Edited by Lauren Vespoli, Emanuelle Block & September Broadhead
So you’d like to enroll your child in a boarding or country day school—but where? Sending a child away from home for some of their most formative school years—even just for the day—is a big decision. In choosing a school, you want to ensure that the institution is as supportive as it is enriching, both in and out of the classroom.
Boarding and country day schools, with their emphasis on creating nurturing intellectual communities, can be a wise choice for parents who are looking for a school that provides more than the typical school-day experience. As a boarding school graduate myself (albeit as a day student), my experience was that learning extended far beyond the classroom. With a more diverse student body, drawn from across the country and even around the world, boarding school students have a lot to learn from each other and countless opportunities to do so, from the athletic fields to the dinner table. Additionally, because teachers also serve as coaches, advisers, and dorm parents, students are provided with uniquely personal adult mentorship and advising opportunities.
Similarly, country day schools incorporate many of the best elements of a prep school education sans residential life—strong academics, individualized attention and mentorship from teachers, a rich slate of extracurriculars—though some do offer boarding options.
Remember, when choosing a boarding or a country day school, it’s important to evaluate an institution holistically. Judge whether your child would not only be challenged academically, but would also enjoy contributing to the school’s community.
To assist with the decision-making process, we’ve compiled a list of great boarding and country day schools, all within about four hours of the city. By starting to get a sense of each school’s unique philosophies and offerings, you can begin the search for your child’s perfect match.
–Lauren Vespoli
BOARDING
Blair Academy New Jersey
Grades 9-12, PG (Post-graduate year)
2 Park Street, P.O. Box 600, Blairstown, NJ
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “At Blair, we create foundations of trust and connections that empower our students to step outside their comfort zones to achieve things they thought were not possible, while becoming confident with who they truly are. This is the Blair advantage.”
Noteworthy: “The weekly Society of Skeptics series, which has been in continuous existence since 1977, is one of the premier high school lecture series in the country. The program was an outgrowth of the Blair International Society, begun in 1937, and has served as a forum for the discussion and debate of important national and international issues.” blair.edu
Choate Rosemary Hall Connecticut
Grades 9-12, PG
333 Christian Street, Wallingford, CT
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Two interwoven priorities define the Choate experience- a rigorous academic curriculum and an emphasis on the formation of character in a residential setting that allows our teachers and students to live with, and learn from, each other in important ways.”
Noteworthy: “A state-of-the-art facility for mathematics, computer science, and robotics will open in the spring of 2015. The new building will be home to our first i.d.Lab. Inspired by the creativity and innovation we see in today’s science and technology industries, we look forward to providing new space for our students to imagine, invent, dream, and design.” choate.edu
Concord Academy Massachusetts
Grades 9-12
166 Main Street, Concord, MA
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Concord Academy engages its students in a community animated by a love of learning, enriched by a diversity of backgrounds and perspectives, and guided by a covenant of common trust.”
Noteworthy: “CA is a ‘no prize’ school, with no class rank and no academic awards. Our mission is to inspire our students to become lifelong learners who grow into young adults with informed opinions, clear goals, and the confidence they need to embrace the world.” concordacademy.org
Deerfield Academy Massachusetts
Grades 9-12, PG
7 Boyden Lane, Deerfield, MA
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Deerfield Academy is committed to high standards of scholarship, citizenship, and personal responsibility. Through a rigorous liberal arts curriculum, extensive co-curricular program, and supportive residential environment, we encourage each student to develop an inquisitive and creative mind, sound body, and strong moral character.”
Noteworthy: “The historic village of Deerfield in the Connecticut River Valley offers a long and rich American heritage. At Deerfield, our time-honored traditions foster lifelong bonds founded on personal responsibility, citizenship, and compassion. Gatherings such as school meetings, cookies and cocoa, dorm feeds, and spirited rallies draw the Deerfield community together.” deerfield.edu
The Gow School New York
Grades 7-12
2491 Emery Road, South Wales, NY
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “The Gow School is a college-prep boys’ boarding school for students with dyslexia and similar language-based learning disabilities. We are a leader and innovator in dyslexia education with a commitment to the values of kindness, respect, honesty and hard work. Our students develop the skills and confidence to succeed in higher education and beyond as creative, compassionate adults and engaged citizens.”
Noteworthy: “A leader and innovator in dyslexia education with a commitment to the values of kindness, respect, honesty and hard work, since 1926 the Gow School has been helping students with language-based learning differences develop the skills and confidence to succeed in higher education and beyond as creative, compassionate adults and engaged citizens.” gow.org
Groton School Massachusetts
Grades 8-12
282 Farmers Row, P.O. Box 991, Groton, MA
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: Episcopal
In Their Own Words: “Groton School is a diverse and intimate community devoted to inspiring lives of character, learning, leadership, and service.”
Noteworthy: “Groton offers Upper School students a full slate of electives, but students also may design tutorials, which are concentrated scholarship in subjects of special interest, under the guidance of a faculty member. The afternoon program can be individualized as well: a Faculty-Sponsored Activity, or FSA, allows students in-depth study of anything from extended research in a chemistry lab to the formation of a rugby team.” groton.org
Hawthorne Valley Waldorf School New York
Early childhood-grade 12 (boarding grades 9-12)
327 County Route 21C, Ghent, NY
Philosophy: Waldorf
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Hawthorne Valley Waldorf School nurtures the artistic, academic, physical, and moral development of the growing child through an age appropriate curriculum inspired by philosopher and educator Rudolf Steiner. We strive to create a healthy and balanced learning environment where children build living connections to the natural world while cultivating social responsibility, personal excellence, and the practical capacities to meet the challenges of the future.”
Noteworthy: “At Hawthorne Valley Waldorf School, we enjoy a 400-acre campus surrounded by the cultivated fields, gardens, and forests of Hawthorne Valley Farm, an active biodynamic farm. The beauty of tended nature and the seasons of farm life provide exceptional educational resources built into the founding ideals of Hawthorne Valley.” hawthornevalleyschool.org
The Hotchkiss School Connecticut
Grades 9-12, PG
11 Interlaken Road, Lakeville, CT
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “The Hotchkiss School strives to develop in students a lifelong love of learning, responsible citizenship, and personal integrity. We are committed to the mastery of learning skills, development of intellectual curiosity, creativity in all disciplines, and enthusiastic participation in athletics and other school activities.”
Noteworthy: “Hotchkiss established the Center for Global Understanding and Independent Thinking to promote strong global awareness within the school. The Center is the umbrella under which all global initiatives and international programs at Hotchkiss are implemented.” hotchkiss.org
Kent School Connecticut
Grades 9-12, PG
1 Macedonia Road, Kent, CT
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: Episcopal
In Their Own Words: “At Kent School, our mission is to serve those who strive to grow in knowledge, skill, spirit, and wisdom; to nurture striving where it falters; and to prepare all, in turn, for service to others. In keeping with our Judeo-Christian heritage and affiliation with the Episcopal Church, we center our school life in our Chapel. In so doing, we endeavor to center our own spiritual lives while learning to understand and respect each other’s beliefs and differences.”
Noteworthy: “Kent School has a curriculum that is designed with exploration in mind. Our academic program is rigorous and interesting, with classes that are rare at the high school level. As you look through the course titles—Screenwriting, Mandarin Chinese, Genetics, Biotechnology, Introduction to International Relations, Contemporary Issues in the Middle East—you’ll see what we mean.” kent-school.edu
The Lawrenceville School New Jersey
Grades 9-12, PG
2500 Main Street, Lawrenceville, NJ
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “We strive to inspire and educate promising young people from diverse backgrounds for responsible leadership, personal fulfillment and enthusiastic participation in the world. Through a collaborative Harkness approach to teaching and learning, close mentoring relationships, and extensive co-curricular opportunities, we help students develop high standards of character and scholarship, a passion for learning, an appreciation for diversity, a global perspective, and strong commitments to personal, community, and environmental responsibility.”
Noteworthy: “Lawrenceville’s unique ‘House system’ creates a familial atmosphere and fosters a strong sense of community, responsibility and support. Each House is a small group within the larger School community that fosters pride, responsibility, and respect for the contributions of others. The Houses are divided by levels and gender, and these differ in degrees of freedom and supervision.” lawrenceville.org
Middlesex School Massachusetts
Grades 9-12
1400 Lowell Road, Concord, MA
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “We aspire for all Middlesex students to develop personal integrity, intellectual vitality and discipline, and respect for themselves and for others. We expect each student to engage energetically and cooperatively in the life of the School, and we seek to inspire in all students the desire to seek understanding of themselves and the larger world, both now and in their futures.”
Noteworthy: “Freshmen at Middlesex participate in Mindfulness courses for nine weeks in the fall. Mindfulness is about learning to direct our attention to our present moment experience (senses, thoughts, emotions) with open-minded curiosity and acceptance. Rather than worrying about what has happened or might happen, it trains us to respond skillfully to whatever is happening right now.” mxschool.edu
Milton Academy Massachusetts
Grades K-12; boarding grades 9-12
170 Centre Street, Milton, MA
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Milton Academy cultivates in its students a passion for learning and a respect for others. Embracing diversity and the pursuit of excellence, we create a community in which individuals develop competence, confidence and character. Our active learning environment, in and out of the classroom, develops creative and critical thinkers, unafraid to express their ideas, prepared to seek meaningful lifetime success and to live by our motto, ‘Dare to be true.’”
Noteworthy: “Astronomy students use the Ayer Observatory to observe and study celestial objects. Science faculty member Jim Kernohan pushes science beyond the confines of the classroom, opening the Ayer Observatory to the School and the town on many Friday nights throughout the year. Mr. Kernohan’s guided tour of the stars and planets is a popular event on campus.” milton.edu
St. Paul’s School New Hampshire
Grades 9-12, PG
325 Pleasant Street, Concord, NH
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: Episcopal
In Their Own Words: “We strive to challenge our students intellectually and morally – to nurture a love for learning and a commitment to engage as servant leaders in a complex world. Founded in the Episcopal tradition, St. Paul’s School models and teaches a respect for self and others; for one’s spiritual, physical, and emotional well-being; for the natural environment; and for service to a greater good.”
Noteworthy: “Graduates of St. Paul’s School have included three candidates for US president, six senators or congressmen, 13 US ambassadors, and ten leaders of various US administrations; a governor of New Hampshire; a Nobel Prize winner, a Medal of Honor recipient, three Pulitzer Prize winners; a mayor of New York City; and a president of the World Bank.” sps.edu
Peddie School New Jersey
Grades 9-12
201 South Main Street, Hightstown, NJ
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “With respect, enthusiasm, humor, and patience, we challenge our students to reach for levels of achievement they have not attempted before and encourage them to measure the success of their efforts by the progress they make. Ultimately, we seek not only to provide our students with vigorous preparation for college, but also to inspire them to strive for the highest quality of citizenship.”
Noteworthy: “The Sophomore Bike Trip is focused on enabling younger Peddie students to experience their country first hand, country that they, and much of modern America, could otherwise easily forget. A group trip in all respects, students not only ride each day’s route and explore the countryside but also plan menus, shop, cook, clean, and manage their own success and the success of the group, under the guidance of veteran Peddie faculty.” peddie.org
Phillips Academy Massachusetts
Grades 9-12
180 Main Street, Andover, MA
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Phillips Academy seeks to educate students of intelligence and integrity from diverse cultural, racial, socioeconomic and geographic backgrounds. Our residential structure enables faculty to support students in their personal, social, and intellectual development. The academic program fosters excellence in all disciplines within the liberal arts tradition. Faculty members guide students in mastering skills, acquiring knowledge, and thinking critically, creatively and independently. We strive to help young people achieve their potential intellectually, artistically, athletically, and morally, so that they may lead responsible and fulfilling lives.”
Noteworthy: “Phillips Academy is unique among secondary schools in that it is home to two museums—the Addison Gallery of American Art and the Robert S. Peabody Museum of Archaeology. Both museums are dedicated to educating and enriching the student community while also serving as a resource to the general public.” andover.edu
Phillips Exeter Academy New Hampshire
Grades 9-12, PG
20 Main Street, Exeter, NH
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “The challenges that students meet at Exeter and the support they receive have a common purpose: to stimulate their development as individuals and as members of society. Exeter seeks to graduate young people whose creativity and independence of thought sustain their continuing inquiry and reflection, whose interest in others and the world around them surpasses their self-concern, and whose passion for learning impels them beyond what they already know.”
Noteworthy: “The school has a student-teacher ratio of 5:1 and average class size of 12 students. We use the Harkness method—a powerful approach to learning which puts students and teachers around an oval table encouraging inspired dialogue.” exeter.edu
The Pomfret School Connecticut
Grades 9-12, PG
398 Pomfret Street, Pomfret, CT
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Pomfret School cultivates a healthy interdependence of mind, body, and spirit in its students as it prepares them for college and to lead and learn in a diverse and increasingly interconnected society.”
Noteworthy: “Faculty are consistently enhancing the pedagogical “tool box” in areas such as blended learning, the flipped classroom, project-based learning, and collaborative/interdisciplinary efforts, as well as the research of best practices in learning and adapting best practices in character education and wellness.” pomfretschool.org
Purnell School New Jersey
Grades 9-12
51 Pottersville Road, Pottersville, NJ
Philosophy: Traditional, all-girls
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Purnell is an all-girls traditional boarding school, adhering to a progressive tradition in girls’ education. Our mission is to educate young women in a creative, reflective and supportive community.”
Noteworthy: “Each spring, Purnell hosts the E.B. Osborn Artists in Residence program, funded by the E.B. Osborn Charitable Trust. Students have the opportunity to join with professional performing, visual, and commercial artists who share their talents in individualized workshops offering not only advice from working artists but also opportunities for hands-on experience.” purnell.org
Taft School Connecticut
Grades 9-12, PG
110 Woodbury Road, Watertown, CT
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “When Mr. Taft established his school, he envisioned it as a place that would educate the “whole person.” That vision remains the guiding principle of the school today. It steers everything we do. Education at Taft is personal, moral and ethical, as well as academic. Our culture is inseparable from our mission, and our community is fundamentally shaped by this belief in helping young people become lifelong learners, thoughtful world citizens and caring people. We take seriously our school motto: “Not to be served but to serve.”
Noteworthy: “The Taft School in partnership with the City of Waterbury, Waterbury Public Schools and the Police Activities League (PAL) is launching the Center for Global Leadership and Service. Premised on the philosophy: ‘Think globally, act locally,’ the center will allow students from Taft and Waterbury Public Schools to collaboratively explore global issues while developing leadership skills to address them.” taftschool.org
Valley Forge Military Academy Pennsylvania
Grades 7-12
1001 Eagle Road, Wayne, PA
Philosophy: Military, all-boys
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “VFMA is an all-boys college-prep school with a military tradition. We have a long tradition of fostering personal growth through a comprehensive system built on five cornerstones- academic excellence, character development, personal motivation, physical development, and leadership. We use structure and discipline as a model for learning and life, teaching students time management, professionalism, and life skills that will propel them ahead in life.”
Noteworthy: “High achieving, academically-qualified high school juniors and seniors have the opportunity to enroll in credit classes at the Valley Forge Military College.” vfmac.edu
COUNTRY DAY
Connecticut Friends School Connecticut
Preschool through 8th Grade
317 New Canaan Rd, Wilton, CT
Philosophy: Classical education
Religious Affiliation: Quaker
In Their Own Words: “Connecticut Friends School seeks to create an environment that challenges and enables students, teachers and others in the community to realize their intellectual, physical, emotional, and spiritual potential. CFS works to prepare its students to live effective and fulfilling lives, guided by the Quaker principles of integrity, equality, peace, community, simplicity and stewardship.”
Noteworthy: “CFS classrooms are organized by developmental age rather than by grade, with two or three age groups together in one classroom. In the multi-age classroom, children have the rare opportunity to learn from regular interactions with students who are older and/or younger than they are. Multi-age classrooms allow students not only to remain with the same teacher for more than one year, but also diminish the competition and performance anxiety that traditional grade levels may promote.” ctfriendsschool.org
Dutchess Day School New York
Preschool-grade 8
415 Route 343, Millbrook, NY
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “We value children’s curiosity and foster their enthusiasm for learning. How do we do that? By tapping into their curiosity, creativity and imagination. By providing them with teachers who are experts in their fields and are passionate about teaching. By giving children the opportunity to think independently, become responsible citizens, explore art, theater and music, learn how to compete on the athletic fields and communicate with power and efficacy.”
Noteworthy: “We are a small school, where each of us enjoys the rewards of belonging to a lively extended family. Students at every level interact with one another both formally (older students reading to younger students, and weekly all-school assemblies) and informally (through school-sponsored events). Our surroundings are warm and hospitable, reminiscent of the private home the school once was.” dutchessday.org
Dwight-Englewood School New Jersey
Preschool-grade 12
315 East Palisade Avenue, Englewood, NJ
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Dwight-Englewood strives to foster in each student a passion for life-long learning. We seek excellence, honor, integrity, and embrace diversity in order to meet the challenges of a changing world. We attempt to give the highest quality preparation for college and university work while fostering independent thinking, the ability to solve problems, and the skills, tolerance, and integrity it takes to thrive in a multifaceted world.”
Noteworthy: “Dwight Englewood is the most ethnically-diverse school in Bergen County, with students who represent over 80 communities in New Jersey and New York.” d-e.org
The Elisabeth Morrow School New Jersey
Age 3-grade 8
435 Lydecker Street, Englewood, NJ
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “The Elisabeth Morrow School pursues the highest educational standards in a supportive, creative environment. We challenge our students’ intellects, promote academic excellence, encourage independent thinking, and cultivate individual talents. Our dedicated, experienced faculty fosters moral growth and social responsibility. Within our diverse community, we value tradition, innovation and the joy of lifelong learning.”
Noteworthy: “At Elisabeth Morrow, we embrace the notion that even the youngest children can have serious passions and pursuits and we acknowledge and support them wherever we can. As our students enter grade 8, they must reflect upon those passions and the role that they will play in the next step in their educational journey.” elisabethmorrow.org
Friends Academy New York
Grades Pre-K-12
270 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley, NY
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: Quaker
In Their Own Words: “Our philosophy is based in the principles of integrity, simplicity, patience, moderation, peaceful resolution of conflict, and a belief that the silence and simple ministry of the ‘gathered meeting’ bring the presence of God into the midst of our busy lives. Friends are committed to developing a diverse community whose members value excellence in learning and growth in knowledge and skills. We are also committed to service and ethical action, and to an understanding that every life is to be explored, celebrated and enjoyed in the spirit of the Religious Society of Friends.”
Noteworthy: Each winter, the school holds, Peace Week, “a four-day celebration and exploration of Peace following Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday.” fa.org
Golda Och Academy New Jersey
Grades Pre-K-12
Wilf Lower School Campus (grades Pre-K-5):
122 Gregory Avenue, West Orange, NJ
Eric F. Ross Upper School Campus (grades 6-12):
1418 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ
Philosophy: Academic
Religious Affiliation: Jewish
In Their Own Words: “Golda Och Academy unlocks the potential of our students by cultivating their critical thinking skills and nurturing their intellectual curiosity through the study of the humanities, sciences, Judaics, and creative arts. In preparing future generations of Jewish leaders, our rigorous Pre-K through 12th grade curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in Jewish literacy through the exploration of texts, traditions, values, and the Hebrew language. Guided by an exceptional faculty and a meaningful partnership between school and home, our students develop a love of learning, a personal relationship with the State of Israel and its people, and a commitment to the betterment of the world through tikkun olam.”
Noteworthy: “A vigorous STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) program, based in part on the Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network curriculum that emphasizes real-world problem-based learning, is key to what we do across all disciplines.” goldaochacademy.org
Green Meadow Waldorf School New York
Nursery- grade 12
307 Hungry Hollow Road, Chestnut Ridge, NY
Philosophy: Waldorf
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Green Meadow Waldorf strives to create a social, cultural, and learning environment that recognizes a child’s spiritual freedom and growth. Inspired by Waldorf philosophy founder Rudolf Steiner’s insights into human development, we nurture the physical, emotional, and intellectual capacities of the growing child through a developmentally appropriate curriculum. We engender in our students the academic, social, artistic, and practical abilities that enable them to become self-reliant and generous individuals capable of meeting the challenges they face in the future.”
Noteworthy: “Intrinsic to the Waldorf philosophy, we use block-style learning, teacher looping, multi-disciplinary instruction (and its impact on neurological development), character education, a recognition of the importance of play and movement throughout the day (and throughout life), and teaching that engages different learning styles.” gmws.org
The Green Vale School New York
Nursery- grade 8
250 Valentine’s Lane, Old Brookville, NY
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “In a vibrant program of academics, arts, athletics, and character education, the Green Vale School inspires and challenges all students to be their best. A Green Vale education instills confidence and competence, while promoting respect and responsibility as cornerstones for a lifetime of learning and global citizenship. Sincere consideration for each child fosters a love of learning and teaches children to excel, to lead, and to care.”
Noteworthy: “In collaboration with classroom teachers, the arts faculty is often called upon to enrich the curricular study of specific topics with the visual, theatrical and musical arts related to that subject. The inter-disciplinary approach to learning benefits students in all grades and is made possible by the strong faculty—they are working artists, musicians, and art historians.” greenvaleschool.org
Hackley School New York
Grades K-12 (5-day boarding grades 9-12)
293 Benedict Avenue, Tarrytown, NY
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Hackley challenges students to 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.”
Noteworthy: “At the heart of Hackley’s Five-Day Boarding community is the Hackley school motto:‘United, We Help One Another.’ There are many manifestations of our commitment to one another. Weekly social activities bring residential faculty and boarders together. Faculty who live on campus also offer our boarders academic support.” hackleyschool.org
The Harvey School New York
Grades 6-12 (5-day boarding grades 9-12)
260 Jay Street, Katonah, NY
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “The mission of The Harvey School is to help students maximize their potential as they prepare for successful college and university careers as well as adulthood. Through a program of academic challenge, faculty support, and out-of-class activities, Harvey encourages students to find the best of what is within them and to develop the confidence and ability to lead and to try new things and master them.”
Noteworthy: “eHarvey.org offers students the chance to make up credit or get ahead by offering a blended solution of learning—independent learning using state-of-the-art customizable online courseware plus guided learning with a teacher using our fully interactive virtual classroom. Students can get extra-help from their teachers while sitting in the comfort of their own homes.” harveyschool.org
The Knox School New York
Grades 6-12, PG (boarding grades 7-PG)
541 Long Beach Road, St. James, NY
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “The Knox School is a dynamic and diverse community that fosters personal and intellectual growth. We provide challenging, engaging programs in a nurturing learning environment, devoting care and attention to every student. Embracing high standards of character, commitment, and achievement, The Knox School encourages students to think critically and creatively.”
Noteworthy: “On-campus Equestrian and Crew programs add to the uniqueness of the Knox experience.” knoxschool.org
Kent Place School New Jersey
Co-ed preschool; Grades K-12
42 Norwood Avenue, Summit, NJ
Philosophy: College prep, all-girls
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Our mission is to offer students of diverse backgrounds, in Preschool through Grade 12, and academically rigorous curriculum in a caring atmosphere; to encourage them to contribute to and find success in this challenging program; to inspire young women to leadership; and to strengthen moral awareness.”
Noteworthy: “The mission of the Global Program at Kent Place School is to empower young women as leaders who understand, evaluate and take action in response to the challenges and opportunities of an interconnected world. To accomplish this, we have defined four key components—global curriculum, travel, partnerships and community service—that will shape the growth of the exciting global initiatives already underway on campus.” kentplace.org
Lawrence Woodmere Academy New York
Nursery-grade 12
336 Woodmere Boulevard, Woodmere, NY
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “We value a culturally diverse student body, seek to develop empathy and understanding in our students, recognize that flexible problem-solving requires considering more than one point of view, and support individual strengths and learning differences.”
Noteworthy: “The Global Scholar Certificate complements the student’s Upper School course of study with a concentration in global studies. The Global Scholar engages in globally oriented explorations—both in and outside of the classroom—that cultivate the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to think and act globally.” lawrencewoodmere.org
The Masters School New York
Grades 5-12 (boarding grades 9-12)
49 Clinton Avenue, Dobbs Ferry, NY
Philosophy: Traditional
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Masters provides a challenging academic environment that encourages critical, creative, and independent habits of thought and a lifelong passion for learning. We promote and celebrate academic achievement, artistic development, ethical action, athletic endeavor, and personal growth.”
Noteworthy: “During the week, our academic classes explore the multitude of exceptional educational resources available in the city. Whether it is visiting a variety of different religious institutions, talking with an economist on the trading floor of a powerful Wall Street institution, touring a laboratory with a research scientist at a major university, or attending the General Assembly session at the United Nations, students use New York City to complement, broaden, and enrich their academic classroom experiences.” mastersny.org
Pingry School New Jersey
Grades K-12
Short Hills Campus (Lower School, grades K-5):
50 Country Day Drive, Short Hills, NJ
Basking Ridge Campus (Middle & Upper Schools, grades 6-12):
131 Martinsville Road, Basking Ridge, NJ
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Pingry promotes excellence at all levels of school life. Students participate in a demanding college preparatory program, complemented by extensive cocurricular opportunities. The total Pingry experience encourages students to reach their fullest intellectual, moral, aesthetic, creative, and physical potential.”
Noteworthy: “Pingry offers 20 different sports, fielding approximately 80 teams in Form I through Form VI (grades 7-12). Our Upper School students can select from 34 Varsity and JV level teams, a total offering that is among the highest of any school in New Jersey.” pingry.org
Portledge School New York
Pre-Nursery-grade 12
355 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley, NY
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Portledge is a small community that offers a welcoming and stimulating environment that fosters a lifelong love of learning, critical thinking skills, and the development of intellectual courage, the hallmarks of a truly educated person. A Portledge education features small class sizes, challenging academics to prepare students for admission to highly selective colleges and universities, and added value through competitive athletics, arts, music, theater, and out-of classroom experiences.”
Noteworthy: “In alternating years, Portledge students have an opportunity to visit France or Spain, a country in which the language they study in school is spoken. They are guests of a French or Spanish family, and then host their exchange student in their home when the French or Spanish group visits the US and the Portledge School.” portledge.org
Rockland Country Day School New York
Grades Pre-K-12
34 Kings Hwy, Congers, NY
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Rockland Country Day School brings forth the best in every student by knowing and educating each of them as an individual. The pillars of our college preparatory program are critical thinking, creative expression, and the cherishing of diversity. Our unique environment enables every child to thrive, both academically and socially.”
Noteworthy: “Rockland Country Day School (RCDS) welcomes domestic and international students to its twenty-acre campus in Congers, New York. We have a small but growing boarding student population in response to increasing international and domestic interest in our school. Students 14 years of age and older are eligible for our boarding program.” rocklandcds.org
Ross School New York
Pre-nursery- grade 12, PG (boarding grades 7-12)
Lower School (2 years-grade 6):
739 Butter Lane, Bridgehampton, NY
Upper School grades 7-PG):
18 Goodfriend Drive, East Hampton, NY
Philosophy: Interdisciplinary, integrated learning
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “Our mission is to change the way education meets the future; to foster interdisciplinary, integrated thinking and innovative leadership; to fully engage in the global community; and to facilitate lifelong learning. The school’s core values are cooperation, courage, gratitude, integrity, mindfulness, respect, and responsibility.”
Noteworthy: “Midwinter Term, or M-Term, is an opportunity for Upper School students and teachers to work intensively on group and individual projects during three weeks, usually in March, between Winter and Spring Terms. Classes and programs in a wide variety of subjects are offered to expose students to in-depth study, new interests, possible college/career paths, volunteer opportunities, and recreational pursuits. Many of these occur in conjunction with travel, both abroad and within the United States.” ross.org
Rye Country Day School New York
Grades Pre-K-12
3 Grandview Ave, Rye, NY
Philosophy: College Prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “It is our belief that the education of young people should encompass cultural, athletic, and communal experiences which stress the responsibility of each individual for the life and spirit of the whole community, resulting in a graduate able to face the world with confidence, to compete effectively, and to contribute meaningfully to society.”
Noteworthy: During the last six days of the school year, seniors embark on volunteer projects to fulfill the Senior Term requirement. To fulfill the Senior Term graduation requirement, students participate in self-designed, full day, individual or group community service projects. Through the Senior Term experience, students apply the skills they have cultivated throughout their career at RCDS to a mutually beneficial project that fosters students’ personal responsibility and empathy while also enabling them to make a positive contribution to the local and/or global community. ryecountryday.org
Solomon Schechter School New York
Lower School (grades K-5):
30 Dellwood Road, White Plains, NY
Upper School (grades 6-12):
555 West Hartsdale Avenue, Hartsdale, NY
Philosophy: Academic
Religious Affiliation: Jewish
In Their Own Words: “Schechter Westchester, a Kindergarten through 12th grade Conservative Jewish day school, is set apart by our comprehensive, intellectually rigorous dual curriculum that empowers and cultivates each student in mind, body, and soul. Through the teaching of Jewish values, critical thinking, and openness to new ideas, we inspire our students to achieve academic and personal excellence, preparing them for college and the ever-changing world beyond.”
Noteworthy: “Our differentiated instruction model meets the needs of students with a wide range of academic levels, learning styles, interests, and talents. Flexible and fluid learning groups are a regular part of classroom life.” solomonschechterwestchester.org
The Stony Brook School New York
Grades 7-12 (boarding 7-12)
1 Chapman Parkway, Stony Brook, NY
Philosophy: Traditional, college prep
Religious Affiliation: Christian
In Their Own Words: “The Stony Brook School was founded with the motto ‘character before career.’ The school seeks to educate students’ minds, bodies, and hearts. Our students are challenged to become leaders with integrity and virtue, and character development is considered an essential component of the educational process.”
Noteworthy: “The school is adjacent to SUNY Stony Brook, allowing advanced students to make use of this academic resource through the University’s Young Scholars Program. Additionally, we take advantage of the maritime setting, offering sailing training and competition, and the study of the marine environment through our Maritime & Environmental Programs.” stonybrookschool.org
Thornton-Donovan School New York
Grades K-12
100 Overlook Circle, New Rochelle, NY
Philosophy: Personalized, international
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “We offer a dynamic, hands-on progressive education for academically talented students in grades K-12. At Thornton-Donovan, education is customized. In addition to reading, writing, math and sciences, from middle school on courses are selected based on interest and ability, not grade level. Students are encouraged to try the new theme-based yearly courses, to go deeper into an area of interest.”
Noteworthy: “Across all grades, perspectives are challenged daily through culturally themed courses focusing on a different area of the world each year. Each spring, our classrooms literally come alive with our annual journey to the country of focus. Imagine having the opportunity to experience first-hand the sights, sounds and smells about which you learned during the year! Recent adventures have brought us to South Africa and Ireland.” td.edu
The Windward School New York
Grades 1-9
13 Windward Ave, White Plains, NY
Philosophy: College prep
Religious Affiliation: None
In Their Own Words: “The Windward School is dedicated to fulfilling its mission of providing a proven educational program for students with language-based learning disabilities. Students are of average to superior intelligence who have been unable to achieve academic success in traditional classroom settings. At Windward, students receive the specialized instruction needed in order to close the gap between intellectual potential and academic performance.”
Noteworthy: “Set to open for its first students in September 2015, Windward’s Manhattan campus will be a state-of-the-art facility designed to carry on the School’s tradition of providing an outstanding education to students with dyslexia and language-based learning disabilities. The New York City campus will open with approximately 100 students in grades 3-6.” thewindwardschool.org
