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Preparing Children to Lead Thriving Lives Families choose Elmwood Franklin School for many reasons, but there's one thing that's true among all of them: they know that Elmwood Franklin School is the very best place for their children to learn and grow.
The Pre-K to Eighth Grade Model From our three-year-old program through eighth grade, Elmwood Franklin provides an enriching and nurturing environment designed specifically for children and young adolescents. Here, students are known, supported, challenged, and encouraged to discover what they are capable of. Every part of the EFS experience—from academics and the arts to athletics, leadership, and outdoor education—is intentionally designed to help students build the knowledge, confidence, curiosity, and character they need to thrive.
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Discover Your Child’s Strengths
Childhood is a time to explore. At Elmwood Franklin, students have opportunities to discover new interests, take meaningful risks, and develop talents they may not yet know they have. They perform on stage, compete on athletic teams, create art and music, explore other languages and cultures, tackle challenging academics, spend time learning outdoors, and take on leadership roles within their school community. With the freedom to try—and the support to keep growing— students develop a stronger understanding of who they are, what interests them, and what they can accomplish.
Academic Rigor and Achievement
At Elmwood Franklin, academic challenge and individual support go hand in hand. Students are encouraged to think deeply, ask thoughtful questions, communicate effectively, and stretch beyond what they thought they could do. A strong foundation in core skills is paired with opportunities for inquiry, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. With teachers who know them well and understand how they learn, students build the skills and confidence to take ownership of their learning and succeed in what comes next.
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96
READY TO THRIVE
%
In a recent independent survey of our graduates, 96% reported that Elmwood Franklin School provided them the foundation that enabled them to compete academically with peers at the high school and college level.
“
The most important thing EFS does for its students is to encourage them to understand the nuances of the world they will inherit and to shape it for the better, in whatever way they are passionate about. –KAREN LILLIE, CLASS OF 2001
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LEADERS IN TRAINING
2/3
In a recent independent survey of our graduates, 2/3 of Elmwood Franklin’s alumni held leadership roles in their high schools and 2/3 were placed in honors level courses or received high school credit for their work at EFS.
“
Because of my experiences at Elmwood Franklin, I was not afraid to chase my dreams or try new things. As a result, I became a successful journalist, social activist, and artist, and I was one of the first women sports writers in the United States. –CAROLE BISSELL FERNOW, CLASS OF 1967
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An Exceptional Setting
Learning happens everywhere at Elmwood Franklin. We’re proud of all that our beautiful campus has to offer—from our professional-grade theater and library resource center to our music center with separate band and chorus rooms, bright and spacious dining room, outdoor playing field, full-scale gymnasium with climbing wall, and 16,000-square-foot playground. Our spaces are designed around the needs of children at each stage of their development. As we continually update our facilities to serve our community, we remain committed to creating well-equipped, inspiring spaces that support how students learn best.
Whole Child Approach
At Elmwood Franklin, we intentionally nurture the intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development of every student. Responsibility, cooperation, empathy, and respect are woven into daily school life. Through service learning, leadership opportunities, community partnerships, and the relationships they build with teachers and one another, students learn that character is not simply something we talk about—it is something we practice. Our goal is to help students become capable learners and thoughtful people who understand their responsibility to one another and the world around them.
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The Advantage of Pre-K–8
There is something distinctive about growing up at Elmwood Franklin. Our Pre-K–8 model gives children the time and space to develop in an environment created specifically for them. Each division offers faculty, programming, experiences, and expectations tailored to its students’ developmental stage, while remaining part of one connected school community. As students grow, so do their opportunities to lead. Our students become role models, mentors, teammates, performers, and school leaders—developing confidence and independence while still being known and supported by the adults around them.
Authentic Partnerships
At Elmwood Franklin, knowing a child means knowing their strengths, their challenges, their interests, and what they need to keep growing. Teachers, students, and families work in partnership throughout a child’s EFS experience. Academic support, social-emotional learning, faculty guidance, and open communication help ensure that students feel both supported and challenged. We also understand the realities of family life. Early arrival, afterschool care, summer programming, and other resources provide flexibility for families while keeping children connected to a community they know and trust.
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EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATION
97
%
In a recent independent survey of our graduates, 97% of Elmwood Franklin School alumni felt the overall quality of education they received was exceptional.
“
EFS provided me with a range of opportunities that allowed me to be a confident leader, global citizen, and to develop my love for learning. Without the strong foundation I had at EFS for 10 years, I would not be the student or leader I am today. –MORGAN AWNER, CLASS OF 2013
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A LASTING LEGACY
98
%
In a recent independent survey of our graduates, 98% said they would choose Elmwood Franklin School all over again.
“
Without a doubt, the best part about EFS is that they are more than just academics. At Elmwood Franklin, I formed relationships with my teachers that I have yet to match in my high school and college career. It was a real community there, which I am forever grateful for. –KATHERINE HERER, CLASS OF 2010
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A Community Where You Belong
Elmwood Franklin is a community built on relationships. Teachers know their students. Families are active participants in school life. Alumni return to visit, reconnect, and remain part of EFS long after graduation. Different backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and interests make our community stronger, while a shared sense of belonging brings us together. From a child’s first days at EFS through eighth-grade graduation and beyond, the relationships formed here have a way of lasting. Fixed Viewbook Updated Feb 2023…
Tradition Meets Possibility
For more than 130 years, Elmwood Franklin has evolved while remaining grounded in a clear purpose: educating the whole child. Our history gives us a strong foundation, but tradition at EFS does not mean standing still. We continually examine how and what we teach, respond to the changing needs of students, and create new opportunities for children to learn, explore, and grow. The result is an education that brings together what has always mattered—strong relationships, high expectations, character, and community—with the ideas and experiences that will prepare students for what comes next.
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When you choose Elmwood Franklin School...
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We will know your child. Your child will experience curiosity, creativity, and joy in learning.
Your family will belong. Your child will discover how they learn best.
Your child will be challenged and supported.
Your child will have the confidence to try.
Your child will discover new interests and strengths.
Your child will build friendships and memories that last.
Your child will be ready for what comes next.
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Discover the difference of an Elmwood Franklin School education. We invite you to experience Elmwood Franklin for yourself—walk our halls, step inside our classrooms, meet our teachers and students, and see learning come to life. You will discover a community where every child is known, challenged, and supported—a school where curiosity is encouraged, confidence is built, and students are inspired to think beyond, imagine what’s possible, and thrive in the world beyond our walls.
(716) 877-5035 admissions@elmwoodfranklin.org
Dear Parents and Guardians, 104 New Amsterdam Avenue Buffalo, NY 14216-3399
Thank you for your interest in Elmwood Franklin School! You’re about to discover a school like no other.
p 716-877-5035 f 716-877-9680 www.elmwoodfranklin.org
At Elmwood Franklin, we believe a strong education goes beyond academic achievement. Our students are encouraged to ask thoughtful questions, explore new ideas, take on challenges, and discover their strengths. Rigorous academics are enriched by the arts, athletics, technology, service, and experiences that build confidence and character. For more than 130 years, Elmwood Franklin has provided students with a strong foundation while continually evolving to prepare them for what comes next. Here, students benefit from the close relationships and connected community of a Pre-K–8 school, with opportunities to grow into leaders and mentors. Our graduates leave Elmwood Franklin prepared not only for success in high school and beyond, but with the confidence, independence, and sense of purpose to thrive in the world beyond our walls. We’re so pleased that you’re considering Elmwood Franklin for your family and look forward to welcoming you to our school. Sincerely,
Stephanie Katzman Director of Admissions
Elmwood Franklin School is an inclusive community that values diversity and is committed to enrolling bright and eager students who will actively participate in our accelerated, enriched academic program. Elmwood Franklin does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, family structure, or religion.
Elmwood Franklin School at a Glance For more than 130 years, Elmwood Franklin School has built upon a tradition of academic excellence while continually evolving its programs and experiences to prepare students for what comes next.
TRADITION A S T RO N G F O U N DAT I O N
1895
Elmwood Franklin School was founded
131 Years 12 Years
of educating students in Western New York
Average faculty tenure at EFS
7:1
Student-to-teacher ratio
10•18•12 Average class sizes Prep • Lower School • Upper School
MEETS
A V I B R A N T C O M M U N I T Y TO DAY
318
A community where students are known, challenged, and supported at every stage.
ST U D ENT S
Three-year-old program through Grade 8
POSSIBILITY E X P E R I E N C E S F O R W H AT C O M E S N E X T
18 Athletic Teams
77%
13
across 7 interscholastic sports Baseball, Swim, Soccer, Basketball, Ice Hockey, Softball, Lacrosse
of eligible students participate in interscholastic athletics
theatre productions, concerts, and performances each year
8 of the Last 10 Years EFS students have won the SIFMA Foundation Stock Market Game
100% of Upper School students participate in our experiential Outdoor Education program
100% the average of EFS graduates admitted to their first-choice high school
Elmwood Franklin School at a Glance MORE BY THE NUMBERS 44
$663,877
faculty members
in financial aid awarded for 2026-27
NAIS Accredited
27%
National Association of Independent Schools
of students receive financial aid
$19,688–$23,859 2026-27 tuition
FACILITIES • 40 bright and spacious classrooms • interconnected Upper and Lower School wings • Prep Suite dedicated to the specific needs of our youngest students • 475-seat professional-grade theatre with state-of-theart sound and lighting s • modern library resource center • flexible technology lab to support robotics, coding, videography, design, and more • well-equipped fine arts studio • science center with labs
• technology-integrated classroom environment, including laptops, iPads, and interactive whiteboards • music center with separate band and chorus rooms • spacious dining room with full-service kitchen • full-scale gymnasium with climbing wall, bleachers, and locker rooms • enclosed 16,000-square-foot outdoor playground with four unique, developmentally appropriate play zones for children ages 3 to 14 • outdoor playing fields
HIGH SCHOOL CHOICES Class of 2026
2025
2024
2023
2022
2021
Nichols
9
3
6
14
15
5
Buffalo Seminary
7
1
4
St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute
2
6
10
1
Canisius High School
6
4
5
3
4
Park School
6 5
1
3
2
1
Sacred Heart/Nardin Academy
3
Other Catholic High Schools
1
1
2
4
1
Boarding Schools
1
2
Public Schools
1
1
2
1
2
OUR MISSION
Elmwood Franklin School prepares children to lead thriving lives.
General Information Admissions Policy: Elmwood Franklin School is comprised of three divisions: a Pre-primary or “Prep” Division (Beginners three-year-old program, Prep I, and Prep II), a Lower School (Grades 1-4), and an Upper School (Grades 5-8). Elmwood Franklin School is an inclusive community that values diversity. Elmwood Franklin does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, or economic status. Applicants are accepted on the basis of academic achievement, aptitude, and behavioral development.
Inquire Let us know that you are interested in Elmwood Franklin School by completing our online Inquiry Form at www.elmwoodfranklin.org or calling the Admissions Office at 716-877-5035.
Parent/Guardian Visit We invite you to experience Elmwood Franklin for yourself—walk our halls, step inside our classrooms, meet our teachers and students, and see learning come to life. You’ll discover a community where every child is known, challenged, and supported. Call the Admissions Office at 716-877-5035 or e-mail admissions@elmwoodfranklin.org to schedule your tour at a time that is convenient for you.
Apply Apply online at www.elmwoodfranklin.org for each child. Submit your application along with a $50 nonrefundable processing fee during the school year prior to your desired entrance. For students entering Prep I through eighth grade, a completed application includes a teacher evaluation form. For children applying to Grades 1-8, we also require transcripts and any standardized testing results and/or IEPs.
Admissions Screening Assessment/Student Visit Each child is scheduled for an Admissions Screening Assessment. Children entering Prep II through grade 8 will spend the day at Elmwood Franklin School and be assigned to “shadow” in a class at their current grade level. This shadowing opportunity gives the child a chance to assess the school and their potential future classmates and enables the school to space out the assessment for a more enjoyable experience. Prospective Beginners and Prep I applicants are assessed during a play date and will spend approximately 30 minutes at the school. The Admissions Office will notify families of the results. If accepted, an Enrollment Contract will be issued along with the letter of acceptance. The parent(s)/guardian(s) responsible for tuition must complete this contract and submit it to the school with a nonrefundable deposit to secure a child's place in their class.
SUBURBAN SCHOOL DISTRICT BUS SERVICE Amherst 684-9440 Clarence 407-9500 East Aurora 652-0938 Frontier 646-2156 Grand Island 773-8890 Ken/Ton 874-8611 Lancaster 686-3290 Lockport 625-9211
Early Drop-off and Late Pick-up: With working families and busy lives, it is often necessary to find a safe, enriching program to place children until adult supervision is available at home. At EFS, we are happy to provide children—free of charge—with a supervised environment beginning at 7:30 a.m. before school and until 3:45 p.m. after school. Horizons, our afterschool program, is available from 3:30 until 5:45 p.m. for up to $35 per day. Families who choose to pre-register for the year will receive up to a 40% discount. Planned activities and directed play provide children with a stimulating, fun experience. EFS Summer Camp is available to children ages 31/2 to 14. This seven-week program offers an exciting variety of activities for children. Registration opens in January. The Extended Year program at EFS is a supervised activity program that bridges the gap for EFS families between the end of the school year and the start of Summer Camp. Registration for Extended Year is held each spring.
Lunches and Snacks: A nutritious lunch is served to each student daily. It includes a choice of hot food items, salad bar, soup, and a variety of sandwiches. A mid-morning snack and beverage is also provided daily. The cost of these services is covered by tuition.
Orchard Park 209-6238 Sweet Home 689-5250 West Seneca 677-3820 Williamsville 626-8388
Transportation: Suburban school districts provide yellow school bus transportation to EFS students in Prep II through grade 8 living within 15 miles of the school. You must apply for transportation through your district by April 1. The most common bus service numbers are listed on the left. For all other districts, please consult your district. Students living within the City of Buffalo can obtain a free Metro bus pass by completing an application available in our school office. In addition, we are happy to provide you with carpool information.
Dress Code The purpose of the Elmwood Franklin School dress code is to encourage students to dress in a manner that is appropriate for school and respectful of their learning environment, their teachers, their peers, and themselves.
Guidelines for All Students All clothing must be neat, in good repair, and free of graphics, slogans, and text. All clothing logos should be small enough to be covered by one hand. Solids, patterns, prints, stripes, and plaids are permitted. All clothing must be appropriate for school.
Students May Wear: • • • • • • • •
dress pants, khakis, corduroys, chinos, jeans (no rips or holes), leggings, joggers dress shirts, blouses, or t-shirts (no graphics or text) dresses, skirts, or shorts polo shirts and turtlenecks sweaters, sweatshirts, vests, fleeces, and hoodies (hoods must remain down while indoors) ties dress shoes, closed-toe shoes, sneakers, boots; shoes must have backs clothing with the Elmwood Franklin School logo
Students May Not Wear: • • • • • • • •
jerseys and athletic wear (running or athletic shorts) shirts with spaghetti straps cropped tops and shirts that do not cover the midriff hats, jackets, and outerwear while indoors flip-flops or open-toed shoes undergarments should not be visible clothing with rips, holes, tears, or cutouts shirts that entirely cover their skirt or shorts
Please ensure that all clothing and belongings are labeled with your child’s first and last name.
EFS Faculty Listing EFS’s outstanding teaching staff is the heart and soul of an Elmwood Franklin School education. They hold the key to unlocking a lifelong desire for knowledge, and they stimulate creativity and independent thinking. A teacher’s influence is far-reaching and lasting, especially in these, the most formative years in your child’s education. Elmwood Franklin is proud of its faculty—as educators and as caring role models—who think beyond themselves each day.
PREP AND LOWER SCHOOL Beginners Martha Barrett (2022) Lead Teacher B.A. Buffalo State University NYS Teaching Certificate Medaille University
Grade 1
Mathematics
Kathryn Holmberg (2011)
Morgan Morin (2026)
B.S. SUNY Fredonia M.Ed. University of NC at Charlotte
B.A. Buffalo State University M.S. Buffalo State University
Kelly Reese (2023)
Science
B.A. SUNY Buffalo M.Ed. Medaille University
Scott Lawson (2017)
Ashley Baer (2024)
Grade 2
Associate Teacher Currently Pursuing B.A. SUNY Buffalo
Adrian Dedecker (2025)
Analisa Evanson (2023)
Maddy Ofrichter (2021)
Associate Teacher A.A. SUNY Erie
B.A. Gettysburg College M.Ed. Temple University
M.A. University of St Andrews, Scotland
Margot Vincent (1993)
Grade 3
Lead Teacher B.A. Colgate University M.Ed. SUNY Buffalo
B.S. John Carroll University M.S. Buffalo State University
Prep I Hannah Dowdall (2021) B.S. SUNY Fredonia M.S. Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
Sarah Cilano (2021)
B.A. SUNY Fredonia M.S. SUNY Fredonia
UPPER SCHOOL English Christine Cooke-MacVittie (2004) Drama Director – Upper & Lower School Public Speaking – Upper School B.F.A. SUNY Buffalo M.Ed. Medaille University
Michelle Kazmierczak (2024) Kathleen McIntyre (2006) B.A. SUNY Buffalo
B.A. Canisius University M.S. Canisius University
Grade 4
Alexander Silfies (2022)
Christine Marth (2015)
B.A. Canisius University
B.A. SUNY Buffalo M.S. SUNY Buffalo
B.A. SUNY Buffalo M.S. Medaille University
History
Jessica Hettich (2023)
Leigh Mikulka (2008)
B.A. Ithaca College M.Ed. Cortland State University
Kym Harris (2018)
B.S. SUNY Fredonia M.S. Buffalo State University
B.A. College of the Holy Cross M.S.Ed. Canisius University
Prep II
Academic Support Specialists
Sarah Breen (2025)
Jenna Evaldi (2013)
Rachel Tomczak (2026)
Math Interventionist Prep and Lower School Dean B.A. SUNY Buffalo M.S. Medaille University
B.S. Canisius University M.S. Canisius University
Michele Kulpit (2011)
B.A. SUNY Buffalo M.Ed. SUNY Buffalo
Shannon Victor (2000) B.S. Buffalo State University M.Ed. Buffalo State University
Literacy Specialist B.S. Daemen University M.Ed. Buffalo State University Literacy Specialist Certification
Katie Williams (2019) Literacy Specialist B.A. DePaul University M.A. DePaul University
Dee Drew (1985)
Michelle Burgard (2022) B.A. D'Youville University M.Ed. D'Youville University
Learning Lab/Instructional Support Amanda Hollenback (2025) Learning Lab Director B.A. Barnard College M.Ed. Harvard University
ANCILLARY
Mathematics
Drama
Claire Barry (1999)
Christine Cooke-MacVittie (2004)
Math Coordinator – Prep–Grade 8 B.S. SUNY Fredonia M.Ed. SUNY Fredonia
Drama Director B.F.A. SUNY Buffalo M.Ed. Medaille University
Alyssa Charles (2006)
Library Media Specialist
B.S. John Carroll University M.S. Buffalo State University
Joan Good (1998)
Bridgette Prentiss (2023)
B.A. St. Jerome’s College B.A. Boston College M.S. Canisius University M.L.S. SUNY Buffalo
Co-Director B.A. Franklin Pierce University
Morgan Morin (2026) B.A. Buffalo State University M.S. Buffalo State University
Science Steven Rao (2002) B.A. Kalamazoo College M.S. Audubon Expedition Institute
Katherine Leigh Cooke (2020) B.S. SUNY Geneseo M.Ed. SUNY Buffalo
PREP, LOWER & UPPER SCHOOL SPECIALS Art Amy Hartman (1998) B.S. Buffalo State University M.S. Buffalo State University
Athletics and Physical Education Joseph Aquino (2016)
Music Matthew Bannister (2022) Music – Prep & Lower School Chorus – Upper School & Gr. 4 B.M. Buffalo State University
Shannon-Kate Kelley (2024) Instrumental Music – Upper School & Gr. 4 Band – Upper School & Gr. 4 B.M. SUNY Fredonia M.M. Fontys Academy of the Arts
Technology/Robotics and Coding Cheryl Colpoys (2004) Director of Technology B.A. Canisius University M.S. Buffalo State University
World Languages Tammy Bingel (2009)
B.S. St. Bonaventure University M.S. Canisius University
Spanish B.A. Canisius University M.S. Canisius University
Emily Beckwith (2015)
Jenna Piazza (1996)
Director, Athletics Director, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Upper School Dean B.S. SUNY Brockport M.S. SUNY Brockport C.A.S. Buffalo State University
Spanish B.S. SUNY Oswego M.S. Daemen University
Rudel Simon (2021)
Peter Johnson (1996)
French B.S. SUNY Fredonia M.A. SUNY Buffalo
B.S.E. SUNY Cortland M.S. Canisius University
Liya Zhou (2026) Mandarin B.S. Yangtze University M.S. University at Buffalo M.Ed. Niagara University
Horizons Afterschool Program Rafael Juillet (2021) Co-Director B.A. Canisius University
Top 10 Reasons to Choose EFS 1. EFS is an extension of your family. We provide a safe environment in which your child can explore ideas and feelings, and the guidance that ensures your child won’t get lost while exploring.
2. EFS students are bound by common goals and aspirations. Their intellectual curiosity is encouraged through an atmosphere where academic achievement is valued and doesn’t conflict with social acceptance.
3. EFS responds to your needs as a parent. We provide services to make your life a little less complicated. These services include options for early arrival, extended day, our Horizons afterschool enrichment program, and summer camp.
4. EFS encourages your child to participate in a variety of activities. Diverse experiences such as sports, foreign language, outdoor education, dramatics, art, and music help your child to build not only self-confidence, but also self-knowledge.
5. EFS fosters self-discipline, responsibility, and self-motivation. These are among the benefits of an environment that is both nurturing and well-structured. We believe that students who develop self-confidence in their early years and are encouraged to think for and beyond themselves are less likely to be adversely influenced by peers in high school.
6. EFS provides a framework of values. By helping them develop character and a wholesome orientation toward life, we teach our children to think beyond themselves.
7. EFS is small, and so are the class sizes and student/teacher ratios. Teachers get to know every one of their students well—not just in the classroom, but on the athletic field, through dramatic productions, at “option” times, or during afterschool enrichment activities. Students from Prep to eighth grade have on average 9 different teachers working with them each day.
8. EFS teachers tailor their instruction to each student. This allows your child to move ahead faster in areas of strength and receive the extra attention needed to master skills that are difficult for him or her.
9. EFS attracts teachers with initiative. They are well-educated, certified, and highly committed. Most have Master’s degrees and take advantage of continuing education opportunities provided by the school. Our teachers are selected for their knowledge of a subject and their ability to teach it.
10. EFS welcomes parent/guardian involvement. You participate in the social life of the school and help the school advance. You will find that when you enroll your child in EFS, you join our school family, too.
This form is confidential. Please return directly to Elmwood Franklin School.
Teacher Evaluation Form Entering Grades 1-8
Elmwood Franklin School 104 New Amsterdam Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14216-3399
admissions@elmwoodfranklin.org
p 716-877-5035 f 716-877-9680
To be completed by an English or a Math teacher Applicant’s Name
Applying to Grade
Teacher Completing Form
Subject
Grade Level
School
Mailing Address
City
State
Zip
Phone
Recognizing that completing this form is not part of your official duties, Elmwood Franklin School greatly appreciates your helping the applicant by supplying the information requested. The information submitted will be considered confidential and will not become part of the student’s school records.
How long have you known the applicant? What are the first few words that come to mind to describe the applicant?
What is the student’s current homework load?
Academic Qualities In relation to other students you have taught at this grade level, how would you rate this student?
No Basis
Outstanding
Above Average
Study habits Academic skills Motivation Ability to work independently Ability to work cooperatively Ability to organize Ability to communicate orally
For students entering grades 1-5, what is the student’s current reading level? What assessment system was used to determine this?
>>
Average
Below Average
Personal Qualities In relation to other students you have taught at this grade level, how would you rate this student?
No Basis
Outstanding
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Peer relationships Reaction to criticism Concern for others Self-confidence Integrity Taking responsibility for own actions Parental involvement and cooperation
Additional Information Please comment on the applicant’s strengths and challenges as a student.
Please comment on your observations about this applicant’s learning style.
Please mention any additional information you think may help our school make an informed decision.
If we have additional questions, may we contact you?
Teacher E-mail Signature
o Yes o No
Phone Number Date
This form is confidential. Please return directly to Elmwood Franklin School.
Teacher Evaluation Form Entering Beginners, Prep I, and Prep II Elmwood Franklin School 104 New Amsterdam Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14216-3399
admissions@elmwoodfranklin.org
Student’s Name
p 716-877-5035 f 716-877-9680 Applying to Grade
Teacher Completing Form Current School
Mailing Address
City
State
Zip
TEACHER: Your completion of this form is an important part of the admissions process and we value your candid insights and
observations. It is important that the student’s next school placement be appropriate for the student and family. Please know that the professional comments you provide will be held in the strictest confidence.
Personal Qualities (Select all that consistently describe this student)
o Resilient o Patient o Confident o Reserved
o Exhibits curiosity o Works and plays cooperatively o Positive interactions with peers o Positive member of the classroom
Language Development
o Aware of others’ needs o Responsive to teacher directions o Accepts responsibility for actions o Respects classmates’ personal space
Area of Strength
Age Appropriate
Progressing to Age Appropriate
Area of Concern
Area of Strength
Age Appropriate
Progressing to Age Appropriate
Area of Concern
Articulates clearly Follows conversations and responds appropriately Exhibits a growing vocabulary Listens attentively Follows instructions Follows multi-step directions
Social/Emotional/Intellectual Development Separates from parent(s)/caregiver(s) Communicates ideas, needs, and feelings appropriately Shows empathy and care for others Demonstrates the capacity to form friendships Demonstrates the ability to share Understands/follows social cues Participates in group activities Accepts limits and redirection Transitions appropriately between activities Tolerates frustrations Exhibits problem solving skills Uses classroom materials respectfully and purposely Demonstrates an appropriate attention span Completes one task before starting another Follows classroom routines
>>
Physical and Personal Development
Area of Strength
Age Appropriate
Progressing to Age Appropriate
Area of Concern
Fine motor coordination (puzzles, lacing, scissors, etc.) Uses appropriate pencil grip Draws with detail Gross motor coordination (climbing, hopping, etc.) Has sense of body in classroom and outdoor space Demonstrates an ability to self-regulate/control impulses Dresses self (puts on/takes off jacket/shoes, etc.) Responsible for personal belongings Is willing to participate in clean-up activities Participates in outdoor group activities Demonstrates independence and self-reliance
Please share any comments related to areas of concern as indicated:
Handedness established?
o Yes o No
Preferred play choice Usually takes role of Consistently
Family Information
Usually
Perception of their child is consistent with the school’s perception of the child Responsive to teacher feedback Supports school/classroom systems and expectations (i.e. arriving on time, following through with school requests, etc.)
What is the primary language spoken in the home? How long have you known this child? How long has this child been at the school?
Current grade level:
How many days per week does this child attend? Please share any additional information regarding the applicant or family that would be helpful:
Is this applicant ready for a 5-day, full day program?
o Yes o No
If we have additional questions, may we contact you?
o Yes o No
Teacher E-mail Signature
Phone Number Date
Seldom
Transcript Release Form Entering Grades 1-8
As your child applies to Elmwood Franklin School, it is necessary that student records be complete. A copy of the current transcript, report cards, and any standardized test results need to be provided. Please sign this release form and take it to the student’s current school so that this information may be forwarded directly to Elmwood Franklin School by the application deadline.
To: School
Re: Name of Student
Date of Birth
Authorization is hereby given that copies of the school records for the above named student be sent to: Director of Admissions Elmwood Franklin School 104 New Amsterdam Avenue Buffalo, NY 14216
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date
Tuition and Affordability Information All-Inclusive Tuition Elmwood Franklin’s tuition is a graduated fee structure that is all inclusive. This means there are no additional charges for technology, books and supplies, computers and science labs, outdoor education, local special events and field trips, school photos, and professional-quality yearbooks. Nutritious lunches and snacks are also included in the tuition. These expenses, at some schools, could total more than $3,500 per year.
2026-2027 Tuition and Payment Plans Tuition
Payment Plans
Beginners
$19,688
Prep I
$22,075
Prep II
$22,792
Grades 1-4
$23,447
Grades 5-8
$23,859
Plan A
Pay tuition in full by July 1 (1.5% discount)
Plan B
Pay tuition in two installments by July 1 and December 1
Plan C
Pay tuition in 10 monthly installments from July 1 to April 1 (includes administrative fee)
Affordability Options No family should refrain from applying to EFS solely because of financial considerations. Within the limits of the school’s financial resources, EFS seeks to assist those families with demonstrated financial needs. Tuition assistance recipients represent a cross-section of our student body and the community in which we live. While no student receives full tuition assistance, EFS remains committed to providing financial help to families of qualified students who otherwise could not attend our school. If you would like more information about this program, please visit www.elmwoodfranklin.org/aid.