Baltimore Fishbowl Guide to Baltimore Independent Schools 2022-2023

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INDEPENDENT SCHOOL GUIDE Publisher Nicole Allen

Editorial Director Susan Gerardo Dunn

Editor in Chief Elizabeth Heubeck

Contributors Joe DeMartin Marian McCusker Courtney McGee Karen Nitkin

Advertising Executive Julie Sawyer

Graphic Designer Charlie Herrick

Photographer Whitney Wasson

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The Baltimore Fishbowl Guide to Baltimore Independent Schools is published once yearly by Indicia Media, publishers of baltimorefishbowl.com.

To advertise in the Guide, contact Nicole Allen at nicole@baltimorefishbowl.com, or Julie Sawyer at julie@baltimorefishbowl.com.

Indicia Media 1014 West 36th Street Baltimore, Maryland 21211 443-668-2152

CONTENTS EDITORIAL 18

INVISIBLE ADVANTAGES Families are often wowed by first impressions of independent schools: think scenic campuses, state-ofthe-art labs, modern athletic facilities, theaters, and more. But it’s the things you don’t see on tour that truly make independent schools special.

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TECH TAKEAWAYS

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LASTING IMPACT

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Virtual field trips. Online apps to boost academic skills.

Remote options for learning. The pandemic pushed savvy educators to embrace the best of educational technology.

See how these tech resources continue to support learning that’s collaborative, creative, and accessible.

Four graduates share the lifelong impact that a Baltimore independent school education has had on them.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Lean into this probing set of questions to find the right school match for your child.

SPONSORED CONTENT 7 25 39 50

SCHOOL SPIRIT PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT INFLUENCERS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DIRECTORY

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR DEAR READERS, Welcome to the seventh edition of the Baltimore Fishbowl Guide to Baltimore Independent Schools. The Guide’s annual publication is starting to feel like a tradition of sorts, which is fitting given the rich and lengthy history of the independent school community in and around Baltimore.

These educational institutions have been tested recently, most notably by the global pandemic. But deep roots—supported by visionary administrators, inspiring teachers, and committed families—allow Baltimore independent schools to continue to thrive.

Although several of these educational institutions have surpassed the century mark, within the Guide’s pages we’ve captured their ability to quickly pivot during the pandemic to embrace progressive technologies for seamless learning. Some of these technologies have since been embedded into the schools’ curriculum and classrooms, ultimately enriching the student experience.

But even the most advanced and clever educational technology must be paired with exemplary human capital to meet the greatest success. To that end, we are pleased to showcase a sampling of impressive student and faculty leaders associated with area independent schools. You’ll find them in the School Spirit and Influencers sections. Also, be sure to peruse Program Spotlight, which highlights some truly unique and innovative hallmarks of the proud schools that offer them.

The sheer breadth and depth of Baltimore independent schools can easily intimidate and overwhelm. We take seriously our job to unpack as much information as possible about them within these pages—in easily digestible chunks meant to educate, inform and, most importantly, inspire.

Whether you’re a parent-to-be or a seasoned mom or dad, new to town, or from a long line of Baltimoreans, we hope you take away some information from the Guide you can use.

Enjoy!

Elizabeth Heubeck

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EVERY THRIVING INDEPENDENT SCHOOL, REGARDLESS OF VISION OR MISSION, SHARES ONE COMMON TRAIT: STRONG STUDENT LEADERS.

SCHOOL SPIRIT SOME LEAD BY QUIET EXAMPLE, OTHERS CAN BE EASILY SEEN AND HEARD AT THE CENTER OF EVERY SCHOOL EVENT. MEET SOME OF THESE INSPIRATIONAL STUDENT LEADERS WHO EXEMPLIFY THE SPIRIT OF THEIR SCHOOLS.

THE BRYN MAWR SCHOOL, GILMAN SCHOOL AND ROLAND PARK COUNTRY SCHOOL

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The Bryn Mawr School, Gilman School and Roland Park Country School share more than two bridges that physically connect their campuses. Often referred to collectively as the Tri-School, each individual school offers coordinated classes during the upper school years, providing students access to broader course selection and perspectives. The students appreciate this opportunity, while remaining committed to thriving within their respective single-sex communities. Here, student leaders Ben (GS), Grace (RPCS), and Olivia (BMS) provide some insight into what they treasure most about their schools.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL PROUD TO BE A STUDENT AT YOUR SCHOOL? GRACE (RPCS): I am proud to be part of RPCS for our empowerment and supportive nature. RPCS is an uplifting community that healthily motivates each other to go above and beyond in all aspects. I know that peers and faculty members have others’ best interests at heart, leading to a genuine sense of joy in our halls.

OLIVIA (BMS): I feel proud to be a part of a tight-knit community.

Bryn Mawr has a very welcoming community and I am proud that I cannot only help lead this community, but help carry on the camaraderie here at Bryn Mawr.

BEN (GS): I am incredibly proud to be a Gilman student because it lives up to its reputation of being more than a school. Gilman offers a brotherhood between academics, athletics, arts, and community that

I could not imagine being replicated anywhere else. Countless incredibly talented faculty and students make Gilman an incredible environment.

WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE ON CAMPUS? GRACE (RPCS): The library is by far my favorite place on campus.

I spend almost every afternoon starting my homework there. The library has an open space with lots of natural light and comfortable chairs for reading, but my favorite part is the study rooms. Because our curriculum often encourages group work, I enjoy working with classmates there. It is also great to have Ms. Fox, our librarian, as a resource for everything from research projects to book recommendations. And on some days, Lumi, a therapy dog, joins us!

OLIVIA (BMS): My favorite place on campus is the heart of our school, the Student Center. This place is where the majority of the student body comes to grab a snack and chat with friends between classes. This space is the hub for student interaction and you will most likely find me in here all throughout the day.

BEN (GS): My favorite spot on campus has to be Brown Field.

From running around in Lower School P.E. to varsity football games against our rivals, Brown Field holds both current and sentimental value to me.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU WILL TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR SCHOOL EXPERIENCE? GRACE (RPCS): RPCS has taught me that my passions and dreams are not confined. I have loved the RPCS Gore Leadership Institute where I have taken classes on citizenship, researched organizations to give back to in our local community and been inspired by my classmates’ innovations.

OLIVIA (BMS): Aside from teaching us about having resilience and integrity, Bryn Mawr has taught me to be self-advocating even as a minority in this community.

This institution has given me the resources and outlets to make my voice heard among my peers, along with giving me the courage to speak up against injustice and prejudice.

BEN (GS): Make the most out of your experience by trying everything. It does not matter if you’ve never played a sport, been in a club, or hung out with that different group of friends. There are limitless opportunities at Gilman, so get out of your comfort zone and seize every moment.

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BOYS’ LATIN Boys’ Latin’s small size promotes the formation of tight bonds among both students and faculty. Two rising seniors, Jacob and Jimmy, share how this deep sense of connection and school pride permeates Boys’ Latin, from the athletic fields to the hallways to the classrooms.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY FROM YOUR SCHOOL?

WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE ON CAMPUS?

JACOB: My all-time favorite memory from school was the awards ceremony at the end of the year. It allowed me to see many students in a new light and celebrate them for their accomplishments at school.

JACOB: My favorite place on campus is the student commons, which is located on the same side of campus as the lower and middle schools. My favorite part of the day is walking across the bridge for lunch and seeing all the young Lakers in the grades below me.

Seeing lower and middle school boys engaging in projects and classes makes me proud to be a part of this community.

JIMMY: A memory that will always be special to me was the 2021 lacrosse championship at NavyMarine Corps Memorial Stadium.

The environment was electric, and the support from students, teachers, and faculty was incredible. Having our community there cheering us on meant so much more than winning a lacrosse game. Upsetting the number one seed and the second seed demonstrated resilience and showcased the results of our hard work.

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JIMMY: My favorite place on campus is the lower turf. I have spent hundreds of hours there. On the lower turf, I have participated in class bonding activities, practiced and played lacrosse and football, and cheered loudly in the student section. Nothing beats Boys’ Latin’s school spirit!

WHAT DO YOU THINK DISTINGUISHES YOUR SCHOOL FROM THE OTHER INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS? JACOB: What distinguishes Boys’ Latin from other independent schools is the sense of brotherhood and friendship you build in the halls of the upper school. Very rarely do you find a student at BL who does not want to be your friend or get to know you on a personal level. During my transition to Boys’ Latin during my sophomore year, I was overwhelmed with the amount of support and friendship I felt from my peers. I do not believe there is any independent school in the world that can match the sense of brotherhood and community in which Boys’ Latin was founded. The school is extremely special.

JIMMY: What distinguishes Boys’ Latin from other schools is the school spirit and connection you feel with every boy in the school.

Since we are small, there is a great opportunity to get to know everyone. People use brotherhood and family to describe Boys’ Latin because we (students and staff) are there for each other in good times and bad.

GARRISON FOREST SCHOOL A joyful learning experience. Inspiring teachers. The space to grow authentically and with confidence. These are just some of the themes that emerge from the voices of Garrison Forest students Ella, a senior, and Sunny, a junior.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL PROUD TO BE A STUDENT AT YOUR SCHOOL? ELLA: It makes me feel proud to be a student at Garrison Forest when I see people laughing and enjoying themselves on campus because it shows how Garrison is a place of joy where people are happy to come to school and have fun.

SUNNY: Garrison Forest isn’t just a sports school or an academic-heavy school. It is a school of nationally recognized musicians, athletes, and academics. Garrison Forest asks and answers the question: Why not the best of both worlds? This, the plethora of activities available to Garrison girls, is why I am proud to be a student at Garrison Forest School.

WHAT TEACHER/ COACH/MENTOR HAS MADE THE BIGGEST IMPACT ON YOU, AND WHY? ELLA: There are so many different people in the Garrison Forest community that have made an impact in my life from the Lower School all the way up to the Upper School that it would be impossible to choose just one person; however, I will thank Mrs. Hutton who was my first grade teacher for everything she has done for me. Mrs. Hutton has not only taught me the basics of how to read and write, but she also taught me the importance of having fun, to always love what you do, and whatever it is that you choose to do, to always do your best.

SUNNY: There have been a multitude of teachers in my life at Garrison Forest who have profoundly impacted me. So choosing one is certainly not an easy task, but my passion for history leads me to my 7th and 8th grade history teacher, Mr. O (Mr. Oppenheimer). An ardent history teacher, soccer aficionado, and former actor, Mr. O always took the time to get to know me and help me reach my fullest potential. He sublimely accommodated all perspectives and personalities into his classroom while simultaneously making education enjoyable.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU WILL TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR SCHOOL EXPERIENCE? ELLA: The biggest lesson that I will take away from my experience at Garrison is to never be afraid to try something new and that it’s okay if you’re not good at something at first as long as you keep working hard and trying your best. I can say I am a confident young woman who is not afraid to do something outside of my comfort zone because of going to an all-girls school like Garrison Forest.

SUNNY: The Latin phrase, esse quam videri, to be, rather than to seem, is Garrison’s motto. It has been a mantra ingrained in me since I first sang our school’s alma mater song and has also held true in my life. Garrison Forest has created a space which fosters individuality and authenticity. Sticking to who I truly am rather than being someone else has opened so many opportunities for me. Especially in today’s social media-revolved world, people are looking for originality instead of an imitator.

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GLENELG COUNTRY SCHOOL Tenth grader Brinley and eighth grader Sureena brim with enthusiasm when they share details of their educational journey at Glenelg Country School (GCS). Extensive academic and extracurricular opportunities match in scope the school’s sprawling 90-acre campus. And while these two students have chosen to explore different options, their experiences share one common thread: a supportive environment that encourages all students to achieve.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL PROUD TO BE A STUDENT AT YOUR SCHOOL? BRINLEY: I am proud that I attend a school that cares about diverse groups of people by creating different affinity spaces where students who have similarities can openly share their own thoughts and opinions without fear of being judged by others. I love the enthusiasm of the students from every

division! I really could not ask for a closer school community than what GCS has to offer. When I first came into the school in seventh grade, I did not know a lot of people.

However, it was not long before I really felt at home. The overall atmosphere of the school is an incredibly positive one, and when I am not on campus, I am proud to represent myself as a Glenelg Dragon.

SUREENA: I am proud to be a student at GCS because it has given me many opportunities to grow academically and personally. For example, I have expanded my interest in singing and acting by taking on the lead in the middle school play last year as Moana.

Also, I was encouraged to try a variety of sports: cross country, basketball, and lacrosse.

WHAT TEACHER/ COACH/MENTOR HAS MADE THE BIGGEST IMPACT ON YOU, AND WHY? BRINLEY: The teacher who has had the biggest impact on me is Coach Bonn. I have had him as a P.E. teacher, indoor & outdoor track and field coach, and a ninth-grade dean.

This past school year he has taught me the importance of using a skill that you have to maximize success, how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and the overall practice of improving yourself little by little consistently. I had never considered participating in track & field until I came across Coach Bonn. He saw something in me that has never been pointed out to me and took the time to work with me and explain to me how I can use this newfound skill to my advantage. With this, it led me to break four school records in my freshman year, and I would not have done it without Coach Bonn.

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MCDONOGH SCHOOL McDonogh prides itself on being a school where students find joy in work and play. And that proclamation resonates clearly with students in all grades. Jack, a senior; Mya, an eighth grader; and Ayden, in third grade, share glimpses of fiercely dedicated teachers, deep school pride, and a sense of gratitude for the special campus where they learn and play.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL PROUD TO BE A STUDENT AT YOUR SCHOOL? JACK: What makes me proud to be a student at McDonogh is that I go to a school with one of the most inclusive and diverse communities that I have seen. It’s incredible being at a school where everyone is welcome and is able to voice their opinions. Both the faculty and students are very supportive, and McDonogh just has a warm atmosphere.

MYA: There are a lot of reasons why I am proud to be a McDonogh student, but a few of the main reasons are the kind students, great teachers, beautiful campus, all the opportunities McDonogh gives their students, and most of all the feel of the community at our school.

AYDEN: I am proud to be a student at McDonogh because we have great teachers and the kids are very nice to each other.

WHAT TEACHER/COACH/ MENTOR HAS MADE THE BIGGEST IMPACT ON YOU, AND WHY? JACK: The teachers who have made the biggest impact on me are Mr. Abbot and Ms. Cox. Throughout high school, I have been taking honors and AP English, and they have been my harder classes. Although there were definitely struggles, these two teachers drastically helped me improve my reading and writing skills and constantly pushed me to be a better student overall. They both truly care about their students, and they offer detailed feedback on papers and help outside of class.

MYA: There have been two teachers, especially in my middle school experience, who have made an impact on me. Mr. Spencer, my seventh grade Spanish teacher, taught me that there is more to life than good grades and that the important thing is to be a good person with a good heart. He was also a teacher I felt that I could always come to and he would help me with my problems. Ms. Fried, my fifth grade advisor and fifth and sixth grade math teacher, taught me that if I work hard and really try, I can do anything I put my mind to. She was so supportive and always helped me when I didn’t understand something, related to math or not.

AYDEN: My second grade teacher, Mrs. Omatsola, really helped me by teaching me a lot of tricks in math like regrouping. She also encouraged me to speak like the characters in my story book to better understand the story. She helped me feel safe and work on overcoming my fears of thunderstorms.

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THE ST. PAUL’S SCHOOLS Three small schools. One sprawling campus. Endless opportunities. That’s the condensed version of what it’s like to be part of the St. Paul’s Schools community. We learned more from Elouise, an eighth grader at the St. Paul’s School for Girls; Ari, a junior at St. Paul’s School for Boys; and Andrew, a fourth grader at St. Paul’s Lower School.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY FROM YOUR SCHOOL? ELOUISE: I loved Puttin’ on the Hits, an annual Green and White Team competition amongst all the grades and faculty. It was super fun, and I had a great time creating an amazing dance with my classmates and performing it in front of the entire school.

ANDREW: Probably when I taught my class a “How-to” lesson through a PowerPoint presentation.

ARI: My favorite memory from St. Paul’s is bike riding through Ocean City and the Delaware beaches with my friends for our East Coast biking trip. Each year, sophomores get to take a trip with their classmates and teachers during Kinsolving Trips and get to bond with each other.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU WILL TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR SCHOOL EXPERIENCE? ELOUISE: The biggest lesson I will take away from my school experience is to always take healthy risks.

ANDREW: I always loved math, but St. Paul’s has made it a lot more fun with the math games we play in class. It has made a big impact on my learning.

ARI: Don’t be afraid to connect with other people. Building connections is a key part of the St. Paul’s experience and ties back into the recurring theme of community.

WHAT DO YOU THINK DISTINGUISHES YOUR SCHOOL FROM THE OTHER INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS? ELOUISE: What distinguishes St. Paul’s from other independent schools is our commitment to integrity and compassion, as well as our academic and athletic excellence.

ANDREW: It has a lot more opportunities than many other schools. I especially love my Japanese modern language class.

ARI: Any person can come to St. Paul’s and be successful. There is such a diverse group of activities at St. Paul’s including arts, sports, and STEM. St. Paul’s has something for everyone.

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WALDORF SCHOOL OF BALTIMORE There is no better advocate for a school than those whose lives have been enriched by their educational journey there. Bella and Fern, 2022 graduates of Waldorf, vividly capture what has made their time here so extraordinary: a nurturing community that makes Waldorf feel like family, a creative and hands-on approach to teaching that makes learning fun, the campus’ inherent beauty, and a culture of kindness.

WHAT MADE YOU FEEL PROUD TO BE A STUDENT AT YOUR SCHOOL? BELLA: I have been to many different schools throughout my life, from a public school to a Catholic school. Out of all the schools I have attended, Waldorf has had the strongest sense of community. Everyone treats each other like family. People at Waldorf, faculty and students alike, show kindness to each other.

The kids in my classes have grown up together, and some have even known each other since preschool.

We genuinely care for each other.

The kindness the school embodies is what makes me proud to have been a Waldorf student.

window, you can see all of downtown Baltimore in the distance.

The view is even prettier at night because the city comes to life and lights up. In the mornings, as you walk up the stairs, the light from the rising sun pours through the windows. You get a beautiful view of the sun rising above the forest of trees that surrounds the school.

Reds, oranges, and soft blues fill the sky. It’s an amazing view and a good way to begin the day.

FERN: My favorite place is definitely the woods. It is such a peaceful and beautiful spot to learn about nature and wildlife. It has always been a delight to play in and be one with the forest.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU WILL TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR SCHOOL EXPERIENCE? BELLA: It is okay not to be perfect.

We will have challenges in life that we can overcome and conquer, and some that we still need to work on.

Waldorf taught me to be forgiving to myself and others. Waldorf taught me to be honest. Waldorf taught me to be kind. Waldorf doesn’t want their students to walk away from the classroom with a handful of dates and names memorized, they want them to understand what they are learning about and how it connects to the current world around them.

FERN: WSB has taught me how to find a way to be creative in anything I do. Whether it’s drawing pictures to help learn history, or folding paper to help learn math, I love that I have been taught how to make learning very enjoyable.

FERN: The sense of community and the welcoming demeanor makes me proud. There is so much love and respect that flows through the colorful halls, and it brings me much joy. I think that the connections that teachers are able to have with students is a big difference from other schools. At WSB, some teachers teach us every year for all eight years. This allows a deeper connection with the students.

WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE ON CAMPUS? BELLA: The view from the top of the main stairwell is breathtaking.

If you stand on the top of stairs and stare straight out of the giant glass

Guide to Baltimore Independent Schools

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A DVA N TAG E S A glimpse beyond their beautiful campuses reveals what makes independent schools truly special.

Story by Courtney McGee Families are often wowed by first impressions of independent schools: scenic campuses, state-of-the-art labs, modern athletic facilities, theaters, and more. But it’s the things you don’t see on tour that truly make independent schools special.

Locally, there’s no shortage of independent schools heralding these intangible traits, nor families who choose to enroll their children in them. Maryland is home to 66 schools within the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) that educate more than 25,000 students annually. To uncover some of the awesome invisible advantages that lure families to these special learning institutions each year, we turned to their champions—from committed families to staff members.

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SMALL CLASSES AND STRONG STUDENT–TEACHER RATIOS “Smaller class sizes mean you don’t have to be someone who specifically needs more attention to get attention from your teacher,” says Jordan Small, a parent at Park School, which has a 7:1 student-teacher ratio and an average class of 15. “A quieter kid isn’t able to just avoid participation, so students learn to be part of the conversation.”

Independent schools universally offer excellent student-teacher ratios and smaller average class sizes than public schools. National Center for Education Statistics cites the average public school class size as 25, compared to 15–19 in independent schools. Student– teacher ratios come in at about 12:1 for independent schools, compared to 16:1 in public schools.

“With a class of 20, my daughter was able to thrive,” says Amy Metzger, a parent at Immaculate Conception School. “After COVID, my daughter was taking longer to unlock her reading. Her teacher connected with me, sent home books for her to read with me, and helped her directly in class.” Metzger adds that the teacher also supported her daughter emotionally through the loss of a pet and became like a second mom.

HOLISTIC APPROACH “With prioritization on ‘teaching the whole child,’ we are focused on our students’ intellectual, character, social-emotional, physical/ health, and spiritual development,” says Robyn Blum, K-8 principal of Krieger Schechter Day School. “We build our curriculum around the

PHOTO CREDIT: FRIENDS SCHOOL OF BALTIMORE

understanding that learning and growth is also about what happens on the playground, on overnight field trips, in the hallways, and in the moments before class when teachers and students can talk and make deeper connections with each other.”

That “whole child” approach is widely employed at independent schools. Stephen Abrams, director of admissions and enrollment management at Loyola Blakefield, hails the school’s Sophomore Conversations as one hallmark of the layered supports they build. Midway to graduation, the program pairs each sophomore with an adult for in-depth discussion. Campus closes early that day, as all faculty and staff are called on for the event. “These connections last well beyond the conversation. Many students find

themselves leaning on that adult for guidance and advice even after their time at Loyola,” Abrams says.

CHOICE WITHIN STRUCTURE Independent schools possess the flexibility to offer both robust coursework and ample extracurricular offerings, in part because they are not bound by state-supervised “teach to the tests” norms. This seemingly subtle benefit can translate into big learning gains.

Giving students agency in their own learning is a strength. “At Friends, our curriculum is both traditional and innovative. We have strict requirements for graduation, but we believe the journey is important,” says Amy Mortimer, director of admission at Friends School of Baltimore. “We don’t think that

academic rigor and joy are mutually exclusive.”

“Flexibility in our curriculum allows us to design classes that speak directly to student interests,” says Abrams. For instance, the school’s new elective, Anatomy & Physiology, which provides a deep dive on how the body functions for optimal performance, is directly applicable to the estimated 75 percent of students at Loyola who participate in interscholastic or intramural sports.

“Park faculty create an environment where students can bring their authentic selves to the classroom, the athletic field, the stage, or any endeavor,” says Ruthie Sachs Kalvar, director of admission at the Park School of Baltimore. “We cultivate children’s innate curiosity

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at a young age was important to Betsy Soehren-Jones both personally and professionally. The parent of two daughters who attend NDP, she’s also an executive at a leading cybersecurity firm. “As a female executive in a STEM field, it’s lonely in the C-Suite,” says Soehren-Jones.

“I feel an immense responsibility to reach behind me.”

VALUES-DRIVEN PHOTO CREDIT: PARK SCHOOL by nurturing their interests and engaging them as active participants in their own education. This approach is supported by an invisible, but very present, structure.”

SINGLE-GENDER LEARNING It is commonly accepted that learning styles vary by gender, so some independent schools tailor programs just for boys or girls.

Loyola cultivates “Men for Others” and Notre Dame Preparatory School readies “Women who will transform the world.” Single-sex classrooms support unique strengths and build character and confidence while forging bonds of brotherhood or sisterhood.

Boys’ language and fine motor skills tend to develop later than girls’, and if boys feel like they are lagging they may act out or and lose interest in school. All-male learning environments account for physiological differences and keep students focused and eager to learn. Research shows that students in all-boy schools don’t feel as pressured to adhere to stereotypical “male” subjects like math and science and are more open to

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art, music, foreign languages and community service.

“The effects of the ‘All-Girls Advantage’ are immediate and lifelong,” says Sue Sadler, head of school at The Bryn Mawr School.

“Girls reach their highest potential when they feel supported by a strong community of peers and adults who believe in the power of girls.”

Finding a school like NDP that encourages curiosity and engages girls to get passionate about STEM

Some parents will choose independent school for the sake of faith-based education alone. But commitment to unifying beliefs extends beyond religion. Shared values solidify a community, whether through religious doctrine or secular guiding principles.

Jewish values are central to KSDS. “We have a stellar dual-curriculum program of academic excellence in General Studies and Hebrew/ Judaic Studies. Personal reflection and interpersonal relationships based on empathy and thoughtfulness frame all our experiences,” explains Blum. “Our

CONT’D ON PG 22

PHOTO CREDIT: NOTRE DAME PREP

VALUES

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INVISIBLE ADVANTAGES CONT’D social-emotional curriculum, Bo N’Daber, engages students with monthly themes for conversations. We approach challenges and missteps as opportunities for learning what could have been handled differently and for practicing teshuva—the process of forgiveness and restitution.”

at NDP. “We moved to Baltimore from Chicago,” she says. “NDP was the logical choice for us because it looked and felt like ‘home.’ We’ve watched our daughters be challenged in unprecedented ways in an environment that feels safe and a community that wants nothing more than to see them succeed.”

The Friends School curriculum is infused with the Quaker “SPICES”, which stand for Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship. “We teach kids to think of a global community and be empathetic,” says Mortimer.

“More than a school, we are a family,” says Blum. “Our teachers know our students’ parents, siblings and even pets, and try to have a thorough picture of the interests, talents and factors that help shape our students’ lives, both during and outside of school. Our teachers help create that ‘village’ experience for our students.”

FEELS LIKE HOME Public schools have a radius of eligibility for attendance.

Independent schools don’t. Some students will drive an hour or more to get to school. Choosing a school that feels like home is key. SoehrenJones’ daughters found that feel

LOYALTY AND TRADITION In Baltimore, when someone asks, “Where did you go to school?” they likely mean high school; in some circles, it includes elementary or

middle school. Out-of-towners are as boggled by this practice as with the obsession of putting Old Bay on everything. But so much local identity is tied to those formative experiences and shared traditions.

“Our alumni feel a deep sense of loyalty and affection for their K–8 school,” says Blum. “They love maintaining connections with their teachers and classmates, returning for reunions, cheering in the audience at the current year’s eighth grade play, and enrolling their own children at Krieger Schechter.”

Perhaps the biggest invisible advantage to families who choose independent schools is the reassurance that their children will not be invisible, but rather seen and valued—oftentimes long after they graduate.

PHOTO CREDIT: FRIENDS SCHOOL

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INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS ARE CONSTANTLY EVOLVING TO ADDRESS AN EVER-CHANGING WORLD. IN AND OUT OF THE CLASSROOM.

PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT THIS MEANS NEW INITIATIVES IN THE AREA OF TECHNOLOGY, PARTNERSHIPS IN THE COMMUNITY, CAREER EXPLORATION AND OPPORTUNITIES TO EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS. LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE EXCITING PROGRAMS.

BETH TFILOH DAHAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL A Values-Based Educational Community Beth Tfiloh offers all the benefits of other private schools, such as a rigorous academic program, athletics, creative arts, and clubs and committees. As a Jewish day school, its unique environment is imbued with the lifelong values, wisdom, integrity, compassion, the warmth of Jewish traditions, and respect and joy — the foundational elements of a BT education.

The Beth Tfiloh experience provides your child with the framework for living an ethical, thoughtful, community-oriented life. Through the Judaic studies program, BT students refine the critical thinking and analytical skills that are the essence of Jewish thought and learning. The immersive dual-language program fosters both cognitive flexibility and connection to students’ Jewish heritage.

The supportive, nurturing community values academic rigor, intellectual curiosity, and personal integrity. BT’s multi-faceted dual-curriculum academic experience is facilitated by outstanding educators who challenge students to advocate for themselves, ask difficult questions, and pursue their aspirations. Small class sizes create the perfect setting for teachers to provide individualized attention, to champion each child’s needs, and to demonstrate how to lead lives of purpose as global citizens. A wide range of extra-curricular activities encourage our students to try new experiences, explore their interests, and hone their talents.

Beth Tfiloh is a community like no other; a community that sticks together… for life.

BOYS’ LATIN Global Online Academy (GOA) This fall, Boys’ Latin will launch a partnership with Global Online Academy (GOA), a worldwide not-for-profit consortium of leading independent schools designed to prepare students and educators to thrive in a globally connected society. Boys’ Latin upper school students will have the opportunity to take online courses on a multitude of specialized topics with students and teachers from across the globe. More than 125 high-performing independent schools participate, representing 30 countries.

Students will enroll in a semester-long course of their choosing; courses range from Architecture to Personal Finance to Neuropsychology. Mrs. Sara Rosiak, Boys’ Latin’s GOA on-site director and director of educational support services, describes the advantages of these programs: “GOA allows students to see if they are interested in a specialized area of study, and gives students the opportunity to experience learning in a different way. Time management and self-motivation are critical, and students will need to tap into those skills.”

Self-motivation and time management lie at the core of independent learning, and GOA will allow students to hone those skills. Liam McClure ’22 took the class Entrepreneurship in a Global Context via GOA this past spring in a pilot program. He remarks, “The teacher was amazing, and the content was really useful and insightful.”

CALVERT SCHOOL Experiential Learning and the Institute for Leadership & Purpose The Institute for Leadership & Purpose (ILP) empowers students of all ages to become purpose-driven global citizens through immersive experiences aimed at widening their world view. On Calvert’s campus, the ILP facilitates guest speakers, local service opportunities, and partnerships with nearby student groups and organizations. Off campus, the ILP distinguishes itself through enriching leadership journeys to local, national, and international locations.

In 2022, a group of Calvert eighth graders journeyed to San Juan, Puerto Rico for a week of outdoor learning, community engagement, and cultural immersion. As part of this trip, the students partnered with a local non-profit that promotes sustainable development to improve inhabitants’ quality of life after decades of natural disasters and cultural change.

In addition to visiting historic locations and meeting resident artisans, the students improved the community’s access to clean water by clearing debris out of a deep 150,000-gallon cistern.

“Learning about different cultures and immersing yourself in different experiences is great for learning, growing, and seeing more of the world from somebody else’s perspective,” Allie K. ’22 said. “It was amazing to get to know Puerto Rico on this level through the service we did and the opportunities we got to experience.”

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THE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL OF BALTIMORE Visual & Performing Arts Program The Catholic High School of Baltimore’s McCafferty Hall has been home to its Visual & Performing Arts Department since 1960. Catholic High’s Visual & Performing Arts (VPA) Program offers concentrations in studio art, band, dance, choir, and theatre.

The four-year comprehensive curriculum provides each Catholic High student with a full range of study that keeps her involved and engaged while exploring her creativity. Each student in the program learns about history and foundational principles and is mainly assessed by studio-based or performance-based projects.

Catholic High’s newly established dance concentration is designed for artistically motivated students to train in classical dance styles such as ballet, pointe, modern, and jazz, combined with a strong and comprehensive academic program. Dancers experience the newly constructed dance studio with a professional dance floor. “The VPA Program encourages students to lean into the creative part of themselves and we are thrilled to add dance to our program,” says Jane Brown, visual & performing arts department chair at Catholic High.

FRIENDS SCHOOL OF BALTIMORE Computer Science Program Friends School of Baltimore is proud to launch a robust computer science program for the 2022–23 school year featuring an array of interesting and rigorous course options for students in grades 9–12. This new department will allow students to explore a wide range of topics and build skills in multiple areas.

Founded on a set of universal competencies, the curriculum encourages students to reflect on the same core set of coding disciplines, habits of mind, and algorithmic thought processes for every project. Further, it is designed to ensure that students maintain focused, meaningful, and observable growth whether they take one class or five.

The STEM offerings span from entry level courses in Physical Computing, Web Design and Data and Code, to high level Advanced Computer Science 2, which teaches advanced techniques in algorithm analysis and design. More offerings are under development and will be open for enrollment in the fall of 2023.

Additionally, extensive upgrades have been made to the physical space where computer science classes are taught. The redesigned classroom space provides more flexibility for students to work together on problems and projects, and includes additional high-performance computers and state-of-the-art consumer 3D printers. Friends now has one of the most diverse and challenging computer science offerings of any school in Baltimore.

GARRISON FOREST MIDDLE SCHOOL Women Of Impact And Aspiring Leaders Program The Middle School at Garrison Forest School (GFS) provides opportunities for students to explore and expand their interests, develop leadership and critical thinking skills, and gain a better understanding of the community around them. Two key initiatives include the Women of Impact Speaker Series for 7th Grade and the Aspiring Leaders Program for the 6th Grade.

Women of Impact invites GFS alumnae speakers to share their career journeys, as students learn more about what it means to be a leader in various fields and industries. Aspiring Leaders Program participants develop and practice leadership skills and learn from other leaders in and around the community, with a focus on service. These initiatives join a robust, intentional middle school curriculum that provides students space and resources to grow their skills in a supportive environment.

“These programs are designed as extensions of the student’s academic program and provide unique opportunities to develop valuable research, public speaking and leadership skills,” said Shannon Schmidt, head of the middle school. “They also happen to be incredibly fun and engaging! It’s incredible to see our students dig into these projects and apply what they’ve learned to help have an impact on our campus and in our community.”

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GLENELG COUNTRY SCHOOL Scholars Program Glenelg Country School’s Scholars Program provides students the opportunity to pursue their passions and further develop skills. Students apply to the program and graduate with distinction in one of five areas of study. Through specific coursework and experiential discovery, students build a portfolio of work they will defend before faculty. Students may earn distinction in one of five areas: aesthetics and culture; entrepreneurship; convergent science; global leadership; or technology, engineering, and design. Most importantly, these scholars will cultivate their academic passion and build a foundation for future pursuits. Students may apply beginning in the third trimester their sophomore year. Each area of distinction has specific requirements in six main areas: ❱ Specific Coursework – Guides scholars to the right classes to follow their passions. ❱ Hands-On Learning – Provides real-world experience to scholars. ❱ Extracurricular Analysis – Encourages scholars to immerse themselves and deepen their understanding in an area of focus. ❱ Teaching – Provides opportunities for scholars to share their passions with the school and ignite passions in others. ❱ Integrative Seminar – Focuses the scholar’s capstone paper and encourages in-depth analysis. ❱ Portfolio – Presents scholars’ completed work to reflect on what they have learned.

The stimulating academic curriculum of the Scholars Program keeps students motivated and engaged toward their collegiate goals.

GRACE PRESCHOOL SEEDLINGS Program Offering an excellent educational program to the community, Grace Preschool provides an intimate atmosphere with programs focused on individual attention and personalized learning. The SEEDLINGS program is ideal for children who are between 12 and 23 months old as of September 1st. During the fall, SEEDLINGS are welcomed into Grace Preschool with a parent/caregiver. Together, they engage and enjoy singing, listening to stories, and interacting with other children. As the SEEDLINGS become more confident and secure, parents/caregivers fade away, and these little SEEDLINGS begin to engage in experiences that promote socialization and language development. It provides the SEEDLINGS the opportunity to explore activities in music, art, story time, and outside play. It is a perfect start to a child’s early childhood journey.

SEEDLINGS takes place in a Twos classroom, on Grace Preschool’s playground, and in its indoor play area. The program currently runs from September – December, 9 – 10:30am on Tuesday and Thursdays with a parent/caregiver. In the spring, it runs from January – May, 9am – 12pm on Tuesday and Thursdays with children being dropped off. Come and grow with Grace Preschool.

JEMICY SCHOOL Project-Based Applied Engineering And Design At Jemicy School, project-based applied engineering and design open doors for future study. Beginning in lower and middle school, basic engineering, design, and construction concepts are integrated throughout the curriculum.

Upper school students have the opportunity to hone those skills, investigate new fields of study, and work creatively in multiple dimensions. Students may weld an amphibious vehicle in the Industrial Design: Kinetic Sculpture Race class; create a skateboard or build a sailboat in woodworking lab; or design and fabricate furniture using Rhino and a CNC router in computer-aided animation. Others may animate chemical bonds using 3D-Studio MAX or print 3D prototypes for a digital fabrication elective. Astronomy and Robotics Clubs offer additional experiences. The Astronomy Club built an observatory for nighttime sky-viewing parties. On Saturdays, upper-level design students may assist with the construction of a BushCat plane at the Essex Skypark.

Whether in the arts, sciences, or humanities, principles of engineering and design challenge Jemicy students through hands-on, collaborative learning. This experience using professional level tools and programs, designing and executing real-world projects, and completing superior design portfolios frequently translates into our students receiving merit scholarships to highly competitive college engineering programs and subsequent employment in professional careers.

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KRIEGER SCHECHTER DAY SCHOOL The Abramoff Makerspace In the Abramoff Makerspace at Krieger Schechter Day School, students in kindergarten through eighth grade are challenged to use their creativity while diving into a wide range of hands-on activities. Each time they come to the makerspace, students have the opportunity to combine prior knowledge and interests with new skills to solve challenges presented to them.

Students not only have regular classes and electives in the makerspace; they also participate in cross-curricular lessons in ways that differ from typical classroom instruction.

Some of these activities include coding through various apps on iPads, digital art, programming a variety of robots, producing stop motion animation films, creating carnival games out of cardboard, hand-making paper for journals in their language arts classes, or making set designs to learn scale in math classes.

During their classes, students are given the tools and skills needed to accomplish their tasks. Students are encouraged to explore and experiment to achieve the desired result, oftentimes as a collaborative effort with other students.

The Abramoff Makerspace is a unique space in the building where teachers and students can bring out-of-the-box ideas and turn them into a reality.

MARYLAND INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (MDIS) Global Signature Programs Global engagement represents a commitment to address humanity’s greatest challenges in the classroom and beyond. Globally engaged people critically consider power and privilege and recognize that they hold the earth and its resources in trust for future generations.

An International Baccalaureate (IB) education aims to develop the awareness, perspectives, and commitments necessary for global engagement. The IB aspires to empower people to be active learners who are committed to service with the community.

To this end, MDIS offers two signature programs, the Global Studies Program (GSP) and the Global Ambassadors Program (GAP), to increase intercultural understanding and foster an appreciation of the many beliefs, values, experiences, and ways of knowing.

Our GAP includes activities, experiences, and study abroad trips that allow our students to gain intercultural skills and global perspectives through hands-on and experiential learning, language immersion, cross-cultural exchange, and collaborative service projects and service learning. In addition, each student who participates may also earn pre-college credit toward STEM, humanities, and language courses. Highlights of the GSP include Model UN, Harvard Model Congress, and IB School Exchange.

Overall, this experiential learning program expands students’ worldviews, making them even more prepared for university-level learning.

MARYVALE PREPARATORY SCHOOL Ford Program Maryvale Preparatory School focuses on educating young women for life. To further assist students, Maryvale offers individualized learning programs for different types of learners. The St. Julie Billiart Program provides girls with diagnosed language-based learning differences 2:1 instruction with an experienced learning specialist. The new Ford Program utilizes a 5:1 ratio to help students strengthen their executive functioning skills as well as manage their ADHD. The Ford Program helps students navigate their coursework while strengthening their organization, time management, and study skills. Through direct instruction, students gain critical tools to support academic success in high school as well as college.

Learning specialist Rachel Mays, director of the Ford Program, remarks: “I am thrilled to be a part of the Ford program working alongside motivated and hardworking students. Seeing them succeed and find confidence in their abilities is the greatest reward of my job.”

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ST. JOHN’S PARISH DAY SCHOOL Advanced STEM Program St. Johns Parish Day School (SJPDS), a co-ed Episcopal School in Ellicott City, MD, has implemented a one-of-a-kind STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) program to enhance its already rigorous and academically-diverse curriculum. STEM programs prepare students to solve problems, make sense of complex information, and understand how to gather and evaluate evidence to make advanced decisions in and outside of the classroom. By implementing the STEM program into all curriculums, ages three to grade five, students are being given the opportunity to understand the world around them through interdisciplinary, project-based learning, and student-led discovery.

With the world becoming so heavily reliant on technology, SJPDS knows that it is never too early to learn how to code, collect and evaluate data, solve complex real-world problems, and learn through action. The program focuses on integrating several subjects at once, supporting individual content areas and integrated experiences alike. Enhancing students’ knowledge and understanding of technology through discovery help to ensure they are being set up for success in their futures in and out of the classroom experience.

Photo Caption: Shown is the STEM lab mural that was gifted to SJPDS by the graduating class of 2022.

THE ST. PAUL’S SCHOOLS Global Experiences At The St. Paul’s Schools, students have unique opportunities to develop cultural fluency skills critical to 21st-century leadership through global partnerships, experiences, and exchanges. Shared learning experiences allow students in both the middle and upper schools at St. Paul’s School for Girls and St. Paul’s School for Boys to engage with other cultures, consider new perspectives, and immerse themselves in the languages they study.

Students, faculty, and administrators who participate in these experiences share their knowledge with the school community and inspire others to think globally across disciplines. With partner schools across four continents, upper school students can study in Japan, China, Germany, Spain, France, Argentina, or Australia through a global exchange.

Students also have short-term global opportunities to study geothermal activity in Iceland, experience service-learning in Costa Rica and Panama, explore historical World War II sites across Europe, and participate in international Model United Nations conferences, the most recent of which took IB Global Politics students to Johannesburg, South Africa for the African Leadership Academy’s African Model Union.

THE WALDORF SCHOOL OF BALTIMORE The Parent & Child Program Nurturing a healthy childhood includes supporting the caregiving journey. The Parent & Child Program at the Waldorf School of Baltimore provides an inclusive, engaging meeting place where caregivers can form community, gain insight into their child’s development, and enjoy a rare moment of relaxation as their toddlers socialize in the school’s warm and welcoming Children’s Garden.

This popular morning program is led by a Waldorf-trained early childhood teacher and includes time for a language-rich movement circle, a wholesome snack that children can help prepare, engaging handwork projects for adults, the sharing and discussion of weekly articles, and creative play with peers.

With its emphasis on simplicity and natural materials, everything in a Waldorf classroom is chosen for its ability to nourish the senses, bring joy, and serve a useful purpose. In these beautiful and thoughtful spaces, children are less likely to be overstimulated and better able to ground themselves in the rich, imaginative free play that is so valuable to their growth and development.

Waldorf School’s Parent and Child Class meets year-round in seasonal sessions for ages 10 months through 3 years, with a parent or caregiver accompanying. Classes are offered on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday mornings, once weekly, for 8 weeks. Register at www. waldorfschoolofbaltimore.org

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Guide to Baltimore Independent Schools

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I love experimentation... in music, in writing, in math...figuring out for myself what works and what doesn’t.

< Chris, Grade 9

Self. Discovered.

The Park School of Baltimore is a Pre-K through Grade 12 school with the mission of supporting young people in becoming confident questioners and responsible citizens of the world. www.parkschool.net

tAkEaWaYs tEcH

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How the pandemic pushed educators to embrace the best of technology for learning Students at Gilman School are taking more virtual field trips. At Roland Park Country School (RPCS), students are using platforms like Quizlet and Kahoot to make their own in-class learning games. The Bryn Mawr School is launching a fully accredited online high school.

Educators throughout Baltimore say the technologies they relied on in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when classes abruptly shuttered and learning went remote, are still in use now that students are back in the classrooms.

The software, apps and other tools don’t replace hands-on, in-person learning, but instead provide new opportunities for creativity and collaboration. Zoom can help students connect with off-campus experts and learn from virtual tours.

Combined with devices like the Swivl robot or Owl camera, it enables students to participate in classroom discussions from afar. Technologies like Google Docs and Office 365 allow teachers to critique assignments collaboratively with students, who can see and respond in the same document in real time.

PHOTO CREDIT: STEVE RUARK FOR GILMAN SCHOOL

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collaborators were projected on a large screen. That option ended in March 2020, when students and educators moved off campus and shifted to online learning.

Tye Campbell, director of technology at the time and now director of strategic information and innovation at Gilman, wasn’t ready to abandon those opportunities to connect Gilman students with people and places outside their classrooms.

PHOTO CREDIT: STEVE RUARK FOR GILMAN SCHOOL

Boosting collaboration The improvements extend beyond the classroom. Using technologies that were fast-tracked during the pandemic, teachers and students continue to rely on these more streamlined and consistent methods for tracking and submitting assignments via software-based learning management systems. Teachers can more easily collaborate with each other on lesson plans or virtually attend meetings or professional development sessions. And parents have the option of remote teacher conferences.

“I think the pandemic not only jump-started new ways of using technology for education at the St. Paul’s Schools, but also fostered a culture of adaptation alongside using new technologies that has allowed us to continue to innovate,” says Emily Ziegler, director of instructional technology and innovation at the St. Paul’s Schools.

“Before the pandemic, I would have had a lot of hesitation asking faculty and experts in the field to connect remotely, but now it isn’t even an afterthought.”

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Ziegler described how students in a technology and entrepreneurship course met virtually with business experts around the country to learn about their challenges and successes, and worked with a local entrepreneur to create revenue forecasting models.

Expanding access to innovations In many schools, the technologies were used in moderation before the pandemic, became essential during the spring of 2020, and then moved from educational lifelines to in-person learning enhancements.

Gilman was already using a technology called Portal to connect students and educators on the Baltimore campus with other Portal users around the globe, enabling virtual exploration of landmarks like the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York City.

Portal, though, required that students gather in a free-standing room on campus delivered by parent company Shared Studios, where life-sized images of

Seeing that more museums and other educational destinations had started offering virtual tours as a way to maintain interest when people couldn’t visit in person, he helped teachers arrange virtual field trips in place of both real field trips and the Portal.

The trips could be pre-scheduled and led by Gilman teachers, or individual students could explore at their own pace. Some tours made use of virtual reality headsets, while others took place over computer screens.

The innovation continued after students returned to in-person classes and remains a powerful and engaging educational tool to this day, says Campbell, one that lets teachers provide field trips in the space of an hour without the hassles of rearranged days, permission slips and chaperones.

“The pandemic definitely expanded a lot of opportunity,” he says. “So many virtual experiences became available, and we expect the incredible resources that the situation forced us to create won’t just disappear. From a teaching and learning perspective, one of our goals is to make sure the lessons and skills gained, those things don’t go away now that kids are back in the classroom.”

Going fully remote

Striking a balance

Bryn Mawr will apply the remote learning lessons of the pandemic as it launches a fully online high school experience this fall, says Justin Curtis, the school’s senior director of academic and strategic initiatives and director of the new fully accredited online high school, Bryn Mawr Online.

School officials and teachers keep tinkering with the balance between using technologies that enhance learning and protecting the in-person and hands-on aspects of education. The best technologies encourage students to create, says Robert Anderson, who joined RPCS as academic technology specialist in November 2020 and recently was promoted to the new role of director of academic technology and innovation.

Curtis launched an online Bryn Mawr summer program in 2020, after the pandemic forced the school to transition to remote learning that spring. “I remember sitting in classes before spring break of 2020, talking about how to do remote learning,” says Curtis.

“We have a great team of teachers and we just transitioned to online.

We felt comfortable quickly. We learned a lot about how to structure lessons to keep kids engaged, and also realized we could get experts and other speakers from anywhere.”

Bryn Mawr Online launches in the 2022-2023 school year with a class of 9th graders, and will add a high school grade each year, says Curtis.

The students are mostly on the East Coast and many have outside pursuits such as sports that make the more flexible online schedule attractive. They will offer a mix of synchronous and asynchronous classes, with opportunities to interact with their Baltimore-based Bryn Mawr college counselors, teachers, and fellow students.

Tuition is lower than in-person schooling.

“We implemented dozens of new teaching tools and web-based applications to support student learning,” Case says. He describes how Zoom, sometimes with a Swivl robot that automatically tracks an educator walking around a classroom, allowed teachers during the pandemic to use remote or virtual instruction, something that continues today when necessary or helpful.

He likes technologies like Prezi and Canva, graphic design platforms that let students make interactive and animated presentations; and tools like Quizlet, which can be used to make in-class learning games that are particularly popular with middle-school students.

“The pandemic quickly made us pivot to heavier technology use,” Case says. “But having spent time with the technology, we are now seeing ways in which we can continue to improve student outcomes and engage students with more play and activity-based applications.”

Some technologies even limit distractions to help students focus on in-person instruction. “I’m a tech person, but there are times when technology is not necessary,” Anderson says.

With computers now ubiquitous in classrooms, Anderson adds Go Guardian and Go Guardian Teacher to school-issued Chromebooks to keep students from surfing and scrolling instead of paying attention to the lesson.

Go Guardian blocks and filters content and monitors student activity, so if a student is looking for information about bullying or suicide, for example, it will notify appropriate staff. Go Guardian Teacher lets teachers limit computer use during class, for example making it so students can open just one tab or can only use Google Docs.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROLAND PARK COUNTRY SCHOOL

“We joke that it took COVID for us to realize how well we could do it,” he says.

Chris Case, director of library services and instructional technology for the Park School, says when the pandemic began, the school made sure all faculty members had laptops with Google Classroom, an app that gives teachers an organized and paperless way to make, collect, and grade assignments.

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FACULTY MEMBERS SERVE AS THE TIRELESS ENGINES THAT MAKE SCHOOLS OPERATE EFFECTIVELY. THEIR POSITIONS VARY, BUT THEY ARE DRIVEN BY THE SAME SELFLESS GOAL: TO SUPPORT THEIR STUDENT BODIES TOWARD ACHIEVING THEIR FULLEST POTENTIAL IN THE CLASSROOM AND WELL BEYOND. MEET SOME OF THESE INFLUENTIAL FIGURES.

INFLUENCERS

CHRISTIAN DONOVAN

Friends School of Baltimore Newly appointed Friends Head of School Christian Donovan previously served as the assistant head of school & director of strategic research at HeadRoyce School in Oakland, CA, following seven years as the

school’s director of enrollment management. Donovan played a critical role in leading HeadRoyce’s COVID-19 response team and is nationally acclaimed for his enrollment management work.

Prior to joining Head-Royce, he served as director of admissions and enrollment management at his alma mater, George School, a Quaker school in Newton, PA, and in college counseling and admissions roles at the Athenian School in California.

WHAT DREW YOU TO EDUCATION? I was fortunate enough to have inspiring and life-changing teachers during my own educational journey, so what drew me to education was the desire to pay it forward. I wanted to offer the same transformative experience to the next generation of students.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT YOUR CURRENT SCHOOL? There are so many things, but the one that stands out the most is that at Friends School of Baltimore we are equipping students with the knowledge, skills, connections, and confidence to be courageous change makers. To us this means that we dig deeply into the issues and challenges that face our world today and build relationships with each other that last a lifetime.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE IN YOUR ROLE? I have several, but first is to continue offering our students an excellent academic experience, building our program to meet the needs of today’s students and families. The pandemic has certainly shown that schools can pivot, and we now have opportunities to continue reimagining what the best education should look like.

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CHRISTY COLE Glenelg Country School

Christy Cole embarks on her fifteenth year at Glenelg Country School (GCS). As director of student support services, she

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works closely with upper school administration to ensure the success of all GCS students, including those with diagnosed learning differences, social-emotional disorders, and ADHD. Born and bred in Baltimore County, Cole received a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Special Education from Goucher College in ’99. She has taught at Valley Academy (now Jemicy Upper School), TopSide, and Camp Jemicy summer camps, and previously served as the director of admissions at the Baltimore Lab School.

WHAT DREW YOU TO EDUCATION? For as long as I can remember, I always loved being around kids. Despite that, I entered college as a computer science major but

took an Introduction to Special Education course the spring of my freshman year. Needless to say, after that experience I found my calling. A career in education has allowed me to continue to learn and to share my interests—from reading to athletics—with my students.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT YOUR CURRENT SCHOOL? One of the things that drew me to GCS is the diversity of our students and the sense of community across the campus. Some of my most treasured memories and experiences with students at GCS have happened outside the confines of my office. Each and every day is filled with something unexpected that either makes me laugh or inspires me to learn more.

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JENNIFER NICHOLAS

Maryvale Preparatory School Jennifer Nicholas received an undergraduate degree in secondary education from Villanova University and a master’s degree in Leadership

in Teaching from the University of Notre Dame of Maryland. She is in her tenth year at Maryvale.

Formerly director of the school’s St. Julie Billiart Program, which serves students with a diagnosed language-based learning difference, she is currently head and academic dean of the middle school at Maryvale.

environment where each student can succeed. We allow our students to take ownership of their educational journey. We teach our girls to self-advocate. We help students identify their strengths, both in the classroom and outside, to help them excel in all facets of life.

WHAT DREW YOU TO EDUCATION?

I want my students to leave Maryvale with the belief that anything is possible for them. I want to instill confidence in each student. I want them to feel heard and valued while at Maryvale. I want all students, despite the struggles they may face, to know that they are capable of achieving amazing things here and beyond.

I’ve always had a love for education. Working with young people, seeing the growth and changes they undergo, and watching them discover their unlimited potential has always inspired me.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT YOUR CURRENT SCHOOL? I love that Maryvale provides a personalized and supportive Preparatory School. She most recently served as assistant head of upper school at Gerstell Academy from 2019 to 2022.

Rinehart grew up in Baltimore County and holds a B.S. in history and secondary education and a minor in geography from Towson University (then Towson State). Her family is a central focus of her life, and she and her husband are committed to Catholic education.

TERRI RINEHART Mercy High School

Dean of Students Terri Rinehart joined Mercy High School in the summer of 2022. She began her robust career in education as a middle and high school history teacher before moving into administrative roles at Trinity School in Ilchester and Maryvale

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE IN YOUR ROLE?

WHAT DREW YOU TO EDUCATION? I felt called to be a teacher. As a first-generation college graduate, I believe in giving back. I want to empower our young people as confident and capable citizens of our nation and the globe. It is imperative to prepare our children for the changing and complex world.

Working in education allows me to continue to learn, take chances, grow, and help others. It is also a

plus that every day is different. I absolutely love what I do!

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT YOUR CURRENT SCHOOL? Mercy appreciates every person and is committed to maintaining a diverse community, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect, and inspiring all of its community members to strive for true excellence. Mercy’s innovative and rigorous academics; vast athletic, arts, and extra-curricular offerings; and faith-based traditions allow each student to find her path.

I am thrilled to return to Catholic education.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE IN YOUR ROLE? As dean of students, my focus is on caring for the whole person as I help each Mercy student reach her full potential.

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Guide to Baltimore Independent Schools

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Walsh has a master’s degree in reading/writing/literacy from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education and robust editorial experience, which she’ll apply in her position with St. James.

WHAT DREW YOU TO EDUCATION?

HEATHER WALSH St. James Academy

Heather Walsh is excited to begin her new role with St. James Academy as the director of admission and enrollment management. She brings to the position a rich and varied background.

I didn’t necessarily intend a career in education; it’s more accurate to say that education found me. I knew that I wanted to tell stories and thought that my career path would take me into journalism, but I received some advice from a college mentor that the noise of life never seemed to drown out. He said, “Become an expert in something you’re passionate about and tell those stories.”

That advice led me to the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, immersed in

project-based learning, literacy development, and instructional design research. A graduate assistantship landed me in the Office of Information Systems and Computing – and I soon found myself creating innovative learning experiences for learners of all ages and educational institutions of all sizes. Applying best practices to new technology-based vehicles was exciting, and to this day, I love the iterative nature of education practice and how it intersects with storytelling.

Over the last decade, I’ve applied those principles to helping many area independent schools and informal education organizations design learning-based outreach programs. Each program was intentionally crafted to communicate what makes the school or organization unique.

CONT’D ON PG 47

DIVE INTO LOCAL NEWS

Read Baltimore Fishbowl ba lt i m o ref i s h bow l.co m

Providing a daily catch of news since 2011 b a l t i m o ref i s h b ow l .co m

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Leena Rao

Jack Sheehy

Mia Gogel

Mike Leonard

FOUR ALUMS SHARE HOW THEIR EXPERIENCE ATTENDING INDEPENDENT SCHOOL SHAPED THEM.

By Joe DeMartin

BALTIMORE HAS A RICH CULTURE AND HISTORY OF INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS. THESE INSTITUTIONS DISPENSE INSPIRING MENTORS, INSTILL ENDURING VALUES, AND PROVIDE FOUNDATIONAL EXPERIENCES. WE SAT DOWN WITH FOUR GRADUATES OF BALTIMORE’S INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS, ALL AT DIFFERENT POINTS IN THEIR PROFESSIONAL LIVES, TO DISCUSS THEIR EDUCATION’S LIFELONG IMPACT ON THEM. Guide to Baltimore Independent Schools

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High school McDonogh student Leena Krishnaswamy V Tennis 1998 (pictured front center)

MEANINGFUL MENTORS As a lower school student at McDonogh School, Leena Rao had a ready response when asked what she wanted to be when she grew up: a professional tennis player.

When she had the opportunity to meet her hero, celebrated tennis player and 1979 McDonogh graduate Pam Shriver, it was a moment she never forgot.

“I can still remember the joy on my face when I got to meet this icon that I worshipped,” Rao says. Shriver was on campus for Founder’s Day, an annual tradition at McDonogh where the entire community pauses to remember the alumni who have passed away in the last year. John Grega, McDonogh’s religious studies teacher, selected Rao to say the Benediction and introduced her to Shriver afterward.

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Rao graduated from McDonogh School in 1999 and remembers Mr. Grega as “a really wonderful teacher” who introduced students to a diverse range of world religions and holidays in his teaching.

“We would always celebrate Kwanzaa, Diwali, Christmas, and Hanukkah,” Rao says.

Upon reflection, Mr. Grega’s impact on Rao far surpassed that one moment when he introduced her to her hero. “To have a religion teacher at that age is truly amazing because it really symbolizes McDonogh’s ethos around openness and acceptance of all cultures,” Rao says.

PERSONAL ATTENTION Mia Gogel attended Jemicy School from 2005 through 2012, and she did not have to think long when reflecting on the lifelong impact of her experience. “Jemicy taught

me grit and the ability to persevere.” As a student with a learning disability, Gogel had to overcome a lack of self-confidence. “I just didn’t believe in myself, which was holding me back,” she says.

Everything changed for Gogel when she arrived at Jemicy, thanks to her one-on-one tutoring sessions with Steven Brown. “I remember him drawing on a piece of paper, a circle that represented the confidence I had in myself and a [larger] circle that represented the confidence he had in me,” she says. “[he would] erase mine to make it bigger and tell me: You’re not going to be able to succeed in your academics if you never believe in yourself.”

That reassurance was exactly what Gogel needed. “Having someone just constantly believing in me made me believe I could achieve something I didn’t think was possible,” she says.

As the associate director of government affairs for Baltimore County, Gogel consistently approaches the complexity of the legislative process with this same drive and confidence that she credits to her experience at Jemicy. “Attempting to pass legislation is a series of overcoming obstacles, with no definite chance of success,” she says.

“Sometimes you just have to wait to come back the next year or next cycle and do it over again.”

INGRAINED VALUES After her time at Jemicy, Gogel transitioned to the Friends School of Baltimore for high school. Two tenets of her Friends’ education stick with her through her work today: stewardship and community.

“Stewardship was ingrained into my education,” Gogel says.

“Thinking about what it means to be a steward of the environment and the obligation we all have to take care of each other and be not just an individual, but part of something bigger.”

Gogel recalls days when the school would go into Baltimore City neighborhoods and participate in garden

clean-ups or community walks.

“That was like, a really impactful experience — walking through a place and getting to know it and then serving it alongside community members,” she says.

Michael Leonard graduated from Loyola Blakefield in 1986. Loyola has been a part of the Leonard family for three generations.

Michael’s father graduated in 1960.

His oldest son Davis graduated in 2019, and his youngest son Gavin will be a senior this year. It was the school’s value proposition that drew the family to Loyola. “My education taught me to be a man for others, both professionally and personally,” Leonard says.

In his 31 years working in financial services, Leonard keeps Loyola’s mantra at the forefront of his mind.

“I think the number one thing that I can kind of correlate to my whole life that came from my schooling was that element of being a man for others and giving back,” he says.

Whether he is mentoring interns at his company or serving as the president of the National Association of Insurance & Financial Advisors’ Baltimore Charitable Foundation, Leonard lives out the values Loyola Blakefield imparted to him.

SOUND PREPARATION Jack Sheehy had the privilege to be part of a storied tradition at The Park School of Baltimore – writing for The Postscript. The school’s newspaper has been published for most of the school’s history and, at one point, was mailed out to every Park family. “Since I first read the paper in fifth grade, I knew I wanted to be a writer,” says Sheehy, who wrote his first article during the fall of his first year of high school and rose to be a co-editor in chief by his senior year in 2017.

His experience underscored a tenet of his Park education: collaboration. “I was still in high school and [had to] manage a staff of writers and think through difficult situations… I started to learn how to work with and manage people in those situations,” Sheehy says.

That emphasis on collaboration lends itself well to Sheehy’s profession as an associate on a research team for a DC advocacy nonprofit. “[Collaboration] is something I do all the time at work today,” he says.

“I started learning that when I was little at Park and it’s still very relevant for me today.”

PHOTO CREDIT ACADEMY FINANCIAL INC

Leena Rao

Jack Sheehy

Mike Leonard Guide to Baltimore Independent Schools

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Park graduate Jack Sheehy when he played baseball for Park School.

Rao worked on McDonogh’s school newspaper, The Week, and recalls an experience similar to Sheehy’s.

“Doing something as a team and being able to manage other editors, that’s something that not a lot of 16- and 17-year-olds get to do. And McDonogh gave me that opportunity,” says Rao, who now covers the fast-paced world of finance and technology as an editor on the venture capital and startups desk at Insider.

Rao explains that McDonogh’s challenging academic environment, paired with the expectation that students would also engage in school-related activities outside of the classroom, instilled in her a strong work ethic. Far removed from choir rehearsals and tennis practices of her youth, Rao says that as a working mother she continues

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to rely on the time management and balancing skills she learned at McDonogh.

LONG-LASTING BONDS Independent schools foster not only academic and career success, but also lifelong allegiances to alma maters and forever friendships.

For Sheehy, it began with collaboration—from Park’s printing press to the baseball diamond. He played first base for Park’s baseball team, where communication and teamwork were vital. “People of all different baseball playing backgrounds and levels of experiences could come together,” he says. That fraternity of baseball carries over to this day. Less than a week after speaking for this story, Sheehy returned to Park to man

his familiar first base during an alumni baseball game.

Leonard still meets regularly with his Loyola classmates in Baltimore to feed the hungry or run clothing drives. Of his long-lasting bonds with those he met at Loyola, Leonard explains: “Some of the guys I met the first day, freshman year, are my closest friends today: each other’s best men in weddings, godparents to children, people who are loyal, and have your back, and are there without question.”

While every independent school student’s experience differs, these alums’ reflections illuminate a shared sentiment: The lasting impact of these institutions influences the personal and professional lives of all who pass through them.

INFLUENCERS CONT’D CHRISTIAN DONOVAN

HEATHER WALSH

I also hope that together as a community we continue to create a space where students feel a deep sense of belonging and where they gain the foundations to be their best selves both here at Friends School and beyond.

I’ve always told my clients that strategic marketing is really applying good educational practice to storytelling. All of these experiences have brought me to St. James Academy as the new director of admissions and enrollment management – and I can’t wait to start the storytelling process in this new role.

TERRI RINEHART I firmly believe that servant leadership builds trust and enhances a sense of community. When our students understand and commit to our core values, recognize the needs of others, celebrate differences, honor contributions, and have opportunities to lead by example, they grow. This personal, academic, and spiritual growth prepares Mercy students for success, and they will make our world a better place.

CHRISTY COLE WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE IN YOUR ROLE? As I primarily work with upper school students, my goal is that by the time our students matriculate to post-secondary placements, they have a strong sense of who they are as learners and how to access what they need in order to continue to succeed. Recognizing that they learn differently is vital, but more importantly, it is what they do with that information moving forward.

One of the greatest joys is a reluctant learner who walks into my office and says, “When you created this for a past assignment, it really helped. Would you do it for this class? It would really help me.”

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT YOUR CURRENT SCHOOL? The faculty and staff are truly the heart of St. James and all of them champion project-based and experiential learning. That resonates with me as an educator – especially since the learning process is guided by Episcopal tradition and grounded in character development.

Education at St. James is a journey that capitalizes on innate curiosity at the preschool level and develops it into academic confidence at the middle school level. But strong academic skills are only a part of what makes St. James graduates shine in their respective high schools and colleges. The faculty community constantly works toward nurturing each student to develop their individual and collective identities as next generation leaders. Engaged faculty and an enriching curriculum make all the difference for the families that we serve.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE IN YOUR ROLE? Earlier this summer, St. James revealed a reimagined logo that features the sun rising behind a light tower. I can’t help but think that the image – which wonderfully encapsulates the dawning of a new era for the school – also illustrates how I interpret my role at the school.

As our entire community emerges from the pandemic and looks toward ‘what’s next,’ I’m excited to be one of the community’s authors as SJA writes its next chapter.

I look forward to helping guide families on their child’s educational journey and to cultivate the growth of our collaborative, intellectual, and compassionate community.

Guide to Baltimore Independent Schools

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SCHOOL SPIRIT CONT’D GLENELG COUNTRY SCHOOL

MCDONOGH SCHOOL

SUREENA: The teacher who has made the biggest impact on me is Ms. Britton, my math teacher two years in a row.

She taught me to think about solving math problems in ways that I didn’t think was possible. She was always available when I needed extra help. Since she was also my advisor last year, she made sure I was on top of my work and checked in with me on other subjects as well. Ms. Britton always made me feel comfortable in the classroom and really helped me grow academically.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU WILL TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR SCHOOL EXPERIENCE?

WHAT DO YOU THINK DISTINGUISHES YOUR SCHOOL FROM THE OTHER INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS?

MYA: From my middle school experience, the main lesson I learned is that there will be some rough times, but if I work hard and keep trying, I can accomplish anything I put my mind to.

BRINLEY: I think that the difference is that GCS uses any resource it has—whether geographical, academic, or athletic—to stretch their students’ minds and creativity. I have never seen a school that uses its campus in such an interactive way to teach its students regardless of what grade they are in. GCS uses the forest for art projects, the amphitheater for entertainment, the pond for science observations, and even the roundabouts for senior car parades.

SUREENA: What I think distinguishes our school from other independent schools is the opportunity to connect with everyone. Since the class sizes are small you get to interact with students in your grade and others in the middle school.

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JACK: The biggest lesson that I will take away from my school experience is that curiosity is so important.

Sometimes, sitting in a classroom can be difficult when I am uninterested in the subject. However, McDonogh’s incredible teachers keep me engaged and curious about what I am learning inside and outside of the classroom.

If there was a lesson that I have learned from my overall school experience, it would have to be that trying new things pays off. It may be hard and uncomfortable at the beginning, but it could end up being a great experience.

AYDEN: The biggest lesson I have learned is to treat others the way you want to be treated. I remember that from Pre-K.

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Guide to Baltimore Independent Schools

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DIRECTORY ARCHDIOCESE OF BALTIMORE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS ADDRESS: 320 Cathedral Street, Baltimore, MD 21201 WEBSITE: archbalt.org/schools PHONE NUMBER: 410-547-5369 TUITION & FEES: $1,535-$22,700 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: Over 24,000 students* *2021-2022 School Year APPLICATION DEADLINE: Application deadlines vary by school. Please contact the Catholic school(s) of your choice for application and admissions information.

OPEN HOUSE DATES: Open Houses dates vary by school.

Please contact the Catholic school(s) of your choice for open house, shadow day, tours, and other admissions event information.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed and single-sex Catholic school educational options available GRADE LEVELS: Preschool, kindergarten, elementary, middle, and high schools YEAR FOUNDED: Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton laid the foundation for the Catholic school system in the United States by opening her school for girls in Baltimore in 1810.

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Baltimore provide a Christ-centered education that is academically excellent and empowers students to reach their full potential – spiritually, intellectually, physically, socially, and morally.

Catholic Schools offer a balanced curriculum, integrating music and arts, foreign language, and Catholic faith, while challenging students in the areas of science, math, and technology. Catholic schools emphasize critical thinking and encourage students to collaborate, communicate, problem-solve, and ask questions. Teachers in Catholic schools do more than teach. They get to know their students and work with them to reach their full potential. The personal attention allows students’ best selves to come forth, creating a lifetime love of learning.

Over 24,000 students attend Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, which includes 40 elementary and middle schools, 18 high schools, and one early learning center, located in Baltimore City, Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Harford, Howard, and Washington Counties.

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BALTIMORE LAB SCHOOL ADDRESS: 2220 Saint Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 21218 WEBSITE: baltimorelabschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-261-5500 TUITION & FEES: $41,100-$46,000 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 130 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling admission OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to baltimorelabschool. org/admissions/visit.cfm for Open House dates and times.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: 1-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 2000 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Baltimore Lab School educates bright students with language-based learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and/or ADHD in grades 1-12.

Through an innovative, multisensory, arts-based curriculum, students go on to succeed in college and careers as engaged and compassionate members of a global society. In addition to mastering core academics with experienced faculty, students explore the visual and performing arts, engage in outdoor education, take part in service-learning projects, and participate in athletics. Students gain confidence, self-esteem, and self-awareness because of individualized instruction, research-based interventions, low student-teacher ratios, and commitment to intellectual curiosity.

BETH TFILOH DAHAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL ADDRESS: 3300 Old Court Road, Baltimore, MD 21208 WEBSITE: bethtfiloh.com/school PHONE NUMBER: 410-413-2323 TUITION & FEES: $3,000-$22,550 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 875 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling admission; families are encouraged to submit applications by mid-January.

OPEN HOUSE DATES: Lower School Group Tours: October 20, 2022 & November 8, 2022; Middle School Group Tours: November 10, 2022 & December 7, 2022; High School Group Tours: October 27, 2022, November 15, 2022 & November 30, 2022. View complete details at bethtfiloh.com/fishbowl SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-12, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1941 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Jewish OVERVIEW: As Baltimore’s premier Jewish private school, serving preschool through grade 12, Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School provides a learning environment where students become self-reliant scholars and discover their unique potential. Beth Tfiloh students learn how to advocate for themselves, ask difficult questions and pursue their aspirations. Beth Tfiloh combines rigorous academics with character development in a warm, caring, and supportive atmosphere.

Small class sizes allow Beth Tfiloh’s outstanding educators to provide their students personalized attention and to champion each child’s needs. Teachers are focused on developing minds, celebrating the joy of Judaism, instilling values, and

fostering curiosity to prepare their students for future success and create positive change in the world. Beth Tfiloh’s unparalleled, individualized college guidance program ensures that 100% of BT seniors who apply to a four-year university get accepted to the one that is right for them.

THE BOYS’ LATIN SCHOOL OF MARYLAND ADDRESS: 822 West Lake Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21210 WEBSITE: boyslatinmd.com PHONE NUMBER: 410-377-5192 TUITION & FEES: $23,400-$34,400 (K-12, day); $49,900 (9-12, boarding) TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 630 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATE: October 16, 2022, 10:00 a.m.

SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, boys; boarding available for students in grades 9-12 GRADE LEVELS: K-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1844 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-sectarian OVERVIEW: Founded in 1844, The Boys’ Latin School of Maryland is an all-boys independent school serving boys in grades k-12. At BL, each and every student is known – for who he is today, and all he will be tomorrow. The purposefully-small environment allows teachers to get to know each boy, learning what brings him joy and what drives him, while setting ever-higher standards so every boy can learn, and earn, the rewards of hard work. Boys’ Latin has been teaching boys for nearly two centuries, and they know that a close community builds a foundation of confidence. Of compassion.

Of curiosity. This is how boys succeed in school, and in life. As leaders. As friends. As their best, authentic selves. Boys’ Latin thinks the results speak for themselves. Their boys go on to attend a wide variety of schools, including small liberal arts colleges, large public universities, Ivy League institutions, engineering and technology research universities, military academies, art schools, and music conservatories. When students graduate from Boys’ Latin, they are prepared for the future and ready to make a mark on the world.

THE BRYN MAWR SCHOOL

OVERVIEW: The Bryn Mawr School is an independent all-girls pre-kindergarten through 12th grade school with a co-ed preschool and infant care. Bryn Mawr is known for its inquisitive girls, excellent teaching, strong student-teacher relationships, and spirited sisterhood. At Bryn Mawr, girls lead, question, achieve, succeed, and are passionate about lifelong learning. In the classroom, on the fields and playground, across the stage and in the studio, Bryn Mawr raises the bar for girls and supports them as they achieve more than they ever thought possible.

CALVERT SCHOOL ADDRESS: 105 Tuscany Road, Baltimore, MD 21210 WEBSITE: calvertschoolmd.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-243-6054 TUITION & FEES: $19,995-$29,775 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 620 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 16, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATES: October 4, 2022; October 19, 2022; November 3, 2022 SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K- 8, includes early childhood education YEAR FOUNDED: 1897 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Centrally located in Baltimore, Maryland, Calvert School is an independent co-ed elementary and middle school that focuses on meeting each child at every stage of their development. Now in its 125th year, Calvert employs a timetested approach to academics that tailors each lesson to a child’s unique needs while empowering students to pursue every sport, club, and co-curricular opportunity that interests them. Through these age-specific k-8 teachings and robust co-curriculars, Calvert students grow into confident, purposedriven leaders and lifelong learners. As part of Calvert’s experiential learning program, the Institute for Leadership & Purpose, students across all grades also gain the passion, confidence, and cultural awareness needed to become changemaking global citizens. As the oldest students on campus, the middle schoolers exhibit these traits on a daily basis while leading all major volunteer and community engagement activities, producing a full-scale annual musical, and becoming role models for their peers.

ADDRESS: 109 West Melrose Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21210 WEBSITE: brynmawrschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-323-8800 TUITION & FEES: $19,500-$37,200 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 795 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2022, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATE: Saturday, November 5, 2022. Check brynmawrschool.org/visit for more details and additional visiting opportunities.

SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls pre-k through grade 12; co-ed infant and preschool GRADE LEVELS: K- 12, includes preschool and infant care YEAR FOUNDED: 1885 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None

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DIRECTORY CAMBRIDGE SCHOOL ADDRESS: 6200 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21212 WEBSITE: cambridgeschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-486-3686 TUITION & FEES: $13,115-$13,455 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 165 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 16, 2022, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to cambridgeschool.org/ admissions for Open House dates or to request a tour.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1998 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian, non-denominational OVERVIEW: Cambridge School is classical, Christ-centered, and integral. They believe k-8 children are born with a sense of wonder and awe about the world around them that is meant to be unfolded, not “filled.” Children learn best when they see for themselves the inter-connectedness between subject matters and their world, not through isolated bits of information. At Cambridge, students understand how everything they learn is a part of the bigger picture, and they have a greater appreciation for each subject. It’s the difference between eating a delicious slice of cake as opposed to eating each ingredient separately. At Cambridge, there is space to absorb and ponder. Students relive historical events and identify with the characters of a book. Through a sense of wonder, students learn and make connections. They inspire children’s imaginations by immersing them in time-tested, rich literature, history, art, and music within an environment where students are encouraged to question and explore. As genuine questions emerge and students examine truth that transcends history, they are transformed from passive participants into engaged and interested life-long learners.

THE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL OF BALTIMORE ADDRESS: 2800 Edison Highway, Baltimore, MD 21213 WEBSITE: thecatholichighschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-732-6200 TUITION & FEES: $15,600; $1,100 fees TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 300 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 16, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATE: October 22, 2022, 12:00-3:00 p.m.

SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls GRADE LEVELS: 9-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1939 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Roman Catholic, rooted in the Franciscan tradition (founded by the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia)

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OVERVIEW: Empowered by the Gospel values and rooted in the spirit and tradition of Saints Francis and Clare of Assisi, The Catholic High School of Baltimore, a sponsored institution of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Philadelphia, is dedicated to the education of young women in an environment that fosters Christian attitudes of dignity and respect for the human person and all of creation. Through this mission, Catholic High recognizes that through education, the empowerment of women can affect the transformation of society. Catholic High offers the following academic programs: Honors, College Preparatory, STEM Program (Engineering and Biomedical Concentrations), McCafferty Visual and Performing Arts Program, Law and Leadership in the Franciscan Tradition, and the Archangel Program (learning support program).

Students have the opportunity to enroll in courses offered through Notre Dame of Maryland University and Anne Arundel Community College to receive college credit.

CONCORDIA PREPARATORY SCHOOL ADDRESS: 1145 Concordia Drive, Towson, MD 21286 WEBSITE: concordiaprepschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-825-2323 TUITION & FEES: $10,400-$14,450; additional $4,200 for Giguere program TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 400 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 16, 2022; admissions available after deadline if space is available OPEN HOUSE DATE: Saturday, October 29, 2022, 10:00 a.m.

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SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: 6-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1965 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Lutheran Church MissouriSynod. CPS welcomes students from all backgrounds and religions.

OVERVIEW: Concordia Prep School is a compassionate, Christcentered community of servant leaders. Started in 1965 as Baltimore Lutheran School, Concordia Prep has a rich history of excellence in education, faith development, and community service. Concordia Prep strives to create an environment that nurtures students’ spiritual, academic, physical, and social growth to become men and women of faith and service.

Core values: faith, integrity, service, leadership, and community. In addition to honors and advanced placement courses, Concordia Prep offers the Giguere program for college-bound students with learning differences. Eighty percent of the student body participates in the school’s outstanding fine arts program: art, chorus, band, and theatre. The Concordia Prep “SAINTS” offers competitive sports teams for both upper and middle school students.

FRIENDS SCHOOL OF BALTIMORE ADDRESS: 5114 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21210-2096 WEBSITE: friendsbalt.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-649-3200 TUITION & FEES: $22,330-$34,875 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 835 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to friendsbalt.org/ admission for Open House dates and times.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K- 12, includes preschool and infant care YEAR FOUNDED: 1784 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Quaker OVERVIEW: Friends School of Baltimore helps students become the people they are meant to be. They challenge students to find meaning in what they learn and to reach for the boundaries of academic opportunity. Friends School encourages students to continually ask why, and they offer countless ways for students to put their voices to work in the classroom, in Baltimore, and beyond. At Friends, they know each student faces tough challenges and will encounter exciting experiences. To navigate both successfully, students need the knowledge and confidence to be courageous changemakers. Equipping students with both is why their faculty and staff – and their students – come to Friends School of Baltimore, where the journey matters.

GARRISON FOREST SCHOOL ADDRESS: 300 Garrison Forest Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117 WEBSITE: gfs.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-363-1500 TUITION & FEES: $2,575-$34,895 (preschool to grade 12, day); $65,790 (8-12, boarding) TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 500 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 15, 2023 (day), January 31, 2023 (boarding) OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please visit gfs.org/openhouse for upcoming dates and times.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed preschool; single sex, girls; boarding program, grades 8-12 GRADE LEVELS: K-12, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1910 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Brave, compassionate, curious, spirited. Girls thrive at Garrison Forest School (GFS), where they can be their authentic selves as they create with purpose, pursue their passions and lead with confidence. Dedicated, highly engaged faculty members know each student and what’s important to her. Part of a comprehensive curriculum, STEM learning is fully integrated—from lower school programs focused on financial literacy, tech competency and research, to a partnership with Johns Hopkins University that gives upper school girls an opportunity to work in research labs alongside Hopkins mentors. The 110-acre GFS campus gives girls the space to explore, featuring an outdoor classroom for younger students, state-of-the-art athletic fields and an equestrian center that is home to nationally recognized riding and polo programs.

National and international boarding students in grades 8-12 find a welcoming home base where they are supported by on-campus faculty residents and join a vibrant community.

GERSTELL ACADEMY ADDRESS: 2500 Old Westminster Pike, Finksburg, MD 21048 WEBSITE: gerstell.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-861-3000 TUITION & FEES: $12,100-$26,400 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 400 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 30, 2023, rolling admissions thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please visit gerstell.org to view Open House dates and events.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k through grade 12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1996 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-sectarian OVERVIEW: Gerstell Academy is a co-educational, non-sectarian private school for students entering pre-kindergarten through grade 12, dedicated to the mission and motto: Leadership, Honor, Courage. The school’s unique values-based approach to education is based on four pillars: leadership, rigorous academics, physical training/athletics and modern language proficiency. With a beautiful 250-acre campus located in Carroll County, Maryland, Gerstell Academy has the reputation as one of the top academic schools in the region. Gerstell Academy’s unparalleled resources provide students with an excellent faculty, state-of the-art facilities and a unique approach to learning and leadership.

Competitive athletics allow students the opportunity to showcase their talents and sportsmanship in a variety of team sports. A diverse student body contributes to a strong sense of community where each student’s potential to learn, to grow morally, to be physically fit and to compete is maximized as Gerstell Academy’s young leaders prepare to make a positive contribution to society.

GILMAN SCHOOL ADDRESS: 5407 Roland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21210 WEBSITE: gilman.edu PHONE NUMBER: 410-323-3800 TUITION & FEES: $19,250-$34,165 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 1,040 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to gilman.edu/ admissions for information about visiting days.

SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, boys GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k through grade 12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1897 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Gilman School is a diverse community dedicated to educating boys in mind, body, and spirit through particular emphasis upon academic excellence, athletic participation, and aesthetic appreciation. Gilman seeks to produce men of character and integrity who have the skills and ability to make a positive contribution to the communities in which they live and work. At Gilman, there are three school divisions dedicated to educating pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students. The programs and curriculum are specifically designed to be developmentally appropriate for boys and follow a logical sequential progression leading from one grade to the next. Gilman’s upper school also offers a coordinate program that combines Gilman’s resources with those of two excellent girls’ schools, which are connected to the campus by a system of bridges.

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DIRECTORY

GLENELG COUNTRY SCHOOL ADDRESS: 12793 Folly Quarter Road, Ellicott City, MD 21042 WEBSITE: glenelg.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-531-8600 TUITION & FEES: $12,710-$32,630 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 780 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 15, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to glenelg.org/discover for Open House dates and times.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K- 12, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1954 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Glenelg Country School is a non-sectarian, co-educational independent day school serving students from age two through grade 12 on a 90-acre campus in Howard County. For over 65 years, GCS has been an educational community offering exceptional academics in a caring, family-oriented environment.

The school values each individual in a supportive community, providing opportunities and balance for all. Integrity, mutual respect, responsibility, and service underscore community-held values, while critical inquiry, creative exploration, and independent thinking define its educational focus. GCS sets high standards and strong expectations, and provides personal support along the way. GCS is about options and opportunities. The arts, physical activity, and athletics are valued and encouraged. GCS is a dynamic community where two-year-olds and 18-year-olds share the same campus and values. An outstanding faculty and beautiful campus with excellent facilities add to the overall quality of the GCS experience.

THE GREENMOUNT SCHOOL ADDRESS: 501 W. 30th Street, Baltimore, MD 21211 WEBSITE: greenmountschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-235-6295 TUITION & FEES: $14,000 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 109 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 2, 2022, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATE: Experience GreenMount, Sunday, October 16, 2022. Please refer to greenmountschool.org for more information and “Glimpse of GreenMount” tours!

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1993 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: The GreenMount School is a small, co-educational school with 110 students in grades kindergarten through 8. Faculty and staff know every student and understand their strengths and opportunities for growth. The GreenMount School uses challenging, immersive, and theme-based curricula that firmly root complex topics in a real-world context. The GreenMount School sees parents as partners, and parent involvement in the co-op is important to both student and school success. At The GreenMount School, every day is an opportunity to learn about patience, respect, responsibility, and acceptance of new ideas.

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HARFORD DAY SCHOOL ADDRESS: 715 Moores Mill Road, Bel Air, MD 21014 WEBSITE: harfordday.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-838-8333 TUITION & FEES: $14,000-$19,000 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 300 APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 1, 2023, rolling admission on a space-available basis thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to harfordday.org/ admissions/visit SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1957 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Harford Day is a private independent school in Bel Air, Maryland, enrolling more than 295 students from 3 years old to grade 8. The oldest private school and only AIMS accredited pre-k through grade 8 school in Harford County, Harford Day is known for a challenging, inquiry-based academic program and for building character in its students. Small classes supported by dedicated and experienced teachers are central hallmarks of the HDS experience.

The results are evident as HDS graduates regularly attain 100% admission to first-choice high schools, many with merit awards.

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION SCHOOL ADDRESS: 112 Ware Avenue, Towson, MD 21204 WEBSITE: theics.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-427-4903 TUITION & FEES: $8,825-$10,125 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 610 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 1, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Thursday, October 13, 2022, 6:008:00 p.m.; Thursday, November 3, 2022, 9:30-11:30 a.m.; Thursday, February 2, 2023, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k through grade 8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1887 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: Immaculate Conception School (ICS) strives to be an exemplary Catholic preschool, elementary school, and middle school, whose graduates understand the responsibility of becoming productive, moral citizens and spiritually committed persons, and who are prepared academically to contribute and to compete in this 21st century global and technological world. ICS maintains a faculty of more than 40 certified teachers with an additional six instructional assistants. At ICS, each child is provided with the resources and opportunities they need to reach their fullest potential. Immaculate Conception School is proud to have been named a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education, which “recognizes and honors schools that exhibit performance and/or significant improvement in student achievement. Reducing the achievement gap for disadvantaged students is also a criterion.” Please visit theics.org to register for an open house, tours, and 1st Look Virtual Visits.

JEMICY SCHOOL ADDRESS: 11 Celadon Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117 WEBSITE: jemicyschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-653-2700 TUITION & FEES: $38,250-$39,900 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 450 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 6, 2023, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATE: Contact the Admission Office to arrange a tour or attend an information session.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: 1-12 and Upper School Prep YEAR FOUNDED: 1973 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Jemicy School, founded in 1973 and accredited by AIMS and the International Dyslexia Association, is a co-educational, independent school that provides a highly individualized, flexible, and challenging program for talented and bright, college-bound students (grades 1-12) with dyslexia or other related language-based learning differences. The school addresses students’ intellectual strengths and their learning needs by utilizing creative, multisensory, researchbased programs and techniques to develop reading, writing, spelling, math, and organization skills; promote a love of learning; and prepare students for the intellectual and social challenges of college and life.

THE JOHN CARROLL SCHOOL ADDRESS: 703 E. Churchville Road, Bel Air, MD 21014 WEBSITE: johncarroll.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-838-8333 TUITION & FEES: $18,700 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 725 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 16, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to johncarroll.org/ admissions for Open House dates.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: 9-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1964 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: Guided by Catholic values and in the spirit of Archbishop John Carroll, a true Patriot, The John Carroll School seeks to inspire young men and women to learn enthusiastically, lead fearlessly and serve compassionately. Since 1964, John Carroll has provided a Catholic, co-educational, challenging, college preparatory program that incorporates critical thinking, independent exploration, a local perspective and real-life experiences. At John Carroll, every student is known and valued, and that translates to successful outcomes: the Class of 2022 notched acceptances to 203 colleges, earned millions of dollars in scholarships and will attend 91 different colleges in 22 states plus D.C.

KEY SCHOOL ADDRESS: 534 Hillsmere Drive, Annapolis, MD 21403 WEBSITE: keyschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-263-9231 TUITION & FEES: $9,335-$31,980; 33% of families receive financial aid TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 660 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 17, 2023, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to keyschool.org/ admission for Open House information.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-12, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1958 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Key School engages children from 2.5 years of age through grade 12 in a progressive, co-educational, college-preparatory program on its picturesque 15-acre campus, located four miles from downtown Annapolis. Key’s innovative approach to teaching and learning is what sets it apart from other independent schools. Key is renowned for its rigorous academic program, which emphasizes inquiry-based learning, interdisciplinary studies, and a global perspective, but students also experience meaningful connections, value and respect the differences of others, and have a positive outlook on learning and their future. Being a diverse, supportive, deliberately small community that values academic excellence and nurtures a love of learning is what makes Key School one of the most sought-after educations in Maryland.

KRIEGER SCHECHTER DAY SCHOOL ADDRESS: 8100 Stevenson Road, Baltimore, MD 21208 WEBSITE: ksds.edu PHONE NUMBER: 410-486-8640 TUITION & FEES: $19,800-$22,600 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 314 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling and continuous admission option OPEN HOUSE DATE: No Open House; interested families are encouraged to contact Nissa Weinberg, Director of Admissions, nweinberg@ksds.edu, for a personal tour.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1981 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Jewish OVERVIEW: Krieger Schechter Day School is a co-educational, K–8 independent day school with high academic standards and a foundation of Jewish values. The school is committed to shaping intellectually engaged young people of strong character with a deep commitment to their Jewish identity.

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DIRECTORY LOYOLA BLAKEFIELD ADDRESS: 500 Chestnut Avenue, Towson, MD 21204 WEBSITE: loyolablakefield.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-823-0601 TUITION & FEES: Tuition: $21,100-$21,925; Fees: $725 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 990 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 16, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATE: October 23, 2022, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Multiple opportunities offered throughout the fall. Visit loyolablakefield.org/visit for details.

SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, boys GRADE LEVELS: 6-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1852 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Roman Catholic – Society of Jesus OVERVIEW: Loyola is Maryland’s premier school for boys in grades 6-12. Guided by Ignatian values, Loyola forms the “whole person” and nurtures a spirt of service to others and justice for all. The academic program prepares young men for a life of inquiry, decision making, and learning. Students explore diverse course offerings and come to read more closely, write more clearly, and think more carefully. Whether a student completes the four or seven-year program, he is the product of a unique formation, which prepares him for college and beyond. Loyola inspires and challenges students in ways that go beyond most college preparatory environments.

Students develop knowledge for sure. But they also develop values, spiritual growth, responsibility for others, and a lifelong love for learning - the core that really prepares them to transform into active members of the global community. In the words of St. Ignatius to St. Xavier, they “Go forth and set the world on fire.”

MARYLAND INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

MARYLAND

ADDRESS: 6135 Old INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Washington Road, Elkridge, MD 21075 WEBSITE: marylandinternationalschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-220-3792 TUITION & FEES: $14,700-$18,700 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 180 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling admission OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to marylandinternationalschool.org/openhouse/ for Open House dates and times.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: 1-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 2017 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None

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OVERVIEW: Maryland International School (MDIS) is a private, International Baccalaureate World School located on a beautiful nine-acre campus in Howard County, offering grades 1 through 12. MDIS is the only school in the state of Maryland, and the second in the entire mid-Atlantic region, to offer all three IB programmes: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). MDIS’s mission is to provide an academically rigorous and supportive college-preparatory education with an interdisciplinary and applied focus on the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines in order to prepare students to become creative problem solvers, effective communicators, and tomorrow’s leaders who think ethically, independently, and globally. The academic program at MDIS integrates the IB curriculum with STEM-specific programs and pathways, including Project Lead the Way. High school students can earn up to 30 college credits by earning an IB Diploma.

MARYVALE PREPARATORY SCHOOL ADDRESS: 11300 Falls Road, Lutherville, MD 21093 WEBSITE: maryvale.com PHONE NUMBER: 410-252-3366 TUITION & FEES: Tuition: $22,700; Fees: Security $350, Technology - $350, Activity - $450 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 425 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 16, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Upper School Meet Maryvale: October 21, 2022 & November 8, 2022; Middle School Meet Maryvale: October 28, 2022 & November 16, 2022 SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls GRADE LEVELS: 6-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1945 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: Maryvale is a Catholic, independent school for girls in grades 6 through 12. Affiliated with the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, Maryvale combines tradition with the latest trends in technology and education to offer an invaluable, customized learning experience for each student. Situated on a beautiful, college-like campus in Green Spring Valley, Maryvale gives each girl the skills and confidence to learn and succeed throughout the school day and throughout life. With its manageable size, innovative teaching methods and flexible curriculum, Maryvale provides the individualized approach that each student needs to excel in all aspects of her education – academic, spiritual and social. Opportunity is a word you hear a lot at Maryvale because this incredible school – with its perfect size, joyful environment, excellent teachers and innovative programs, such as the Leadership Institute – offers each girl something other schools cannot. Students have the opportunity to ace a test, lead a club, volunteer with a service organization, try something new, all the while fitting in. From AP classes and social justice programs to athletics and arts, students have immense opportunities to develop lifelong talents and friendships.

MCDONOGH SCHOOL ADDRESS: 8600 McDonogh Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117 WEBSITE: mcdonogh.org PHONE NUMBER: 443-544-7020 TUITION & FEES: $20,900- $36,400 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 1,450 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 2, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATE: Visit mcdonogh.org/admissions/waysto-visit for details on information sessions and campus tours.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k through grade 12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1873 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: McDonogh is an independent, co-educational day and five-day boarding school that enrolls students in pre-k through twelfth grade. Providing life-altering educational opportunities that inspire joy in learning and promote personal and intellectual growth is at the heart of the McDonogh experience.

The school’s talented and caring teachers prepare students to lead and to be a force for good in a rapidly changing world. In addition to state-of-the-art academic, art, and athletic facilities, McDonogh’s 800-acre campus provides countless opportunities for exploration.

A unique highlight is Roots, a 10-acre farm where students experience hands-on learning and harvest produce for The Maryland Food Bank. McDonogh’s fleet of 20 buses serves Baltimore City and surrounding counties. The five-day boarding option allows upper school students to experience activities, traditions, spirit, and community to the fullest. The school remains true to its founding mission of providing need-based scholarships through the generosity of loyal supporters.

MERCY HIGH SCHOOL ADDRESS: 1300 East Northern Parkway, Baltimore, MD 21239 WEBSITE: mercyhighschool.com PHONE NUMBER: 410-433-8880 TUITION & FEES: $17,180 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 440 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 16, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATE: October 22, 2022, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls GRADE LEVELS: 9-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1960 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: At Mercy High School, girls develop a commitment to excellence, hospitality, service, justice, and compassion. A Catholic, college preparatory school sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy educates bright and creative girls in grades 9 through 12.

Founded in 1960, Mercy is proud to carry forward the extraordinary legacy of Mercy education, which began in Baltimore in 1867. Mercy’s vision for educating girls is bold. An International Baccalaureate World School, Mercy offers a rich, rigorous, college preparatory experience distinguished by the prestigious IB Middle Years Programme, honors and AP courses, four unique STEM programs, fine arts offerings, and leadership and service opportunities. At their 26-acre location in North Baltimore, exceptional faculty have a special gift for—and deep experience in—challenging and guiding students to their fullest potential. Helping girls learn, lead, and thrive, the “Mercy Way” is distinguished by superb teaching, personal attention, and global perspective.

MOUNT DE SALES ACADEMY FOR GIRLS ADDRESS: 700 Academy Road, Catonsville, MD 21228 WEBSITE: mountdesalesacademy.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-744-8498 TUITION & FEES: $16,750 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 470 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 16, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATE: Sunday, November 6, 2022 SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls GRADE LEVELS: 9-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1852 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: Mount de Sales Academy fosters academic excellence within a vibrant Catholic community where each student is known and encouraged to develop her God-given talents. Administered by the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia, owned by a board of trustees, and staffed by lay and religious faculty, students come from 78 zip codes and 82 schools. Since 2004, Mount de Sales has been a Cardinal Newman Society School of Excellence. Mount de Sales’ first priority is the spiritual growth and total transformation of each student.

Cultivating Catholic values, MDSA offers students opportunities in service, prayer, worship, and the Sacraments. The philosophy curriculum will offer students semester-based studies of relevant topics related to the human person and ethics, and it will teach students to view current issues through the lens of good reasoning. For six consecutive years, Mount de Sales has been named a Microsoft Showcase School for excellence in transforming the learning environment to deliver personalized education to students.

MOUNT SAINT JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL ADDRESS: 4403 Frederick Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21229 WEBSITE: msjnet.edu PHONE NUMBER: 410-646-6218 TUITION & FEES: $17,700 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 830 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 16, 2022, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATE: November 6, 2022. Please refer to msjnet.edu/openhouse for more information.

SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, boys GRADE LEVELS: 9-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1876 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: As a Xaverian Brothers sponsored school, Mount Saint Joseph offers young men a rigorous academic program steeped in the Xaverian values of humility, simplicity, compassion, trust, and zeal. Mount Saint Joseph students are expected to do more than the average student, getting involved and challenging themselves constantly. Parents can expect more out of Mount Saint Joseph too. With a focus on experiential and service learning, independent research, retreats, and community projects, a Mount Saint Joseph education extends far beyond the classroom walls. Mount Saint Joseph is more than a school. It’s a place to learn, to grow, to build lasting friendships; it’s a place to call home.

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DIRECTORY NOTRE DAME PREPARATORY SCHOOL ADDRESS: 815 Hampton Lane, Towson, MD 21286 WEBSITE: notredameprep.com PHONE NUMBER: 410-825-0590 TUITION & FEES: $21,950 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 815 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 16, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATE: Saturday, October 15, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; also refer to notredameprep.com/admissions/visitour-campus for opportunities to visit NDP. SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls GRADE LEVELS: 6-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1873 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: Founded in 1873 by the School Sisters of Notre Dame, Notre Dame Preparatory School educates young women to transform the world. A Catholic, independent school for girls in grades 6 through 12, NDP is a welcoming community committed to academic excellence, spiritual growth, and the practice of justice. The school offers a personalized, liberal artsbased education with signature programs for middle and high school students, including STEAM, Humanities, the arts, and language, so students may hone their interests. A new learning resource center provides support for study skills, reading, and math. The Women In… (WIN) program provides career exploration in science, medicine, business, law, and more. Student clubs, meaningful traditions, and championship-level teams (15 high school sports; nine middle school sports) complement an NDP education. The school has the longest-running service program of any area high school, as well as a vibrant campus ministry program grounded in Gospel values and the charism of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, the school’s founding order.

NDP’s new Innovation Wing features a medical suite with a full-size Anatomage table; Cyber Center; state-of-the-art science lab supporting biotechnology; two-story Fabrication Lab; Architecture Studio; Digital Media Lab and Recording Studio; art studios; and more! New this year – field lighting on the Yeardley Love Field.

THE ODYSSEY SCHOOL ADDRESS: 3257 Bridle Ridge Lane, Lutherville, MD 21093 WEBSITE: theodysseyschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-580-5551 TUITION & FEES: $35,500 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 160 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 13, 2023, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATES: Thursday, January 19, 2023, 6:45-9:00 p.m.; Snow Date: Thursday, January 26, 2023, 6:45-9:00 p.m.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1994 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None

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OVERVIEW: Founded in 1994 by a group of dedicated parents, The Odyssey School is a unique, co-educational independent day school for students in kindergarten through 8th grade with a 3:1 student/teacher ratio. Odyssey specializes in meeting the needs of bright students who have dyslexia or other related language learning differences. Widely recognized for academic excellence and evidence-based teaching techniques, Odyssey’s effectiveness is well-established. The program provides innovative multisensory teaching methods, small group instruction, and daily periods of reading tutoring.

Odyssey’s 42 acres of campus include stream, meadow, woods, playground, and two athletic fields. The school building was designed to look like a home and includes a theater, gymnasium, computer lab, science labs, tutoring rooms, and lunchroom. Special programs include art, library, music, physical education, violin, journalism, community service, student clubs, and outdoor and environmental trips. Athletics after school include soccer, cross country, basketball, squash, lacrosse, and track. What begins here changes everything!

OLDFIELDS SCHOOL ADDRESS: 1500 Glencoe Road, Sparks Glencoe, MD 21152-9321 WEBSITE: oldfieldsschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 443-662-1050 TUITION & FEES: $35,700, day tuition; $64,150, boarding tuition TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 100 APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 1, 2023, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATE: October 15, 2022. Please refer to oldfieldsschool.org/inquire/visit for more visit options.

SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls; day and boarding GRADE LEVELS: 8-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1867 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Why Oldfields? Because a small school creates big opportunities. Oldfields believes that the best learning happens in a space where students are known, their voices are celebrated, and failure is embraced as part of success. As an intentionally small school, they are flexible, creating unique immersive opportunities for each girl to achieve her goals in mind, body, and spirit. The guidance of trusted teachers and mentors is not confined to four walls of a classroom. All students, including day students, benefit from living and learning in the boarding school environment. With students from across the country and around the world, each girl’s individuality is valued, but it is the deep-rooted sense of belonging that makes Oldfields’ community a family and the campus a home. The result is education with a deeper level of personal connection that opens doors (and minds) to bigger and broader opportunities for discovery.

THE PARK SCHOOL OF BALTIMORE ADDRESS: 2425 Old Court Road, Baltimore, MD 21208 WEBSITE: parkschool.net PHONE NUMBER: 410-339-7070 TUITION & FEES: $19,930-$35,965 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 847 APPLICATION DEADLINES: December 1, 2022 (Pre-K-Grade 5), December 15, 2022 (Grades 6-12) OPEN HOUSE DATES: The Park School is hosting multiple opportunities for families to learn more about Park’s philosophy, curriculum, extracurricular programming, and community. Some events introduce Park specifically to parents, some are geared towards children, and others are designed for the whole family. Please visit parkschool.net for the most up-to-date information on ways to experience Park this fall.

SCHOOL TYPE: Gender-inclusive GRADE LEVELS: Pre-K through Grade 12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1912 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-sectarian OVERVIEW: The Park School of Baltimore is an independent, gender-inclusive, non-sectarian progressive Pre-K through 12 school located on a 100-acre wooded campus minutes from the city. To get to know Park, talk to a student, engage a faculty member, follow the paths of its alumni, and consider the school’s mission statement: Devoted to intellectual inquiry, a collaborative spirit of learning, and an appreciation for the diversity of human experience, The Park School of Baltimore is a community founded on positive expectations of our students and respect for individual differences. We cultivate children’s innate curiosity by nurturing their interests and engaging them as active participants in their own education. We support young people in becoming confident questioners and responsible citizens of the world. Park graduates pursue further academic achievement, develop professional pursuits, and are prepared to continue the process of choosing for themselves from the wide range of possibilities life offers.

ROLAND PARK COUNTRY SCHOOL ADDRESS: 5204 Roland Park Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21210 WEBSITE: rpcs.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-323-5500 TUITION & FEES: $23,900-$35,900 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 620 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please visit rpcs.org/visit for Open House dates and details.

SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls, k-12; co-ed preschool GRADE LEVELS: K-12, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1894 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: At Roland Park Country School, it is believed that young women who build each other up will thrive. As an independent school in Baltimore for girls in grades k-12, its all-girls culture is rooted in the notion that female empowerment begins with young women empowering each other. This enables RPCS students to build courage and confidence in an environment where female leadership across all areas of study is the norm, not the exception. Students pursue excellence in their academic

endeavors by exploring their passions, cultivating their curiosity and sharpening their analytical and creative abilities.

Roland Park Country School’s Little Reds co-ed early childhood program for children ages six weeks up to five years old embraces the Reggio Emilia-inspired philosophy which emphasizes rich and deep learning through stimulating experiences.

THE SCHOOL OF THE CATHEDRAL OF MARY OUR QUEEN ADDRESS: 111 Amberly Way, Baltimore, MD 21210 WEBSITE: schoolofthecathedral.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-464-4100 TUITION & FEES: $10,954-$12,738 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 370 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 1, 2022, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATES: October 11, 2022; November 15, 2022; January 31, 2023 – please refer to schoolofthecathedral.org/ admissions for details.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k4 through grade 8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1871 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: The School of the Cathedral, a co-ed, k-8 Catholic parish school, offers students a 21st century educational experience designed to challenge students academically and spiritually. The team of highly qualified teachers prepares students to be creative problem solvers and to collaborate and communicate effectively to meet the leadership needs of a quickly changing world. The students develop spiritually by learning about social justice issues and engaging in service projects in conjunction with the parish. Faith is woven into every student’s education in a way that ensures students will “act justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with…God.”

SEVERN SCHOOL ADDRESS: 201 Water Street, Severna Park, MD 21146 WEBSITE: severnschool.com PHONE NUMBER: 410-647-7700 TUITION & FEES: $8,945-$30,140 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 888 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 6, 2023 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Lower School: October 4, 2022; Middle and Upper School: October 20, 2022. Please refer to severnschool.com/admissions/welcome.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-12, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1914 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Severn School is an independent co-educational college preparatory day school for students in preschool through grade 12, located in Severna Park, MD. Severn School challenges its students to pursue excellence in character, conduct, and scholarship, to marshal the courage to lead, and to contribute to the world around them. Severn School believes this is best realized in a community where adults model these qualities, where a culture of belonging is fostered, and where each student is known and valued.

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DIRECTORY ST. JAMES ACADEMY ADDRESS: 3100 Monkton Road, Monkton, MD 21111 WEBSITE: saintjamesacademy.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-771-4816 TUITION & FEES: $5,095-$21,230 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 345 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 9, 2023, rolling admission thereafter when spaces are available OPEN HOUSE DATES: October 6, 2022 – Prospective Parent Coffee, 9:30-10:30 a.m.; November 8, 2022 – Middle School Prospective Coffee, 9:30-10:30 a.m.; November 15, 2022 – Open House, 9:30-11:00 a.m.; December 6, 2022 – Open House Virtual, 12:00-1:00 p.m.; December 8, 2022 – Prospective Parent Coffee, 9:30-10:30 a.m.; January 10, 2023 – Prospective Parent Coffee, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1821 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Episcopal OVERVIEW: St. James Academy is a community of families and educators who partner to nurture children, champion curiosity, prepare students for success, and help them find their spark. SJA students contribute to and benefit from co-educational preschool through eighth grade experience, where they develop the relevant skillset for the modern world. St. James Academy provides students with the tools and confidence to light the path for their educational success and personal growth. The talented faculty ignite the spark in classrooms and deliver a 21st century education that engages children of all ages in student-centered, inquiry-based problems and projects.

ST. JOHN’S PARISH DAY SCHOOL ADDRESS: 9130 Frederick Road, Ellicott City, MD 20142 WEBSITE: stjohnspds.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-465-7644 TUITION & FEES: $10,000-$16,000 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 310 APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 1, 2023, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATES: October 15, 2022; October 27, 2022; November 17, 2022 (virtual) SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-5, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1963 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Episcopal OVERVIEW: St. John’s Parish Day School (SJPDS) serves children ages 3 through grade 5 on a beautiful 14-acre campus.

SJPDS incorporates the best of Episcopal education while maintaining the highest academic standards. Students benefit from small class sizes, differentiated instruction, thematic units, STEM experiences, and a strong, supportive community. The personalized learning approach and stimulating curriculum give students strong foundational tools to discover their individual gifts and grow as independent thinkers

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of sound character. The programs include STEM, Spanish, media, art, music, daily chapel, and physical education.

Maintaining intentionally small class sizes allows students to become confident, compassionate, bright young individuals who understand the importance of living a purpose-driven life. Students learn beyond the classroom and gain authentic cultural experiences through project-based learning and realworld applications. SJPDS graduates go on to attend the best schools in the region, but most importantly, they are active stewards of the world.

ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL - COCKEYSVILLE ADDRESS: 105 Church Lane, Cockeysville, MD 21030 WEBSITE: sjpray.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-683-0600 x2200 TUITION & FEES: $8,800 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 373 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling admission OPEN HOUSE DATES: Open House Express: October 25, 2022, 9:30-10:30 a.m.; November 9, 2022, 1:00-2:00 p.m.; February 2, 2023 (Catholic Schools Week), 1:00-2:00 p.m.; Middle School Shadow Day: October 27, 2022, 8:10-11:00 a.m. RVSP required.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k through grade 8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1856 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: Named a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education, St. Joseph School is a Catholic school serving children in pre-k through grade 8. Located in the heart of Cockeysville, St. Joseph School, an authentically Catholic community of diverse learners, prepares students to think critically, to work purposefully, and to live faithfully.

The school curriculum utilizes innovative instructions as well as state-of-the art technology that keeps students engaged in learning. St. Joseph School offers a variety of extracurricular opportunities in the areas of academic, athletics, service, and leadership. Founded in 1856, St. Joseph School welcomes families from all faiths and parishes. The Maryland PBIS organization and the Archdiocese of Baltimore have awarded St. Joseph School with Gold status recognition for Positive Behavioral Intervention & Supports (PBIS). St. Joseph School goes beyond the basics to nurture the best in each child. The school also offers a before and after care program.

ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL – FULLERTON ADDRESS: 8416 Belair Road, Baltimore, MD 21236 WEBSITE: stjoeschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-256-8026 TUITION & FEES: $6,788-$8,093 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 567 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 16, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Saturday, November 5, 2022; Saturday, November 12, 2022; Sunday, January 29, 2023. Check website for times.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k4 through grade 8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1869 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic

OVERVIEW: St. Joseph School - Fullerton is a co-ed pre-k4 through grade 8 Catholic parish school located in Perry Hall, MD. Qualified teachers work students through a rigorous curriculum consisting of STEM, technology, art, Spanish, music, physical education, and all core subjects. The school is equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technology to provide students with a hands-on approach to learning. Extracurricular opportunities in the areas of academics, athletics, service, and leadership are offered. St. Joseph School – Fullerton’s mission is to cultivate an environment of academic excellence and spiritual growth within a loving, faithful community committed to family, discipleship, and evangelization. St. Joseph School - Fullerton was named a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education and welcomes families from all faiths and parishes.

OVERVIEW: St. Paul’s School for Boys is a college-preparatory day school for boys in grades 5-12. At SP, boys thrive in an environment that provides a range of challenges and support and a world of opportunities, both in and out of the classroom.

St. Paul’s offers the intensive International Baccalaureate (IB) program and immersive experiences for a wide range of levels. Boys develop strong bonds with peers and teachers and build a strong moral compass and the courage to positively impact their world. St. Paul’s School, St. Paul’s Pre and Lower School and St. Paul’s School for Girls share a 120-acre campus, an Episcopal affiliation, and a mission to develop the intellect and character of their students. The St. Paul’s Schools are conveniently located in Brooklandville, Maryland, on Falls Road off I-695.

ST. PAUL’S PRE AND LOWER SCHOOL

ST. PAUL’S SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

ADDRESS: 11152 Falls Road, Brooklandville, MD 21022 WEBSITE: stpaulsmd.org/coed PHONE NUMBERS: PRESCHOOL: 410-823-0061 LOWER SCHOOL: 410-821-3060 TUITION & FEES: $11,000-$28,000 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 391 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATES: October 14, November 14, December 7, January 9. Visit stpaulsmd.org/coed/admissions for a full list of opportunities – both on campus and virtual – to experience St. Paul’s and hear from students, faculty, and staff.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: 6 weeks through grade 4 YEAR FOUNDED: 1849 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Episcopal OVERVIEW: St. Paul’s Pre and Lower School is a co-educational, independent day school serving children from 6 weeks through grade 4 in two buildings on one campus in Brooklandville, Maryland. As part of The St. Paul’s Schools, St. Paul’s Pre and Lower School is where the youngest learners begin their academic journey. St. Paul’s Pre and Lower School believes it is never too early for girls and boys to start adventuring every day. The expert faculty nurture children’s natural curiosity through an abundance of hands-on learning experiences and vary instruction to ensure that each child is consistently engaged and appropriately challenged. The foundation for this educational approach is a positive and nurturing setting where children feel safe to explore.

ST. PAUL’S SCHOOL FOR BOYS ADDRESS: 11152 Falls Road, Brooklandville, MD 21022 WEBSITE: stpaulsmd.org/boys PHONE NUMBER: 410-825-4400 TUITION & FEES: $32,400-$34,110 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 534 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Middle School: October 25, November 17 (virtual), December 9, January 10; Upper School: October 20, November 8, November 15 (virtual), December 6, January 6. Visit stpaulsmd.org/boys/admissions for a full list of opportunities – both on campus and virtual – to experience St. Paul’s and hear from students, faculty, and staff.

SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, boys GRADE LEVELS: 5-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1849 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Episcopal

ADDRESS: 11232 Falls Road, Brooklandville, MD 21022 WEBSITE: stpaulsmd.org/girls PHONE NUMBER: 410-823-6323 TUITION & FEES: $32,400-$34,110 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 462 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2022 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Middle School: October 18, November 8 (virtual), December 13, January 13; Upper School: October 21, November 9 (virtual), December 7, January 11. Visit stpaulsmd.org/girls/admissions for a full list of opportunities – both on campus and virtual – to experience SPSG and hear from students, faculty and staff.

SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls GRADE LEVELS: 5-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1959 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Episcopal OVERVIEW: St. Paul’s School for Girls (SPSG) is an independent, college-preparatory school serving girls in grades 5-12.

Grounded in the Episcopal values of respect, integrity, and spiritual growth, SPSG cultivates a bold and courageous community of unique girls who will use their education and ethics to improve their world. Through its extensive connections and alumnae network, the school provides unparalleled learning through independent projects, professional internships, community service, and nonprofit partnerships. As part of The St. Paul’s Schools, SPSG shares a campus with St. Paul’s Pre and Lower School and St. Paul’s School for Boys. As such, SPSG encourages and provides co-ed opportunities in and out of the classroom at just the right times. Students’ strengths are made stronger in an inclusive environment that feels like home, building not just lifelong skills, but lasting bonds.

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DIRECTORY TRINITY SCHOOL ADDRESS: 4985 Ilchester Road, Ellicott City, MD 21043 WEBSITE: trinityschoolmd.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-744-1524 TUITION & FEES: $5,140-$15,070 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 250 APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 15, 2023 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to trinityschoolmd.org/admissions/visit_ trinity for ways to visit.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1941 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: Trinity School is culturally diverse, rich in tradition, and offers a strong curriculum based on core subject areas. In fact, Trinity students’ test scores exceed the national average. Teaching for values permeates the curriculum.

Technology is incorporated throughout the curriculum.

Prayer, scripture, social justice, and morality are essential components of the religion curriculum. Developing an attitude of self-discipline within each student is a priority in Trinity’s philosophy. At Trinity, the qualities of love and respect are fostered to create a caring Christian community.

THE WALDORF SCHOOL OF BALTIMORE ADDRESS: 4801 Tamarind Road, Baltimore, MD 21209 WEBSITE: waldorfschoolofbaltimore.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-367-6808 TUITION & FEES: $9,850-$23,650 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 173 APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 1, 2023, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to waldorfschoolofbaltimore.org/visit-ourschool for tour dates and times.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1971 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Founded in 1971, the Waldorf School is a private, independent day school for children from early childhood (preschool) through eighth grade. Its mission is to educate and inspire children to think, feel and act with depth, imagination and purpose. The school believes every child is an enthusiastic and engaged learner and places an emphasis on the role of creativity and the imagination in learning. Waldorf Education offers a renaissance in learning, favoring hands-on, experiential academics over rote memorization and technological reliance.

Students are immersed in a rigorous academic environment that fosters intellectual curiosity, emotional resiliency and a strong sense of selves in relation to the rest of the world. As a Maryland Green School, The Waldorf School of Baltimore is deeply committed to developing each child’s capacity to stand in healthy

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relation to the earth. Located on a beautiful northwest Baltimore campus, on a hill adjacent to Cylburn Arboretum, the school reflects the diverse nature of its community drawing families from in and around the greater Baltimore metropolitan area.

The school is a full member of the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA), fully licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and accredited by the Association of Independent Maryland Schools (AIMS).

PRESCHOOLS GOLDSMITH EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER ADDRESS: 8100 Stevenson Road, Pikesville, MD 21208 WEBSITE: chizukamuno.org/gecc PHONE NUMBER: 410-486-8642 TUITION & FEES: $4,800-$11,850 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 130 APPLICATION DEADLINE: No deadline; based on class availability.

OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please email Michelle Gold, Director, at mgold@chizukamuno.org for more information.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Preschool; ages 2-5 YEAR FOUNDED: 1958 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Jewish OVERVIEW: For children 18 months through five years of age, Goldsmith Early Childhood Center uses active learning to promote cognitive, social, emotional, physical, creative and Jewish development. Children are given the opportunity to observe, explore, create and experience through a child-centered curriculum and nurturing environment. Goldsmith Early Childhood Center’s classrooms balance academic structure with creative social interaction.

GRACE UNITED METHODIST PRESCHOOL ADDRESS: 5407 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21210 WEBSITE: gracepreschoolbaltimore.com PHONE NUMBER: 410-532-2235 TUITION & FEES: $2,500-$10,250 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 100 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling admission OPEN HOUSE DATES: Tours are available upon request. Please email Tami James at tjames@ gracepreschoolbaltimore.com to set up a tour of Grace.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Preschool through k; ages 12 months-6 years YEAR FOUNDED: 1961 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: United Methodist OVERVIEW: Grace Preschool is located in the Homeland/ Roland Park area of Baltimore. Grace is an outreach program of the Grace United Methodist Church, offering an excellent educational program to the community. Grace is a traditional preschool program with classes for children twelve months of age through kindergarten. Meeting the needs of working families is something Grace is passionate about! Children in the Fours and Kindergarten can attend school from 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. each day.

ST. DAVID’S DAY SCHOOL ADDRESS: 4700 Roland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21210 WEBSITE: stdavidsdayschool.net PHONE NUMBER: 410-366-2133 TUITION & FEES: $3,500-$10,250 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 70 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 31, 2023, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATE: Please refer to stdavidsdayschool.net for ways to visit.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Preschool through k; ages 2-6 YEAR FOUNDED: 1957 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Episcopal OVERVIEW: St. David’s Day School provides a positive foundation for the future of a child by offering a gently structured early education program, which respects and celebrates each child as an individual. St. David’s Day School is dedicated to introducing young children to the joys of learning through a developmentally appropriate curriculum. Small groups within small classes result in each child receiving much individual attention. Recognizing that children learn best through play and hands-on experiences, teachers encourage their students to explore the world around them, to express themselves, and to become ready for the school years ahead through individual attention to aspects of early growth and development: intellectual, spiritual, social, and physical.

ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN SCHOOL ADDRESS: 13300 Manor Road, Glen Arm, MD 21057 WEBSITE: stjohnlutheranschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-592-8019 TUITION & FEES: $1,800-$7,700 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 80 (140 max) APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling admission OPEN HOUSE DATE: Please refer to stjohnlutheranschool.org for ways to visit.

SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Preschool through k; ages 2-6 YEAR FOUNDED: 1955 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Lutheran OVERVIEW: St. John’s Lutheran is located in the desirable and picturesque area of Glen Arm, making it convenient to both Baltimore and Harford County residents. St. John’s Lutheran School offers programs for two year olds through kindergarten. Approved by the Maryland State Department of Education, the school is a ministry of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Glen Arm, MD.

FOR MORE PRESCHOOLS, PLEASE SEE THE FOLLOWING LISTINGS: Archdiocese of Baltimore Catholic Schools Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School The Bryn Mawr School Calvert School Friends School of Baltimore Garrison Forest School Gerstell Academy Gilman School Glenelg Country School Harford Day School Immaculate Conception School Key School

McDonogh School The Park School of Baltimore Roland Park Country School Severn School St. James Academy St. John’s Parish Day School St. Joseph School - Cockeysville St. Joseph School - Fullerton St. Paul’s Pre and Lower School Trinity School The Waldorf School of Baltimore

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Know Before You

GO

Lean into this probing set of questions to help you find the right school match for your child.

Searching for an independent school can be exciting, yet overwhelming.

Visit any number of them and you’re likely to find sprawling campuses, small class sizes, and an array of extracurricular activities. But look beneath the surface and you’ll note distinct differences that can’t necessarily be discerned by a quick trip to a school’s campus. So, how can you tell them apart and find the best match for your child?

DO YOUR RESEARCH! Observe interactions closely when you’re on campuses, and ask hard questions. We’ve come up with several, broken down by critical categories that distinguish independent schools: academic approach, values, extracurriculars, and support layers. Many of these inquiries don’t have right or wrong answers, per se. But your informed responses to them will help you decide on the best school for your child.

ACADEMIC APPROACH ✔ How much focus is placed on grades and tests? ✔ Do teachers encourage critical thinking? Rote memorization? ✔ Does the school teach to students’ different learning styles and strengths, or is it a one-sizefits-all approach? ✔ Do political or religious leanings influence what is taught and, if so, how? ✔ What does homework look like?

Does the volume match the grade level? Does it reinforce teaching concepts?

VALUES MATCH-UP? ✔ What values does the school promote, and do students visibly express them? ✔ Does the school encourage conformity or celebrate individual expression? ✔ How open and welcoming is the school community–from school administrators and teachers to students and their families?

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EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, ANYONE? ✔ Does the school offer one or more extracurricular activities (sport, art, theater, robotics, etc.) that my child enjoys or might like to learn? ✔ Are extracurriculars focused on skill acquisition or competition? ✔ What skill level is required for students to participate, compete, or excel? ✔ What time commitment is expected of participating students? ✔ Does the activity require special equipment or other resources?

SUPPORT LAYERS ✔ What kind of mental health services are available to students? ✔ Does the school provide academic support for students with learning differences? ✔ What type of financial assistance does the school offer to families?

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