Palm Beach Day Acad emy Challenged Today, Prepared for Tomorrow
They come to us so full of
promise
A tradition of academic excellence Striving always for the highest academic standards, Palm Beach Day Academy has grown from a cottage colony school serving the children of the captains of industry, doyens of society, architects and entrepreneurs into an innovative, top-ranked day school serving over 500 students from the Greater Palm Beach area.
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Exuding a confidence far beyond that of their peers, prepared for the challenges ahead, ready to make a difference in the world Since 1921, the distinguished graduates of Palm Beach Day Academy have gone on to become the thinkers, doers and leaders of each new generation. Providing an academically challenging and compassion-rich environment, the school guides each child toward personal excellence of mind, body and character. Our graduates leave here empowered to fulfill their individual potential in school and beyond, taking with them the rich traditions and support of the Palm Beach Day Academy family.
poised They graduate
confident prepared
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Teachers, mentors, friends for life Our faculty carefully assesses each child’s needs and provides the proper balance of support, trust and high expectations. Teachers, coaches and staff enjoy an exceptional level of involvement in individual student development, tailoring programs that grow with them, forming bonds and instilling lessons that last a lifetime.
academic*
Higher standards and the support to achieve them It’s true: our academic standards are high, our curriculum challenging. It’s also true that you won’t see anxious, overly stressed students walking our halls. At Palm Beach Day Academy, rigorous academics are balanced by a nurturing, compassion-rich environment. Students are given the opportunity to process ideas completely, grapple with complexity and nuance, separate knowledge from belief, and gain the confidence that comes only from accomplishing goals through focused thinking and sustained effort. A two-teachers-per-class model in the Lower Campus and small class sizes throughout allow a sincerely dedicated faculty to provide critical levels of individual attention and support. Students are encouraged to ask questions, take risks and learn from mistakes. They feel supported in striving beyond ‘what is easy’ to ‘what is possible.’
*scholarly skillful
accomplished
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e put a high premium on academic excellence. W Our teachers, however, are imparting much more than knowledge. They are instilling qualities of character, commitment, confidence and leadership, qualities that last a lifetime.”~ Dr. Rebecca van der Bogert, Head of School
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*ambitious passionate
determined
inspired *
“ Our students can compete anywhere around the globe.”
~ Palm Beach Day Parent Prepared to lead
Investing in the best Our teachers take a sincere interest in the growth and development of their students. In turn, the school invests in the excellence of its faculty by providing the innovative educational opportunities, professional development and support for ongoing program development that enable us to attract and retain the finest teachers, coaches and staff.
Leadership and achievement are the heritage and spirit of Palm Beach Day Academy. Alumni and parents include names like Roosevelt, Kennedy, Vanderbilt, Astor, Hearst, Emerson, Hutton, Pillsbury, and Mellon – names that rank among the most accomplished statesmen, artists, architects, entrepreneurs, inventors, industrialists, philanthropists, scientists, publishers, playwrights, and poets of the modern American landscape. Never resting on its laurels, Palm Beach Day Academy is devoted to giving students the tools and strength to confidently navigate their own futures. A commitment to continual improvement and growth has kept the school’s standards high and its resources on the cutting edge. As a result, Palm Beach Day Academy continues to produce the leaders of tomorrow, inspired to make a difference while making their way in the world.
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Palm Beach Day Academy students don’t just sit on the sidelines; they roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty. Whether preparing a ‘Banquet of the Gods’ for mythology studies, conducting a chemistry experiment or collaborating with a teacher to reach a goal, students are encouraged to take an active, hands-on role in their own education.
Learning by doing, growing by leaps and bounds
*motivated curious inquisitive
Palm Beach Day Academy students are encouraged to take an active, hands-on role in their own education. From the classroom to the playing field, from school events to community service projects, students are given endless opportunities to engage in self-directed inquiry, exploration and achievement. Through learning by doing, education surges ahead. Students engage, focus and become capable learners who know how to face and manage challenges. They discover within themselves a powerful, enduring confidence that can only belong to those who have achieved success through their own efforts and initiative.
engaged *
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*confident perceptive
expressive Among our students, the ability to ‘stand and deliver’ comes early and often. Public speaking, artistic expression and the performing arts are prized components of the school’s culture and tradition, from Pre-K presentations at flag assembly to 9th grade speeches.
articulate *
The ability to command an audience, the character to earn their respect Palm Beach Day Academy students are taught to speak up, make eye contact and develop superior communication skills. From the first day in Pre-K forward, they gain invaluable experience in expressing their ideas, thoughts and perspectives. They make oral presentations, deliver reports, speak at assemblies, engage in debates, join academic competitions, and perform in productions that give them the chance to be 'on stage' in a variety of settings that strengthen the intellect and build self-esteem. Through this rich array of opportunities, students gain the ability to express themselves clearly, accurately and powerfully. They develop keen minds shaped by the challenges inherent in complex thought leading to articulate self-expression. They graduate with qualities of thoughtfulness, confidence and poise that will carry them into the future.
Speak up A strong focus on writing and presentation skills begins in Pre-K and continues with regular public speaking opportunities in the classroom and other forums such as Bulldog TV, costumed President’s Day assembly and an 8th grade speech unit requiring daily speeches.
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creative *
*
artistic, imaginative
Creativity comes into play every day and in every classroom at Palm Beach Day Academy. Students engage in activities that ignite the spirit, unlock the capacity for innovation, promote self-esteem, and instill a passion for lifelong learning.
Discovering a passion, unleashing the imagination Our curriculum recognizes the role that art, music and creative expression play in developing critical thinking and problem solving skills. Programs are taught by specialists whose passion for their fields is contagious. An array of fine and performing arts classes includes percussion, vocal, instrumental, and chorus; dramatic and musical theater productions; drawing, painting, ceramics, art history, and photography. Throughout the year, special assemblies, activities and events such as International Day and Earth Day make the school a great place to grow.
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At Palm Beach Day Academy, the playing field is a classroom where students develop strength of mind, body and spirit Getting in gear Physical education and athletic activities begin at age two and continue through varsity sports.
Teamwork, sportsmanship and self-discipline; fitness, health and well being; valor, humility and grace – these are just a few characteristics being developed on the playing fields of Palm Beach Day Academy. Fitness and athletic programs are part of the everyday curriculum. Daily exercise is proven to reduce stress, build self-esteem and enhance academic performance. It also conditions students to embrace fitness as part of a lifelong commitment to health and well being. From organized games and Field Day in Pre-K classes to competitive varsity sports, students learn the meaning of motivation through physical activity. They learn to shake the hand of an opponent, handling both victory and defeat with equal dignity and grace – life lessons that will serve them well both on and off the field of play.
Our mighty mascot The Bulldog – symbol of Palm Beach Day Academy's loyal, athletic and tenacious breed of student.
Boys Athletic Programs: Flag Football Soccer Basketball Lacrosse Tennis Golf Intramural Sports: Grades 5-9 Interscholastic Sports: Grades 6-9
empowered
Girls Athletic Programs: Volleyball Field Hockey Soccer Basketball Lacrosse Tennis Golf
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*athletic competitive tenacious
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Environmental Awareness Memberships
Palm Beach Day Academy
Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens Audubon Society of the Everglades Gumbo Limbo Nature Center Pine Jog Environmental Education Center Society of the Four Arts Solid Waste Authority
Environmental Awareness Programs Alternative Transportation Beach Clean-ups Atrium Eco Garden Composting Energy Conservation Gently-used School Uniforms Sale Green Team Activities Green Fundraisers Minimal Waste Policies Palm Beach County Environmental Resource Management Lake Worth Restoration Project Papa’s Place Native Plant Garden Recycling Service Learning Schoolyard Veggie Garden Town of Palm Beach Tree Planting Initiative
aware * Thinking green
A genuine ethos of global awareness and stewardship permeates the culture of Palm Beach Day Academy. Thinking globally, acting locally, Palm Beach Day Academy has earned certification by the Palm Beach County Green Schools Recognition Program as a “Green School of Excellence.” An interdisciplinary approach to environmental education, conservation and sustainable practices includes everything from climate change debates to recycled art projects through which students gain an understanding of their responsibility for the health of our planet.
*responsible enlightened impactful A global viewpoint Global perspectives and international experience are essential for success in the 21st century. The school’s commitment to these ideals begins early, with a vibrant International Studies program in the Lower Campus curriculum. Palm Beach Day Academy is also a partner in the Florida Reggio Collaborative on innovative early childhood programs developed in Reggio Emilia, Italy. Exposure to foreign cultures, history, geography, music, art, and dance celebrate diversity with an emphasis on peace and humanity. Global citizenship is further enhanced by language studies that begin with Spanish at age two. Students also have the opportunity to become conversant in Mandarin and French.
Global rhythms Students participate in a dynamic International Studies program which includes our annual International Day celebration.
For Upper Campus students, the China Partnership builds meaningful relationships through special studies, projects and travel to that country’s schools and orphanages.
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*caring, giving, compassionate At Palm Beach Day Academy, core values are part of the curriculum and students learn first-hand that ‘giving your all’ means giving back to your community.
“ Our students have huge hearts; they are always reaching out to help others.”
~ Palm Beach Day Faculty
generous * Giving their all
By the time Palm Beach Day Academy students graduate, they have made a substantial contribution to their community through community service and Bulldog Outreach programs. Activities take place throughout the year, including disaster relief projects, clothing and food drives, nursing home visits, Green Team programs, and volunteering at less fortunate schools. Our mission is to build students with the social, emotional and intellectual skills required of tomorrow’s leaders – with spirits every bit as loyal, loving and compassionate as that of our mascot, the Bulldog.
Helping hands The Thanksgiving Project food drive is a long-standing tradition at Palm Beach Day Academy. Through a partnership of sharing and service with Glades Academy in Pahokee, our students provide Thanksgiving meals for families in need.
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“ The annual Field Day event has been a tradition for eighty years and celebrated by generations of families. Alumni still come back each year to march the field.”~ Palm Beach Day Parent
proud * Teddy bears, Pelicans and Flamingos Kindergarten students are ‘all ears’ at the annual Teddy Bear Picnic, a project that combines learning, fun and a memorable event that includes parents – one of many special events like the Pelican vs. Flamingo Knowledge Bowl (above right) that make a Palm Beach Day education unique.
*spirited honorable grounded
A family school, rich in tradition Florida’s oldest incorporated independent day school, Palm Beach Day Academy is that rare educational institution where children follow in the footsteps of their parents, teachers embody the hallmarks of achievement and the scholars, inventors and artists of today become the leaders of tomorrow. The Parent School Council offers a wide range of opportunities for parents to become involved in the life of the school as a volunteer for events that include the Speakers Forum, Annual Dinner and Auction, Book Fair, and Teacher Appreciation. The close relationship that our faculty, parents and students share is the reason that Palm Beach Day Academy is regarded as a true family school. More than a slogan, it is a warmly and richly lived tradition cherished by the generations of families, faculty and alumni for whom Palm Beach Day is a touchstone.
Having a Field Day Upon enrollment at Palm Bach Day Academy, all students are designated as Pelicans or Flamingos and remain so throughout their student lives and beyond. Indeed, the monikers are passed down within our families from generation to generation. Student teams of Pelicans and Flamingos engage in a friendly rivalry with both academic and athletic competitions throughout the year, including the Jeopardy-style Knowledge Bowl and the annual Walter H. Butler Field Day.
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“ Even today – years later– I find myself referring back to what I was taught at Palm Beach Day.” ~ Charlie Metzger, class of 2005; Princeton University, class of 2012
The opportunity of a lifetime awaits Palm Beach Day Academy is dedicated to developing students who are well-read and well-spoken; who know their own minds and can adapt successfully to changing circumstances; young men and women who are thoughtful, generous and kind; and who graduate with the ability to choose their own paths to productive and meaningful lives. You want the best for your child – the best secondary school, the best college, the most fulfilling life and career. It all starts with a strong educational foundation and an outlook that says the sky’s the limit. You’ll find it all at Palm Beach Day Academy. The first step is to contact us and get started on giving your child the opportunity of a lifetime. We look forward to welcoming you. To learn more, visit www.pbday.org. To schedule a visit, we invite you to call our admission office today: (561) 832-8815.
www.pbday.org
at a glance Year Founded: 1921, oldest independent school in Florida Grades: Pre-K (age 2) – grade 9 Student/Faculty Ratio: 6:1 Two Campuses, One School: The Lower Campus (Pre-K – grade 3) is situated on the Intracoastal Waterway in central West Palm Beach; the Upper Campus (grades 4 – 9) is just 1.3 miles away in historic, central Palm Beach. Technology Infrastructure: Wireless, Mac, computers and SMART Boards (grades K – 9), four computer labs After School Enrichment: Offerings in music, foreign language, visual and performing arts, sports, science, and personal development After Care: The Lower Campus offers a high quality after care program from 3:30 – 5:30 pm. The Upper Campus offers a supervised study hall in the library from 3:00 – 4:30 pm. Transportation: Bus transportation is available to students in grades K – 9. Financial Aid: FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment conducts the financial need analysis for Palm Beach Day Academy, www.factstuitionaid.com. Families with students in grades K – 9 are open to apply for need-based financial assistance. All applications are confidential. Secondary School Placement: Consistently, more than 98% of Palm Beach Day Academy students are accepted at their first choice school for secondary school. Beginning in the student’s 7th grade year, the secondary school placement team assists families to determine the best school for their child. Accreditations: Florida Council of Independent Schools Florida Kindergarten Council
Palm Beach Day Academy is committed to enrolling a talented and diverse student body. The school admits students of any race, color, sex, and national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities made available to students at the school. The school’s fundamental objective with regard to admission is to find the right fit between the child, family and school.
www.pbday.org
Lower campus 1901 South Flagler Drive West Palm Beach, FL 33401 T. 561.832.8815 F. 561.832.3343 Upper campus 241 Seaview Avenue Palm Beach, FL 33480 T. 561.655.1188 F. 561.655.5794
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Memberships/Affiliations: National Association of Independent Schools Educational Records Bureau Secondary School Admission Test Board Independent School Management Center for Courage and Renewal Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Florida Reggio Collaborative Visible Thinking South Florida Collaborate South Florida