ndianapolis-area private schools are a great educational option, offering top-notch academics. So does it really matter which one your child attends? Absolutely, educators say. Thanks to all the great choices, parents can select the perfect match for their child’s educational needs.
Private school options abound. Religious or secular? Elementary or high school? Small or large? Emphasis on the arts, community outreach or travel? Traditional, classical or Montessori? The choices are as diverse as the students enrolled. “There really is a wealth of private, independent options in Indianapolis,” says Susan Karpicke, director of admissions at Sycamore School. “There’s really something for everyone.” Melinda Fisher of St. Richard’s School agrees. “I believe at every (local private school) a child can get a good education, but they all have a different personality,” says Fishers, director of admission and communications. “I encourage families to find a place that feels like home because this will be your school home for a long time.” To help with your private school search, we called a host of local educators to ask: “What makes your school unique?” While each school has a wealth of programs and special qualities — much too many to list in one article — you’ll find some of the highlights below. Check out the school directory listings for more information about each school, and use the contact information to discover much more for yourself.
Educational Philosophy While a traditional educational approach works well for many students, others thrive in a different environment. Fortunately, Indianapolis offers options — from classical to Montessori. In its second year, Coram Deo Academy, located in Carmel, offers a Christian, classical education to students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The classical curriculum draws deeply from the history and culture of Western Civilization to produce students who can think thoroughly and maturely. Beginning in third grade, students study Latin. Instruction in formal logic begins in middle school, while high school students receive instruction in formal rhetoric. “It’s very old fashioned liberal arts,” explains Headmaster Scott Taylor. “Our school is for families who want a very distinctly and purposeful Christian environment and a very strong academic program. We are committed to integrating our faith and our Christian worldview into all of our subjects and all of our teaching.” The Montessori philosophy, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, supports each child’s unique development and is offered locally at a number of private schools.
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Maria Montessori International Academy serves the broadest range of ages — from toddler (12 months) through sixth grade. The small school, small class sizes and state-licensed and Montessori-certified teachers allow children to learn at their own pace, says Executive Director Vivian Cain. “If a child is in first grade, he can do third or fourth grade work,” Cain explains. “Students don’t have to move to a different grade to do that work.” The school takes pride in its international diversity of students, teachers and programs. Group Spanish
20 INDY’S CHILD * SEPTEMBER 2009