Educating the Mind and Heart for Christ
DUNHAM
The Dunham School seeks to provide students with the opportunity for a college-preparatory education set in the framework of Christian instruction and example.
excellence a tradition of
FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS, The Dunham School has educated minds and hearts for Christ through a college preparatory program grounded in biblical truth. At Dunham, you’ll find intentionally small classes, where a blend of traditional and innovative teaching is combined with the latest technology to ignite creativity and intellectual curiosity. You’ll discover expert teachers who value each student for the individual he or she was created to be, and you’ll find challenging academic, athletic, arts, and leadership programs that enable students to meet their God-given potential now—and in the future.
Two campuses. one mission.
The Dunham Early Childhood Center PreK2
9611 Siegen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
On a campus designed just for two-year-olds, children are cared for and supported as they take their first steps into learning. Flexible options for parents include 10- or 12-month enrollment with lunch, snacks, and early/late care provided at no extra cost.
The Dunham School | PreK3- Grade 12
11111 Roy Emerson Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Students on our main campus learn and grow in a vibrant, Christ-centered community designed to support every stage of development. Our academic, athletic, fine arts, and recreational spaces create a welcoming environment where students are known, challenged, and inspired.
our history
The Dunham School was founded in 1981 by five Baton Rouge families united in their quest to establish a Christian college preparatory school like no other.
Learn more!
beginning a joyful
In Lower School, learning begins with wonder. Our youngest students thrive in an environment where curiosity is encouraged, confidence is built, and faith is woven naturally into each day. In our bright, open spaces, students are known, valued, and supported— academically and emotionally—every step of the way.
• A Strong Foundation – An early college preparatory curriculum prepares students for future academic success.
• Personalized Attention – Teachers partner with families to celebrate and support each child’s unique strengths.
• Christ-Centered – Chapel, prayer, and character-building lessons help children grow in faith, kindness, and integrity.
• Physical Education – Daily play and movement build teamwork, health, and confidence.
• Arts – Music, performance, and art offer avenues for creative expression.
• Serving Others – Age-appropriate service opportunities develop early leadership skills and teach children to love their neighbors.
“I see my children ’ s minds and hearts blossom
– Katherine Ellard Dantin ’02
aftercare & enrichments
house system middle school
A favorite tradition in Middle School is the House System where every student is assigned to one of four houses named after four of the school’s founding families. Throughout their time in Middle School, students remain in the same house and work together to earn house points. Each house is led by two eighth grade co-captains, one boy and one girl. In May, the house with the most points claims the coveted House Cup.
Learn more!
belong, a place to grow a time to
Middle School is a season of discovery and transition filled with energy and excitement. During this time of change, preteens and adolescents are supported in all areas—intellectually, spiritually, physically, emotionally, and socially. Our teachers and coaches serve as mentors who encourage curiosity, character, and connection.
• An Innovative Curriculum – Lively Harkness discussions, inquiry-based projects and technology integration spark curiosity and creativity.
• A Balanced Approach – The Middle School program balances academics with rich opportunities in athletics, arts, and leadership.
• Growing in Faith – Chapel, religion classes, and prayer guide students toward deeper spiritual maturity.
• Building New Skills – Our no-cut athletic policy allows students to try new sports while building skill and confidence.
• Beyond the Classroom – Numerous clubs, organizations, and extracurricular pursuits in band, choir, dance, and drama allow students to connect with others who share common interests.
“We’re the only school in Baton Rouge that has a House System. It’s a way to connect with students in other grades and compete with our friends in a fun way to earn house points. ”
– Drew DeVille ’29
where
excellence purposemeets
“Dunham developed me in mind, body, and spirit. The teachers genuinely cared about who I was becoming. The academics sharpened my thinking and prepared me for life, athletics built discipline and leadership, and the Christian foundation shaped my values. I’m forever grateful for the impact Dunham has had on my life.”
– Abraham Wallace ’14
In Upper School, students experience college preparatory academics balanced with competitive athletics, arts, leadership, and service opportunities. Mentored by teachers who instruct with skill and passion, students find their voices and form impactful relationships in the classroom.
• Known by Name – Small classes ensure that students continue to receive individualized attention and the encouragement to succeed.
• Academic Success – Honors, AP®, and dual enrollment courses foster engagement and academic achievement.
• Proven Results – With personalized academic and college counseling, strong ACT/SAT scores, and acceptances to selective universities, Dunham graduates are well-prepared to thrive in college and career.
• A Place to Connect – Students have opportunities to discover and develop shared interests by participating in varsity sports, dance, band, choir, theatre, student government, and a variety of high school clubs and organizations.
• Character Formation – Through formal leadership training, as well as daily interactions in a close-knit community, students learn to act with integrity, compassion, and courage—the marks of true Christian leadership.
life student
When you join the Upper School, you become a part of Tiger Nation—a vibrant community that extends beyond the classroom. Leadership, service, traditions, and travel opportunities abound to keep you plugged in, connected, and engaged. Learn More! Learn more!
faith a foundation of
By design, everything we do at Dunham is grounded in the desire to serve God’s kingdom by enabling students to mature in Christian faith and character. A biblical worldview is integrated throughout our curriculum and in every experience in and out of the classroom.
• Bible Curriculum – Through the study of both the Old and New Testaments, Bible and religion classes allow students to explore biblical truth and its application in today’s world.
• Weekly Chapel – Each division attends weekly chapel services in the Brown-Holt Chapel Arts Center for a time of worship and prayer.
• Passion Week – The Dunham community dedicates the week before Easter as a time of collective prayer, worship, and reflection.
“ My teachers, some of whom are still teaching at Dunham today, had such a passion for kids, a love for the Lord, and a true gift for teaching. It’s important to us that our kids get a great education in a safe, Christian environment.”
– Ashley Morgan Bergeson ’05
Our Honor Code is the basis for all conduct policies and a primary building block of our school community. We believe that each student should have a strong sense of personal honor and integrity and that these character qualities will be vital assets throughout life.
As an interdenominational Christian school, we approach faith from a perspective of unity and biblical truth as opposed to a particular church doctrine. Our statement of faith is based on seven biblical holdings that have guided us in our mission to educate minds and hearts for Christ since our founding in 1981.
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“It is deeply encouraging to watch the leadership and teachers continue to hold firm to the biblical values, mentorship, and rigorous teaching methods that prepared me to thrive as an adult after my time at Dunham.”
- Liz Phillips Hargis ’13
Lower School students enjoy project- and inquiry-based learning in math, literacy, social and global studies, science, and Bible, with a gifted program available for highachieving learners in grades 2-4. Enrichment classes include physical education, art, music, library/media, Spanish, and counseling.
In Middle School, college preparatory academics are balanced with athletics and arts in preparation for the rigor and expectation of Upper School. Honors and advanced courses are available for gifted and high-achieving learners.
An Individualized Approach We understand that no two students learn the same. Our teachers are trained to meet a variety of learning styles and preferences to help children reach their God-given potential.
first steps the success to future
Dunham students thrive in an academic environment characterized by small classes, skilled and caring teachers, and an innovative curriculum where every subject is taught through the lens of faith. Our college preparatory program blends a classical foundation with cutting-edge technology and experiences that build creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.
academicsupport
Our teachers are always willing to work with students one-on-one as challenges arise and stay in communication with parents about academic progress. The McKay Academic Center for Excellence (MAC) offers academic support services for students with documented learning differences, as well as those who may benefit from tutoring to remain successful in their college preparatory classes.
Learn more about the MAC!
Our Upper School curriculum prepares students for success in college and career. For students seeking greater academic challenge, we offer honors courses in most subject areas, 25 Advanced Placement (AP)® courses, and dual enrollment courses that allow students to earn college credit.
every voice where matters
Beginning in eighth grade, learning happens around the Harkness table—where students and teachers sit as equals, sharing ideas, asking questions, and discovering truth together. This discussion-based approach trains students to listen thoughtfully, speak confidently, and engage respectfully—skills essential for college, career, and life.
The Harkness Method
• Builds critical thinking and collaboration
• Encourages respectful dialogue
• Develops leadership and accountability
• Prepares students for college-level discourse
harkness
Learn more! method
We’re proud to say that we were the first school in Baton Rouge to implement Harkness, a learning method used by many of the top independent schools across the country.
“Sitting around a table in a student-centered, discussion-driven
environment
taught me how
to clearly
express my
beliefs while also listening to and engaging with perspectives different from my own. In a time when meaningful two-way dialogue is more important than ever, those skills have been invaluable. The foundation Dunham gave me through the Harkness method continues to shape how I navigate complex conversations and lead professionally today.” – Tré Nelson ’14
“When executives are looking for cities to move to with their families, they look for the type of cutting-edge educational opportunities for their children that Dunham can provide.”
–
Julio Melara,
former Dunham parent and publisher of Greater Baton Rouge Business Report
designed future for the
Because we believe that the creative thinkers found in our classrooms today will emerge as the innovative leaders of tomorrow, our innovation and technology program provides students with the experiences necessary to view problems from different angles and offer creative, dynamic solutions.
Intentional Technology Integration
• Technology-rich environment
• STEM curriculum aligned with Next Generation Science Standards
• Experiences in engineering, robotics, coding, design, virtual reality, and AI
• Creative problem solving across all disciplines
singulara distinction
In addition to being identified by Gallup, Inc., as one of the most innovative schools in the nation, Dunham is Louisiana’s only PreK-12 Apple Distinguished School, a distinction held continuously since 2011. Learn moRe!
leading with confidence & character
We’re intentional about preparing tomorrow’s leaders individuals ready to speak up, step out, meet a need, and make a difference. Students of all ages have opportunities to develop their leadership skills in a variety of ways by following Christ’s example of leading to serve others.
• Lower School Sunshine and Chapel Helpers
• Middle School House Captains
• Upper School Prefects and Student Government
• Student-led Service Projects
• Career Advice and Job Shadowing
leadershipthe institute of
The Institute of Leadership is a formal, curriculum-driven leadership program designed to train, empower, and send student leaders out into the world to serve and train others. Principles of Leadership are explored through teaching sessions and mentor meetings and then put into practice through group and individual service projects.
Learn more!
new path forging a
Our college placement program is dedicated to guiding each student on a personalized journey toward the future. Our three college counselors offer expert advice, guidance, and comprehensive resources, including a monthly newsletter and blog, to ensure students are well-prepared and confident as they navigate the college admissions journey.
• One-on-one advising
• Course planning and academic strategy
• Assistance with applications, interviews, and scholarships
• Strong relationships with colleges and universities
proven
With personalized college counseling, strong ACT/SAT scores, and acceptances to selective colleges and universities across the country, Dunham graduates are prepared for their future. Visit our website for more information on college placement, including a full list of recent college acceptances.
creativity takes center stage
Fine arts are a vital part of life at Dunham. all divisions have opportunities to shine and showcase their talents in visual and performing arts.
BAND AND CHOIR ENSEMBLES
• Lower School Honor Choir
• Middle School Tiger Chorus
• Upper School Choir
• Middle School Band
• Cardinal & Silver Band
• Pep Band
• Praise Band
VISUAL ARTS
Art is in full bloom in our sun-filled studios, where PreK3 through Upper School students develop skill and artistic expression.
DANCE
Our dance program emphasizes the development of the student dancer in technical skill, artistic creativity, and versatility.
THEATRE
From large-scale musicals and plays to grade-level chapel skits and special programs, students develop stage presence and confidence.
beyond the school day
After-school classes in ballet, tap, guitar, piano, and more are available through our aftercare and enrichment program.
Learn more!
characterwinning with
Guided by a staff of exceptional coaches, Dunham athletes play with skill, discipline, and sportsmanship as they strive for victory on and off the field. A no-cut policy allows students to gain confidence as they explore new sports. By Upper School, our varsity Tigers are fierce competitors frequently recruited to play at the collegiate level.
LOWER SCHOOL
The Lower School P.E. program is designed to facilitate the development of body awareness, physical fitness, cooperation, and teamwork through games, free play, and creative movement.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Basketball Cheer
Cross Country Football
Soccer Softball
Swimming Track & Field
Volleyball Wrestling
UPPER SCHOOL
Baseball Basketball
Cheer Cross-Country
Football Golf
Powerlifting Soccer
Softball Swimming
Tennis Track & Field
Volleyball Wrestling
Thanks to a certified athletic trainer and premier facilities, including a 12,000-square foot athletic center, a turf practice field, an indoor batting pavilion, and a worldclass competition gym, Dunham Tigers have claimed numerous district and state championship titles. Learn more!
you belonghere!
Life at Dunham includes cherished traditions such as homecoming and field day, student-led clubs and organizations, mission trips, and summer explorations abroad. When you join Tiger Nation, you join a close-knit community where strong bonds and lasting relationships are formed.
• School Traditions and Spirit Events
• Extracurricular Pursuits
• Travel and Service Opportunities
• Lifelong Friendships
volunteer opportunities
As vital members of the Dunham family, parents and grandparents are encouraged to join one or more of our volunteer organizations. Whether you’re interested in arts, athletics, fundraising, or event planning, there’s a way to get involved and support the school.
Learn more!
caringwhole child for the
We’re intentional about creating a school culture that is as mindful of students’ social and emotional well-being as it is of their academic success. We combine our counseling and advisory programs with opportunities for fellowship and collaboration among all ages to create a close-knit environment where students form lasting relationships.
SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Social-emotional learning is a part of every student’s experience through a curriculum developed by our team of three full-time school counselors. Topics range from conflict resolution and problem solving to the early
12 are assigned to advisory groups that serve as safe spaces for students to find support and build strong relationships with teachers and peers. Grade 6 receive these nurturing services in the homeroom setting.
To support our families, the counseling team offers a variety of resources, including a monthly newsletter, a counseling blog, and parent seminars on relevant topics.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Keeping our students healthy and safe is our highest priority. Thanks to a unique partnership with Ochsner Medical Center, we have a full-time nurse on staff who oversees our health and wellness program. Our safety protocols include two full-time security resource officers, a detailed crisis response plan, ongoing safety training, restricted classroom access, a campus-wide camera system, and remote lockdown capabilities.
“Our counseling program affirms our ongoing commitment to our students’ social and emotional well-being and helps us maintain a safe, caring environment where every student feels a sense of belonging and is able to make meaningful connections with peers and teachers.”
– Head of School Steve Eagleton
Sage Dining
All students participate in our lunch program administered by Sage Dining. Fresh, nutritious meals are prepared onsite with a variety of daily options, including menu items made without the 12 most common food allergens. Weekly menu options may be viewed on our website.
journeyevery first step begins with the Navigating the Admissions Process
SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT TODAY!
Scan the code or call the admissions office at (225) 767-7097 ext. 320.
HOW TO APPLY
Find everything you need to know about the admissions process, including application and testing deadlines, required documents, and notification dates on our website.
We invite you to begin the admissions process by scheduling a visit to tour our campus and meet with our Director of Admission and Enrollment. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, meet students and faculty, and experience all that Dunham has to offer. Did you know?
AFFORDING DUNHAM
Please visit our website for a complete schedule of tuition and fees, as well as information about our tuition assistance and merit-based scholarship programs.
The Dunham School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all of the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Dunham does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, gender, or national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, tuition assistance program, athletics, and other school-administered programs.
We offer an academic MERIT-BASED SCHOLARSHIP program for students entering grades 7-10.
We award more than $2 MILLION in need-based financial assistance each year.
35 PERCENT of our student body receives tuition assistance.
ADMISSIONS CHECKLIST
Schedule an Admissions Visit
You may schedule an in-person or virtual visit or attend an open house.
Apply for Admission
Submit the online application and non-refundable application fee at dunhamschool.org/apply. Please apply by the early decision deadline noted on our website.
Upload Required Student Records
After submitting an online application, you may begin uploading or requesting the required student records indicated on the admissions portal.
Complete Admissions Testing (PreK3- 12)
Testing will be scheduled by the Admissions Office once we receive your application. No testing is required for PK2 applicants.
OPTIONAL FOR MIDDLE & UPPER SCHOOL APPLICANTS
Sit for a Student Interview (Grades 5- 12 only)
The Admissions Office will contact Middle and Upper School applicants to schedule a student interview with the division head after testing is complete and all required student records are received.
Receive Admissions Notification
PreK2 candidates will be notified in December. PreK3-12 early decision candidates will be notified in early February. Candidates who apply after the early decision application deadline will be notified on a rolling basis as space allows following the enrollment of priority applicants and returning students.
Candidates entering grades 6-12 are invited to preview Dunham by scheduling a shadow day visit.