D Magazine Private School Handbook 2023

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BY JENNIFER SANDER HAYES

From once-a-week Mother’s Day Out programs and preschool to elementary, middle school, high school, and beyond, making decisions about your child’s education can oftentimes become overwhelming. Filling out the required school forms and paperwork alone can feel like a part-time job. Then there’s arranging test prep and extra-curricular activities for your child—on top of overseeing homework and school projects. The effort that goes into planning for a child’s education has its primary purpose—finding a school where he or she can thrive. It’s a lot of work—and pressure—for parents to take on, which is just one reason they hope to get the match between their child and a school right.

The choice isn’t always which school to choose—but what type. Public or private? Making the decision between a public and private education for children is one that thousands of families throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area face every year. For many lucky families, both options are stellar, and the decision is only a matter of preference. For some, having a child with learning differences is the reason to choose a private school. Or it may be a decision based on legacy, where generations of family members have attended the same private school. The choice to attend public school could be based on finances, or it’s possibly just closer to home.

“The decision between a private or public school for your child can be difficult because there is such a varying difference between schools, both public and private,” says Roger Perry, a retired educator who served more than 40 years at a Dallas private school, primarily as

the Head of School. “There is no ‘one’ school for every child. The challenge is deciding what will work for your child, and the good news is that more than one particular school will work great for your child. We are exceptionally fortunate in the Dallas-Fort Worth area to have so many schools, both public and private, to choose from at all levels of education.”

Generally, applications for private schools in the Dallas area increase somewhat each year, but in the past two years there has been a significant jump in applicants. This has been attributed to a change of heart for some parents after the pandemic—wanting a smaller, more close-knit environment for their children—or because of the increase in families moving to the Dallas area in from out of state. The burgeoning interest has made the private school admission process more competitive than it has been in the past.

The admission process for private schools in Dallas-Fort Worth can feel overwhelming without some sort of help for parents to navigate the process. This is where admission consultants and testing and placement advisors come in. For years, the top advice consultants have given to families is to tour the schools and attend open houses, as this is the best way to get a feel for a school and see if it could be a good fit. After that, some professional guidance from industry experts may help narrow the options.

Heather Dondis worked as a college counselor for two private schools in Dallas for many years before becoming director of college counseling at Chadwick International School in South Korea. She says families in Dallas-Fort Worth are fortunate to have so many resources available to help guide them through the private school research and application process.

“Working parents may not always have the time to sort through all the options, and parents who were not educated in private schools may be unfamiliar with the research and application process or even realize that no two private schools are alike,” Dondis says. “A private consultant or

GETTING STARTED

CONSIDER THE BASICS— location, cost, singlesex or co-ed, and religious affiliation (if any.) Determine what is most important to your family and which factors are non-negotiables.

VISIT DALLASPRIVATESCHOOL.ORG, a site run by the Independent Schools Admission Association of Dallas (ISAAD). Niche. com provides rankings, report cards, and reviews of schools in the U.S. from Kindergarten through 12 th grade.

VISIT THE ANNUAL PRIVATE SCHOOL PREVIEW, usually held at a private school in the Dallas area in September. It’s a school fair put on by the 16 members of the Independent School Admission Association of Dallas.

FOLLOW SCHOOLS OF INTEREST ON SOCIAL MEDIA platforms to see how they “speak” to their own community versus selling you on what they want their potential families to see.

Expert advice on how to select the right private school for your child.

ASK QUESTIONS

CHECK SCHOOLS’

ACCREDITATION CREDENTIALS,

TESTING REQUIREMENTS, AND COST/ SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES.

There are several school accreditation groups common to Dallas area private schools, including National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS), and National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS).

DON’T BE AFRAID TO TELL YOUR STORY WHEN GOING THROUGH THE APPLICATION PROCESS.

Ask about mental health resources, academic support, and learning differentiation. Families are often afraid to disclose this information because they think it will hurt their child’s chances of getting in, but both the family and the school should know how they can support each other before a contract is signed.

ASK ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE A CURRENT STUDENT SHADOW YOUR CHILD FOR A DAY.

Spend the day with another child who might be in their class next year so they can see what it’s like at lunch, recess, art, and in the classroom. This will give the child a good feeling about the school—a significant factor in the family’s decision.

professional can help sort through the noise. However, it is very important that families consider the credentials of these professionals to know they abide by generally agreed upon guidelines and ethics in the profession. No counselor should ever promise a child will gain entrance to a particular school.”

Waverly Wilson, lead admission consultant with Perfect Placement in Dallas, says parents are often relieved to have a third-party admission consultant step in, as sometimes, older students can drag their feet on admission applications and decision making when their to-do lists are already overloaded with school and extra-curricular activities. “Parents are often happy to see that their kids will listen to me when I make suggestions about schools and essay or interview tips. Simply put, I’m not mom or dad,” she says. “I think the biggest value-add private school consultants provide to families is that when they enter the admission process, whether they are from Dallas or out of state, we can help them eliminate the stress that accompanies this decision

It is common to hear that private schools have “advantages” over public schools. Still, there are pros and cons to each option. Some of the advantages parents appreciate about a private school education include everything from a lower student/teacher ratio to college prep starting as early as middle school. Patti Brooks taught at a Dallas private school for 33 years and served as its head of Lower School before retiring. Because she primarily taught younger students, she noticed discussions about college prep beginning as early as elementary school.

“The counselor at my school began meeting with students in ninth grade and often had three or four meetings a year with them and their parents about how to get into college and which schools to consider,” she says. “By the time

students were seniors, they felt confident about going forward into college.” Brooks also cites the low student/teacher ratio in private schools as a perk that most students don’t experience in public schools because of their large size. “Most private schools are smaller, and it’s that smaller size that parents are looking for—and in many cases, paying for—so their kids receive more individualized attention,” Brooks says. “If your child is a high achiever, you get more enrichment support, and if your child needs more help, the teacher has more time to work with them and support them. Private school classrooms usually have a family atmosphere, which is something that is difficult to achieve in a public school setting.”

Wilson says for many families, the choice between a public and private school is the comfortable “small community feel” that many private schools have intentionally created for the students and staff. It is often noticeable at the beginning of the first visit. “Smaller classes can often offer opportunities to go deeper into subject matter, to have more opportunities to work on the writing process, and to do collaborative work in teams as well as more opportunities to practice oral presentation skills in class,” Wilson says. “All these experiences translate into strong college readiness skills.”

The Dallas area has always had a large applicant pool for private schools. Securing an admission can be competitive because the private schools here are well-respected and

highly valued. Families often enter the admission process feeling overwhelmed as they enter such a big applicant pool, and they may already be stressed because the school their child was in wasn’t meeting their needs. Once families discover the desirable options the Dallas area has available, the process to narrow schools through careful research begins to feel more manageable. Then, they can take the application process step by step.

What families soon discover in their research is that no, not all private schools are the same. In fact, most are quite different from one another. “Private schools come in all shapes and sizes and subscribe to a variety of philosophies,” Dondis says. “There are schools with eight students in a graduating class and some with 350 in a graduating class. There are single gender and co-ed schools. There are religious-affiliated schools of varying degrees as well as independent schools. Some schools draw students from their surrounding neighborhoods, and some represent more than 100 zip codes. There are so many factors that go into choosing a school; families must decide what is important to them as they choose.”

Once private school “application season” has ended and “admission season” begins (usually in the spring), the next step is to follow the advice that most college applicants are given when applying to college: trust the process.

Lean on your instincts as a parent, Wilson advises. “Sometimes the answer comes from

narrowing your options from the many good options and making a gut-level choice.” Perry advises the same, as only parents know what type of school will work best for their child. “When you find the right place, you’ll know it,” Perry says. “Use common sense and trust your judgment.”

Private School Profiles

The following schools have shown their interest in serving the readers by advertising to give more information about their campuses, missions, philosophies, and curriculums.

To learn more about schools in which you are interested, look up the profiles on the following pages.

Dallas International School

GLOBALLY INSPIRED. DISTINCTLY DIFFERENT.

Dallas International School (DIS) is an established, private, international school that offers a rigorous and unique multilingual and multicultural education. DIS is the only private international school in Dallas that offers a fully bilingual French and English program that also includes a third language in Spanish, Mandarin, and German. The curriculum gives non-native French speakers the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the French language with the goal of becoming fluent. From preschool to 12th grade, the school prepares students for academic competitiveness, thanks to its successfullyproven hybrid education system between a French and American-based curriculum.

The school offers the renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) and the French Baccalaureate (FB) diplomas, giving students a well-rounded education and opportunity to expand their understanding outside of their comfort zone. From foreign languages, visual arts, and science to high-level math, the curriculum is designed to enable high-achieving students access to the college credit system. The school delivers on its promise to give students the best chances of being accepted into the world’s best universities.

Book now for a virtual tour of the school. Discover Dallas International School’s two campuses, visit the facilities, and learn more about the International Baccalaureate (IB) and the French Baccalaureate (FB) diplomas. Reach out to the admission office at 972-991-6379 or email admissions@dallasinternationalschool.org.

Quick Look

ADMISSION

972.991.6379 x2570 admissions@dallasinternationalschool.org

GRADES 2 years–12th

ENROLLMENT 600

STUDENT/FACULTY 9:1

COST $22,600 - $28,400

Lower School 6039 Churchill Way

Dallas, Texas 75230

Upper School 17811 Waterview Parkway

Dallas, Texas 75252

DALLASINTERNATIONALSCHOOL.ORG

Fairhill School

BUILDING CONFIDENCE. ACHIEVING SUCCESS.

Academic struggles due to a learning difference, such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, or attention deficit disorder, are frustrating for both students and parents. Fairhill’s vision is to educate, engage, and inspire students with learning differences while building the foundations for future success. Fairhill School helps students learn how to learn despite their learning differences. By helping students overcome learning obstacles and realize their potential, students gain confidence in their own abilities and achieve successes they never thought possible.

A Fairhill education offers a multisensory approach to learning, a small student-to-teacher ratio, and a warm, supportive atmosphere. The dedicated, caring, and experienced staff helps students maximize their strengths and develop strategies and techniques to minimize their weaknesses. While Fairhill places great importance on the basic skills of reading, math, language arts, and study skills, the school also provides enrichment classes, such as art, music, drama, communication skills, technology, and athletics. Fairhill prepares students through targeted instruction, including literacy and language therapy, executive function development, and a college-and-career-readiness program. Fairhill promotes confidence, mindfulness, and perseverance for lifelong learning.

Fairhill is a private, nonprofit school that has been serving students with learning differences for more than 50 years. Fairhill’s college-preparatory curriculum is designed to help students develop the problem-solving and critical-thinking skills necessary for 21st-century learners. Fairhill also focuses on developing and supporting students’ emotional and social development. At Fairhill, students can realize their greatest potential. Fairhill School is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Quick Look

ADMISSION 972.233.1026

GRADES 1st–12th

ENROLLMENT 130

STUDENT/FACULTY 5:1

COST $24,500 – $25,100

16150 Preston Road Dallas, Texas 75248

FAIRHILL.ORG

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA MEANS

Great Lakes Academy

WHERE INDIVIDUALITY AND DIFFERENCES ARE CELEBRATED!

All parents want the best education for their children, but for the parents of children with various learning differences, ASD Level 1/Asperger’s Syndrome, or ADHD, a quality education is often more difficult to obtain. Great Lakes Academy is a nonprofit, private, college-preparatory school in Plano that was specifically designed to meet the individual needs of learning-different students with average to above-average intelligence.

GLA’s mission is to create an environment that is innovative, positive, and structured in such a way that all students will enjoy going to school and be afforded every opportunity for success, both socially and academically. The academic curriculum is TEKS-based and enriched with accommodations to fit individual learning styles. GLA uses traditional and multisensory teaching methods in all subject areas, including art, PE, and social skills lessons. With a maximum of 10 students per class, the students are able to receive individualized attention and the opportunity to achieve their potential.

Great Lakes Academy also provides its students the opportunity to develop:

• An appreciation for their own uniqueness

• Self-confidence and self-worth via successful learning experiences, social skills lessons, and positive reinforcement

• Coping skills to assist them in becoming effective students

• A sense of accountability and responsibility for their own academic experience

Quick Look

ADMISSION

972.517.7498 x103 admissions@greatlakesacademy.com

GRADES 4th–12th

ENROLLMENT 120

STUDENT/FACULTY

8:1

COST

4th–8th: $18,600

9th–12th: $20,700

Registration Fee: $800

6000 Custer Road, Building 7 Plano, Texas 75023

GREATLAKESACADEMY.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA MEANS

Guidepost Montessori Schools

GIVING YOUR CHILD THE KEYS TO LIFE

Guidepost Montessori has more than 150 brick-and-mortar schools (12 in Dallas-Fort Worth), virtual and homeschool, and Spanish and Mandarin language immersion options.

Guidepost Montessori schools are where children find the joy in learning—and making it possible for them to continue learning for the rest of their lives.

• To think mathematically

• To solve problems

• To create things

• To encounter great literature that inspires their character development

• To build themselves as capable, efficacious beings

• To place themselves in history and in society

• To spark meaningful friendships and deep personal values that last a lifetime

Guidepost Montessori equips children with the knowledge, confidence, and enduring love of learning they need to reach their highest potential and flourish as adults.

A Montessori education is holistic. From developing fine and gross motor skills, to learning to read and write, to building concentration and self-control, to setting goals and using time wisely—it supports the child’s developmental needs.

The key to the Montessori approach is the blending of a structured environment of highly designed learning materials with the child’s freedom to pursue their own interests and follow their own path to mastery.

Quick Look

ADMISSION inquiries@guidepostmontessori.com

GRADES

Six weeks – High School

ENROLLMENT 10,000+

STUDENT/FACULTY 3:1 to 15:1

COST $950-$2,455

Locations in McKinney, Plano, Frisco, Lewisville, Irving, Las Colinas, Mansfield, Flower Mound, and Hurst

GUIDEPOSTMONTESSORI.COM

Kingdom Collegiate Academies

IGNITING A BRIGHTER FUTURE

At Kingdom Collegiate Academies (KCA), the mission is to provide students of all ages a superior collegiate education. With a nurturing Christian environment, the school enables scholars to reach their highest potential in life and apply a Kingdom worldview that impacts the culture.

Kingdom Collegiate Academies is a premier private collegiate school of choice for families who value an education with a Kingdom worldview for their children. One of the most important decisions you make as a parent is selecting the right school that provides your child with a superior education. KCA does just that through rigorous academics, 21st-century learning experiences, student enrichment activities, and Bible integration learning that maximizes your child’s potential to excel in life.

KCA takes pride in its core and enrichment curriculum, which equips each student with the knowledge they need to enter the world with a Kingdom worldview. In addition to the fundamental core classes of history, literature, language, math, and science, KCA offers spiritual formation as a key component of its courses. Exceptional academic experiences are coupled with enrichment opportunities, such as Spanish, art, music, technology, and physical education, during school hours. Ballet, gymnastics, choir, instrumental lessons, and more are offered during after-school hours. With two locations in Dallas and DeSoto, KCA is igniting a brighter future in academic excellence and building leaders from the ages of 18 months to grade 12. Learn more about Kingdom Collegiate Academies at kcacademies.org or call 214-672-9200.

KCA is a ministry of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship where Dr. Tony Evans is senior pastor.

Quick Look

ADMISSION

214.672.9200

GRADES

18 months –12th

ENROLLMENT

477

STUDENT/FACULTY

12:1

COST

$4,875 - $13,300

1821 West Camp Wisdom Road

Dallas, Texas 75232

1708 North Westmoreland Road

DeSoto, Texas 75115

KCACADEMIES.ORG

McKinney Christian Academy

WHERE FAITH COMES FIRST

For 30 years, McKinney Christian Academy has been committed to providing biblically based education where faith comes first. MCA is a nondenominational covenant school, Pre-K through 12th providing exceptional college-preparatory instruction

An education from MCA provides:

• A supportive and safe community

• Knowledgeable, attentive, and God-honoring teachers

• Biblical instruction and chapel for all ages

• Service opportunities through lower and middle school projects, and upper school missions week

• Lower, middle, and varsity athletic programs offered, including baseball, basketball, cheer, crosscountry, football, golf, soccer, softball, track and field, volleyball, and wrestling

• College preparatory courses, including honors, dual-credit, and AP-level courses

• A Directed Studies program for students with mild learning differences, such as ADHD and Dyslexia

Did you know?:

• Upper School students have a potential of 65 college credit hours from dual-credit and AP courses

• Merit scholarship offers for a graduating class regularly exceed $5 million, with the class of 2022 (54 students) receiving $8.5 million in offers

• 25% of the Class of 2021 scored in the top 10% of the ACT Composite or SAT total

• 65% of high school students are involved in athletics

• 78% of high school students are involved in fine arts

• 45 high school elective courses offered

Quick Look

ADMISSION 214.544.2658

GRADES PreK–12th

ENROLLMENT 615

STUDENT/FACULTY

Pre-K–4, 16:1 with Teacher Assistant; K–1st, 20:1 with Teacher Assistant; 2nd–8th, 20:1, 9th–12th, 24:1

COST $9,000 – $16,695

3601 Bois D’Arc Road

McKinney, Texas 75071

MCKINNEYCHRISTIAN.ORG

Quick Look

ADMISSION

972.248.3032 x151 admissions@ levineacademy.org

GRADES 3 months–8th

ENROLLMENT 435

STUDENT/FACULTY

4:1

COST

$7,480 – $32,250 (tuition)

Ann & Nate Levine Academy

A STRATEGIC PLAN FOR A NATIONAL MODEL SCHOOL

At Ann & Nate Levine Academy, education is active, purposeful, and enlivening. The teaching and learning tapestry is woven together with 21st-century skills, including critical thinking and creativity in language arts, exploration, and problem solving through STEM curriculum, peoplehood and globalism in Judaic and Hebrew studies, inspiration and bonding through experiential trips, plus community building and caring for our world through art, celebrations, social/emotional development, and so much more.

From early childhood years through 8th grade, learning at Levine Academy comes to life in exciting ways, allowing students to create, explore, fail, rise, and innovate. Students graduate Levine Academy with a love for lifelong learning, prepared for the most rigorous academic programs in upper school and beyond, and empowered with moral character, self-confidence, and intellectual curiosity to lead their communities and contribute positively to our world.

Levine Academy is accredited by the Independent School Association of the Southwest (ISAS). ISAS is a member of the International Council of Associations Advancing Independent School Accreditation (ICAISA) and has voluntarily submitted to a rigorous and impartial review of its accreditation program and demonstrated its adherence to ICAISA Criteria for Effective Accreditation Practices. ISAS is commended by ICAISA for the quality of the Association’s accreditation program for its Member Schools. Levine Academy is also a member of Prizmah: Center for Jewish Day Schools and Texas Association of Non-Public Schools, and a community partner of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas.

18011 Hillcrest Road | Dallas, Texas 75252

The Day School at Highland Park Presbyterian

EXCELLENCE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

The Day School builds a firm foundation for children by partnering with families to educate the whole child within a nurturing Christian environment.

Partners With Families: The Day School establishes meaningful partnerships with families by building relationships and establishing community. Families are provided opportunities to come together in friendship and fellowship, and parents are invited to participate in the classroom and school community through numerous volunteer opportunities. Teachers communicate with parents frequently, and regular parent-teacher conferences are provided.

Quick Look

ADMISSION

214.525.6500

GRADES 12 months–K

ENROLLMENT 280

STUDENT/FACULTY

Starts at 4:1

COST

$3,650 – $9,755

Educates the Whole Child: The Day School believes that each area of early development is an integral piece of early childhood growth and learning. Social-emotional, language, cognitive, physical, and spiritual development are encouraged through an intentional, developmentally appropriate curriculum in an environment of inquiry and hands-on learning.

Nurturing Christian Environment: The Day School teachers are committed to modeling Biblical principles and helping their children develop personal relationships with Jesus Christ. Children learn the teachings of the Bible through their Godly Play class, chapel, and a schoolwide positive reinforcement system based on the Fruit of the Spirit.

University Boulevard | Dallas, Texas 75205

THEDAYSCHOOL.ORG

Quick Look

Grace Academy of Dallas

CHRIST-CENTERED + FUTURE-FOCUSED

Grace Academy of Dallas is proud to partner with families to meet both the educational and spiritual needs of each child. Grace Academy provides a biblically integrated curriculum that emphasizes weaving the word of God into everything staff and students do. Students cultivate a lifelong passion for learning. Grace Academy offers a unique balance of an academically rigorous curriculum within a nurturing, Christian environment. Grace Academy students are encouraged to pursue a myriad of athletic, artistic, service, leadership, and musical opportunities where they are encouraged to use their gifts and discover new talents. Students graduate from Grace Academy with acceptances into competitive collegepreparatory schools and are well-prepared for future success.

Highlights of Grace Academy:

• Located in the heart of Preston Hollow

• Pre-K3 through 6th grade

• Full-time and part-time preschool options

• Master teachers with a passion for elementary education

• Extracurricular, community service, and leadership opportunities

• Phonics-based curriculum encourages early literacy

• STEAM integration

• Accredited by ACSI

12:1

COST

$2,500 – $13,900

Visit Grace Academy today to discover how your child can Grow with Grace!

11306A Inwood Road | Dallas, Texas 75229

GRACEACADEMY.COM

Inspire Academy

A SAFE PLACE TO LEARN

Inspire Academy works to create a safe place to learn. Instructors work with students of all abilities, providing the community and individualized attention children with learning differences need. Inspire Academy focuses on outside-ofthe-box, multisensory techniques. Through a supportive community and unique institution, students are able to reduce their anxiety and not only learn to be themselves, but how to learn effectively as well.

Quick Look

ADMISSION 817.803.5010

GRADES Kindergarten–12th

ENROLLMENT 100

STUDENT/FACULTY 6-8:1

COST

$17,000 – $20,000

Inspire Academy creates a safe place to learn--academically, spiritually, physically, and emotionally for all learning styles and educational needs. Inspire Academy teaches learning-challenged students using multisensory instruction and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of all students. Multisensory instruction encompasses visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic learning by incorporating all senses and preferences of learning styles. Differentiated instruction is giving “choice” to students, allowing for assessment of learning. Students can select their preference for learning by varied assignment choice to demonstrate proficiency.

Please contact Michelle Turner or Kelley Daniel at 817.803.5010 to schedule a tour of the school.

55 Main Street, Suite 290 | Colleyville, Texas 76034

INSPIREACADEMYTX.COM

Quick Look

ADMISSION 469.229.5195

admission@ johnpauliihs.org

GRADES 9th–12th

ENROLLMENT 720

STUDENT/FACULTY

17:1

COST $21,900

John Paul II High School

TO DEVELOP LEADERS WHO ARE CRITICAL THINKERS AND EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATORS, COMMITTED TO SERVICE AND ROOTED IN FAITH.

John Paul II High School is a premier, co-ed, Catholic college preparatory high school sponsored by the Diocese of Dallas serving families in the greater Collin County area and beyond. Since its inception in 2005, the school has been rooted in St. John Paul II’s inspirational legacy that compels teachers and staff to rouse the hearts and minds of students, stir their faith, and empower them to create a future based on hope and love.

The John Paul II High School community is a diverse body of students and educators that strive for excellence, value individuality, foster a passion for learning, encourage community service, and instill respect for others. 72% of faculty have advanced degrees, and 95% of students participate in co-curricular activities.

A John Paul II High School education engages students with real-world problems, places them at the center of their learning, teaches them to collaborate across differences, empowers them to connect with resources, challenges them to think critically and creatively, and prepares them to be servant leaders and active citizens rooted in faith. JPII supports students in exploring programs of study that develop a deep appreciation of the arts, humanities, and sciences as equally valuable disciplines that offer various perspectives on the world.

Quick Look

ADMISSION 214.826.2931

GRADES K–12th

ENROLLMENT 420

STUDENT/FACULTY 10:1

COST

$18,550 – $28,650

900 Coit Road | Plano, Texas 75075

JOHNPAULIIHS.ORG

Lakehill Preparatory School

Lakehill builds effective relationships with students that lead to their academic and personal success. Students of all ages flourish when they have a supportive community and the opportunity to excel. That’s why for 50 years, Lakehill has focused on developing the relationships and providing the opportunities students need. Their success is living proof that it’s working.

Located in the heart of Lakewood, Lakehill’s six-acre main campus houses classrooms for more than 375 students in Kindergarten through grade 12, as well as a gymnasium, a cafeteria, two libraries, numerous science and computer labs, and the Charles J. Wyly, Jr. Auditorium. Less than four miles from the Main Campus, Lakehill’s 17-acre Roger L. Perry Campus is a perfect location to engage children in nature. With its graceful walkways, sweeping trees, existing creek, and pristine athletic fields, the property feels majestic and park-like, yet welcoming and calming. The Environmental Science Center on the Roger L. Perry Campus offers laboratories, classrooms, and meeting space. With more than 40 acres of untouched land to explore, Lakehill students have the opportunity to experience nature in a pristine, untouched environment.

It’s easy to see how Lakehill can help your child develop to his or her potential:

1) Call to schedule a tour of Lakehill.

2) Talk to current students, teachers, and parents.

3) Join Lakehill with the school’s clear step-by-step admissions process. Find the school that treats your child like an individual. Find Lakehill.

2720

Quick Look

ADMISSION

214.369.9201

GRADES

Pre-K (age 3) – 4th

ENROLLMENT 460

STUDENT/FACULTY

Pre-K–6:1; K-4–9:1

COST

$16,819 - $30,217

The Lamplighter School

LAMPLIGHTER DELIVERS SERIOUS EDUCATION

WRAPPED IN THE WONDER OF CHILDHOOD.

Lamplighter embraces the natural curiosity of young children, encouraging them to explore their world with enthusiasm and joy. Our early childhood program:

• Promotes academic excellence

• Engages children in the joy of learning

• Embraces diversity within an inclusive community

• Encourages creativity and curiosity through hands-on learning, including woodworking, drama, cooking, and entrepreneurial programs

• Connects students with nature throughout the campus gardens, creek, barn animals, and outdoor learning center

Quick Look

ADMISSION

214.302.2812

GRADES Pre-K–8th ENROLLMENT 450

STUDENT/FACULTY 9:1

COST

$4,500 – $22,700

11611 Inwood Road | Dallas, Texas 75229

THELAMPLIGHTERSCHOOL.ORG

Providence Christian School of

Texas

FORMING HABITS. TRAINING MINDS. SHAPING HEARTS.

Training the heart, soul, and mind of a child is at the core of a classical, Christian education at Providence Christian School of Texas. The end goal is a virtuous, wise person—a man or woman with a vibrant faith who is well prepared for a life of service to God and man. The rigorous, time-tested curriculum at Providence is designed to not only feed children’s developing intellect, but also to powerfully influence their affections. Providence meticulously selects the finest art, literature, elements of nature, and music to let students feast and explore. The aim is for students to both know the material and love it; that it would form their hearts and characters. A Providence education sparks curiosity, instills integrity, and fosters an authentic relationship with Jesus Christ.

Classical education focuses on the process of learning. Providence believes learning happens most powerfully through imitation in the context of a caring relationship: a math teacher working example problems, an art teacher demonstrating the artistry of a masterpiece, or an English teacher grappling with a literary classic. It is all designed to shape the mind, strengthen the character, and enrich the spirit of each student.

To learn more about Providence, please see pcstx.org/visit.

5002 West Lovers Lane | Dallas, Texas

PCSTX.ORG

75209

Quick Look

ADMISSION

972.774.1772

GRADES Preschool –12th

ENROLLMENT 1,083

STUDENT/FACULTY

6:1

COST $19,100 – $37,900

Shelton School & Evaluation Center

TRANSFORMING STUDENTS…TRANSFORMING LIVES

Since 1976, people have recognized Shelton as the premier school and resource center for intelligent children who just happen to have a learning difference. It is the largest independent school worldwide for students with learning differences. Shelton empowers students through a customized approach within a mainstream environment. The campus provides unparalleled academic and extracurricular opportunities for students in Early Childhood through 12th grade. Shelton works with the student and the family to create:

• Individualized action plans

• A curriculum that emphasizes academics and self-esteem

• A social skills curriculum that spans all grade levels

• A division-specific organizational and study skills program

• Self-advocacy skills

Shelton’s teachers are highly trained with specific expertise and experience in teaching students with learning differences. Of the 282 faculty and staff, more than half hold advanced degrees. Shelton’s bundled services include an Evaluation Center, an Outreach Training Center, and a Speech, Language, and Hearing Center. Shelton students are changing the way the world thinks about learning differences. Shelton School is accredited by Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS).

17301

Preston Road | Dallas, Texas 75252

SHELTON.ORG

St. Margaret’s School

AS WE GROW IN AGE, MAY WE GROW IN GRACE

Situated on the banks of the Rappahannock River in Virginia, St. Margaret’s School is an Episcopal boarding and day school for girls in grades 8-12 and postgraduate. For more than 100 years, St. Margaret’s has welcomed girls from across the United States and around the world into its Sisterhood. In the last five years, SMS has had boarding students from Texas, Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and more.

Quick Look

ADMISSION admit@sms.org, 804.443.3357

GRADES 8-Postgraduate

ENROLLMENT 72

STUDENT/FACULTY

5:1

COST Day: $21,000

Five-Day Boarding: $46,150

Seven-Day Boarding: $57,500

The school’s one-of-a-kind STEAM curriculum prepares young women with the skillsets needed in the 21st century by integrating lessons with the nearby river. Environmental science classes conduct water testing on boats and study oyster farming while the engineering class learns about solar panels in the school’s new outdoor classroom and dock. The river is also the source of plenty of fun with boating, sailing, tubing, kayaking, and more!

Girls can participate in 13 different varsity and club sports including crew, volleyball, equestrian, and softball. This year, St. Margaret’s basketball team made it to the semifinals of the VISAA state tournament.

The school’s The Wheat Center for Innovative Learning and Well-Being Services is led by a full-time counselor and a staff that help students with mental wellness and study skills. As much as St. Margaret’s is a college-prep school, the goal remains that students be prepared for the rigor of life—all its ups and downs. At St. Margaret’s the focus is for girls to strong in mind, body, and spirit.

Learn more today at www.sms.org. It’s an exciting time to be a St. Margaret’s Scottie!

444 Water Lane | Tappahannock, Virginia 22560 SMS.ORG

ADMISSION 469.232.1800

GRADES All girls 9th–12th ENROLLMENT 880+ STUDENT/FACULTY 9:1 COST $27,000

Ursuline Academy of Dallas

YOU ARE INVITED

The Ursuline story is one of tradition. It is also a story of great teachers, cuttingedge technology, commitment to service, and confident girls becoming effective and compassionate leaders of tomorrow.

The oldest continuously operating school in Dallas, Ursuline Academy is an independent Catholic college-preparatory school for young women sponsored by the Ursuline Sisters. In this nurturing, all-girl environment, students are empowered to think critically and creatively, giving them skills they need for college and beyond.

Ursuline is renowned for academic excellence, innovation, and the school’s motto, Serviam (I will serve), meeting the individual needs of each student and helping her develop intellectually and spiritually as she discovers her own unique gifts.

Ursuline educators are dedicated role models and mentors, fully equipped to move classrooms onto the digital landscape. Students learn global citizenship through educational and cultural exchanges with 11 sister schools worldwide.

4900 Walnut Hill Lane | Dallas, Texas 75229

URSULINEDALLAS.ORG

Ursuline Academy does not discriminate in the administration of its admission and education policies on the basis of race, color, or national and ethnic origin.

The Clariden School

NEXT-GENERATION LEARNING FOR A GLOBAL COMMUNITY OF INDEPENDENT THINKERS

Clariden is more than a school. It is an innovative, academically rich community. The Clariden School is a leading independent school in Southlake. Together with families, this school is raising a generation of leaders, innovators, and independent thinkers. They share in a community in which high academic rigor is matched only by character education and a deep commitment to inclusion. Classrooms are living, breathing spaces of student-centered learning. From the youngest learners to their Upper School seniors, students are actively exploring real-world challenges and problems. Students come to Clariden to solve. Clariden is a place that cares actively, innovates wisely, nurtures with intentionality, and operates with excellence. Clariden invites you to come discover the Clariden difference.

ADMISSION

682.237.0400

GRADES Pre-K–12th

ENROLLMENT 150

STUDENT/FACULTY

8:1

COST

$14,500 – $19,950

100 Clariden Ranch Road | Southlake, Texas 76092 | CLARIDENSCHOOL.ORG

Dallas Lutheran School

CHANGING THE WORLD THROUGH CHRIST-CENTERED EDUCATION

The right school can make a world of difference. Dallas Lutheran thinks the world of its students. And the school has a well-rounded approach that prepares them for college—and beyond.

Strengthening a home, school, and church partnership, through a well-rounded education of the whole child, students are prepared and equipped for a life of Christian citizenship and discipleship.

Dallas Lutheran’s mission empowers students to discover their Godgiven potential through Faith, Family, Excellence and Personal Growth.

To learn more about how Dallas Lutheran can help your student reach their full potential, visit dallaslutheranschool.com today.

ADMISSION

214.349.8912 katiemayfield@dallaslutheranschool.com

GRADES 7th-12th

ENROLLMENT 165

STUDENT/FACULTY

15:1

COST

$16,380 – $18,780

8494

Pebblecreek Montessori

CONFIDENT, CREATIVE, AND INDEPENDENT LEARNERS

Pebblecreek Montessori provides authentic Montessori education to children facilitated by professionally trained guides certified by Association Montessori Internationale through training centers around the globe. Programs encompass the infant through sixth grade levels of Montessori education. Students are nurtured academically, socially, and emotionally through the formative years of development. Pebblecreek is dedicated to providing a genuine Montessori atmosphere by interpreting Dr. Maria Montessori’s philosophies faithfully. Ethnic and religious diversity within the student body complements a multicultural approach to education. Pebblecreek’s classrooms include multi-age groupings; students engage in uninterrupted work periods using specially designed learning materials and exercise their skills in everyday life, solidifying their purpose and achieving mastery.

8104 Coit Road Plano, Texas 75025 | PEBBLECREEKMONTESSORI.ORG

ADMISSION hello@pebblecreekmontessori.com

GRADES Preschool–6th

ENROLLMENT 150

STUDENT/FACULTY 20

COST $10,500 – $12,250

Stults Road | Dallas, Texas 75243 | DALLASLUTHERANSCHOOL.COM

Preston Hollow Presbyterian School

60 YEARS OF INDIVIDUALIZED INSTRUCTION FOR STUDENTS WHO LEARN DIFFERENTLY

Celebrating its 60th anniversary this school year, Preston Hollow Presbyterian School continues its tradition of educating bright children with mild to moderate learning differences in grades K-6th. The types of learning differences served by the school include reading disorder (dyslexia), auditory processing disorder, oral language disorder, written language disorder, and mathematical disability.

PHPS is small by design in order to provide an individualized, research-based, multisensory program to remediate academic weaknesses. The school’s program is intended to engage learners while challenging them to excel. Students are divided into smaller skill-based groups for core academic subjects and prescriptive remediation. The goal is to return students to the mainstream of education as soon as possible.

9800 Preston Road | Dallas, Texas 75230 | PHPS.ORG

Prince of Peace Catholic School

FAITH | ACADEMICS | COMMUNITY

Prince of Peace Catholic School, located in the West Plano area, is devoted to instilling strong Catholic values, fostering a life of faith and servant leadership, providing a challenging academic environment, and inspiring each student to shine to the fullest extent of his or her God-given potential.

Prince of Peace cultivates faithful servants and inspired leaders who are motivated and well-equipped to influence the world for Christ. A nationally recognized two-time Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, Prince of Peace focuses on developing the whole child through a well-rounded education. Students are prepared for acceptance into collegepreparatory Catholic high schools.

ADMISSION

214.368.3886

GRADES

K-6th

ENROLLMENT 130

STUDENT/FACULTY

4:1

COST $23,800

ADMISSION

972.380.5505

GRADES PreK3-8th Grade ENROLLMENT

772

STUDENT/FACULTY

9:1 Preschool; 14:1 K–8

COST

$9,435 - $13,015

STEAMspark Montessori Experience

IGNITING CURIOSITY AND IMAGINATION IN YOUNG MINDS

STEAMspark ignites curiosity and imagination in young minds so that students enjoy coming to school each day. A combination of Montessori and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math)-focused curricula ignites a passion for education that will position students to become top academic performers. STEAMspark’s goal is to create a lifelong love of learning. The school offers a variety of programming to meet the needs of each child centered around core pillars of “Respect, Excellence, Transparency, Teamwork, and Compassion.” STEAMspark was founded and is led by educators, and the school provides an authentic, individualized Montessori curriculum with small class sizes and low teacher-to-student ratios.

1400 Valley View Lane | Farmers

ADMISSION

214.809.5767

GRADES Infant–Kindergarten

ENROLLMENT 289

STUDENT/FACULTY

Varies by Grade

COST

$14,625 – $16,965

Branch, Texas 75234 | STEAMSPARK.COM

5100 West Plano Parkway | Plano, Texas 75093 | POPSCHOOL.NET