Photo: Courtesy Columbus School for Girls/BEN SIMON STUDIO
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y d u t S t n e d n e p e d In
Columbus
School fo
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C hools in private sc By Brooke
Preston
FEBRUARY 2020 Columbus Monthly
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Like the students they serve, private and independent schools come in a dynamic range of shapes, sizes and affiliations. This alphabetical list highlights a variety of Central Ohio options. (Enrollment, studentteacher ratio and tuition data are for the 2019-20 school year.) Bishop Watterson High School Founded in 1954, Bishop Watterson is the largest Catholic high school in Columbus. The co-ed school offers a rigorous college prep curriculum of nearly 150 courses, with a 98 percent college matriculation rate; the remaining 2 percent generally join the military or a service program. State-of-the-art classroom facilities include two business center rooms with stock tickers and a medical center room with an Anatomage Table for 3D anatomy visualization; a Sports Management course was just added to the curriculum. Dozens of extracurricular programs, athletic teams, community service efforts and the school’s Dominican Program support and develop healthy, well-rounded students. “Bishop Watterson educates the whole person in body, mind and spirit with a goal of producing self-disciplined young men and women who have a commitment to Gospel values,” says Deacon Chris Campbell, the school’s principal and a 1977 graduate. “Our staff endeavors to reinforce the virtues, values and morals that a young person needs to develop into a good person, whether Catholic or not.” 99 E.
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Columbus Academy With its rigorous college preparatory curriculum, Columbus Academy is all about breadth and depth. The nearly 120-year-old coeducational school’s 231-acre campus in Gahanna is the largest in Central Ohio, while academic offerings are as diverse as its student body. Despite the school’s size, leaders strive to create small, individualized corners for students to thrive, ranging from makerspaces for STEM-focused students to soundproof rooms for budding musicians and even an outdoor classroom space. 4300 Cherry Bottom Road, Gahanna; 614-4752311; columbusacademy.org
Columbus School for Girls At Columbus School for Girls, girls rule—and have since 1898, when founders created CSG as a “finishing school” alternative. Their unwavering commitment to serious academic preparation remains evident today, from the Upper School’s robotics program to a lively discussion of literature in a middle-grade humanities class. Students are engaged, challenged and surrounded by female role models. The school boasts an 8-acre main campus in Bexley, modern and well-equipped classrooms, a stateof-the art athletic campus, multiple theaters, two libraries, a media production studio and a 100-acre nature preserve in Gahanna. “At CSG, we want students to learn how to think, not what to think. We value independent thought and critical analysis of evidence, and encourage our students to examine situations from diverse perspectives and through multiple lenses. We expect that CSG girls will not only figure out how to solve problems, but also how to identify problems that they want to fix and to propose solutions to complex social issues,” says head of school Jennifer Ciccarelli. “All-girl education is a powerful experience with lifelong effects.” 65 S. Drexel Ave., Bexley; 614-2520781; columbusschoolforgirls.org
Grades: Age 3–12 Enrollment: 1,149 Average student-teacher ratio: 7:1 Tuition: $12,000–$28,700
Grades: Pre-K–12 Enrollment: 540 Average student-teacher ratio: 8:1 Tuition: $14,470–$27,890
Cooke Road, Columbus; 614-268-8671; bishopwatterson.com Grades: 9–12 Enrollment: 879 Average student-teacher ratio: 11:1 Tuition: $9,990–$11,440
Photo: Courtesy Bishop Watterson High School
Bishop Watterson High School
We help shape those who will shape the world. We think education can and should be better. More agile, personal, active, and potent. When we teach students how to learn, the process becomes more exciting, purposeful, and life-changing.
The ďŹ rst independent co-ed school in Columbus. Catalyzing the lives of children in preschool through grade 12. Schedule a personal tour at www.wellington.org
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10465 Sawmill Rd. | Powell, OH 43065 (614) 761-2020 www.dublinmontessoriacademy.com
“We serve the future by protecting the present. The more fully the needs of one period are met, the greater will be the success of the next.” -M. Montessori
Columbus School for Girls From the very beginning she will know her power.
Cristo Rey Columbus High School This Catholic high school is one of 26 Cristo Rey high schools in the U.S., on a mission to make a college preparatory education (including honors and AP offerings) accessible to all students, particularly those in challenging economic circumstances. The school is anchored by a unique professional work-study program bolstered by more than 100 business partners, which helps offset student school fees. Interactive learning amenities include student iPads and an Apple TV in every classroom. The school offers many electives, clubs and athletics, leading to polished graduates and a 100 percent college acceptance rate. “Students gain real-world job skills and mentoring relationships that will serve them in college and beyond,” says president Jim Foley, adding that “what really sets us apart is our students. They’re a talented, hopeful, resilient group of young people who have overcome obstacles and achieved great success. These students are going to change the community and their professions for the better.” 400 E. Town St., Columbus; 614223-9261; cristoreycolumbus.org Grades: 9–12 Enrollment: 405 Average student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Tuition: A sliding scale of $250–$2,500; $380 average family contribution/student
Discover the Program for Young Children at CSG. Central Ohio’s leader in the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education. Learn more about our full and half-day schedules for girls in preschool and kindergarten (ages 3-6), schedule a visit, or check out our up-coming events at the link below. *Now accepting applications for the 2020-2021 school year
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Dublin Montessori Academy For more than 30 years, this Dublin preschool and kindergarten facility has approached learning holistically, with emphasis on sensory learning and the development of the whole child. Students are encouraged to learn and grow through self-motivation. A full member of the American Montessori Association, each classroom is equipped with a complete set of classical Montessori materials and many Montessori extension materials, with well-qualified and certified staff. Students learn and explore math, language and cultural studies at their own pace, while fostering qualities like interdependence, academic excellence, creativity, self-regulation and self-esteem. As the Montessori pedagogy’s founder, Maria Montessori, once said, “We serve the future by protecting the present. The more fully the needs of one period are met, the greater will be the success of the next.” 10465 Sawmill Road, Powell; 614761-2020; dublinmontessoriacademy.com Grades: Age 3–K Enrollment: 120 Average student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Tuition: $5,350–$9,961
Active learning fuels curiosity On our 231-acre campus, academics merge all modes of creativity —– building and coding, drawing and sculpting, music-making and performing, exercising and playing. Students are guided by teachers who believe that children have the capacity to create new breakthroughs and discoveries every day. In our multidimensional learning community, self-expression builds self-esteem, inspiring children to take their curiosity further.
This is the Academy experience.
Students work with STEAM instructor Luke Howard in the Makerspace Lab, one of many indoor and outdoor spaces that support the teaching of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics at Columbus Academy.
Visit our campus! Contact our Admissions Team at admissions@columbusacademy.org or 614-509-2220.
Columbus Academy, 4300 Cherry Bottom Road, Gahanna, Ohio • Age 3–Grade 12, coeducational, independent
special advertising section Gahanna Christian Academy This student-centered Christian school houses a daycare for infants and toddlers as well as a preschool and K-8 school. Students engage in project-based, design-oriented learning with a focus on passion, adventure and real-world experiences. The early childhood program is inspired by the ReggioEmilia educational philosophy, while all levels are powered by research from Harvard’s Project Zero and the Henry Ford Learning Institute. Students progress through Ohio academic standards individually and at their own pace, allowing each to achieve true mastery. Athletics, arts and community service programs are also available. “We empower students to connect their passions to their academic journey through real-world projects,” says head of school Dr. April Domine. “Last year, our kindergarteners studied ecology and climate change and designed habitats for birds; third-graders built prototypes to eradicate homelessness in Columbus; and middle-school students started businesses, wrote plays and built a prototype community for life on Mars. Students enjoy school when their academics and skills for success are woven into hands-on experiences connected to real-world issues.” 817 N. Hamilton Road, Gahanna; 614-4719270; gahannachristianacademy.com
Marburn Academy Established in 1981, New Albany’s Marburn Academy is designed for students with learning differences, including dyslexia, ADHD and executive function difficulties. The 17-acre campus provides a tailored curriculum and a wealth of athletic, arts and cocurricular activities, from robotics to theater. A focus on multisensory, experiential teaching includes numerous assistive technologies to support student learning. “At Marburn Academy, we celebrate our students,” says interim head of school Scott Burton. “It is important that our students understand that though they learn differently, they are capable of learning and achieving success in school and in life.” 9555 Johnstown Road, New Albany; 614-433-0822; marburnacademy.org Grades: 1–12 Enrollment: 300 Average student-teacher ratio: 8:1 (lower
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Gahanna Christian Academy
and middle division); 16:1 (high school) Tuition: $28,370–$29,830
E. Broad St., Columbus; 614-252-6714; stcharlesprep.org
St. Charles Preparatory School In the 97 years since its founding, St. Charles Preparatory School has emphasized tradition, faith and academic excellence. Central Ohio’s only all-male Catholic high school is located on a 23-acre campus near Bexley. The school’s college prep focus requires students to study mathematics, science, English and even two years of Latin. The school also places an emphasis on service, with a range of required initiatives throughout the year. Fifteen varsity sports, a robotics team and a full complement of cocurriculars add to the school experience. “St. Charles Preparatory School is an institution that celebrates diversity and excellence,” says principal James Lower. “We believe that our college preparatory curriculum and expansive extracurricular offerings provide an environment that builds leaders who will live their faith and helps every young man reach his potential.” 2010
Grades: 9–12 Enrollment: 571 Average student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Tuition: $10,295–$10,625; discount for second son; third son attending concurrently pays no tuition St. Francis DeSales High School For nearly 60 years, this coed Catholic high school has had a focus on developing students academically, socially and spiritually. The current Be the Light campus master plan is underway, ensuring the school will remain on the cutting edge of educational standards. This year’s phase includes the transformation of two classrooms and updates to athletic facilities; construction on a new student services center is underway, with areas dedicated to guidance, campus ministry, faculty and alumni. Future phases include plans for an innovative STEM center and cafeteria expansion.
Photo: Courtesy Gahanna Christian Academy
Grades: Infant–8 Enrollment: 154 (K–8 only) Average classroom ratio: 1:10 (preschool); 1:19 (K–8) Tuition: $5,500–$9,000
EDUCATION.COLUMBUSCATHOLIC.ORG
THE PERFECT SETTING FOR YOUR CHILD'S STORY... FIND OUT ABOUT OUR 53 SCHOOLS ACROSS 15 COUNTIES - FOR PRESCHOOL THROUGH GRADE 12.
special advertising section “We truly follow our school’s mission ‘to provide a holistic educational experience in the Catholic tradition which prepares the mind, body, and spirit of each student.’ We give our students a foundation of faith that they can carry with them for the rest of their lives,” says principal Dan Garrick. “We prepare students at all levels, providing top-notch resources in a supportive and nurturing environment.” 4212 Karl Road, Columbus; 614-267-7808; sfdstallions.org
St. Francis DeSales High School
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St. Joseph Montessori School For more than 50 years, St. Joseph Montessori School has taught and nurtured self-sufficient students. The school’s focus on learning at one’s own pace and holistic classroom learning is in keeping with the creative, sensory, experience-based Montessori approach. Core subjects are taught alongside art, Spanish, Band & Bells and religion classes. “We at St. Joseph Montessori School believe that as a result of a Montessori education, students will exhibit characteristics of
Photo: Courtesy St. Francis DeSales High School
Grades: 9–12 Enrollment: 875 Average student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Tuition: $9,825–$10,375
special advertising section confidence, competence, independence and respect for him- or herself, for others and for the world around them,” says Brenda Huth, head of school. 933 Hamlet St., Columbus; 614-291-8601; sjms.net Grades: Pre-K–8 Enrollment: 216 Average student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Tuition: $11,400
welshhills.org • Facebook • Instagram • Twitter
740.522.2020 • 2610 Newark-Granville Rd., Granville
Accredited by ISACS - Independent School Association of the Central States
COLUMBUS CITY
CENTRAL OHIO’S
HIDDEN GEMS
GUIDE
Columbus City Guide Coming in March
GUIDE TO CENTRAL
OHIO
Columbus Monthly’s annual City Guide is an indispensable almanac for Central Ohio visitors and residents alike. The magazine offers information about events, attractions, the arts, shopping, sports, dining, school, neighborhoods and community resources. With City Guide, Columbus visitors will get the most out of their stay and residents will learn more about their hometown.
City Guide will be distributed to subscribers of The Columbus Dispatch with the March 15 edition. It will also be available throughout the year in more than 12,000 guest rooms in leading hotels to welcome guests to Columbus, and distributed at visitor centers, major conventions and sporting events. COLUMBUS MONTHLY’S
The Wellington School Students at The Wellington School artfully balance academic fundamentals and personal passions with an emphasis on personal learning, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. For instance, the Upper Arlington-based, collegeprep-focused upper school’s independent science and independent humanities research programs allow students to pursue research projects that match their areas of interest; middle-schoolers can experience “deep dives” in science and humanities. Additionally, every student participates in the four-year Wellington International Student Experience, or WISE, program in the upper school, which culminates in an international learning experience at no additional cost to the student. 3650 Reed Road, Columbus; 614-457-7883; wellington.org
Licking County’s Only Independent School
• New high school building • Educating infants through grade 12 • School-year, year-round, morning, & full-day preschool programs offered as 2, 3 & 5-day options • STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts & math), coding & robotics for Grades 1-12 • Music, art, drama, Spanish & physical education • Small class sizes • Project-based learning • Before & after care • Nut & peanut-free • Organic greenhouse & gardens
$5.95 | columbusmonthly.com
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Grades: Pre-K–12 Enrollment: 698 Average student-teacher ratio: 8:1 Tuition: $12,500–$25,900 Welsh Hills School Welsh Hills School in Granville advocates a Montessori approach to education, emphasizing hands-on, demonstrated learning over testing, with a focus on educating the whole child. Academics are enriched by and deeply integrated with the arts, robotics, physical education, Spanish, gardening and practical life courses. Students also learn to embrace differences and to respect others as they are taught communication and conflict resolution. “Welsh Hills School is a place where students of all ages, from infancy through high school, have an opportunity to explore individual interests and demonstrate their learning in a wide range of ways,” says head of school Michelle Lerner. “Students are respected for who they are as individuals; their contributions to our school community are welcomed with enthusiasm.” 2610 Newark-Granville Road, Granville; 740-522-2020; welshhills.org Grades: Infant–12 Enrollment: 116 Average student-teacher ratio: 8:1 Tuition: $9,975–$12,000 FEBRUARY 2020 Columbus Monthly
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