3120 The Boulevard, Montreal, Quebec, H3Y 1R9, Canada
70 Morven Drive, West Vancouver, British Columbia, V7S 1B2, Canada
3120 The Boulevard, Montreal, Quebec, H3Y 1R9, Canada
70 Morven Drive, West Vancouver, British Columbia, V7S 1B2, Canada
1947
1984
168
1256
K to 6
JK to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English, French
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive
Progressive
12 to 24
16 to 22
$19,300 to $21,110
$23,800 to $28,150
Yes
Yes
0%
2%
None
6 to 12
$0
$7,500
24
84
0%
0%
75%
22%
K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Dec 01, 2022
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades K - 6
Yes: grades 4 - 12
No
Yes: grades 8 - 12
No
No
information not available
information not available
Believing that a child’s first learning years are the most important, in 1947 The Priory School’s Founding Mothers, Frances Ballantyne and Alphonsine Paré-Howlett, succeeded in developing a school far ahead of its time. The Priory School's mission and philosophy is to nurture each child’s inherent curiosity, enable them to develop an enthusiasm for learning, and promote intellectual and creative growth and initiative. This also prepares their students to be responsible, tolerant, and self-confident global citizens. The Priory School has remained true to its roots throughout its 75 years of evolution, specializing in elementary education and providing its students with an environment that's caring, inspiring, and recognizes and addresses each child's individual needs.
View full reportTwo campuses, an AP offering, Round Square and an extensive roster of co-curriculars, Collingwood frankly has it all. It’s the largest day school in the region, and likely the country, and it benefits from its size through unequalled physical and human resources and a broad, varied course offering. That the campus is divided between two properties adds a welcome dimension—while student life is vibrant and busy, the division allows for a personal feel and sense of community in the day-to-day. Through the Four Strands program the school rightly requires students to participate in all areas of student life, including athletics, with recreational as well as competitive options. Perched in beautiful West Vancouver, the bussing system is proprietary, with routes servicing a wide catchment area, including North Shore from Deep Cove and into South Vancouver. In all, if there's a down side, we've yet to find it. The ideal student is one who will thrive in a vibrant, supportive instructional and social environment, and preparing for post-secondary education.
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" .... outstanding from beginning to end."
Suzanne Csik - Parent (Feb 07, 2018)
Our son's experience at The Priory was outstanding from beginning to end. The Priory curriculum and ...
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"my daughter loved going to school"
Ana Desmaison - Parent (Feb 10, 2018)
My daughter loved The Priory. She flourished because she felt safe and loved by everyone, her teache...
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"There is no way around it; Priory School's location is idyllic."
Lisa Bagchi - Parent (Mar 22, 2023)
My children both enjoy the friendships they've made at Priory School. Socially in the early years, t...
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"The atmosphere is tight-knit and supportive, with a strong sense of community."
Yuri Park - Alumnus (Feb 23, 2024)
Looking back on my overall experience at Collingwood I am more than grateful. For me, it was life-ch...
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"My experience at Collingwood School was quite amazing!"
Zach Yakaoma - Alumnus (Feb 23, 2024)
My experience at Collingwood School was quite amazing, no lie! I really felt that Collingwood was co...
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"The Priory is a premier co-educational school renowned for its leadership in early childhood education, where all stakeholders recognize that 'Happy Children Learn Best.' The Priory is a place where a child's imagination and creativity are nurtured, and meaningful learning takes place in a caring and nurturing environment. Excellence in teaching and a passion for learning are at the heart of the school's mission. A Certificate for English Eligibility is not required."
"Collingwood is one of Canada's largest JK-Grade 12, university-preparatory day school's, located on two campuses in beautiful West Vancouver. Our students participate fully in the School’s four strands: academics, athletics, arts and service. We are recognized for our robust Advanced Placement program, our university acceptance record, our outdoor Explore program, and our award-winning sports teams and musical groups. We are a member of ISABC, NAIS and we are a CAIS-accredited school."
"As an intentionally small school, we firmly believe that every child is gifted. Our small class sizes and personalized approach to learning enable us to nurture and celebrate each child's unique talents and strengths. With our passionate and dedicated faculty, we provide a personalized learning experience where every child's needs are met, ensuring they have the tools and support necessary to thrive and reach their full potential."
"Collingwood inspires and supports our students to pursue their passions with an educational experience that provides unique pathways and a personalized approach to learning. Our commitment to learning and teaching excellence from JK- Gr. 12 provides an exceptional academic foundation in literacy and numeracy with enriched knowledge and skills that exceed the BC Curriculum. We also offer an exceptional array of co-curricular programming across Academics, Arts, Athletics and Service."
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"The Priory School is an intentionally small school, where each child receives individualized attention and a personalized education. The school offers a rigorous academic program that challenges and engages students, helping them to reach their full potential. The faculty members are passionate and dedicated educators who are committed to the success and well-being of every child. The Priory School fosters a supportive learning environment, where each child feels valued, respected and loved."
"Families choose Collingwood for its: personalized and inclusive approach to learning which fosters academic excellence and well-being; for the diverse array of co-curriculars offered across the four strands--academics, athletics, arts and service learning; and for the dedicated faculty who value experiential learning, collaboration, character development. The School's EDI (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion) Commitment strives to ensure every person feels welcomed, understood and valued."
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"The Priory School places a strong emphasis on character development, helping students to develop the skills and values they need to become responsible, compassionate, and engaged members of their communities."
"Collingwood is committed to making students feel empowered with their own capabilities and strengths. Not only is the caliber of teaching outstanding--our faculty and staff care deeply about student wellbeing, individual growth and development with a view to the future. The University Guidance Department meets regularly with students in high school to guide individual post-secondary planning. Additionally students are supported by counsellors, specialists, Heads of House and Advisors."
"The Priory School teaches mindfulness techniques as part of its character development program. Students learn how to manage stress, cultivate resilience, and improve focus and concentration. The Priory School offers a global perspective on education, with an emphasis on multiculturalism and diversity. Students learn about different cultures and traditions, and are encouraged to develop an understanding and appreciation of the world around them."
"At Collingwood, we care for each student as if they were our own. By providing a diverse array of co-curricular and curricular programming, we are able to support each student as they each pursue their individual passions. With a focus on individualized learning, we partner with our students to achieve their best. We emphasize the importance of community and prioritize our students' wellbeing and growth. We are deeply committed to hiring and retaining the best and brightest faculty and staff."
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Dear Parents,
I am privileged to be the Head of School at The Priory, and I am honoured to be part of this caring and vibrant learning community. The Priory, a co-educational elementary school, specializing in early childhood education, provides an enriched learning environment empowering students to explore their interests while nurturing their inherent curiosity through meaningful learning experiences.
The Priory prides itself in providing an environment and philosophy which supports the development of the whole child. The core values of Caring, Community, Curiosity, Creativity and Respect for others are interwoven throughout all elements of school life, enabling each child to feel confident enough to take risks with their learning and try something new. Throughout each child’s educational journey at The Priory, they are equipped to explore their strengths, foster a sense of belonging and develop confidence while taking on leadership roles. A Priory education fosters the joy of learning, embraces the individual needs of each child and enhances personal growth and world awareness.
Our talented faculty and staff are deeply committed to cultivating compassionate, kind, responsible and confident individuals, prepared with a solid foundation for their life-long learning journey ahead.
I welcome you to visit The Priory School to see and feel why I am so proud of our Priory Community.
As Collingwood’s sixth Head of School, it is my honour and privilege to welcome you as a prospective member of our caring and vibrant learning community.
As you will see, Collingwood is a very special community with much to offer. Our mission to inspire and support young people for meaningful lives is at the core of everything we do. With innovative technology and our design thinking approach to curriculum, we provide our students with a time-honoured Four Strand approach to education - offering the very best in academics, arts, athletics, and service learning. We work hard to know each child as an individual. We will identify their abilities and understand their nature. We will help them find their passions. Ultimately, our commitment is that we will care for each student as if they were our own child.
I look forward to meeting you in person and further introducing you to our wonderful community of educators and families.
Lisa Evans,
Head of School
Progressive
Information not available
Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
Not applicable
The Priory School follows a child-centered approach to education, which focuses on creating a positive and engaging learning environment that meets the needs of each student based on their interests, strengths, talents, and learning styles. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in both academic and personal development, with an emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, reading, writing, and oral communication skills in both English and French. The Priory School values character education, preparing students to become responsible and compassionate members of their community.
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Traditional Math
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
Diverse mathematical materials and resources are used to enrich the program. Problem solving is the major focus of the mathematics curriculum. At the cycle 3 level, students learn to decode the elements of more complex situational problems. They further expand their repertoire of problem solving strategies. Students are encouraged to use manipulative materials as they model problems, to use appropriate mathematical language as they share ideas, and to validate their own solutions. Significant attention is also given to the development and practice of basic skills.
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Balanced Literacy
Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.
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.
The school's Learning Specialist works collaboratively with the classroom teachers to tailor instruction and curriculum to help each Priory student flourish academically. The Learning Specialist runs the Priory Enrichment Program (PEP) which provides both in-class and small-group support for students, and also provides enrichment opportunities for students who would benefit from the additional challenge. The Learning Specialist is also responsible for implementing the Cycle One (Grades 1 & 2) individualized reading program which provides weekly one-on-one differentiated reading instruction to Cycle One students with reading material that matches their reading ability.
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Process approach
The systematic approach to teaching beginner writing focuses on directly imparting explicit sentence construction strategies, along with planning, revising, and editing skills. Students are asked to learn these explicit strategies and skills and practice them before applying them in more holistic writing assignments. Grammar and parts of sentences tend to have a central role in systematic writing instruction.
The process approach to teaching beginner writing aims to get students writing “real things” as much as possible and as soon as possible. The goal is to create the right environmental conditions to encourage a love of writing and a motivation to write well. With children invested in the writing process -- through assignments children find meaningful -- students are then given feedback on how they can improve.
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Equal Balance
Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.
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
Physiology
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Information not available
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
Thematic
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).
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
À la fin du troisième cycle, votre enfant pourra établir les contextes géographique et historique des sociétés du passé. Il reconnaîtra l'influence des personnages et l'incidence d'événements sur les organisations territoriale et sociale, ou sur des changements qu'elles ont connus. Il pourra aussi repérer des traces du passé dans des réalités patrimoniales actuelles. Votre enfant pourra aussi vous parler de ses forces et de ce qu'il peut améliorer.
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Equal Balance
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
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
À la fin du troisième cycle, votre enfant devrait exprimer plus couramment en français ses besoins personnels et sociaux et communiquer plus spontanément et efficacement, tant à l'oral qu'à l'écrit, avec ses pairs. Il devrait se sentir à l'aise avec la littérature française et capable de choisir des livres par rapport à ses intérêts personnels. Il pourra diversifier ses lectures, établir des liens entre différents textes et les communiquer à différents interlocuteurs. Votre enfant approfondira ses connaissances par rapport à la langue française et à la culture québécoise. Il pourra participer à de nombreux échanges en français avec ses pairs et la communauté francophone.
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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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Creative
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
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.
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at The Priory enhances learning. Students use ICT in a variety of ways: creating, composing, exploring, analyzing, communicating and collaborating. Technology is used as a tool and is integrated into the curriculum at all grade levels. The goal of the ICT Program is to provide students with the skills to thrive in a continuously changing world.
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
The physical education program at The Priory School is designed to provide students with a range of activities that promote physical fitness, motor skills, and sportsmanship. These activities include team sports and fitness activities. The program also aims to develop students' leadership and collaboration skills through team-building exercises and group activities. The school also emphasizes the importance of sportsmanship and fair play in all physical activities. Students are encouraged to respect their peers and their opponents, and to work together to achieve common goals.
The Physical Education Department provides students with the opportunity to develop appropriate fitness and motor skills, acquire knowledge, and demonstrate a positive attitude in a variety of recreational and team related activities. Students will be encouraged to take risks, challenge themselves, work with others cooperatively, and develop an appreciation of a healthy lifestyle through daily activities. While students are evaluated on participation, attendance and personal fitness, we encourage students to take ownership of their learning by getting involved with the evaluation process.
Reggio Emilia
Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
Reggio Emilia programs aim to develop curiosity and problem-solving skills through the liberal use of “projects”, (as opposed to “activities” or “lessons”). Teachers design projects for children around their demonstrated interests. Projects can be geared to an individual student, a small group of students, or the class as a whole. Projects can last from a few days to the whole year. Art is strongly emphasized and is typically incorporated into every project. Teachers actively participate in projects alongside students, rather than sitting back and observing. A high degree of parent involvement is also encouraged, particularly when forming curriculums and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
If you want to learn more about Reggio Emilia education, check out our comprehensive guide.
Learning through play, exploration and experimentation are important components of the Kindergarten program. Through these mediums, children learn to express themselves confidently, interact harmoniously with others and gain a better understanding of the world around them. Learning through play allows each child to build a strong foundation from which to begin elementary school.
Information not available
Standard-enriched
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.
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.
Information not available
Supportive
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
The Priory School values academic performance and creates a culture of excellence by setting high expectations, providing support and resources, and recognizing and celebrating academic achievements. Students are encouraged to take an active role in their own learning, and teachers use a range of instructional strategies to engage and challenge them.
Academic Culture becomes more Rigorous in Grades 5 - 12
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Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
The Priory School believes that its purpose is to provide a holistic education that supports the development of the whole student - academically, socially, and emotionally. The school aims to prepare its students for success in secondary school and beyond, by providing them with a well-rounded education that fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity. The school believes that education is not just about acquiring knowledge and skills, but also about developing character and values. The Priory School promotes values such as respect, caring, community, curiosity, and creativity, and encourages its students to become compassionate and responsible members of their community.
Secondary Developmental Priority: Social - Socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better.
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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
6 - 12
0%
2%
$0
$7,500
75%
22%
K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Dec 01, 2022
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades K - 6
Yes: grades 4 - 12
No
Yes: grades 8 - 12
No
Yes: grades 8 - 12
No
No
No
Yes: grades JK - 7
No
No
No
No
Submit an Application
Please visit our Admissions Page for more information.
