901 Lawrence Avenue West, Toronto, Ontario, M6A 1C3, Canada
200 Racco Parkway, Maple, Ontario, L4J 8X9, Canada
1983
0
60
200
Preschool to 8
Preschool to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Traditional, Montessori
Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate
Varies
16 to 18
Dedicated gifted school
$10,500 to $18,300
$22,600 to $23,600
$23,600
Yes
Yes
15%
4%
1 to 8
1 to 12
$5,000
$0
5
13
0%
0%
0%
50%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 8
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
No
Yes: grades 5 - 12
information not available
information not available
Inspired by Leonardo da Vinci's and Maria Montessori's philosophies, Leonardo Da Vinci Academy of Arts & Sciences (LDVA) integrates Montessori and traditional education methodologies. This involves the Italian immersion Scuola Materna preschool and the authentic Casa Montessori for younger students. From Grades 4 to 8, the academy transitions to an enriched traditional curriculum, emphasizing whole-brain thinking and independence. Specialist classes in French, Italian, and Music, from preschool to Grade 8, complement this holistic educational approach. Inspired by the "Seven Da Vincian Principles," the curriculum cultivates creativity, problem-solving, and balanced mind-body development. The school's renovated facilities, as well as small class sizes, further enhance this innovative learning environment of LDVA. In its four decades, LDVA has consistently delivered exceptional education, guided by a mission to develop well-rounded individuals who possess a lifelong love for learning.
View full reportDelano was founded in 2014 with the mandate of providing a very forward looking approach to the early and elementary years. The focus is on collaboration, 21st century literacies, and allowing students to grow into an international, empathetic understanding of the world and their place within it. The core competencies are delivered, as is a sense of how they relate to who we are and what we’re able to achieve. The ideal student is one operating toward the top of his or her peer group, and able to thrive in vibrant, active, socially engaging learning environment.
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"Academics, friends and great teachers contributed overall to my happiness and well-being at the school."
Rosamaria Pagani - Alumnus (Nov 27, 2023)
My time at Leonardo Da Vinci Academy was truly memorable. From the moment I began in the Scuola Mate...
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"The quality of the teachers at LDVA is one of the strongest assets of the school."
Ian Parrott - Parent (Feb 20, 2024)
Our daughter received a wonderful education at LDVA and is currently thriving in a demanding high sc...
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"Students truly have a very rich academic life. They are always encouraged to think and inquire..."
ANA LIGIA MALAVAZI - Parent (Aug 22, 2018)
Our son has become much happier and full of life after he started at Delano. It was the best decisio...
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"My kids love the one on one attention."
Sabrina Bartolini - Parent (Aug 22, 2018)
My kids love the one on one attention. They feel that their needs are met and understand the materia...
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"Teacher-student-parent communication is very efficient and effective through many channels"
Raye Cai - Parent (Jun 22, 2020)
We had attended another school that was very good at the beginning when it had a good principal who ...
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"Leonardo Da Vinci Academy is an independent school that has been serving children of discerning parents since 1984. LDVA provides exceptional schooling from preschool to Grade 8 and promotes whole brain thinking, independence, and self-esteem. Inspired by Leonardo da Vinci and Maria Montessori, LDVA's approach to education is to enable students to achieve their full potential and encourage a love for lifelong learning."
"Vaughan's top CO-ED private K-12 school, Delano is a 21st century IB candidate, university preparatory school that values evidenced-based best practices for teaching & learning. Delano is a place of rigorous curriculum standards, globally-minded education and a balance of Academics, Arts, Athletics & student wellness. We support our bright/gifted students in harnessing resiliency & critical thinking skills as visionary makers, creators & innovators. Delano enriches learning as a STE[A]M & Tech rich school."
"Our unique curriculum combines Montessori and traditional education with a Da Vincian approach to learning. From our Casa Montessori and Scuola Materna Preschools, students progress to our Lower Elementary Montessori program for Grades 1 to 3. Our Upper Elementary program begins in Grade 4 and transitions students into a traditional classroom setting where they follow an enriched curriculum up to Grade 8. Across all levels, we foster a 'Thinking Like Leonardo' approach for lifelong learning."
"Delano Academy values community and a positive school culture that prides itself on being at the forefront of best practices in teaching and learning. Delano is a progressive, transformational learning environment that prepares students for leadership. Following the International Baccalaureate program, it provides students with the tools and life skills beyond university. Delano is fueled by creating a learning environment of globally-minded students that reflects the diverse world we live in."
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"Families appreciate that Delano has a strong school culture that creates a warm and welcoming community. Students are motivated by a positive and caring school environment. Students are welcomed into the Delano family and provided with a supportive team that encourages the personal growth, development and vision of each student. Parents appreciate the attention to individualized learning the "Dream Bigger" attitude, and the rich and rigorous programming that encourages student potential."
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"From preschool to Grade 8 teachers of the Leonardo Da Vinci Academy employ “Seven Da Vincian Principles” to help students explore and cultivate their own creativity and thinking skills. By using strategies inspired by Leonardo Da Vinci children are encouraged to develop their full potential. Along with a heightened appreciation of the world, areas of development that are promoted include: problem solving, creative thinking, self-awareness, and the balancing of mind and body."
"Delano is committed to supporting a culture of wellness, and balance and prioritizes community, as a key feature for overall faculty and student wellness. Our rich culture adapts innovatively to the realities of global citizenship in the 21st century. The community we have cultivated encourages and promotes the Delano legacy and IB principles. We value building meaningful life-long relationships with our students, families, faculty and alumni."
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"The details are prioritized and every decision, connection, activity, and celebration is relevant, authentic, meaningful and plays an important role in developing a well-rounded student. Co-curricular, programs and enrichment opportunities are integral and vital to a rich school environment. Students are encouraged to experience everything, be risk-takers and open-minded and to explore all that Delano has to offer. Our culture is rich, and exciting and ignites curiosity."
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Leonardo Da Vinci was an extraordinary example of the human mind and its capabilities. An intellect of universal proportions, Leonardo was master artist, scientist, inventor, engineer, and life-long learner. His relentless quest for knowledge, truth, and beauty, and his approach to these pursuits are an inspiration to many individuals. When we founded the Leonardo Da Vinci Academy in 1983 we could not imagine a more suitable name for the school we envisioned.
LDVA's unique “Thinking Like Leonardo” approach to living and learning encompasses both traditional and contemporary philosophies of education. Our Preschools and Primary grades are based on the teachings of Maria Montessori which are in perfect harmony with our school’s educational philosophy and the Da Vincian principles.
Now in its 40th year, LDVA continues to live up to its mission providing exceptional schooling for the formative years. Students at all levels are well served by a solid, continuous educational framework and an empowering approach to learning. We are most grateful to the hard working administrators for their commitment to the school's mission and purpose in the manner inspired by both Leonardo and Maria Montessori.
Anyone witnessing our children engaged in “Thinking Like Leonardo” will observe students leaning from their mistakes, children experiencing with all their senses, youngsters joyfully discovering their physical nature, individuals balancing their creative and logical sides, and young minds making meaningful connections with their world.
We wish to express our appreciation to all the parents and staff who have helped to keep the dream of our school alive.
Head of School's Welcome,
If you are going to dream for your child, then dream BIGGER.
Delano Academy was created on the vision to provide an exceptional learning environment where academic rigour is met with a balanced education. Delano prepares students for university and life with an intensive academic focus and exceptional 21st-century teaching practices. At Delano Academy, there is an emphasis on providing students with state-of-the-art cutting-edge resources. Students access outstanding resources and facilities in all areas of their education, every day. We are a school that values student-centered learning and evidence-based practices.
Delano is a forward-thinking school that respects 21st-century teaching practices, administration, environmental design & curriculum focus. We have extraordinary expectations of our students and we are DREAM role models. We want our students to achieve greatness and we provide them with a school that inspires students as visionary, creative and critical thinkers.
Delano values globally-minded thinking and innovation. Imagineering students are problem solvers, makers and doers. The Delano Archetype is a collaborator, has effective communication skills, curious and confident.
Delano is a school that fosters creativity, passion, innovation, problem-solving & critical thinking. We are not simply keeping up with a changing world and preparing students for University. We are preparing students for careers that are yet to be created and a future that has never been dreamed of yet.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Palombo
M.Ed (York), B.Ed (OISE), SHon. BA (YORK)
Liberal Arts
International Baccalaureate
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
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Delano Academy has a reputation for its strong curriculum. The Ontario Ministry Curriculum Expectations act as the foundation for learning. Then the curriculum is enhanced with an IB worldview, giving our students a head-start. We embrace a changing world in education. Delano is a place of rigorous curriculum standards, worldly education aligning itself with the prestigious International Baccalaureate-IB world school standards. Learners feel challenged with richer learning opportunities that support their unique learning profile. Our natural teaching lends well to gifted learners with greater opportunities for higher-level critical thinking, problem-solving, design-thinking and global-mindedness. Delano is a place where students learn that anything is possible. With sound research in international educational practices, we have sourced the best resources and materials to enrich learning for our students. Coupled with a strong framework in child development and student wellness, our curriculum is world-class support.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
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Balanced Literacy
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
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Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
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Equal Balance
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
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Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Zoology
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
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Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Core Knowledge
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
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Equal Balance
Not applicable
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
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Equal Balance
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
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Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Equal Balance
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy integration
Not applicable
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
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Our facilities are exceptional with 6500 square foot high school gym and 6 acres of trails and athletic space for students. Our students participate in athletic competitions and events and train for intramural events.\n\nOur standard physical education program provides students with intensive training and preparation for individual, group recreational and competitive events.
Academic
Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.
If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.
Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
Casa Montessori and Scuola Materna are licensed preschools for children aged 2.5 to 6. Both are nurturing Montessori based learning environments that include French and Music programs. Our Casa Montessori is accredited by the Canadian Council of Montessori Administrators (CCMA) as an authentic Montessori preschool. Scuola Materna is our Italian Immersion preschool. It is the only program in Canada with official status and recognition from the Italian Government.
Our preparatory program is a fully enriched inquiry-based advanced program where students receive a rigorous academic advantage. Students learn to read competently, write, learn grammar with formal instruction, develop penmanship formally, problem solve, and explore science and the world around them.\ Our students develop language, cognitive, motor, social-emotional development and self-regulation & independence.\ Students thrive in our small environment where learning is centred on their needs.\ Our class ratio is 1:8. Our objective is to prepare our students with a strong foundation for elementary education. Our students receive a varied well-rounded comprehensive curriculum that develops critical learning skills and habits.
Accelerated
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
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Rigorous
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
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"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
We provide an environment that is balanced between academics, athletics, arts and character development. We enable every student to be a leader. We support every student in this effort and provide them the foundation for leadership in the 21st century. Every student has the opportunity to become the next CEO and training starts at Delano Academy.
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RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Basketball |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
1 - 8
1 - 12
15%
4%
$5,000
$0
0%
50%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 8
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
No
Yes: grades 5 - 12
No
No
No
Yes: grades 5 - 12
No
Yes: grades 5 - 12
No
No
The Delano student archetype is Confident. Has strong Character. Is Curious. Is a Collaborator. We provide the milieu that fully supports our students. The Delano is a cutting edge academy with a strong vision for our students to reach limitless learning potential. We are searching for student candidates that are eager to be part of the Delano school vision.
The Admission Process at Delano is fully online. It is an opportunity for families to learn about our academy in a personal friendly setting. Parents are invited to bring their son/daughter to the initial meeting for a casual discussion. At this time parents will learn about our intake process for student candidates.
Candidates who are applying to the school will be invited for an individual interview and assessment. All potential candidates are invited for a day visit.
Parents seeking student enrollment are required to complete a full interview and follow an acceptance process.
Delano is a small school providing nurturing individualized attention and care. Families searching for a small private school that provides an unparalleled teacher-to-pupil ratio and is designed with the programs and facilities of a large school will feel comfortable in this environment.