Saint Ann’s. Visit our website at www.saintannsny.org to learn more.
ST. LUKE'S SCHOOL
487 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
212-924-5960
www.stlukeschool.org
Junior Kindergarten - 8th grade
Founded in 1945, St. Luke's School is located in the West Village of New York City. It is a coeducational Episcopal day school with two hundred students of all faiths from Junior-Kindergarten through Grade eight Since its inception, St. Luke's School has encouraged diversity by seeking both students and teachers of varying backgrounds. The schools unique 2-acre campus includes three outdoor playgrounds. St. Luke's Garden, filled with quiet paths, flowers, lawns, benches, and trees. Facilities include spacious and sunny classrooms, a gymnasium, an art studio, a small theater, an 18,000 volume library and media center, computer, and foreign language rooms. Chapel services and special programs are held in The Church of St. Luke in the Fields, a landmark building, constructed in 1822 and rebuilt in 1985.
Lower School Junior-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students' days are tilled with the "work" of play-paints, blocks, dress-ups, sand, water, cooking, and regular outdoor activities in the playground. As children become ready, reading, writing and math skills are introduced. In Grades 1 through 4, the focus is on developing proficiency in reading, writing, mathematics, and critical thinking.
The Upper School program. Grades 5 through 8, continues to build upon the base of academic skills and concentrates on study habits, time management and independence to prepare students for high school. All students learn and participate in community service, and St. Luke's Partners Program pairs older and younger children for projects and activities.
STATEN ISLAND ACADEMY
715 Todt Hill Rd., Staten Island, NY 10304
718-987-8100
www.statenislandacademy.org
Prek - 12th grade
Successful students — achieving their goals in school and in life — are at the heart of the learning community that is Staten Island Academy. An independent, co-educational, college prep school for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, the Academy provides an inspiring balance of intellectual challenge, exploration, service, and opportunity. Our students learn to be critical thinkers, ethical leaders, and self-reliant problem solvers, who are equipped to navigate a complex and ever-changing world. We prepare our students to become life-long learners. Academy students find their own voices, develop their talents, and raise their aspirations. Staten Island Academy proudly recognizes, respects, and affirms the dignity and worth of all members of our community.
THE TOWN SCHOOL
540 East 76th St., New York, NY 10021
212-288-4383
www.thetownschool.org
The Town School is committed to elementary co-education, serving students in Nursery through Eighth grade. As we embrace high academic and ethical standards for each student, we are guided by our school motto, “let there be joy in learning.”
Town’s program balances the traditional and the innovative, emphasizing excellence in academics and a thorough exposure to the arts and physical education. We teach children to think creatively, read critically and reason logically, stressing the value of both individual learning and collaboration. We are committed to diversity, teaching students to be inclusive and to respect themselves and others.
We believe that the process of learning is as important as the result. Town builds on children’s natural curiosity and creativity, helping them to discover and celebrate their strengths. In our nurturing and supportive environment, we challenge each student to take risks and persevere. The program enables students to experience success, increase self-confidence and develop individuality. Faculty and parents collaborate in support of each child’s growth.
TRINITY SCHOOL
139 West 91st St.
New York, NY 10024
www.trinityschoolnyc.org
TWIN PARKS MONTESSORI SCHOOLS
Central Park Montessori
1 West 91st St., NYC 10024
(212) 595-2000
enroll@twinparks.org
Park West Montessori School
435 Central Park West, NYC 10025
(212) 678-6072
pwadmissions@twinparks.org
Riverside Montessori School
202 Riverside Dr., NYC 10025
(212) 665-1600
admissions@twinparks.org
Twin Parks Montessori Schools (TPMS), www.twinparks.org, are accredited by the American Montessori Society, the Middle States Commission and are affiliates schools of Columbia University. TPMS provide nurturing, child-centered settings for children ages 3 months-6 years. TPMS are committed to fostering a community of lifelong learners using proven Montessori methodology. Problem solving and creativity are emphasized along with age-appropriate academic subjects. TPMS are among Manhattan’s most spacious preschools, offering rich and varied environments— from individual activity tables to open floor areas promoting group interaction, from the quiet areas for independent interests to the abundance of the Schools’ glorious backyards: Central and Riverside Parks. Each of these environments invites exploration, discovery and fully meets the developmental needs of young children.
UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (UNIS)
A Pre-K-to-12th grade, coeducational school, the United Nations International School (UNIS) was established in 1947 by some UN parents to provide an international education for children from both UN and non-UN families while preserving their cultural heritages. The school's board of trustees reports directly to the Secretary-General, and UN issues and other international topics are woven through its classes. The school is well known for its wide-ranging diversity, and its students come from 123 countries and speak 99 languages at home, while the faculty comes from 69 countries. The spacious Manhattan campus overlooks the East River. A founding school of the International Baccalaureate (IB), UNIS has a comprehensive Pre-K-12 curriculum. Given the school's truly international nature, the study of languages to fluency is central: the main language of instruction is English and all students study French or Spanish beginning in prekindergarten, with Mandarin offered as an additional language. In Middle School, students add another language, and those include Arabic, German, Italian, Japanese and Russian. Additional languages may be studied after school, starting in the Junior School. Overall, UNIS aims to educate and inspire its students to become an active force in shaping a better world. For further information, please contact admissions@unis.org.
VILLAGE COMMUNITY SCHOOL
272-278 West 10th Street, New York, NY 10014
212-691-5146
www.vcsnyc.org
Co-ed, Kindergarten – 8th grade
Admissions Director: Esther Lee
Associate Director of Admissions: Barbara Binswanger Charlton
Village Community School develops self-motivated students who value the challenging and rewarding process of learning as an integral part of life. We choose to be a diverse community where equity, creativity and critical thinking are essential to the rigorous education we provide. Our graduates are skilled and confident, able to advocate for themselves and others. They are well prepared for high school and for their futures in an increasingly complex and dynamic world.
VCS provides a culture of achievement where students radiate intellectual vitality – reaching and advancing beyond traditional notions of what K-8 students can accomplish. VCS students live their learning through active experiences that delve deeply into subject matter and make connections between disciplines.
WEST SIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL
309 West 92nd St.
New York, NY 10025
212-662-8000
www.wsmsnyc.org
ages 2.0 - 6 years old
Mimi Basso, Head of School
Judy Lyons, Director of Admissions
West Side Montessori School … where to begin a lifetime of learning.
Since 1963, West Side Montessori School has provided an exceptional early childhood education within a welcoming and richly diverse community. Here, children are nurtured, families find friendship and support and faculty can flourish. We embody the best practices that have evolved in early childhood and Montessori education, and as a community of learners, we use the process of self-reflection to continually improve what we know and what we do to best support our students. We share our growing understanding of early childhood education and our findings with parents and with the broader educational community. Our mission is made feasible by our outstanding faculty and is further enhanced by our internationally recognized teacher education program.
We maintain our unique identity by:
• Actively involving families in their children’s educational lives.
• Modeling our belief in the importance of diversity.
• Living our Montessori philosophy.
• Continually building on our knowledge of child development and Montessori education.
WETHERBY-PEMBRIDGE SCHOOL
7 E 96th Street
New York, NY 10128
646-213-3400
www.wetherby-pembridge.org
Director of Admissions - Jean Monaco - jean.monaco@wetherbypembridge.org
Wetherby-Pembridge is a unique independent school for boys and girls ages 2 - 14 (Nursery 2- Grade 8) that holds sacred its core values of Respect, Resilience, and Responsibility. The curriculum is based on the rigorous English National Curriculum and is enriched by NYC’s cultural experiences. Children are inspired to achieve personal confidence and success with integrity, kindness, respect, and manners.
Wetherby-Pembridge partners with families to provide an academically challenging but also bespoke program that works to supply all children with the tools to create in the world. Our unique community is both educationally engaging and family focused.
WINSTON PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Winston Preparatory School is a network of campuses offering students with learning differences a highly individualized, holistic, and responsive education. Our unique model serves students through grade 12, along with a multifaceted gap year program for students who are not yet ready for college or the workplace. At Winston Prep, faculty carry out ongoing, in-depth assessments to cultivate a deep understanding of students, helping them to advance at a meaningful pace and giving them the tools to continue independently learning and growing.
All of our campuses provide intense skill remediation while fostering independence, resilience, responsibility, and self-awareness. They include two sites in New York City and one each in New Jersey, Connecticut, on Long Island, and our newest campus in the San Francisco Bay Area. Last year, we also launched Winston Online Learning, an innovative, individualized program that allows students to participate from anywhere in the country. To learn more about Winston Prep, visit www.winstonprep.edu.
WORKSHOP MIDDLE SCHOOL
1100 Washington Ave.
Brooklyn NY 11225
https://workshopmiddleschool.org/
Middle school really matters.
During early adolescence, children work through more change than at any other time outside infancy. How we work through this period - the peaks and valleys of early adolescence - sets a template for how young people see themselves in the world.
Workshop Middle School is an innovative independent middle school for curious, creative, and big-hearted children in Grades 6-8. Everything about our school is designed to match the abilities, interests, and needs of early adolescence.
Our students work harder at learning than they’ve ever worked at school. Here’s the thing: they also love school more than they ever have before. One parent explains: “Workshop Middle School is the greatest gift you can give to your child.”
How do we do this?
• Our award-winning teachers create an award-winning curriculum. Students learn advanced academic concepts and skills through our unmatched, hands-on projects.
• Forum, our industry-leading commitment to socio-emotional learning and development, supports positive mental health and high-leverage executive function skills.
• Truly need-blind admissions ensures a diverse, equitable, and integrated community.
Admitted families receive tuition awards indexed to family income and wealth . . . and more than 80% of our families receive financial support.
Middle school can be absolutely amazing!
YORK PREP
40 West 68th St.
New York, NY 10023
www.yorkprep.org
York Prep is a New York City independent school committed to creating a nurturing environment that challenges and supports each student in a diverse and inclusive setting. Compassionate educators guide students through a traditional and rigorous curriculum, while employing a range of innovative techniques to cultivate each individual student’s skills, abilities, and interests. York strives to support all students as they grow into lifelong learners and responsible citizens.
Their program offers an unparalleled Jump Start Program with one on one personalized attention, along with Honors courses, AP classes, and a world class Scholars Program. The thorough and student-centered college counseling program provides guidance tailored to each student’s particular needs and interests.
York has built a community based on a fundamental principle. As founder and headmaster, Ronald Stewart, loves to say, “Character trumps Algebra.” While the curriculum is challenging and prepares students to succeed academically in top schools, York prepares them to do much more than just earn good grades. York prepares them to be confident people of character.
“My daughter’s success is due to all the dedicated staff and faculty at York. I am proud of my daughter's achievements but if she were a beautiful flower, York would be the sun and the rain."
-York Prep Parent
ABINGTON FRIENDS SCHOOL
http://www.abingtonfriends.net
Abington Friends School (AFS) is a national leader in Friends education and one of the oldest Quaker schools in the world. Our unique community is fueled by a powerful academic program at its heart. AFS serves three divisions of learners. Lower School is for students age 3 through Grade 4, Middle school is Grade 5 through Grade 8 and Upper School is Grade 9 through Grade 12.
Some of our school’s most popular programing elements include award-winning athletics and theatre departments, strong environmental stewardship offerings, and a Center for Experiential Learning that organizes study-tours and professional internships. Our outdoor play spaces are Certified Nature Explore Classrooms and our Headwaters Discover Playground space was recently named one of the top five outdoor learning sites in the world.
We’re located on a beautiful 50-acre campus in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania, minutes north of Philadelphia. Schedule your tour today! 575 Washington Lane, Jenkintown, PA. www.abingtonfriends.net, 215.876.4350.
THE AGNES IRWIN SCHOOL
610-525-8400
www.agnesirwin.org
The Agnes Irwin School is a nationally recognized all-girls' independent college preparatory school for PreK-Grade 12 that has provided outstanding liberal arts education since 1869. We offer a rigorous academic program, coupled with competitive sports and diverse visual and performing arts, and combine current educational thinking with well-established teaching practices that serve girls best.
Agnes Irwin is a place where students take chances, discover their strengths, and excel across a wide range of academic subjects, athletic endeavors and extracurricular pursuits. We’re a place that’s small enough to feel like a real community, but big enough to inspire a sense of adventure. A place where girls are confident, engaged and excited about what lies ahead.
Our girls not only embrace learning, they immerse themselves in it. Whether bringing original ideas to life in the Kindergarten Invention Convention, designing unique civilizations during Culture Week in Middle School, or delivering a powerful speech in Senior Assembly, our girls eagerly embrace challenges, freely speak their minds, and learn to follow their curiosity wherever it leads – which might be somewhere completely unexpected. With top-notch educators and a diverse 660+ student body, The Agnes Irwin School empowers girls to learn, to lead, and to live a legacy. Find out more! Visit www.agnesirwin.org.
BENCHMARK SCHOOL
Students who learn differently need a program tailored to the way they learn best, and that’s what Benchmark School provides.
Benchmark School in Media, PA is an internationally recognized leader in providing effective, individualized education for bright children in grades 1-8 who have dyslexia, ADHD, or other learning differences.
At Benchmark School, our exclusive approach goes beyond basic reading programs to reach the whole child. The Benchmark Approach is a unique way of teaching children with dyslexia, executive functioning issues (ADHD/ADD, auditory and visual processing differences), and other language-based learning differences.
Developed and refined over decades of research and hands-on experience, the Benchmark Approach teaches children how to be critical, analytical thinkers with excellent emotional, social, and decision-making skills.
The Benchmark Approach is intentional, reflective, supportive, and teaches the whole child. Our approach meets children where they are, and creates personalized instruction for each student. We use an array of tools and strategies—honed over fifty years—to scaffold student success.
When our graduates leave Benchmark School, they are confident and competent learners who know their learning styles intimately, and can advocate for their own success. Thousands of alumni credit Benchmark School with their achievements as learners and in life. Lauren Pyle '04 says, “I came to Benchmark because it catered to my unique learning style; other places couldn’t do that for me which stifled my ability to grow. Benchmark took the time to understand how I was different then gave me the tools to be successful.”
Visit at benchmarkschool.org.
BUCKINGHAM FRIENDS SCHOOL
5684 York Road
Lahaska, PA 18931
215-794-7491
www.bfs.org
Grades K-8
Buckingham Friends School: Individual Promise. Inspiring Curriculum. Inviting Community.
At Buckingham Friends School, children find space to explore and grow — through a flexible curriculum that’s responsive to their interests; across an expansive 44-acre campus in the heart of Bucks County, PA that encourages play and facilitates healthy interactions; and within our value-added programming that adds breadth and depth to individual learning experiences.
Learn more about our comprehensive, innovative campus-use plan that gives us the ability and flexibility to live our mission and core values, deliver our program, and provide for the health and safety of our students on our campus and in our classroom environments.
Join us for a virtual personal tour or Admissions Open House—visit www.bfs.org or call 215-794-7491.
THE CENTER SCHOOL
The Center School is a progressive, independent day school in the heart of the Pioneer Valley. Since 1981, the Center School has been the ideal solution for families who are seeking an alternative to institutionalized learning, one that provides a solid educational foundation. Through meaningful projects and deep and lively discussions, we foster and support each child’s indomitable intellectual curiosity and self-confidence. Our classrooms buzz with problem solving, creativity and compassionate citizenship. The Center School weaves each individual’s thread into a beautiful, integrated community. Serving students 18 months to 8th Grade. Visit www.CenterSchool.net for more information.
THE CREFELD SCHOOL
8836 Crefeld Street
Philadelphia, PA 19118
215-242-5545
www.crefeld.org
7th - 12th grade
A gender inclusive school, serving students in grades 7 through 12, The Crefeld School's mission is to graduate self-aware, empathetic, lifelong learners, who possess an appreciation for diverse perspectives, their role in society, and their ability to act as agents of change. Located in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, Crefeld provides an intentionally different college preparatory program to help students become their best selves.
Values
• Trust-based system: Everyone at Crefeld is a member of the community. As members of this community, trust is essential to our functioning.
• Commitment to social justice: We believe it is our responsibility to do what we can to eliminate bias based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, political affiliation, national origin, or disability.
• Diversity, equity and inclusion: Crefeld is committed to building a culture that respects and embraces diversity, inclusion, and equity, believing that these values are critical for advancing knowledge, sparking innovation, and creating sustainable communities.
• Strength-based approach: At Crefeld, we celebrate what students do well every day and help develop compensation strategies for areas of growth.
• Embrace individuality: Through the advisory system, each student is recognized as an individual and has a well-supported designated advocate monitoring their education at Crefeld.
DELAWARE VALLEY FRIENDS SCHOOL
19 E. Central Ave.,
Paoli, PA 19301
www.dvfriends.org
DVFriends is one of the nation’s best schools for bright students who learn differently. We welcome students in grades 1 to 12 with reading (dyslexia), writing (dysgraphia), math (dyscalculia), memory (long-term and working), processing speed, ADHD and executive functioning challenges. Our purposeful Quaker culture recognizes and honors the inherent worth of all students while nurturing a community that is diverse and inclusive in every way.
This philosophy underlies all we do to help students discover and grow their strengths and celebrate their differences. We have an exceptional track record of preparing students to succeed in college and beyond. A high percentage (98%) of DVFriends graduates apply and choose to attend a broad range of higher education programs, including 4-year colleges and universities, top art and culinary schools, community colleges, and technical institutes. Our faculty develops authentic partnerships with students and their families to build trust that fosters accountability and yields achievement. Our research-based, multisensory teaching techniques empower students to develop tools for their unique learning styles. Applying innovation and deep expertise, DVFriends teachers guide students to embrace the courage to try, establish the confidence to reach farther, and build resilience to succeed in school and beyond.
Learn more at www.dvfriends.org.
FRIENDS SCHOOL HAVERFORD
851 Buck Lane
Haverford, PA 19041
610-642-2334
www.friendshaverford.org
Nursery School - Grade 8
Founded in 1885, Friends School Haverford is a coeducational Quaker school for students in nursery school through grade 8.
We provide an intellectually rich program to an intentionally diverse school family. We promote academic scholarship, creativity, respect, integrity, and self-awareness with a commitment to creating a culture of stewardship and kindness. Friends School Haverford graduates are uniquely prepared to go forth with boldness of intellect and character.
Our program is rooted in academic challenge, intellectual vigor, artistic expression, service, and kindness. We encourage children’s curiosity, creativity, and joy of discovery as they grow intellectually, spiritually, physically, and emotionally.
We foster an atmosphere in which students learn to work independently and in cooperation with others. They are challenged to question, explore, reflect, reason, and communicate effectively.
We teach our students to be contributing members of the community, to grow and to change with flexibility and courage, and to treat others with care and understanding.
Friends School Haverford graduates possess the intellectual and spiritual skills necessary to envision and create successful and meaningful lives.
To lean more, COME VISIT!
FRIENDS SELECT SCHOOL
Friends Select School is the only pre-K-to-12 Quaker school in Center City Philadelphia. Located on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Friends Select utilizes the city as a dynamic living classroom, enhancing education through unparalleled access to local resources, including universities, science institutes, arts and cultural organizations, social service agencies, businesses, and government.
A Friends Select education links curriculum from year to year, and emphasizes research, writing, and oral presentation. Such learning opportunities, combined with a foundation of Quaker values, are practiced in an atmosphere of integrity and warmth. The result is a world-class education in a world-class city, with deep roots in student advocacy and active citizenship.
Friends Select is transforming its Parkway Building and expanding its campus to include 1520 Race Street, providing facilities that mirror and support the high quality of its educational program, while deepening its Quaker values and renewing its commitment to Philadelphia. The campus includes a rooftop athletic field, 25-yard swimming pool, full gymnasium, and playground for lower school students and the After School Program. Students also have access to nearby athletic facilities, including Boathouse Row and reserved fields in Fairmount Park.
FRIENDS’ CENTRAL SCHOOL
1101 City Avenue
Wynnewood, PA 19096
610-649-7440
www.friendscentral.org
Nursery - Grade 12
Friends’ Central School is an independent, Quaker, co-educational, college-preparatory day school for students in Nursery through grade 12, located on 41 acres across two campuses in Wynnewood, Pa. Guided by Quaker values since 1845, Friends’ Central cultivates the intellectual, spiritual, and ethical promise of students.
Friends' Central is committed to building and maintaining an inclusive, diverse community. A basic tenet of Quakerism is the belief that there is a divine spark in everyone, recognizing the spiritual equality of all persons. All constituencies are responsible for an awareness of and ongoing dialogue around equity issues of race and ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, privilege, religion, physical ability, and family structure. We honor each perspective and life experience, and through an intentional curriculum and differentiated methods of teaching, we seek to empower and engage all groups.
Friends’ Central is committed to education that is challenging, thoughtful, and dynamic. Our faculty set increasingly high standards, encouraging students to approach new ideas with an open mind and unreserved respect for one another. Our students participate in a process designed to foster creative, critical, independent, and flexible thinking, and our graduates are prepared to succeed in college and the world beyond.
At Friends’ Central, we go further. We grow stronger through collaboration, dig deeper for new knowledge, and aim higher in the pursuit of intellectual promise.
To learn more, check out our website!
GEORGE SCHOOL
A global school with local roots, George School is a Quaker, co-ed boarding and day high school in Newtown, PA. Convenient to New York City and Philadelphia, the school is located on a picturesque campus of open lawns and beautiful woods.
George School is an experienced leader in education, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma program and boasting a diploma success rate of 100 percent in recent years, and offering nearly 20 Advanced Placement courses. Students are immersed in learning across all disciplines in a rigorous yet personalized curriculum that provides flexible instruction with distance-learning capability when required.
Students participate in 25 different team sports and take physical wellness classes in state-of-the-art facilities. George School’s three-season equestrian program combines athleticism and horsemanship for novice and advanced riders. George School graduates attend the most selective colleges and universities worldwide, and become confident and capable leaders rooted in self-awareness, self-sufficiency, and the ability to listen deeply to others.
Contact admission@georgeschool.org, call 215.579.6547, or visit www.georgeschool.org to learn more about applying to George School.
GERMANTOWN ACADEMY
340 Morris Road
Fort Washington, PA 19034
admission@germantownacademy.net
www.germantownacademy.net
GERMANTOWN FRIENDS SCHOOL
31 West Coulter Street,
Philadelphia, PA 19144
215-951-2300
www.germantownfriends.org
Early Childhood-12th grade
Founded in 1845, Germantown Friends School (GFS) is a Quaker, co-ed, independent day school for students in preschool through grade 12. Germantown Friends School is dedicated to reaching that of God in every person; the school mission is to seek truth, challenge the intellect, honor differences, embrace the city, and nurture each student’s mind, body and spirit.
Located in the historic neighborhood of Germantown in Northwestern Philadelphia, GFS is nationally known for its academic excellence, attention to the Quaker values of Peace, Equity, and Integrity, a commitment to diversity, and its long-standing dedication to community engagement and neighborhood partnerships.
GFS seeks bright and eager students who demonstrate the potential to engage deeply with an intellectually rigorous academic program, and who will contribute to our vibrant school community.
Contact admissions@germantownfriends.org, call 215-951-2345, or visit www.germantownfriends.org/admissions to learn more about applying to Germantown Friends School.
GREENE TOWNE MONTESSORI SCHOOL
Philadelphia, PA
https://gtms.org/
Greene Towne Montessori School is dedicated to providing a stimulating learning environment for children ages 18 months to 6 years, consistent with the values and principles developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. Greene Towne’s curriculum is designed to develop each child’s full human potential—emotionally, physically, intellectually, and socially—and to foster a life-long love of learning. Each classroom, with a mix of ages, encourages children of different abilities and backgrounds to interact and learn from each other in a non-competitive environment. At Greene Towne, your child builds the skills and self-assurance that lead to a lifetime of learning. Greene Towne is accredited by the American Montessori Society and the PA Association of Independent Schools.
LANSDOWNE FRIENDS SCHOOL
110 N. Lansdowne Ave., Lansdowne, PA 19050
610-623-2548
www.lansdownefriendsschool.org
Pre-K through 6th grade
Lansdowne Friends School (Pre-K through 6th grade), located fifteen minutes from University City, engages children as they develop academically, socially and spiritually. Grounded in Quaker values, our challenging program builds on the natural curiosity our children have for their immediate surroundings. Our green campus within the walkable community of Lansdowne supports the exploration of our students’ ever-changing world. Our goals for children include growth in academic skills; cultivation of an inner discipline and a strong sense of self and community; enjoyment of learning; and development of respect, compassion and care for others.
MEDIA-PROVIDENCE FRIENDS SCHOOL
Founded in 1876, Media-Providence Friends School is a co-ed Quaker day school for students in preschool through eighth grade located in downtown Media, Delaware County, Pennsylvania.
MPFS is committed to fostering positive identities (racial, gender, religion, sexuality, family structure, class & ability) in our students, staff, families, and trustees, and encourage their personal development by:
• Raising awareness and building literacy by engaging in explicit conversations about our identities
• Honoring the intersectionality that exists within ourselves and members of our community, thus increasing our capacity for empathy
• Encouraging our community to take action when they see injustice, prejudice, and bigotry in the world.
We understand this work is dynamic and ongoing, and will require us to continue to learn and grow. A close-knit learning community, MPFS offers students big views of the world ahead. Here, in small classes, under the caring tutelage of early childhood, elementary school and adolescent experts who love what they do, students from different backgrounds and faiths grow up together, immersed in an academic environment that speaks to all the aspects of their beings: intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual.
Every day, students at Friends are engaged in the processes of learning and discovery in contexts that honor the values of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality and service. As they reflect upon what they hear, see and feel, make connections between lessons and life, construct knowledge and act upon their convictions, they learn that learning itself is a lifetime pursuit.
We encourage all prospective families to RSVP to a Virtual Open House at mpfs.org/rsvp. Please contact Angela DiMaria, Assistant Head of School and Director of Admissions & Program, with any questions at adimaria@mpfs.org or 610-565-1960 ext. 104.
THE MIQUON SCHOOL
Nursery through 6th grade (ages 3-12)
2025 Harts Lane
Conshohocken, PA
610-828-1231
www.miquon.org
Founded in 1932, Miquon is a Progressive, independent school that values racial, ethnic, economic, religious, gender, and social diversity. The school actively seeks applicants who represent and broaden that diversity.
Miquon is dedicated to celebrating childhood, using innovative student-centered teaching practices, and developing children's knowledge of and appreciation for the natural world. Independent thinking, varied individual and collaborative approaches to learning, authentic assessment methods, and creative, child-focused approaches are all components of Miquon's Progressive educational program. Time spent outside on our 11-acre, wooded campus that includes fields and a creek is an integral part of every child’s experience. Located just outside Philadelphia, the school enrolls approximately 150 students in eight mixed-age groups, typically 18-22 children in size, with two dedicated teachers in each classroom.
THE PHILADELPHIA SCHOOL
Philadelphia, PA
215-545-5323
http://www.tpschool.org
The Philadelphia School educates children for a future that is impossible to know but not impossible to shape. Learn here. Go anywhere.
The Philadelphia School’s progressive approach to learning and teaching has deep thinking, innovation, and agency as its guiding values. We encourage children to explore and push the boundaries of possibility to fulfill their intellectual, social, and civic potential. We approach learning through inquiry, projects, and community. Core values and new research inform the school’s program and pedagogical practices. Our interdisciplinary, theme-based approach prepares students to build a stronger and more inclusive school, community, and society for today and tomorrow.
As an urban, preschool–8th grade school, we address specifically how young students develop intellectually, creatively, emotionally, socially, and physically. Through our commitment to diversity, we seek to nurture each student’s moral compass, sense of personal integrity, and respect for individuality. Learning in the city, country, and classroom affirms our founders’ goal of educating children to become responsible and active stewards of the urban and natural environments.
PLYMOUTH MEETING FRIENDS SCHOOL
PMFS is a community of joyful learners, from Pre-K (3 years old) through Sixth Grade. Students thrive in a challenging and supportive environment that allows them to discover their best selves. From early explorations of the 11-acre campus and overnight trips beginning in First Grade, to the Fourth Grade Circus and the Fifth Grade Mexican Exchange program, Plymouth students are tasked to be curious, wonder, and explore. Purposeful play and creative hands-on projects are vehicles for critical thinking and problem-solving. Collaborative faculty, families, and community members are at the heart of the school.
Grounded in Quaker faith and practice, the core values of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship (SPICES) are woven into the educational and cultural fabric of Plymouth Meeting Friends School. Accordingly, the school strives to live up to the legacy of equal access to education and equity across social identities. Plymouth students settle fully into a community where their voices are heard and their ideas and opinions are valued. Throughout their PMFS journey, students participate in a powerful, unique educational experience and come to recognize the importance of understanding different perspectives to resolve conflict peacefully and stand up for justice.
WESTTOWN SCHOOL
975 Westtown Road
West Chester, PA 19382
www.westtown.edu
Westtown School is a Quaker, co-ed, PreK - 12 day school with boarding options in grades 9-12. We offer a challenging, diverse curriculum emphasizing action-based learning, critical thinking, problem solving, service, and social action. Located in West Chester, PA, we are a community of learners who value, and are strengthened by, the rich diversity of its members. As a school, we seek to prepare students for living and leading in a diverse and complex world. As a community, we prioritize inclusivity and respect.
At Westtown, we are uncommonly invested in helping our students discover their gifts, talents, passions, and sense of purpose. We believe deeply that within each of us there is a special Light, a unique wisdom, and an evolving sense of purpose. Together, we work to help students discover these in a supportive and collaborative environment.
We don’t claim that our students graduate with a complete roadmap to their future, but we do know that they will understand how to navigate toward it. Because our thousands of alumni/ae/x all say the same thing - they left Westtown with a clear sense of direction, defined interests, and the tools to continue to explore with confidence, academic preparedness, and passion.
BASIS INDEPENDENT MCLEAN | Age 2–Grade 12
8000 Jones Branch Dr.
McLean, Virginia 22102
(703) 854-1253
mclean.basisindependent.com
BASIS Independent McLean is an age 2–grade 12 private school in Northern Virginia that is educating tomorrow’s artists, engineers, scientists, and leaders. The world-acclaimed BASIS Curriculum is bench-marked to the highest international levels, featuring unique courses in STEM, Mandarin, logic, humanities, economics, and more. Subject Expert Teachers lead each subject area—with a two-teacher model in the Early Learning and Primary Programs that supports differentiation—who encourage students to take risks academically while providing consistent, individualized support.
Students and teachers alike center themselves around their school values: show respect, take responsibility, and make improvements. These ensure students build the empathy, independence, and confidence to take control of their education while also learning to be a good friend. At BASIS Independent McLean, students ultimately learn become active participants—not spectators—in their school and larger community.
BROWNE ACADEMY
5917 Telegraph Road
Alexandria, VA 22310
www.browneacademy.org
Mission: Browne Academy is a diverse independent day school committed to developing the whole child through extraordinary teaching, exceptional academic programs, and a nurturing community. We empower students to be critical thinkers, inspired innovators, engaged peers, and ethical leaders prepared with the confidence to thrive in a dynamic world.
Philosophy: Browne Academy began as one of the first integrated schools in Virginia. Today that spirit of inclusion endures, as our core values – excellence, diversity, character, and community – are an integral part of our school’s tapestry. By encouraging all members of our community to exemplify these values every day, we are building a foundation of empathy and respect that will serve our students throughout their lives.
We believe in providing our students with experiential learning opportunities that encourage thoughtful questioning, personal engagement, use of the greater community, and a deeper understanding of the world. Through our inquiry-based approach, we strive to foster our students’ natural curiosity and develop their lifelong love of learning.
We intentionally keep our class sizes small to nurture each child’s academic, social, and emotional growth. Students feel safe and cared for in such an environment, and as a result, we see them thrive. Our graduates are equipped both academically and personally to navigate life after Browne Academy with confidence.
Program Highlights:
• Inquiry-based, hands-on academic program
• Small class sizes that enable individual attention for each student
• Innovation Center fully equipped with STEAM-based technology that encourages students to imagine, design, and invent
• Year-round opportunities for busy families, including before and aftercare; afterschool enrichment; summer, spring break, and winter break camps.
• Athletic program that allows students to join a team, regardless of their experience in a sport. Teams include soccer, cross-country, and basketball.
• Robust performing arts program – hand bells, orchestra, various choirs, band, guitar ensemble, spring musical, private music lessons
Please email admission@browneacademy.org or call 571-451-1006 for more information.
COMMONWEALTH ACADEMY
1321 Leslie Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22301
703-548-6912
http://www.ca-empowers.org
Commonwealth Academy, a college preparatory program, is a national leader in differentiated instruction for average to gifted students with ADHD, executive functioning challenges, and mild learning differences in grades 3-12. Through the deployment of best practices in education, and the cultivation of strong relationships in an atmosphere of respect and joyful seriousness of purpose, we inspire excellence, allow students to fully explore their intellectual passion, and foster the personal growth needed to allow our students to excel in college and beyond.
Located in the Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria, our school community embraces students by appreciating their unique talents, challenging them appropriately, and supporting their areas of need. Students in every grade are empowered to reach their highest achievement levels, reflective of their true potential. We offer a broad-based curriculum, compensatory strategies, and a focus on the responsible use of technology.
Our caring and experienced faculty uphold a school culture that fosters both academic risk-taking and social success. Our students learn to take personal responsibility for learning in a comfortable community that values and celebrates diversity.
For more information about Commonwealth Academy or our application process, please contact our Admissions Director, Josh Gwilliam at 703.548.6912 or jgwilliam@ca-empowers.org.
CONGRESSIONAL SCHOOL
3229 Sleepy Hollow Road
Falls Church, VA 22042
www.congressionalschool.org
A co-ed independent day school for infants to eighth graders in Falls Church, VA. Congressional School prepares young learners for future success, inspiring them to question, collaborate, create, and lead.
ST. STEPHEN’S AND ST. AGNES SCHOOL
St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School is a college preparatory Episcopal Church School in the Diocese of Virginia that educates boys and girls from ages 3 through grade 12. SSSAS serves students from across Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. We have three distinct campuses, each uniquely tailored to meet the needs of the students within. We live our mission every single day. To help our students succeed in a complex and changing world, we seek to inspire a passion for learning, an enthusiasm for athletic and artistic endeavor, a striving for excellence, a celebration of diversity, and a commitment to service. Our mission is to pursue goodness as well as knowledge and to honor the unique value of each of our members as a child of God in a caring community.
Our students are respected and celebrated for their gifts and talents. Through all the learning, exploring, and dreaming big, students develop a confidence in themselves because they are known, supported, challenged, and inspired to succeed. The opportunities are endless, and the relationships last a lifetime.
Every aspect of your school experience contributes an essential ingredient to who you will become. As you consider what you want in a school, keep these points in mind:
• Values that affirm the worth of each member of the school community create the conditions for your success.
• Teachers who nurture your curiosity inspire you to realize your academic best.
• Hands-on learning experiences, whether field trips, service projects, or cross-cultural travel build your understanding of the wider world.
• Opportunities for you to innovate stimulate your imagination and creativity.
• Clubs, activities, and athletics are proving grounds for building friendships, developing leadership skills, and shaping your character.
• A school with a well-defined sense of purpose will help you to define yourself to BECOME READY.
TANDEM FRIENDS SCHOOL
Tandem Friends School, a coeducational day school for 5th through 12th grades located in Charlottesville, VA, offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum in an environment built on Quaker values. Tandem students receive an education in which intellectual, ethical, artistic, and athletic ideals are pursued. Tandem’s capable students: value a spiritual, egalitarian, kind, and creative community; thrive on independent, imaginative thought; are fully engaged in learning; and, seek the best from themselves and their community.
Tandem's founders articulated a simple, profound vision - to create a school in which students and teachers collaborate in the learning process. As young people face the challenges of the 21st century, that vision is alive and well at Tandem Friends. In classrooms, on the stage, in athletic arenas, and in the community, members of Tandem's school family are living proof of the brilliance of this simple vision.
Tandem fosters an inclusive community that values and celebrates the experiences of people of different races, ethnicities, genders, gender identities, sexual orientations, family structures, economic positions, faith traditions, physical abilities, learning profiles, and nationalities. Tandem believes that such inclusivity benefits our community and prepares our students to be culturally proficient, contributing members of the diverse, multi-faceted world they inhabit.
WESTMINSTER SCHOOL
3819 Gallows Road
Annandale, VA
(703) 256-3620
www.westminsterschool.com
Westminster School provides to students in preschool-8th grade a well-rounded education steeped in the classics, whose fundamental goals are a disciplined and well-informed mind, strength of character, dedication to learning, generosity of spirit, creativity, and joy in the possibilities of life. Accelerated curriculum includes the core subjects, as well as Junior Great Books, French, Latin, Art, Music, Penmanship, Drama, Dance, and daily PE. Extracurricular activities such as sports, chorus, orchestra, chess, French club, Builder’s Club, MathCounts, and multiple field trips per year enhance students’ rich experience. Extended care, door-to-door bus service, enrichment classes, and camp programs are also available.
Call us today to schedule a virtual tour or register for one of our upcoming virtual Open Houses on October 26 or December 14, 2021!
BASIS INDEPENDENT BELLEVUE | Grades 3–7 (Coming fall 2022)
15749 NE 4th St., Bellevue, WA 98008
(425) 229-1277
bellevue.basisindependent.com
BASIS Independent Bellevue is changing the face of private school education! Opening fall 2022, Bellevue families will discover a learning community where intellectual curiosity drives student success, where interdisciplinary instruction meets experiential learning, and where students are inspired to learn at the highest international levels. Students will engage in a content-rich curriculum rooted in the liberal arts and STEM—including Mandarin, art, humanities, advanced mathematics, and more—all led by Subject Expert Teachers who empower students’ full potential. The BASIS Curriculum combines top education practices from around the world, and is designed to ensure students gain the content knowledge, critical thinking skills, and independence needed to succeed.
The school will open with grades 3–7 to start, with plans to expand to a full middle and high school.
BERTSCHI SCHOOL
2227 10th Avenue East
Seattle, WA 98102
206-324-5476
www.bertschi.org
Pre-K – 5th grade
Bertschi School educates children to become compassionate, confident and creative learners in a global community. But this is not just the mission of the school, it’s also how Bertschi operates every day. It’s what we call the Bertschi Way, and it’s what parents, kids and visitors experience as soon as they walk through the doors.
Bertschi’s faculty know children learn in many ways and strive to address individual needs and abilities. Bertschi kids experience cross-curricular exploration and constant creative encouragement. Science, art, math, and drama projects are used to promote different kinds of thinking and fun learning experiences. Students’ interests are developed, discovered, and nurtured. The Bertschi Way means doing everything all the way with heart and soul and attention to every child.
Bertschi students are taught to know who they are, who their fellow students are, and the impact and influence they have on their community. Staff, teachers, parents, and students work together to establish an environment that is inclusive, supportive, and respectful. This is a school that helps develop thoughtful kids full of compassion, confidence, and creativity who are ready for the challenges of secondary education.
Bertschi School is a learning experience to last a lifetime.
THE DOWNTOWN SCHOOL
The Downtown School is an independent, co-educational high school located near Seattle Center, in Seattle, WA. Small by design, The Downtown School offers a nimble learning environment in which every student is empowered to impact school culture. With an innovative, applied approach to learning, The Downtown School uses the city as a lab. Working in close partnership with local businesses, non-profits, and organizations, students collaborate with area professionals to apply concepts and skills to real-world scenarios. Expert and passionate teachers cultivate meaningful relationships with students to foster curiosity and lifelong learning, all the while implementing a rigorous academic curriculum for the 21st century.
The Downtown School’s approach is informed by three beliefs:
Change equals growth. We believe that change is a natural and joyful part of life, if you have the capacity to adapt and evolve along with it.
School doesn’t define you; you define the school. Our unique academic program allows students to pursue passions outside of school and bring these to school and enrich the learning environment.
Learning is joyful. Above all, we embrace the joy of learning.
Learn more at downtownschoolseattle.org.
FRENCH AMERICAN SCHOOL OF PUGET SOUND
Excellence Today, the World Tomorrow
3795 East Mercer Way
Mercer Island, WA 98040
206-275-3533
www.fasps.org
The French American School of Puget Sound (FASPS) offers education with the highest standards of both French and American systems from preschool (age 3) to Grade 8, which represents 11 years of bilingual education. With a truly international community, composed of 48 nationalities, our students come with all levels of French when they join. We don’t require any previous French up to Kindergarten. FASPS students become fully bilingual, academically thriving, entrepreneurially minded and keen on team work. They emerge as well-rounded, confident, and happy young individuals with an educated perspective on our global world.
“My daughter gained incredible study skills, work ethic, focus, organization and discipline through this bilingual system. At the same time, she learned to think out of the box, creatively and analytically.” -FASPS Alumni Parent
For the most up to date information on tours and open houses, please visit our website: www.fasps.org/admissions.
THE LITTLE SCHOOL
2812 116th Ave NE Bellevue, WA 98004
www.thelittleschool.org/explore
425-827-8708
Preschool-5th Grade
At The Little School, we cultivate curiosity, creativity and joy. We offer an innovative, project-based program informed by over 60 years of experience.
• Preschool through fifth grade in Bellevue, WA
• 12.5-acre campus for investigation and discovery
• Blended indoor/outdoor learning
• Small student-to-teacher ratio
Students are known by our whole community, allowing them to develop strong relationships with adults and peers through collaboration and play. We invite you to do a virtual tour of The Little School schedule a visit to our campus on Ravenna, our online application portal. Have questions? Email us at admissions@thelitthelschool.org.
THE MERIDIAN SCHOOL
4649 Sunnyside Ave N, Suite 242
Seattle, WA 98103
206-632-7154
www.meridianschool.edu
The Meridian School is an independent, K-5 school (200 students) committed to shaping globally responsible citizens who are empowered to inquire, investigate, innovate and impact their communities. Guided by a belief in the power of a wide range of human potential, we approach each child’s learning flexibly and responsively. Our inclusive approach serves a diverse community of learners through a combination of instructional differentiation and small group intervention or extension. Our unique location in Wallingford’s historic Good Shepherd Center situates us in an 11-acre park and surrounds us with nonprofit organizations such as the Tilth Alliance, Washington Green Schools and the Wallingford Senior Center. Academics take place inside the classroom and out in the park, and lessons in community begin by simply walking in the door.
Our Mission: The Meridian School promotes a balance of mind and heart, of contemplation and action, of individuality and a commitment to the community.
Our Beliefs:
Curriculum should challenge, engage and inspire students. At Meridian, we provide an excellent academic education in which the joy of childhood infuses the excitement of learning.
Character is built upon integrity, compassion, and responsibility. At Meridian, students are guided toward self-discipline and thoughtful decisions, mindful of themselves, others and their environment.
Community is the heart of a school. At Meridian, all students, staff and families are known and valued. We strive to create an equitable and inclusive culture. Our connections are strengthened through close student-teacher relationships, strong parent involvement, and active engagement with our local and global communities.
Programmatic Highlights: A learning approach that is flexible, responsive and customized, Place-based Education, Service Learning, Global Competency.
NEW DISCOVERY SCHOOL
New Discovery School is a play-based preschool that nurtures the whole child. We foster confident, joyful learners by building a strong and inclusive community of children, families, and teachers.
NDS was founded in 1985 with the mission to provide young children an emotionally supportive environment where they can learn and grow through play. Play is the heart of our curriculum.
Children explore and discover both on their own and with peers and teachers, learning through a balance of planned and spontaneous activities that engage and challenge, while also providing opportunities to experience success and self-discovery.
Our focus on social-emotional learning empowers children– giving them the skills to self-regulate, listen respectfully, resolve conflicts, enter play, welcome others, and feel confident navigating the social arena. We believe it is essential to teach children how to be valued members of a group, and we welcome all types of families to be a part of our community.
The arts play a key role in our program. We start each day singing together, encourage creativity, and have a skilled team of teachers actively promoting creative expression through many forms including: music, sign language, movement, theater, dance, and sculpture. Children leave NDS confident and ready to continue learning.
PUGET SOUND COMMUNITY SCHOOL
660 South Dearborn St.
Seattle, WA 98134
206-324-4350
www.pscs.org
6th – 12th grade
Puget Sound Community School: Celebrating 25 years helping kids turn passion into achievement.
PSCS is a community oriented middle and high school whose first focus is not limited to an academic program, but is to recognize the full range of human development. PSCS provides a safe, loving, nurturing environment in which the curriculum is based on responsibility and the goal for graduates is maturity. The school is dedicated to surrounding all students with talented people of high character who help them find out what they’re passionate about, and then help them DO something with that passion.
PSCS’ academic program is delivered to students by a highly committed teaching staff and a network of volunteers and is a natural by-product of a compassionate environment. The program is gleaned from a philosophy grounded in first-hand observation of how kids learn and grow. PSCS asks students to dedicate themselves to three simple core commitments: Practice Integrity. Engage the Community. Act with Courage.
PUGET SOUND INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
www.pugetsoundindependentschools.org
Puget Sound Independent Schools (PSIS) is a non-profit admissions collaborative connecting families and schools around the Puget Sound region. We promote the value of local independent school education, and work collaboratively to make the admission process more accessible for prospective families. Our goal is for families to have an increased awareness of the 40+ independent school options in the Puget Sound region. All members of this collaborative are affiliated with the Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS). Through our website, school fairs, and efforts to streamline the application process, we hope to increase student access to independent school education in this area.
At independent schools, you’ll find extraordinary teachers, small class sizes, and an environment where teachers nurture and stimulate students’ intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and critical thinking skills. Our member schools service a variety of grade levels and learning philosophies. Visit our website to find the right school for your child today at www.pugetsoundindependentschools.org.
SEATTLE ACADEMY
Upper School
1201 E. Union St.
Seattle WA 98122
www.seattleacademy.org
Seattle Academy (also referred to as SAAS) is a vibrant, innovative and energetic independent school serving 6th through 12th grade students in an urban Capitol Hill campus setting in Seattle, WA. Our dynamic educational philosophy of teaching students “how to think” but not “what to think” is delivered through programmatic pillars of Academics, Arts, Athletics, Outdoor & Travel, and Service. Students represent a variety of educational experiences (public/private/home-schooled), as well as diverse ethnic, socio-economic, gender, and cultural backgrounds.
Our students have varying interests, capabilities, and learning styles, which are supported by our faculty, advisors, grade coordinators, counselors, and our Learning Support teams. Our Seattle Academy principle to Know the Kid focuses our efforts on understanding a student at the individual level and navigating with them through their SAAS experience.
SEATTLE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
2619 4th Avenue N
Seattle, WA 98109
For gifted children, K-8
Rooted in inquiry. Dedicated to equity.
seattlecountryday.org/admissions
Logical. Imaginative. Intense.
Verbal. Observant. Hands-on.
When we look around our classrooms, they are full of children who are extraordinarily logical and observant, verbal and intense, imaginative and hands-on. Despite these recognizable characteristics, it is estimated that as many as 3.6 million gifted children in the U.S. — many of them children of color — are overlooked in class.
Not so at Seattle Country Day School. Here, we offer gifted children a supportive, inquiry-based experience, one where they are encouraged to ask questions and to question answers. We provide an environment, one grounded in social-emotional learning, where students can explore, create, and grow.
See if SCDS is right for your child. Reach out today to admissions@seattlecountryday.org.
SEATTLE WALDORF SCHOOL
Preschool –Grade 12
Daily we strive to inspire learning, courage, and joy in the developing human being.
Admin Office & Meadowbrook Campus:
2728 NE 100th Street, Seattle, WA 98125 206.524.5320
High School Campus: 7777 62nd Avenue NE, Seattle, WA 98115 206.522.2644
Kinderhaus Campus: 4919 Woodlawn Ave N, Seattle, WA98103
www.seattlewaldorf.org
At Seattle Waldorf School students become creative problem-solvers—imaginative thinkers who journey toward intellectual excellence, human compassion, and artistic skill. Founded in 1980, Seattle Waldorf School is one of the only independent schools in the greater Seattle area with programs for students 18 months to 18 years old. Our three campuses are within easy reach of urban forests and waterways. We are privileged to employ some of the most highly trained Waldorf teachers in the country. We invite students to view each subject through multiple lenses: language, history, artistic expression, and scientific observation, and then apply the kind of creative thinking and problem-solving that make Waldorf graduates shine at college and university. At Seattle Waldorf School we are committed to creating a community that is inclusive for all faculty, staff, families, and students, especially those who have been impacted by racism and oppression.
SOUNDVIEW SCHOOL
6515 196th St. SW
Lynnwood, WA 98036
(425) 778-8572
www.soundview.org
Every child deserves a school that is ethical, rigorous, and compassionate.
Last March, Soundview launched an online alternative to our bricks-and-mortar campus: Soundview VS.
Soundview VS is a seamless extension of the educational environment that Soundview School provides on its regular campus.
Soundview VS is a structured educational environment with daily interaction between the same instructors students had on the bricks-and-mortar campus.
• Every parent and student has full access to teachers, Soundview administration, and the Soundview staff counselor.
• Every child receives individual support through Soundview VS daily.
• Soundview VS and its curriculum are fully accredited by the State of Washington.
• Instruction is equal to what we provide on our bricks-and-mortar campus.
• The education our students receive is fully recognized by Soundview’s regional, national, and international affiliates.
This is a difficult time for all of us. COVID-19 has has made our lives extremely complicated, partly because the circumstances change on a weekly basis. Soundview School wants you to know that we are doing everything we can to provide stability for our students and their families. We begin with the classroom.
Your communication is always welcome. Our head of school, Chris Watson, can be reached at cwatson@soundview.org or at (425) 778-8572.
Soundview: an International Baccalaureate School | www.soundview.org | 6515 196th Street SW | Lynnwood, WA 98036 | 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
SPRUCE STREET SCHOOL
914 Virginia, Seattle, WA 98101
206-621-9211
www.sprucestreetschool.org
K – 5th Grade
Spruce Street School is a diverse environment of students, families, and staff. We strive to intentionally create a culture that fosters strong character, positive self-image, and a life-long excitement for learning. We honor and value every student: who an individual student is, where that student is from, and what that student brings to the classroom and the community. We model and teach respect for all types of diversity, including cultural, ethnic, racial, economic, family structure, sexual orientation, gender identity, learning differences, beliefs, and abilities.
Our students:
• Encounter real-world learning situations where multiple subjects are combined to broaden understanding of an activity.
• Learn empathy, emotion management, and conflict resolution; to take responsibility for their behavior, to give and receive help graciously, and to be respectful of differences.
• Interact with other students of diverse ages and skills to master developmentally appropriate practices at their own pace in small, flexible groups.
• Develop the skills and attitudes to be contributing citizens and inclusive leaders.
St. Thomas School
8300 NE 12th Street
Medina, WA 98039
www.stthomasschool.org
UNIVERSITY CHILD DEVELOPMENT SCHOOL
5062 9th Avenue Northeast
Seattle, WA
http://www.ucds.org
Since the inception of UCDS in 1911 on the University of Washington campus, our teachers have assumed the role of educational researchers as they designed, implemented and evaluated our programs. Today, as a professional practice school, UCDS is engaged in ongoing educational reform. Our school is a dynamic learning environment for teachers as we work together to understand and inspire each child that we serve. Like our students, teachers at UCDS collaborate with colleagues and support each other professionally. Each faculty member brings different expertise and experience, enriching the learning environment.
UCDS builds a strong community between students, teachers, staff, parents, Board of Trustees and neighborhood. Civic responsibility is central to the ethos of our school. Students are responsible for sharing their knowledge and talent in a way that enriches the rest of the community.
We teach children to listen carefully to others, to help one another, to share what they have learned, to coach one another, to participate in group discussions, and to develop areas of expertise where a child can assume leadership. We believe that developing tolerance for different points of view and empathy for the needs of others is essential to the moral development of a child.
THE VALLEY SCHOOL
318 30th Avenue E.
Seattle, WA 98112
www.thevalleyschool.org
Located in Seattle's Madison Valley, The Valley School is a Pre-Kindergarten through Fifth Grade independent school that creates educational experiences that ignite children’s natural passion for learning. Our students develop an academic foundation and become joyful learners through playful work, purposeful play, and the practice of community.
For more information, visit www.thevalleyschool.org or email info@thevalleyschool.org.
WHIDBEY ISLAND WALDORF SCHOOL
6335 Old Pietila Road, Clinton, WA 98236
360-341-5686
www.wiws.org
Pre-K - 8th Grade
A Foundation of Free & Innovative Thought
Celebrating 36 years. Nursery to Grade 6.
Whidbey Island Waldorf School has provided a comprehensive, whole-person, arts-integrated education on south Whidbey Island, Washington since 1985. We are blessed to be situated in the midst of a 100-acre forest preserve.
What We Believe
The world is changing. What today’s children need in order to thrive, both now and in the future, is based on creativity, critical-thinking, and collaboration, not memorization, testing, and competition. At Whidbey Island Waldorf School, our students learn to work with others to develop knowledge and wisdom. They learn to express themselves and their ideas clearly, confidently, and creatively. They learn who they are and how to use their strong moral character and will to positively impact the world. They learn to learn, and they love to learn.
Who we are
Our extraordinary faculty brings decades of combined teaching experience, vast knowledge of child-development, and deep commitment both to their craft and to the children in their care. Whidbey Island Waldorf School is an pedagogically-established school that draws Waldorf families and teachers from across the country and the world.
WOODINVILLE MONTESSORI SCHOOL
19102 North Creek Parkway
Bothell, WA 98011
www.woodinvillemontessori.org
425-482-3184
Toddler through high school
Woodinville Montessori School provides educational excellence for children aged 18 months to 18 years. Founded on the unique Montessori philosophy, WMS combines contemporary brain-based research on learning with a solid academic core curriculum and respect for each child’s individual needs and interests.
At WMS, children explore their identities as individuals, peers and community members. Guided by exceptionally well-trained educators, and supported by committed families, students work together to follow their natural curiosity; develop self-discipline, independence and critical thinking skills; and prepare for whatever paths they may choose. Enrichment and extracurricular activities provide balance: electives and clubs, recreational athletics for 4th- 8th grades, Innovation and Design Lab, aquaponics lab and capstone experiences.
Woodinville Montessori High School offers individualized instruction, and students choose the direction of and take responsibility for their learning. Core curriculum includes math through calculus, at least three years of science and an annual independent project. College counseling is tailored to your child.
The Bothell campus serves toddlers through high school students. The Woodinville campus serves additional early childhood students.
Additional highlights: mastery learning; multiage classrooms; personalized measures of competence; low student/teacher ratios; strong collaboration among students, parents and school; development of positive personal values and social skills; and an atmosphere celebrating and honoring diversity and inclusivity.
Information: www.woodinvillemontessori.org. Accreditations: AMS & NWAIS.
YELLOW WOOD ACADEMY
9655 SE 36th Street
Mercer Island, WA 98040-3798
206-236-1095
http://www.yellowwoodacademy.org/
We’re all different. Which is why we don’t subscribe to cookie-cutter educations. In fact, our philosophy is to fit the curriculum to the student.
Not the other way around.
But more than that, we believe that no matter how distracted, impatient, uninterested, anxious, or unengaged, the potential really is in there. It just needs to be coaxed out.
Our one to one method optimizes the learning experience by tuning the subject to the student’s interest, by pacing the lesson to the individual’s rate of learning, and by staying attuned to the student’s focus, anxiety and engagement. All of which occurs beside a rich environment of camaraderie and community.
Sometimes the best way to find the right path is by providing a highly tailored educational experience. Because when it is more personal, it is also more productive.
So, with patience, empathy and persistence, we work with our students to incite their natural curiosity and instill a love of learning. And bring forward the next generation of amazing human beings.
AIDAN MONTESSORI SCHOOL
2700 27th St NW
Washington DC 20008
202-387-2700
www.aidanschool.org
18 months - 6th Grade
With the innovative and proven Montessori Method at our core, Aidan prepares children to learn confidently, think independently, and succeed wherever they go.
Aidan Montessori School is a co-ed, independent private school for children ages 18 months through grade 6. Founded in 1952, Aidan is the only school in DC that holds accreditation from the Association of Independent Maryland and DC Schools and American Montessori Internationale.
Aidan follows the highest standards of Montessori pedagogy to prepare children for successful and fulfilling lives. Everything at Aidan revolves around how children learn best. Aidan students grow into independent thinkers, confident learners, effective collaborators, and responsible citizens.
For more than 50 years, Aidan’s education has been based on Montessori’s scientifically-proven method to nurture children’s natural development, innate curiosity, and remarkable ability to absorb the world around them. Our classroom communities are thoughtfully planned joyful places where children use ingeniously designed materials for hands-on learning and self-discovery. Here education is an adventure. Because most of Aidan’s experiences are self-directed, children gain an immense sense of satisfaction and confidence from meeting new challenges. Learning is hands-on. Lessons are welcomed. Work is purposeful. Curiosity is encouraged.
Schedule your visit to see Aidan in action today.
BEAUVOIR, THE NATIONAL CATHEDRAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
202-537-6493
www.beauvoirschool.org
Beauvoir, located on the grounds of the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, is a coeducational independent elementary school that serves approximately 400 students in Pre-Kindergarten through Third Grade. Beauvoir’s mission is to provide an extraordinary early childhood education in a diverse community that values every individual. Its program encourages creative, courageous learners and builds an enduring foundation for a lifelong spirit of inquiry and joy in learning. As an Episcopal School, Beauvoir welcomes students and families of all faiths and backgrounds to celebrate their individual stories and collective experiences. The School aligns its practices and decisions with its goal to be a child-centered, safe and deeply engaged learning community.
THE LITTLE FOLKS SCHOOL
3247 Q St NW
Washington, DC 20007
(202) 333-6571
www.littlefolks.org
The Little Folks School is located in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington DC enrolling children ages two through five. Our nursery school is an inclusive community where teachers have created an environment for your child to learn through active exploration and interaction with teachers, other children, and the physical world around them. We approach the whole child: developing the social, the cognitive, the physical and the aesthetic. Our program has always had an emphasis on the arts, both visual and performing.
Diversity of all kinds is celebrated at our school.
As we teach our students, “families come in all different shapes and sizes, it is love that makes a family.”
LOWELL SCHOOL
1640 Kalmia Rd. NW
Washington DC 20012
www.lowellschool.org
Founded in 1965, Lowell School is a progressive co-ed PK-8th grade school located in Washington, DC. Our beautiful eight-acre campus is conveniently located next to historic Rock Creek Park, and includes a Pre-Primary, Primary and Middle School, as well as several playgrounds, sports areas, and outdoor learning spaces, as well as a creek.
Lowell teaches children to fully embrace the humanity, dignity, and individuality of all people, so that they may serve now and in the future as agents of change in a world that continually struggles with inclusion and equity.
We promote active, collaborative learning, with an emphasis on building conceptual understanding and developing strong creative, critical, and analytical thinking. Carefully designed learning experiences and curricula are integrated across subjects, draw on powerful, relevant content and student interests, and support the development of internal motivation and a strong voice. Thinking is emphasized over rote learning, and students are expected to use their knowledge and skills creatively and practically.
Our faculty and staff honor the individuality of each child, give them time and space to grow, and nurture their strengths. A fundamental understanding of the developmental stages of cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth informs all that we do. This approach provides the foundation for children to become highly motivated learners with a strong sense of self-worth and efficacy.
ST. ALBANS SCHOOL
202-537-6435
https://www.stalbansschool.org/
St. Albans School is an Episcopal school for boys in grades 4 through 12. We sit on the grounds of the Washington National Cathedral. In small classes, at seated family-style meals, and during engaging chapel services, we cultivate in students a passion for excellence, a love of learning, and a commitment to the enduring questions at the heart of the human experience. Families that send their son to St. Albans appreciate the sense of belonging curated by our community-wide experiences, the seriousness with which we educate the hearts and minds of our students, and the impact that being a Cathedral school can have on shaping civic-minded citizens, in the service of others. We are fortunate to share our campus with our sister school, National Cathedral School. Our coordinate partnership is a great asset, one that compliments well the many strengths of our single-gender school. We encourage you to connect with our Admissions Office to learn more about our offerings, take a tour, and learn firsthand about our special community.
ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL PRESCHOOL
www.stjohnsdc.org
3240 O Street, NW
Washington, DC 20007
202-338-2574
St. John’s Preschool is made up of three classrooms with a total enrollment of 46 children, ages 2.5-5 years old. St. John’s is located in the heart of Georgetown, Washington, DC. The classrooms have adjacent studios for ongoing project work and investigations, and the faculty is grouped into co-teaching teams. Children may arrive early to participate in the Early Birds program, which begins at 8:00 AM, or stay for the afternoon Kids’ Workshop between 12:30 until 3:00 PM. Under the direction of St. John’s staff, these mixed age group auxiliary programs offer a rich extension of our philosophy. Children participating in the afternoon Kids’ Workshop bring lunch from home and enjoy time in the outdoor classroom.
St. John’s Preschool is inspired by the Municipal Preschools and Infant-Toddler Centers of Reggio Emilia, Italy, which provide the philosophical foundation for our values and actions. Our launching point is the belief that all children are competent, capable, and intelligent.
